Frequently Asked Questions

We're happy to help you choose the right roof box, but please schedule an appointment in advance, as our location is not always staffed.

A 10€ flat fee per rental covers mounting, dismounting, and basic cleaning of the rented items. Please ensure heavy dirt (e.g., sand) is removed before returning them.

At the moment, we are unable to offer insurance for each rental agreement. Many car insurance policies cover the roof box, rear box, or bike carrier under comprehensive insurance as a permanently attached accessory to the vehicle. Home insurance often covers the theft of items. Please check with your insurance provider for the regulations that apply to you.

Do you have a new vehicle and need a different base rack? No problem – contact us! We'll do our best to provide you with the right base rack. Please note that short-term changes are not always possible. Getting in touch with us early helps us find the best possible solution for you.

If you had an accident and the roof box was damaged, please proceed as follows:

1. Report the accident and damage
   Inform us as soon as possible. Please provide all relevant details, including photos of the damaged roof box.
2. Invoice for insurance
   We will issue an invoice for the damage amount, which you can submit to your insurance company. If you have comprehensive insurance, it may cover the costs.

If your desired time slot is unavailable, there are two possible reasons:

1.
Maximum number of pickups and returns reached
– To ensure a smooth process, each time slot has a limited number of available appointments. Once this capacity is reached, no further bookings can be made for that time.

2.
Items unavailable
– If the requested rental items are not available at the selected time, that time slot cannot be chosen.

We recommend selecting an alternative time or
contacting us
if you need a customized solution.

Answer:
Yes, you can order multiple items at the same time. Simply add the first item you would like to rent to the cart and then select the other products you need.

It is important that all items are added within the same order. This ensures that the cleaning fee is not charged more than once, but only applied once per order.

If you would like to rent several products for the same period, this is therefore no problem and all items can be combined in one booking.

If your desired time slot is unavailable, there are two possible reasons:

1.
Maximum number of pickups and returns reached
– To ensure a smooth process, each time slot has a limited number of available appointments. Once this capacity is reached, no further bookings can be made for that time.

2.
Items unavailable
– If the requested rental items are not available at the selected time, that time slot cannot be chosen.

We recommend selecting an alternative time or
contacting us
if you need a customized solution.

Answer:
Yes, you can order multiple items at the same time. Simply add the first item you would like to rent to the cart and then select the other products you need.

It is important that all items are added within the same order. This ensures that the cleaning fee is not charged more than once, but only applied once per order.

If you would like to rent several products for the same period, this is therefore no problem and all items can be combined in one booking.

You can conveniently pay the rental fee at the time of booking using a debit card, credit card, or PayPal.

Yes – you can rent a roof box together with matching roof bars from us. A roof box cannot be mounted directly on a car roof. It always needs a roof bar system suited to your vehicle.

How the combined rental works

During the booking process, you can optionally add roof bars as an accessory to your chosen roof box. We then deliver the complete, coordinated set: the roof box including mounting hardware plus vehicle-specific roof bars. You don't need to source anything yourself and save the cost of buying bars you only use a few days a year.

When do you not need additional bars?

If your car already has roof bars – fixed rail-mounted bars, your own cross bars, or a factory-installed system – you can usually mount the roof box directly onto them. When in doubt, check the maximum roof load and the compatibility of your existing system.

Which bars fit my car?

We stock Thule roof bars for the most common vehicle models. When booking, simply let us know your vehicle, year, and configuration (with or without roof rails) – we will put the right system together for you. If you have any compatibility questions, feel free to contact us before booking.

During your booking, you selected the specific date and time for the pickup or return of your rental item. This appointment was scheduled to meet your individual needs and ensure you receive optimal service. We kindly ask that you arrive on time for the scheduled appointment to help guarantee a smooth process. If your plans change unexpectedly, please notify us as early as possible via email – however, please note that on particularly busy days, last-minute changes may not be feasible. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to providing you with outstanding service.

You can easily cancel your booking by using our online cancellation form or by sending us an email. Your booking will be processed according to our cancellation policy – depending on how far in advance you cancel, cancellation fees may apply. Once we receive your cancellation request, you will receive a confirmation email.

Whether cancellation fees apply depends on when you cancel your booking:

• 14 days before the booking start date: Free cancellation and a full refund of any payments made.
• 8–13 days before the booking start date: 50% of the rental price will be charged, and any payments made will be refunded on a pro-rata basis.
• 7 days before the booking start date: 70% of the rental price will be charged, and any payments made will be refunded on a pro-rata basis.
• On the day of the scheduled booking start: The full rental price must be paid.

In general, you're free to adjust your rental period. If you would like to extend it, please contact us well in advance. Keep in mind that any extension must be requested at least 3 days before the end of the rental period and will only become effective upon our confirmation.

Important: If you wish to shorten your rental period, you must notify us before the rental period begins, so that the rental price can be adjusted accordingly and a refund provided, if applicable. If the items are returned early after the rental period has started, no refund will be issued.

Please contact us as early as possible so that we can work together to find the best solution for your needs.

You may not be able to select the rental period because availability is checked in real-time. If an item is unavailable for the requested period, the selection is automatically restricted.

What can I do?

✔ Try different rental dates if possible.
✔ Check for alternative items, as similar models might be available.
✔ If you need further assistance, contact us – we're happy to help!

Yes, it is possible to book at short notice, but this depends on the desired item:

✔ Roof boxes, rear boxes, tow bar bike carriers, and coolers can be booked with 24 hours' notice.
✔ Combinations that include a roof rack require a lead time of 3 days, as we need to prepare the appropriate racks for your vehicle.

We recommend that you make your booking as early as possible to ensure the desired availability.

How can I book at short notice?

If you would like to make a booking at short notice, please contact us directly by email or by telephone. We will be happy to check whether faster delivery is possible!

No, there is no minimum rental period. You can choose the rental duration flexibly according to your needs.

Can I extend or shorten my rental period?

Extending or shortening the rental period is generally possible. For more information, please see our FAQ: "Can I extend or shorten my rental period?"

Where is the pickup and return location for the rental items?

All rental items must be picked up and returned exclusively in Darmstadt. The exact address will be provided to you in your booking confirmation.

Is it possible to pick up or return the items at a different location?

No, both pickup and return are only possible at the location in Darmstadt. Shipping or delivery services are currently not offered.

At what times can pickup or return take place?

The exact times for pickup and return are confirmed during the booking process. Please make sure to arrive punctually at the agreed time to ensure a smooth handover.

You will receive an automatic reminder email 24 hours before your appointment, including all important details.

What happens in case of a delayed pickup or return?

Please adhere to the times agreed upon during the booking. Especially during holiday periods, a delayed pickup or return may impact other customers and cause unnecessary waiting times. While we strive to remain flexible, we kindly ask for your understanding in case of scheduling conflicts. Please notify us in advance if you expect a delay.

Answer:
If your roof box does not close properly, there can be several reasons. Here are the most common issues and possible solutions:

1. The roof box is overloaded
Problem: The roof box is too full, and the lid cannot close properly.
Solution: The lid must close without pressure. Repack the box, distribute the luggage more evenly, and remove any bulky items if necessary.

2. The locking mechanism is blocked by foreign objects
Problem: Dirt, small objects or parts of your luggage are blocking the locking mechanism.
Solution: Check the lock and the rails for any foreign objects and remove them so the roof box can close properly again.

To help you determine which of our roof boxes is suitable for you, we have created an overview with the key details of each model.

In most cases, the whistling sound comes from the roof rack. Please make sure that the rack is properly mounted and that all openings and holes on the box are sealed.

For vehicles with a combustion engine, driving at 130 km/h doesn't lead to a noticeable increase in fuel consumption—it's about the same as the extra fuel used by a constantly running air conditioner.

For electric cars, the extra energy consumption can be significantly higher, depending on the model. On longer trips, expect to make one or two additional charging stops. If your car has a tow bar, you might want to rent a rear cargo box instead, as it has little effect on fuel or energy consumption.

You'll need to adjust your driving style due to changes in weight and height. Crosswind sensitivity increases, and the center of gravity shifts, affecting how your vehicle handles in turns and braking. Your car's height can increase by up to 60 cm, so be cautious when entering parking garages and driving under low bridges.

Place heavy items as centrally as possible in your roof box to evenly distribute the weight across the load carrier and vehicle. All luggage must be secured to prevent shifting. The load should not obstruct the closing of the roof box, as this may cause malfunctions in the locking system. Make sure to adhere to the maximum roof load specified by the manufacturer. The permissible total weight of your vehicle must not be exceeded.

The maximum speed with a roof box depends on several factors, including manufacturer recommendations, traffic regulations, and driving safety. Here are some key considerations:

1. Manufacturer Specification

Manufacturers typically specify a 130 km/h speed limit for roof boxes to maintain vehicle stability and aerodynamic efficiency, as excessive speeds may compromise safety.

2. Legal Regulations

No explicit legal speed restriction exists for roof box usage. However, compliance with general traffic regulations is required, particularly in terms of vehicle stability and driver control.

3. Safety Guidelines

✔ Adjust driving behavior – Increased wind susceptibility can make the vehicle less stable.
✔ Perform routine inspections – Verify the roof box mounting system before every trip to ensure secure attachment.
✔ Watch the weight – Make sure you don't exceed your car's roof load limit or the box's maximum capacity.

The type of roof rack mounting varies depending on the vehicle type. Here are the common options:

• Standard Roof: For vehicles with a conventional roof, the rack is clamped between the door and the roof.
• Raised Rail: For vehicles with an open roof railing that can be easily gripped by hand.
• Flush Rail: A rail mounted flush on the vehicle roof, for which a custom mounting kit is required.
• Fixed Mounting Points: Typically, threaded inserts are installed in the roof, into which the rack is bolted using a vehicle-specific mounting kit.
• T-Profile: Here as well, a vehicle-specific mounting kit is used, which is anchored in the slot.

The maximum load capacity of your roof box depends on several factors: the permitted roof load of your vehicle, the carrying capacity of the roof rack, and the weight limit of the roof box itself.

A good comparison is air travel: Passengers are often allowed to take suitcases weighing 20 kg each. Depending on the model, our roof boxes can hold 50–75 kg – roughly the equivalent of 2 to 3 large travel suitcases.

Important: The permitted roof load of your vehicle (including the roof rack and roof box) must not be exceeded. Check your vehicle manual for the specifications. Additionally, heavy items should be placed as centrally as possible in the roof box and secured to prevent shifting.

If you're unsure how much weight your roof box can carry, we're happy to assist you!

We have roof racks for over 1,600 vehicle models in stock. In most cases, we can therefore offer you a suitable carrier immediately.

What if there is no carrier available for my vehicle?

If there is currently no roof rack in stock for your vehicle, we will endeavor to provide one, provided there is sufficient lead time. Please contact us in good time so that we can find a suitable solution.

Yes, you can of course use your own roof racks, as long as they do not exceed the required dimensions.

What are the requirements for my roof racks?

✔ The crossbars must not exceed 80 mm in width and 30 mm in height.
✔ The racks must ensure a secure and stable attachment of the rented roof box.

What if my roof racks don't fit?

If your roof racks do not meet the specifications, you can rent compatible roof racks as an accessory from us. This ensures that the roof box can be mounted without any issues.

We're happy to assist you and check if your roof racks are compatible!

If your roof box doesn't close properly, there may be several reasons. Here are the most common issues and possible solutions:

1. The Roof Box Is Overloaded
   ✔ Problem: The roof box is too full, preventing the lid from closing properly.
   ✔ Solution: The lid must close without force. Rearrange the contents, distribute the load more evenly, and remove any bulky items if necessary.
2. The Locking Mechanism Is Blocked by Foreign Objects
   ✔ Problem: Dirt, small objects, or luggage parts are obstructing the locking mechanism.
   ✔ Solution: Check the lock and rails for any foreign objects and remove them to ensure smooth closure.

1. Key broken before departure
   If you haven't left for your trip yet, we'll try to exchange the box, depending on availability.
2. Key broken during vacation
   Have a replacement key made at a local locksmith. If possible, try opening or closing the roof box from the other side. Contact us for further assistance if needed.
3. Repair after return
   We'll attempt to remove the broken key and install a new lock cylinder.
   ✔ Cost for the new lock cylinder: €30
   In most cases, the entire locking bar needs replacement (the old bar must be drilled out, renewed, and re-riveted).
   ✔ Cost for locking bar replacement: €80

Yes – you can rent a roof box together with matching roof bars from us. A roof box cannot be mounted directly on a car roof. It always needs a roof bar system suited to your vehicle.

How the combined rental works

During the booking process, you can optionally add roof bars as an accessory to your chosen roof box. We then deliver the complete, coordinated set: the roof box including mounting hardware plus vehicle-specific roof bars. You don't need to source anything yourself and save the cost of buying bars you only use a few days a year.

When do you not need additional bars?

If your car already has roof bars – fixed rail-mounted bars, your own cross bars, or a factory-installed system – you can usually mount the roof box directly onto them. When in doubt, check the maximum roof load and the compatibility of your existing system.

Which bars fit my car?

We stock Thule roof bars for the most common vehicle models. When booking, simply let us know your vehicle, year, and configuration (with or without roof rails) – we will put the right system together for you. If you have any compatibility questions, feel free to contact us before booking.

Yes – you can rent a roof box together with matching roof bars from us. A roof box cannot be mounted directly on a car roof. It always needs a roof bar system suited to your vehicle.

How the combined rental works

During the booking process, you can optionally add roof bars as an accessory to your chosen roof box. We then deliver the complete, coordinated set: the roof box including mounting hardware plus vehicle-specific roof bars. You don't need to source anything yourself and save the cost of buying bars you only use a few days a year.

When do you not need additional bars?

If your car already has roof bars – fixed rail-mounted bars, your own cross bars, or a factory-installed system – you can usually mount the roof box directly onto them. When in doubt, check the maximum roof load and the compatibility of your existing system.

Which bars fit my car?

We stock Thule roof bars for the most common vehicle models. When booking, simply let us know your vehicle, year, and configuration (with or without roof rails) – we will put the right system together for you. If you have any compatibility questions, feel free to contact us before booking.

Transporting pedelecs on the vehicle roof is generally not possible, as roof-mounted bike carriers have a weight limit of 20 kg, and most pedelecs — even without the battery — are significantly heavier. Additionally, pedelecs have a different frame geometry and wider frames than conventional bicycles, which means secure attachment cannot be guaranteed. We therefore advise against transporting pedelecs with roof-mounted bike carriers.

Both the bike carrier and the bicycles are secured with locks to prevent unauthorized access. We still recommend securing the bikes on the carrier with an additional lock. At the destination or when not in use, you should remove the bicycles from the carrier and store them in a secure location.

• Take the increased vehicle height into account – pay attention to low passages, parking garages and bridges, but also to trees in avenues
• Adapted driving style – crosswind sensitivity and the changed center of gravity can influence driving behavior.
• Regular safety check – Before every ride, check that the bikes are securely and correctly mounted.
• Consider fuel consumption – Higher air resistance can increase fuel consumption.

Yes, all of our towbar bike carriers are tiltable, ensuring that you have easy access to the trunk even when bikes are mounted. For vehicles with particularly large tailgates, such as vans or minibuses, we recommend the Uebler I21 Z90. This carrier can tilt up to 90°, providing unrestricted access to the trunk.

Yes, it is possible to transport a children's bike on the roof, provided the following conditions are met:

• The bike must have a minimum size of 16 inches, as smaller bikes cannot be securely mounted.
• The vehicle's maximum roof load must not be exceeded.

If you're unsure whether your roof rack is suitable for a children's bike, feel free to contact us – we're happy to assist you.

Yes, it is possible to transport a carbon bike on a bike rack, but special care must be taken to avoid damaging the delicate frame.

Which carriers are suitable for carbon bikes?

✔ Übler I21 Z90 and Thule Epos are already suitable for carbon frames as standard and enable safe transportation.
✔ For all other carriers, we recommend using the Thule Carbon Frame Protector, which reduces the pressure on the frame and offers additional protection and which you can add as an accessory when ordering.

How does the Thule Carbon Frame Protector work?

• Protects the sensitive carbon frame through special pressure distribution.
• Prevents crushing and damage to the surface.
• Simple mounting on the frame.

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us!

No, the vehicle's original license plate may not simply be attached to the bicycle carrier or rear box. A duplicate license plate must be used, which carries the same combination as the original license plate but is issued without registration and inspection stickers.

Yes, a tow hitch is absolutely required. Rear boxes are mounted on a carrier system that attaches directly to the vehicle's tow hitch. Without a tow hitch, using a rear box is not possible.

What should I consider?

• Permissible tow hitch load (the maximum weight the hitch can support).
• A duplicate license plate is required. You can add this as an accessory when booking.
• Country-specific regulations: Depending on your travel destination, a warning sign may be required (e.g., in Italy and Spain). This can be rented as an accessory.

If your vehicle does not have a tow hitch, retrofitting may be a practical option.

No, the vehicle's original license plate may not simply be attached to the bicycle carrier or rear box. A duplicate license plate must be used, which carries the same combination as the original license plate but is issued without registration and inspection stickers.

The main difference between a thermoelectric cooler and a compressor cooler lies in their cooling technology and performance:

Thermoelectric Cooler:

• Uses a Peltier element that transfers heat from inside to outside using electricity.
• Can only cool up to 15–20°C below the ambient temperature.
• Lighter, more compact, and often cheaper than a compressor cooler.
• Can both cool and heat, depending on the setting.
• Ideal for short trips, picnics, or use in moderate temperatures.

Compressor Cooler:

• Works like a small refrigerator with a powerful compressor.
• Cooling is independent of the outside temperature – can reach temperatures as low as -22°C, even in high ambient temperatures.
• Consumes more energy but provides very efficient cooling.
• Perfect for longer trips, camping, or transporting temperature-sensitive products like food or medication.

If you're unsure which cooler is right for your needs, feel free to contact us for advice!