Travel is a popular pastime for many of Australians. When embarking on a trip, many of us tend to pack our vehicles to the brim without considering the available space. It's common to struggle with fitting in all the necessary items, and there's always something that ends up not fitting.
Having additional storage space can be a game-changer, particularly for extended trips or camping. What options are available? For those who feel uncomfortable towing a trailer over long distances, a safer and more convenient alternative is to install a roof rack on your vehicle, regardless of its size, to provide passengers with some much-needed breathing room.
Roof racks can be categorized into 2 basic types, namely platform racks and cargo carrier baskets. These types are available in various sizes and can be fitted onto most types of roofs, be it a big 4WD or a small hatchback. Despite their versatility, there are differences between them. If you are a first-time buyer and are unsure whether to choose a platform rack or cargo carrier basket, keep reading for more information.
Platform Racks
Platform racks are designed to sit flush with the crossbars that secure them to the roof. They are an ideal choice for transporting longer objects like canoes or kayaks without obstruction from additional rails. Heavy items such as long ladders, shovels, and hi-lift jacks can be safely carried on a platform rack. The mounting tracks that run the length of the platform rack secure items in place with tie-downs.
The greater the length of the rack, the more tying points are available, ensuring that items remain securely in place regardless of speed or terrain. Platform racks have a lower profile, resulting in less wind resistance and buffeting at high speeds. This feature is also helpful when navigating low roofs in parking structures within the city.
Cargo carrier baskets
Cargo carrier baskets are designed to transport smaller items that can potentially move around if not secured properly, such as bags, toolboxes, or tires. They typically have a mesh construction with added side rails to help organize items and prevent them from falling off the sides and cause danger. Cargo carrier baskets are popular among tradies and campers, as the side rails can be used to attach awnings, tents, screens, and lights.
If you're driving a taller vehicle, you should keep in mind that cargo carrier baskets or cages will add some height. Additionally, at higher speeds, there may be more wind noise, but most cargo carrier baskets come with front wind deflectors to mitigate this. If you plan on shopping before heading off fully loaded, make sure to watch out for safety bars in parking garages.
Considerations When Choosing Platform Racks and Cargo carrier baskets
Size
You can select the appropriate size of platform rack or cargo carrier basket for your vehicle, based on its specifications. If you don't plan to carry larger items or need a smaller footprint, you can choose smaller racks. Conversely, if you want to use the entire roof space, you can go for a longer cargo carrier basket or platform rack.
Weight Capacity
When it comes to purchasing platform racks or cargo carrier baskets, retailers provide lightweight storage options that can support weights significantly exceeding your roof's capacity. However, it's important to check your car manual for the recommended weight limit before installing any type of roof rack. While most 4WDs or SUVs will have no problems, it's always better to be safe than sorry, especially for station wagons or sedans.
Materials
Cargo carrier baskets and platform racks are typically manufactured using either lightweight aluminum or steel alloys. Although steel is generally regarded as a more durable material, it is typically heavier than aluminum. To protect against rain and corrosion, these racks are coated with various materials. Furthermore, all mounting hardware, brackets, bolts, and nuts provided with the rack should last for many years in any weather or driving conditions.
Compatibility
When purchasing a cargo carrier basket, it is important to consider the size that suits your needs and the weight of the load you plan to carry. You should ensure that everything you need fits on both your vehicle and the rack. There are universal racks that can fit all 4WDs, which is convenient if you plan on changing vehicles in the future. Alternatively, you can find cargo carrier baskets and platform racks that are specifically designed for your particular make and model of car. The racks will come in the appropriate width for your car, but you can choose from various lengths.
Installation
Talking about installation, cargo carrier baskets available for purchase are typically sold as kits, which include all necessary installation components. To attach the rack, roof rails or crossbars are needed depending on your vehicle's roof. Some platform racks and cargo carrier baskets fit tightly and lower onto roof channels. Pre-drilled mounting points are common in most vehicles, but for a proper fit, some may require additional drilling in the roofline. You can install the rack yourself or choose to have it installed professionally at a store.
Purchase Cargo carrier baskets and Platform Racks from Enowl
The choice between a platform rack or a cargo carrier basket for your storage needs is yours to make. We have a variety of platform racks and cargo carrier baskets at Enowl for you. We also offer custom services to meet your individual demands. Please visit our website at www.enowl.com to view our products or Contact Us directly.