Beyond the Basics: Exploring External Racking Systems for Your Vehicle

Beyond the Basics: Exploring External Racking Systems for Your Vehicle

 What are Bull Bars?

Bull bars, also known as push bars or nudge bars, are heavy-duty metal structures that are attached to the front of a vehicle to protect it from damage in the event of a collision or impact with an animal or object. Bull bars are typically made of steel or aluminium and are designed to absorb the force of an impact, preventing damage to the vehicle's body, engine, and other vital components.

Bull bars are commonly used on SUVs, utes, and other off-road vehicles, as well as on commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses. They are often used by people who frequently travel on rural roads or in areas where wildlife is common, as well as by those who enjoy off-roading or other outdoor activities.

Benefits of External Racking Systems

One of the primary benefits of external racking systems is that they can greatly expand the amount of cargo space in your vehicle. By taking advantage of the often-overlooked space on the exterior of your vehicle, you can free up space inside the vehicle for passengers or more delicate cargo.

Another benefit of external racking systems is their versatility. Depending on the type of racking system you choose, you can customise it to fit your specific needs. For example, a ladder rack can be used for transporting ladders, but it can also be used to transport other long, bulky items like pipes or lumber. Similarly, a cargo basket can be used to transport camping gear, but it can also be used to transport sports equipment or other bulky items.

External racking systems can also improve the safety and organisation of your cargo. By securing your cargo to the exterior of your vehicle, you can reduce the risk of damage to the interior of your vehicle, as well as the risk of injury from loose items in the event of an accident.

Types of External Racking Systems

There are several types of external racking systems available on the market, each with its own set of features and benefits.

Ladder Racks: Ladder racks are designed to transport ladders, but they can also be used for other long, bulky items. They are typically mounted on the roof of a van or truck and can be made of various materials such as steel, aluminium, or composite.

Cargo Baskets: Cargo baskets are similar to roof racks but are designed for larger or bulkier items. They are typically made of steel and can be mounted on the roof or rear of the vehicle.

Roof Racks: Roof racks are a versatile option for transporting a wide range of items, including bikes, kayaks, and cargo boxes. They can be mounted on the roof of a vehicle and come in a variety of sizes and materials.

Hitch-Mounted Racks: Hitch-mounted racks are designed to be attached to the hitch receiver on the back of a vehicle. They are ideal for transporting bikes or other small items and can be easily installed and removed.

Cargo Carriers: Cargo carriers are large boxes or bags that are mounted to the exterior of a vehicle. They are ideal for transporting items that need to be protected from the elements and can be mounted on the roof or rear of the vehicle.

No matter what type of external racking system you choose, it is important to ensure that it is properly installed and meets all safety requirements.

Best Practices for Maintaining Your External Racking System

Once you've invested in an external racking system for your vehicle, it's important to take proper care of it to ensure it lasts as long as possible. Here are some best practices for maintaining your external racking system:

Regularly inspect your racking system: Make a habit of inspecting your racking system on a regular basis. Look for any signs of wear and tear, rust, or damage to the mounting hardware. If you notice any issues, address them as soon as possible to prevent further damage or failure.

Clean your racking system: Dirt, grime, and salt from the road can accumulate on your racking system over time, which can lead to rust and other damage. Clean your racking system regularly with soap and water to remove any buildup and protect against corrosion.

Store your racking system properly: If you don't plan on using your racking system for an extended period of time, it's important to store it properly. Store your racking system in a dry, covered area to protect against the elements.

Follow weight limits and load distribution guidelines: Overloading your racking system can lead to damage or failure, so it's important to follow the weight limits and load distribution guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Distribute weight evenly across the rack and secure your load properly to prevent shifting.

Check your load regularly: While on the road, make a habit of checking your load regularly to ensure that it is still secure and properly distributed. Make adjustments as needed to prevent any potential safety hazards.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your external racking system stays in good condition and operates safely for years to come.

Custom External Racking Systems: What You Need to Know

While many external racking systems come in standard sizes and configurations, sometimes a custom solution is needed to meet specific needs. Custom external racking systems can be designed and fabricated to meet your unique needs and requirements.

There are several benefits to choosing a custom external racking system:

Tailored to your needs: With a custom solution, your racking system can be tailored to meet your exact needs and specifications. Whether you need a specific size or shape, or require additional features like locking mechanisms or specialized storage compartments, a custom solution can be designed to meet your unique requirements.

Improved functionality: A custom solution can improve the functionality of your vehicle and make it more efficient for your specific use case. By optimizing the placement and design of the racking system, you can make better use of the available space and reduce wasted space or inefficient loading practices.

Enhance branding and marketing: Custom external racking systems can be designed to include your company's branding or messaging, which can help to enhance your marketing efforts and increase brand awareness.

When considering a custom external racking system, it's important to work with a reputable manufacturer who has experience in designing and fabricating custom solutions. The manufacturer should be able to provide detailed design plans and cost estimates, and should be able to work with you to ensure that the final product meets your needs and specifications.

By choosing a custom external racking system, you can optimize the functionality of your vehicle, meet your unique needs and requirements, and enhance your branding and marketing efforts.