We’ve tested car roof boxes (member content) to see which ones are easiest to fit to your roof bars, load and unload and unlock/open. We also have a buying guide to help you find the best roof box for your needs.
If you have a question about car roof starage, ask us in the comments below.
Very timely . Have been looking at one these for awhile .
Whilst I was at our local Bunnings the other day, I noticed that the person in the vehicle parked in front of me in the drive through Trade Section was placing a large panel on top of some very dodgy looking soft pack temporary roof racks which were “secured” by means of tapes fed through all 4 side windows,
A Google search came up with this similar item.
I am amazed that they are legal.
Loads simply need to be adequately secured. State (harmonised?) traffic/vehicle regulations.
One start point, although similar advice should exist for each state and territory.
And from the NTC, which is national.
Absent is any advice on using the roof as a load carrying system. If they were bar style roof racks or accessories AS1235:2000 covers these. It explicitly does not cover other types of devices that may be used including any attached by suction or magnetic attached.
Bunnings calling them a ‘soft’ roof rack seems to skirt the regulations. Adequately secured might depend on the mindset of the authority that has you pulled over and how polite/innocent you appear. I adopt instantaneous guilty look in front of any authority.
If there is something not explicitly prohibited it must be OK, until?
P.S.
Bunnings are load rated for 36kg per pair, Autobarn 65kg. That appears to be the manufacturer suppliers advice. No mention of any standard?
