Best Cargo Boxes: Best Reviews Guide

Sara Ryan By, Sara Ryan
Updated
Thule Pulse Rooftop Cargo Box, Medium
Image credit: Amazon.com

We put the list of 10 best cargo boxes to compare in several popular categories so that you can bring this guide to the best model of 2024. That is from the result of market research through 14,012 feedbacks from users who tried the item before. Of course, our top picks today all come from the most prominent brand, such as Thule, Sportrack, Jegs, Inno, Auto dynasty, Polaris, Last boks, Superatv.com, Maxxhaul. 

Our Top Picks

  • Rugged and durable design keep contents protected
  • Fits 3-5 snowboards (max length: 155 cm)
  • 18 cubic foot (510 L) internal cargo capacity
  • Tool-free mounting hardware for easy installation and removal
  • EASY & CONVENIENT LOADING AND UNLOADING from either side of the car make for smooth travel and hassle-free storage
  • MADE IN USA, LIMITED LIFETIME GUARANTEE. The JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier’s high-quality construction and performance give you peace of mind
  • Aerodynamic, lightweight design for superior noise reduction and easy on/off installation
  • Safety lock system key can only be removed once box is locked
  • ▶️ Opens on the passenger side to 14 inches wide to store bulky items from the side and stays open till you close it, and it is very easy to install without any tool required to assembly.
  • ▶️ Overall Dimensions: 53" L x 34" W x 15" H | Capacity: 11 Cubic Feet and up to 110 LBS
  • A versatile roof-mounted cargo box for everyday use
  • Narrow design leaves space for other gear such as bikes, kayaks, skis, and more while providing 11 cubic feet of additional packing space
  • Tight seal keeps out dust and any water intrusion
  • Built from durable polycarbonate
  • FITS THESE TRUCKS - Last Boks mid-size fits the following trucks: Ford Ranger, Chevy Colorado, GMC Canyon, Toyota Tacoma, and Nissan Frontier. If you have GM bed liner that has storage behind wheel wells, use the midsize Last Boks.
  • 100% CUSTOMER SATISFACTION - We are completely dedicated to our high-quality products and flawless customer support. Should you have any questions or concerns please feel free to reach out.
  • ✔️ 【Fitment】Polaris RZR XP 1000 / XP 4 1000 | NOTE: Cargo Box is not compatible with the High Lifter models
  • 【Keeps Cargo Dry】 Put your clothes and cellphones in there to make sure they’re safe when the rest of your UTV is under water. Whether you pack it full of ice, clothes, or snacks, clean-up is easy—simply unplug the drain and let the meltwater flow!
  • See product description below for vehicle fitment or to verify fitment for your specific vehicle, please contact us, and provide us with your VIN that can be found on your vehicle or your insurance card.
  • Provides storage and protection for your gear

How Could You Determine Which of the List on best cargo boxes Suits You?

The best cargo boxes is the standard appliance in your life. Seeing that the item is introduced with many models with distinct functions and features, several challenges in selecting. However, anything has its solution, not except for that. We, the high-qualified expert in this area, will be available here to give you support.

The descriptions we show in this article are always made better and available for everyone. They are all compiled with the support of AI tools and Big Data to determine the precision. As well, the expansion of sale sites, forums, and channels, it's necessary for you to come to the right one.

Of course, looking for the best cargo boxes which suits you most requires many criteria to consider. You are projected to think carefully for each of the features below so that your choice will be appropriate:

Security

Your items' value will determine the level of security that you need. You should not dismiss theft from the roof box or even the entire package.

Access

Ideal worlds would see us load our belongings and not have to go back until we get to our forest hideaway. You will likely need access to your stuff along the route so ensure you choose a carrier that is easy to use.
Others only permit access from one side, while some others allow you to open from both sides. Some will only allow you to access the back, so you must be aware of traffic and not stop at the curb.

Looks

This is probably not the most crucial criteria. If you are looking for a sporty and sleek car, adding any type of roof box to your vehicle will make it look less elegant. You can minimize any negative effects by sticking with more aerodynamic designs.

Aerodynamics

You should consider the aerodynamic design. The most aerodynamic design will generally be the most expensive and have a lower capacity to hold certain shapes.er boxes, on the other hand, are less concerned about aerodynamics and will offer more freedom when it comes to the size and shape of items you can transport.

Ease Of Use

You might only use the box once a year, so you should consider how simple or difficult it will be to attach and take down. There are many attachment methods available from different manufacturers, so some may be quicker and easier than others.

Fuel Economy

A roof storage system will have an adverse effect on fuel economy. Even though you don't have any cargo, the extra weight of your box and the mountings can affect how much gas you get. Although aerodynamic designs may reduce the impact, you'll still get a decrease in miles per gallon.

Weight Capacity

To find out the maximum weight for your roof, you will have to consult the owner's guide. The maximum weight of a car roof is typically 75kg or 165lbs. This includes both the container and the racks/rails it's attached to. Boxes typically weigh between 30-40 pounds so you will need to leave around 120-130 lbs of cargo.

Price

"Rooftop carriers can be very expensive. The price of a rooftop carrier is unlikely to play a major role in your buying decision, unless you are Bill Gates or Warren Buffett.
Storage capacity is generally more expensive. You will also pay more for extra features and a well-known brand.
You can expect to pay $300-$400+ for a good quality carrier made by reputable manufacturers. Unfortunately, if you require something more, then the cost will go up."

Size

When deciding what items to store on your roof, you should consider the size and shape of the container.
Beyond the size, you should also consider whether the volume in cubic feet of space is adequate for your requirements. There are sizes that range from 8 to 22 feet. You can likely find the right size box for you. You should avoid purchasing something too large for your car.

FAQs

How Much Gear Can I Load?

Three things will determine this:
- Carry capacity of your fitted roof rack
- How the cross bars and roof style are attached to your vehicle
- Size of your rooftop carrier

Will A Cargo Box Affect My Fuel Consumption?

You will experience an increase in fuel consumption. It's very minimal. Fuel economy begins to decline when you drive at highway speeds. Fuel economy can drop by 6-10%

I Have A Full-length Box And It Seems To Overhang The Bars A Long Way. Is This OK?

Yes. The boxes have a design that allows approximately 1/3 to hang out behind the rear bars. One third of the roof bars supports the third and the third rests on the front bar.

Can You Drive With An Empty Roof Box?

Yes. However, you should not use your roof box for a prolonged period of time. It could have a negative impact on your fuel consumption and create extra noise.

What Is The Best Position For A Roof Box?

This is the ideal position for the roof box to be centrally located when you look from the front. The weight should be evenly distributed. To avoid roof boxes that extend too far from your windshield, you should set it so that your hatch can be reached.

Will Roof Racks Scratch My Car?

A rack that is properly attached to a clean roof will not cause damage or scratch to your car. To remove road grime and dirt buildup, we recommend you regularly take your roof rack off of your vehicle.

How To Storage A Car Roof Box?

You have several options when it comes to where you store your roof box. You can either keep the roof box in your garage or place it in your backyard with the raincover on. If your vehicle is large enough, you could even store it inside of your car.

What Is A Good Size Roof Box?

The best size of roof boxes is the one that suits your specific needs. If you have a small car, it's not worth buying a 22-L roof box. If you are looking to transport skis, you will need to consider the dimensions of your skis when buying a roof cargo container.

Do I Need A Roof Rack?

Yes. To mount the rooftop cargo boxes, you will need to have a properly fitted roof rack. All boxes can fit on most roof rack cross bars, and the mounting system is universal. To find the best roof rack for your vehicle, check out our Roof Rack Buyers Guide.

Do I Need Anything Else Apart From Roof Bars And A Roof Box?

No. Every roof box that we sell comes with a pair of standard and box fittings, along with a set straps for keeping luggage in place. Because the boxes are secured to roof bars by the fixings inside, they can not be lifted from their bars once locked.

Look through again. The brand of product you choose will affect the options available to you. Moreover, pricer models will offer more customization options. We've covered top-scoring models varying at some price. So you have more choices to consider. Furthermore, our staff will update the info related to best cargo boxes with the newest data. Let check our site more regularly to get the latest options.

If you want to take practical support from our expert, don't hesitate to give us feedback. Please feel free to contact us. Hopefully, with our buying guide, you can have a happy shopping for the product.


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About Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan is a freelance writer for CampFireHQ and avid diver. She first discovered her love for diving while on vacation in the Caribbean and has been hooked ever since. Sara loves exploring new dive sites and observing the fascinating creatures that live beneath the waves. As a native of Colorado, Sara enjoys spending her free time hiking and camping in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. She also enjoys writing about her adventures in diving and wildlife conservation.

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