My old neighbour went through a similar thought process when his van got knocked off. He's a sparky, carrying conduit all the time, and didn't want to buy another vehicle until the van either turned up or insurance paid out.

His wife's car was a VT commodore wagon with the factory roof racks, which was suitable except for the 'droop' at the front of the load.

He got one of those 'nudge bar' things on the front of his car, and we made an upright extension out of gal pipe & clamps, that clamped around it, to support the front of the load.


If you're only doing a bit at a time, it may be worth looking at roof bars, and a front & rear (off the towbar) support.

Personally I think buying it in bulk & having it delivered is a far better idea, but there's always the odd bit & piece you need to chase!