By law, any load on a vehicle must be secured so it can't move or fall and isn't a danger to others. For ladders, that means a suitable roof rack, proper clamps or straps, and checking it during the journey.
Before you load
- Close the ladder fully and lock all catches and hinges. Remove loose accessories.
- Check your roof rack is rated for the ladder's weight and the vehicle's roof load limit.
- Choose a ladder that fits your vehicle. Telescopic and 3-section ladders close shorter.
Steps
- With two people for longer ladders, lift the ladder onto the rack, keeping it level.
- Centre it on the rack so the overhang is as even as possible.
- Secure it with ladder clamps or ratchet straps at each roof bar, plus a strap at the front to stop it sliding forward when braking.
- Fit end caps to protect the stiles.
- Make any overhang clearly visible, for example with a marker flag.
- Check the straps after a few miles and on longer journeys.
Never carry a ladder sticking out of an open window or boot.