Working with high racks on a ute is all about balance, between weight, height, and caution. It’s not just about stacking gear and hitting the road. One small mistake could mean damage, delay, or worse, a hazard to other drivers.
That makes roller covers so crucial. Add one into your setup, and there’s even more to think about. Roller systems are sleek and secure, but they also change how weight sits on the tray. Loading above them needs more care. Whether carrying ladders, pipes, or timber, the setup must be right from the start. Here’s a list of safety tips that’ll keep loads steady, secure, and safe for the road ahead.
1. Check the Rack’s Load Rating
High racks may look strong, but every setup has its limit. Check the manufacturer’s load rating before placing anything up top. This figure isn’t a guess. It’s tested. Pushing beyond it strains the rack and risks damage to the roller cover or tub. Spread the weight evenly and avoid concentrating it in one spot.
2. Secure the Load Before Moving
It only takes one bump in the road for gear to shift. Use ratchet straps, tie-downs, or load-rated ropes. Make sure they’re tight and placed at more than one point. Loose ropes aren’t good enough, and neither are bungee cords. Every piece of gear needs firm anchoring, especially items that extend past the cab.
3. Avoid Blocking Rear Visibility
Don’t stack items so high they block rear vision. Keep lines of sight clear. If mirrors can’t give a full view, reposition the load. Driving blind on highways or narrow tracks adds risk fast. Load smart, not high. Use flag markers or hi-vis tape for longer items.
4. Be Mindful of Load Height
Measure total height before leaving. Know the clearance needed for bridges, parking structures, or carports. A tall rack with gear can easily hit 2.5 metres or more. The top of the load is often out of view, but it still matters, especially when entering tight spots.
5. Distribute Weight Evenly
High racks shift the ute’s centre of gravity. Keep the heaviest items lower when possible. If something needs to go up top, balance it side to side. Avoid placing weight only at the rear. This strains the roller cover and can affect steering or braking performance.
6. Use Rack-Mounted Load Stops
Some racks come with vertical stops to prevent sideways sliding. If yours doesn’t, consider adding aftermarket ones. Load stops are simple but effective. They keep things like pipes and timber from shifting left or right during turns or hard stops.
7. Inspect the Rack Fittings
Before loading up, check the mounts, bolts, and brackets. Look for rust, cracks, or loose parts. Roller covers often share mounting points with tub racks—everything must be tight. If anything feels wobbly, fix it before adding weight. A rack failure at speed can lead to major road hazards.
8. Avoid Overhanging Too Far
Loads that stick out beyond the rear should follow legal limits. In most states, that means no more than 1.2 metres past the tailgate without a flag. Use red flags or reflectors during the day. You must also add lights if driving at night. Police don’t ignore overhang breaches, and neither should drivers.
9. Take Corners Slower
High loads change how a ute behaves. Wind can push long gear sideways. Sudden turns or sharp corners can make the whole vehicle lean. What you need to do is drive slower than usual. Brake gently, and allow more space for turns. A ute loaded high handles nothing like an empty tray.
10. Make Use of Load Covers
Some drivers use nets or tarps to wrap loose items. It helps avoid flying debris on bumpy roads. This works well for uneven or oddly shaped loads that may shift during transit. Make sure the cover itself is secure and not flapping in the wind.
11. Avoid Loading on Slopes
A ute on a slope isn’t stable. Loading heavy gear while parked on an angle makes the rack harder to reach and increases risk. Find level ground whenever possible. Use a step ladder or platform for better reach. Bending awkwardly while lifting makes the job more dangerous.
12. Stay Under Legal Weight Limits
The total load matters too, not just the rack. Check the ute’s GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) and make sure the combined weight of gear, racks, fuel, and passengers stays under. Overloading affects brakes, steering, and insurance. Furthermore, it can also void warranties and attract fines.
13. Keep an Eye on Weather
High winds aren’t ideal when carrying gear on top. Long, flat items can act like sails. Rain can also loosen straps if not checked regularly. If the weather looks rough, wait it out. It’s not worth the risk of gear flying off or getting soaked beyond use.
14. Use a Checklist Before You Go
A 60-second check can prevent serious trouble. Before leaving, run through a quick list. Ask yourself these questions:
- Is the load secure?
- Are the straps tight?
- Is nothing loose or rattling?
- Are all points of contact tight?
- Is the gear flagged if overhanging?
Load safety doesn’t start when the ute’s already rolling. It begins the moment gear touches the tray. While racks and roller covers are built to help, they still need the right handling. Secure setups bring peace of mind. Proper loading keeps the roads safer, not just for one driver, but for everyone else around. Keep in mind that one solid check is all it takes to turn a risky ride into a safe run.
