How to transport timber and long materials: roof rack and securing

Planks, beams, skirting boards and pipes are long, and that is exactly the problem: they stick out, they can slide and in an emergency stop they can shoot forward like a spear. Yet you can transport timber yourself, if you know what to watch for. In this blog you will read how to put long materials safely on a roof rack or in the car, how to secure them and when you are better off calling in a carrier.

👷 Calling in a professional or carrier is never superfluous. Is it about heavy beams, large quantities, or material that sticks out far beyond the vehicle? Then it belongs in a suitable vehicle with the right provisions. A carrier knows what is and is not allowed.

Before you leave

• Measure the load. Use a tape measure with auto-lock to determine length and number. Can you have the timber cut to size, or cut it yourself with a hand saw? Short material is easier to transport. Mark the length with a carpenter pencil. Read more about measuring in our blog on tape measures and measuring tools.
• Check your vehicle. Look in the manual for the maximum load of the roof and of the roof rack. The roof of a car can carry much less than you think.
• Choose the right place. Does it fit in the car? Long pieces sometimes fit inside with the seats folded down. The load is still a risk in an emergency stop: secure it there too.
• Check the rules. For protruding loads there are rules on marking and maximum overhang, among other things. Look up the current rules with the official bodies, such as the RDW, before you drive.

PPE: protect yourself

Timber gives splinters and heavy pieces quickly fall on your feet. Wear:

• work gloves with nitrile coating, or cut-resistant gloves for rough or split timber. See our buying guide for work gloves.
• safety shoe. See our blog on choosing safety shoes.
• safety goggles when you saw or secure the load, and a safety helmet on site or when loading at height.
• A orange high-visibility vest when you load or unload at the roadside.

On the roof rack

1. Use a suitable roof rack or roof rails. Do not put timber loose on the roof and drive with it.
2. Put the heaviest at the bottom and distribute the load evenly. Lay planks flat or tightly bundled.
3. Bundle loose pieces with cargo straps (set), or use cable ties for light small pieces such as laths.
4. Secure the load with straps: at least two straps across the load and around the rack, not around the roof itself. cargo straps with double hook and cargo strap with double hook have a hook, but route the strap so that it does not chafe anywhere. Tighten firmly and check after a few kilometres that everything is still secure.
5. Secure front and back too. A load can slide forward when braking hard, and backward when accelerating quickly or in wind. So secure the load lengthwise as well.
6. Drive more calmly. Allow for crosswinds, a longer braking distance and a higher centre of gravity.

⚠️ Never tie down just one piece: a loose piece in a bundle can slide out. Tie all pieces together and check the load at every stop.

Making a protruding load visible

If the timber sticks out behind or beside the car, it must be clearly visible to other road users. Use marking according to the rules in force. For long pieces, consult a carrier or look up the rules.

💡 Put a blanket or foam on the tip of the rack or the edge of the car, so nothing is damaged or chafes.

In a van or trailer

• Lay long pieces lengthwise and secure them against sliding.
• Use heavy sheet material as a base and keep the rest high.
• Secure the load to the lashing points in the cargo area, not to loose parts.
• A trailer has a maximum load and a maximum nose weight; keep to the data on the vehicle.

When do you call a carrier?

• Heavy beams or large quantities.
• A load that sticks out far beyond the vehicle.
• You have no suitable roof rack or vehicle.
• You are unsure about the rules for loads or the weight.

For general rules on safe working, see also our blog on safe working on the construction site.

Frequently asked questions

May I put timber on the roof without a roof rack?

That is not wise. Without a rack and securing, the load can slide or fall. Use a suitable roof rack with straps.

How often should I check the straps?

After the first bit of driving and at every stop. Straps can work loose through vibration.

Is rope also good?

Cargo straps are more reliable than rope, because you can tighten them firmly and fix them properly.

Where can you find everything for this job?

At Saniso, the online store for DIYers and professionals, you will find tools, materials and personal protective equipment for your job.

• Browse our construction tools and our workwear and safety.
• Create a customer account and order easily.
• Working on a bigger project or want to hand over the job? Request a project quote.
• Book a showroom visit, at least 24 hours in advance.
• Not sure which material suits your job? Get in touch with us.

In doubt about the approach? Feel free to call in a professional.

Read also: How to transport tiles and slabs safely · How to transport sanitaryware and furniture safely

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