The first thing to consider when you’re looking to purchase a roof rack for your van is, ‘do I need a roof rack or roof bars?’
Here’s a quick reference table to help you decide:
| Need to regularly carry: | Need to regularly carry: |
| 8 x 4 sheet materials (plywood, MDF, Plasterboard, etc) | Van Pipe Carrier |
| Timber Products | Ladders (single to triple tier ladders, step ladders, |
| Scaffold Boards | Need to Occasionally Carry: |
| Multiple ladders | Timber Products (4×2, decking planks, etc) |
| Electrical cable trays | 8×4 sheet materials (plywood, MDF, Fencing |
| If the answer is yes to one or more of the above, then it would be our recommendation that a gallery style roof rack will suit you. | If the answer to one or more of the above is yes, then it would be our recommendation that a set of Roof Bars would be what you need. |
Picking a set of bars or rack for your van can be tough as no van roof appears to be the same and there are more options than you would think. The whole process could be very overwhelming. Happily, most websites make you pick what van you have before showing you what is available.
First, we will discuss roof racks and then we will look at roof bars.
Important Notice
Your van roof will have a load limit you will find this in your manual, it’s important to bear this in mind when fitting a roof rack or roof bars. Take the weight of your roof rack or bars into consideration when loading materials.
The Best Roof Racks
A built-in front aerofoil will reduce wind noise and drag while the high side rails prevent loads from slipping around. Ideal for carrying 8×4 sheets or long-length items the rear roller system will help you load and unload such items.
Smart click and lock mechanisms make fitting this roof rack quicker and easier than most van racks on the market, wind noise is kept to a minimum with an aerodynamic profile.
The Best Roof Bars
The rear roller support is adjustable, these bars from Autorack will take 8×4 sheet materials and the Welded End-Loops will help you lash what you need to the bars.
Fitting time will take between 15 and 30 minutes, with minimal tools and no drilling required. Rubber pads are also provided, which fit under the steel legs to provide a bespoke fit for each vehicle.
The T-Track system allows you to fit a wide variety of compatible roof rack accessories and includes four free Load Stops. Capable of carrying up to 55kg per bar not only are they durable but they’re strong, too.
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