6 MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN UPFITTING

A roof or sports rack is a framework that can be attached to the roof of a vehicle to carry luggage and various types of equipment. Though they’re useful it’s the driver’s responsibility to ensure that anything attached to their roof rack is completely secure. Improperly fastened items are responsible for thousands of car crashes each year. Before you hit the road, make sure you follow these five safety tips.

1. Focusing on price over quality

You get what you pay for. Having a low budget might mean that you won’t be able to afford the features that your vehicle needs to improve its performance. In addition, cheap products won’t last. Cutting back on expenditures now will end up costing you more in the long run. Plus, it can be a real hassle to have to repair or replace your upfit within a couple years because you chose cheap parts at the outset.

2. Using multiple vendors

Upfitting is a whole-vehicle process. It requires proper planning and organization. Look for a vendor that does the entire upfitting from start to finish. A good vendor will work closely with you to design a solution that meets your specific needs.

3. Doing it yourself

Upfitting is not a DIY project. Improper installation can be dangerous and costly to repair. You don’t want to have to repair or redo your upfit because of poor quality parts or services.

4. Choosing a stock upfit

Stock upfits provide a one-size-fits-all approach that doesn’t take your personal experiences and needs into consideration. Upfitting should be customized to your business or trade.

5. Adding too much weight

Do you know your vehicle’s maximum weight capacity? The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) refers to the maximum amount your vehicle should weigh when empty. To avoid unnecessary stress and wear and tear, your upfitted vehicle shouldn’t surpass 85 per cent of the total GVWR.

6. Not seeking insider input

If you’re want to update a commercial fleet, your drivers are an invaluable resource. They’re the ones that use the vehicles every day. Be sure to get your team’s input. They can provide practical insights to improve efficiencies and help you avoid spending your budget on unnecessary features.

Upfitting in the GTA

Hitch city offers a complete line of quality products and services. We’re a one-stop-shop for all your upfitting needs. We offer trailer hitch installations, racks, towing equipment and more. We’re also North America’s #1 dealer for Rhino Linings. We’re happy to serve you from our  three locations across the Greater Toronto Area. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.