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How to transport cargo in a car without getting a ticket?

How to transport luggage in a car

(photo Moje Auto)

Artur Owczarek
Artur Owczarek

Brand Product Manager Moje AutoHe has been involved in the automotive industry for years. He is passionate about cars and detailing. On his blog, he shares his knowledge and experience, offering tips on how to effectively care for your car and extend its life.

Many drivers can turn their passenger car into a multifunctional transporter. All you need is some creativity, a few accessories and, of course, knowledge of the Road Traffic Law. It turns out that a small car is a good vehicle for transporting a large sofa to the living room or furniture to the kitchen. Improper securing of the load may result in a fine. Do you know how to avoid unpleasant situations? How should luggage be transported on the roof of a car according to the law? Is it necessary to secure the load every time?

Do transporting cargo in a passenger car you can use, for example, a foldable rear seat. In a few moments you can increase the car's load capacity several times. However, this is not always enough. Larger items will not fit inside the vehicle even after these simple changes. If you are planning a renovation or a trip to the lake with your kayak, you must use the roof of your car. How to do it right so as not to get a ticket?

Transporting cargo in a passenger car – what does the law require?

Carrying luggage on the roof of a car or in the cabin, allowing them to protrude through the window or trunk? Which method of transport will be better? It depends on the type of luggage, its dimensions and shapes. You will learn how to properly place the load on the vehicle from Art. 61 of the Road Traffic Law. It must not exceed the permissible axle loads of the vehicle on the road and violate the stability of the vehicle. Moreover, it must not impede driving or limit visibility of the road. We also learn from the act that it must be ensured that it does not cover the lights and the license plate.

However, in the case of vehicle stability, a problem may arise. We cannot control it, so we must trust intuition and experience. In addition, do not open the tailgate completely as this would prevent the license plate from being visible. Transporting cargo in a passenger car This is not possible with luggage emitting unpleasant odors. Carrying luggage on the roof of a car it's also a necessity load securing. The risk of the load shifting and moving while driving must be minimized as much as possible.

How much can the load protrude?

If you have a small car, you also need to familiarize yourself with the maximum dimensions of the load. Maximum load width is one that does not increase the total width of the vehicle by more than 2,55 m. At the rear, the object cannot protrude for a length longer than 2 m from the rear plane of the car's outline. AND How much can the load protrude from a light trailer? The same rule applies, no more than 2 m. It is equally important that each protruding object is properly marked. For this purpose, use a red flag with dimensions of at least 50x50 cm or a red light.

Also remember that the load cannot protrude from the front of the vehicle. The rule applies - luggage can protrude a maximum of 50 cm from the front. It should also be marked with a red flag or two red stripes. If you transport a bicycle or other load on the roof of your car, the height of the vehicle cannot exceed 4 m.

Securing the load

Road traffic law states that the transported load must be properly secured. Many drivers use ineffective techniques to do this. The items are attached to the vehicle, e.g. using adhesive tape. This may cause the luggage to move or even slide off. Luggage cord on car roof, as well as partially protruding beyond the plane of the vehicle's outline, requires the use of appropriate mountings. There are special straps of various lengths for securing luggage. They are made of flexible materials, extremely durable and resistant to abrasion. They should also be easy to install. The Moje Auto offer includes: rubber bands in various colors and lengths. They were produced with the thought in mind transporting cargo in a passenger car in a safe manner and in accordance with applicable law. Securing the load means that it does not move while driving and does not pose a threat to other road users. The tapes also protect against damage to your luggage and car.

 

Another solution are fastening tapes with hooks. They can be used for load securing on roof rack and car trailer. They are perfect for mounting, among others: kayaks, boats and bicycles. Thanks to the tensioner, it is possible to securely secure the transported load.

Transporting cargo in a passenger car using a trailer also requires proper securing. To do this, use tape or net to secure your luggage. Adjust the protection to the size and shape of your luggage.

Inappropriate transporting cargo in a passenger car

Failure to comply with the regulations means the risk of a penalty, or more precisely, a fine. If the load covers lights or signaling devices, you may pay a fine of PLN 200. If the visibility of the license plate is limited, the fine is approximately PLN 100. If you do not mark the load, you will pay a fine of approximately PLN 150. Securing the load in an incorrect manner, allowing their movement, is a fine of PLN 200. Very often, drivers have to pay a higher fine because they violate several regulations at the same time.

Carrying luggage on the roof of a car may involve a deadly threat. This applies to cases when it is inadequately secured. The way you drive is also very important. If you are carrying a load, drive slower and avoid sudden braking. Be especially careful around bends, in narrow streets and on steep slopes. With a category B driving license, you cannot exceed the gross vehicle weight (GVWR), which is 3,5 tons. However, most passenger cars have a lower GVM. To find out, check your vehicle's GVM in your registration certificate.

Driving a passenger car must, above all, be safe. Transporting cargo in a passenger car requires you to know the law, but also the capabilities of your car. Remember about appropriate, solid safeguards and rules regulated by the Road Traffic Law.

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