Load Rating Overview

Product load rating is how much weight can be added on top of the rack while driving on a paved or sealed road.

Your car’s maximum load capacity may be lower than the product load rating. In that case, the lowest load rating applies. Please refer to your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications.

Load rating overview

Static Load
STATIC
When the vehicle is parked or stationary.
On-Road Load
ON ROAD
Driving on paved or sealed roads.
Off-Road Load
OFF ROAD
Driving on unsealed or dirt roads.

Roof Racks

  • Static load rating: This is the maximum weight that can be added while the car is stationary. It can usually hold three times the on-road load rating. So, if you have a tent, that’s why you can sleep in it.
  • On-road load rating: This is the weight limit while driving on sealed roads. This is what the product load rating refers to.
  • Off-road load rating: This is the weight limit on unsealed roads. It is typically lower than the on-road capacity by 30%.

Canopy Racks

Dual cab canopy load capacities vary significantly depending on the canopy type, material and brand/manufacturer. Dynamic (moving) loads typically ranging from 40kg to 100kg (load distributed evenly) and static (stationary) loads up to 3 times that value.

For dual cab canopies, the distinction between dynamic and static loads is particularly crucial, as the added stress from movement (e.g., driving on uneven terrain) requires careful load distribution.

Internal arch supports or top mounted tracks are recommended to increase the capacity of your canopy to help carry your gear.

Two bars and internal arch supports on a standard dual cab will support a tent up to 1.5m long. For tents over 1.5m and up to 2.2m, the manufactures of roof top tents recommend supporting the tent on a platform or 3-4 bars.(this may not be possible on some canopies

Shutter Racks

It’s always crucial to balance practicality with safety, considering factors like road conditions, the specific product’s rating, and the need for reinforcements like underside bracing if exceeding standard limits. Checking with the shutter and vehicle manufacturer for exact specifications is definitely a smart approach. As a guide:

  • Static load rating can usually hold up to three times the on-road load rating. So if you have a tent, that’s why you may possibly sleep in it.
  • On-road load rating on sealed roads on shutters is typically 25 – 40 kgs. (Brands may vary)
  • Off-road ratings on shutters on unsealed roads is typically reduced by 30%.

Increasing the load capacity requires the install of underside bracing. Always check the specifications for your specific product to ensure compatibility with your needs.

Why is the load rating displayed lower than on other websites?

Most other websites only display the load rating of the product. When possible, we aim to provide the true and real load rating, which needs to take into consideration the car make and model, the rack, and the fittings used. We have been fitting racks for over 50 years, so we have the experience to provide true and accurate load ratings.

Important: Overloading beyond these ratings can damage your vehicle, void warranties, or cause accidents. Always include the weight of the rack and accessories in your calculations.