How to tie down a load on a car roof or truck

Teach: How to tie down a load on a car roof or truck

What to say

To tie down a load, use at least two rated ratchet or cam straps over the load, anchored to the roof rack, tie-down points or bed hooks, not to plastic trim. For long items such as a kayak or lumber, add a line from the front and back to the vehicle. Shake the load hard, give straps a twist so they do not hum, and recheck after the first ten minutes of driving.

What to show, in order

1. Check the strap's working load limit on its label and that your roof rack's load limit covers the load.
2. Put the heaviest items low and toward the front, with nothing hanging over the windshield.
3. Run at least two straps over the load, each anchored to a solid rack bar, tie-down point or bed hook.
4. Tighten the straps until the load cannot slide, without crushing it.
5. Put a twist in each strap between rack and load so it does not hum or flap at speed.
6. For long items, add a bow line and a stern line down to solid points on the vehicle.
7. Tie a bright flag or cloth on anything sticking out past the back of the vehicle.
8. Grab the load and shake it hard, then stop after ten minutes of driving and retighten.

When to stop and call a professional

• The load is heavier than the roof rack or strap ratings, or too long for your vehicle: rent a truck or trailer, or use a delivery service.
• Something comes loose on the highway: pull over safely with hazards on, and do not run into traffic to fetch it; call the police non-emergency line or 911 if it blocks a lane.

The check question

Ask: Why use rated straps instead of bungee cords? Answer: Bungee cords stretch and let the load move

From EveryManKnows. General information, not professional advice.