Installing truck bed racks is a useful solution to increase the cargo capacity for long trips or jobs that require transporting a lot of goods. However, the installation and use of roof racks must comply with regulations and ensure safety. This article will provide detailed information on regulations for installing truck bed racks and guidelines for safe use.
Truck Bed Rack Installation Regulations
According to Circular 46/2015 of the Ministry of Transport, pickup trucks with a cargo weight of less than 2.5 tons must comply with the following regulations when installing truck bed racks:
- Cargo height: No more than 2.8m from the road surface.
- Width: Equal to the width of the truck bed as designed by the manufacturer.
- Length: No more than 1.1 times the length of the vehicle.
Installing a roof rack for a pickup truck does not require registration of modifications with the registration authority if the above regulations are strictly followed. However, vehicle owners should choose a roof rack that matches the load capacity and size of the vehicle to ensure safety and comply with traffic laws.
Truck Bed Rack Safe Usage Guide
To ensure safety when using a truck bed rack, vehicle owners should keep the following points in mind:
- Choose the right roof rack: Choose a roof rack with a load capacity that matches your usage needs and the vehicle’s load-bearing capacity. Refer to the technical specifications of the roof rack and the vehicle to ensure compatibility.
- Distribute weight evenly: When loading goods onto the roof rack, distribute the weight evenly, avoiding concentration in one place which may cause imbalance.
- Secure cargo firmly: Use tie-downs and specialized nets to secure cargo, preventing it from falling during transit.
- Check before moving: Before departing, double-check that the entire roof rack and cargo are securely fastened.
- Adjust speed: When carrying cargo on the roof rack, reduce speed, avoid sudden braking or abrupt steering.
- Note the height: Pay attention to the height of the vehicle when passing through tunnels, bridges or areas with height restrictions.
- Inflate tires: Inflate tires more than usual when carrying heavy loads on the roof rack, as recommended by the manufacturer on the door pillar.
tire inflation recommendation label on a truck door
Conclusion
Installing a truck bed rack offers many benefits, but it is necessary to comply with regulations and ensure safety. Vehicle owners should choose a suitable roof rack, load cargo properly and secure it firmly, while adjusting speed and paying attention to height when moving to ensure safety for themselves and other road users. Complying with the above regulations and guidelines will help you maximize the benefits of your truck bed rack safely and effectively.
