Prevention Against Unsafe Transportation of Goods on Passenger Vehicle Roofs

Due to nonexistent legal regulations on the safe transportation of goods on vehicle roofs, the responsibility for this safety worldwide is transferred to the manufacturers of roof carrier systems through product liability legislation.

The main reason for failure is the detachment of the roof carrier system during operation of the vehicle. This is due to insufficient component layout and/or faulty mounting. In order to avoid such failures there are several verification methods and proven construction layouts available. However, they differ within global business markets, manufactures of roof carrier systems and manufacturers of vehicles.

To meet the users' needs, uniform standards are urgently needed. ISO 11154-1(2.) is not enough as it is lacking in essential safety aspects.