Smart FENDEE Wobbly Rack and Strap Issues: Buyer Review

Data basis: This report is based on dozens of written reviews and several video demonstrations collected between Jan 2024 and Feb 2026. Most feedback came from written buyer reviews, supported by product images and a few Q&A posts.

Top failures

Why does the rack wobble under heavy suitcases?

Regret moment: Customers report the most upsetting moment is placing a large suitcase on the rack and feeling it rock.

Pattern: This issue is commonly reported and appears repeatedly in photos and videos showing lateral movement.

When it happens: The wobble appears on first heavy use and often worsens after repeated loading cycles.

Category contrast: This is worse than expected because many mid-range racks remain stable with the same suitcase sizes.

Are the straps reliable or do they sag?

• Early sign: Straps feel loose or elastic on initial inspection, commonly noted by buyers.
• Frequency tier: Secondary issue — reported by a fair portion of users but not universal.
• Cause: Strap stitching and tension appear to loosen after several uses or under heavier suitcases.
• Impact: Sagging straps increase contact with the suitcase base and reduce perceived support.
• Fix attempts: Users often tighten straps manually, which only temporarily reduces sag.

Is assembly frustrating or are parts unclear?

• Instruction gap: Many buyers report the included instructions are sparse and rely on picture cues.
• Tools needed: Some users needed extra time and a screwdriver despite the product claiming easy assembly.
• Early signs: Mismatched holes or confusing part labels show up during first assembly attempts.
• Frequency tier: Primary issue for first-time assemblers who expect quick setup.
• Cause: Numbered parts do not always align with images, which increases assembly time.
• Fixability: Contacting customer service helped some buyers, but responses varied in usefulness.

Will the lower shelf and finish stay durable over time?

• Early sign: Visible sagging of the lower shelf shows up within weeks for several buyers.
• Duration pattern: This is a recurring problem that tends to worsen after repeated use.
• Cause: Thin shelf slats and strap tension transfer more load than expected for frequent users.
• Impact: The weak lower shelf reduces usable storage and causes buyers to remove items to avoid damage.
• Hidden requirement: Buyers need to limit lower-shelf weight to avoid early wear, which is not obvious from the product claim.
• Attempted fixes: Some users added a board under the shelf to distribute weight, increasing setup time.
• Category contrast: This is more upkeep than most mid-range luggage racks, which often tolerate modest lower-shelf loads without modifications.

Illustrative excerpts (not real quotes)

Excerpt: "Stand rocked when I set down a 28-inch suitcase, very alarming." — primary

Excerpt: "Straps stretched after a month of trips, needed constant tightening." — secondary

Excerpt: "Pictures didn’t match pieces, one screw felt extra small." — edge-case

Who should avoid this

• Frequent travelers: If you load heavy suitcases daily, the wobble and strap sag exceed normal tolerance.
• Hotel hosts or rentals: High-turnover use will expose the recurring stability and durability issues faster than typical home use.
• Minimal assembly buyers: If you expect immediate setup without extra tools or time, the unclear instructions may cause frustration.

Who this is actually good for

• Occasional guests: Buyers who use a rack a few times a year can tolerate strap stretching and minor wobble.
• Light-luggage users: If you only place small carry-ons, the product’s limitations are less noticeable.
• DIY fixers: People willing to reinforce the lower shelf or tighten straps manually will find it acceptable.

Expectation vs reality

Expectation: Reasonable for this category is a foldable rack that stays steady with 24–28" suitcases.

Reality: The rack commonly wobbles on first heavy use and may require modifications to meet that reasonable expectation.

Expectation: Reasonable for this category is clear assembly under 15 minutes.

Reality: Assembly often takes longer due to unclear labels and extra steps.

Safer alternatives

• Choose reinforced straps: Look for racks with replaceable or reinforced straps to neutralize strap sag.
• Check solid-frame designs: Prefer models with cross-brace frames to avoid lateral wobble under load.
• Prefer clear assembly: Buy products with step-by-step diagrams and pre-aligned holes to avoid confusing setup.
• Test lower-shelf specs: Verify advertised shelf load to avoid hidden weight limits and premature sag.

The bottom line

Main regret: The primary trigger is combined wobble and strap sag when used with larger suitcases.

Why worse: These failures are more disruptive than typical mid-range racks because they appear on first heavy use and often need user fixes.

Verdict: Avoid this product if you need a durable, high-turnover luggage rack without post-purchase adjustments.