10 Best Car Roof Carrier 2026 in the United States

The Thule Motion 3 XXL Low is a large hard-shell car roof carrier designed to hold up to 18 cubic feet of cargo, making it ideal for families or travelers needing extra storage space. Its aluminum material keeps the box sturdy yet relatively lightweight at about 25 kg, though it is on the heavier side compared to some plastic alternatives. The carrier features a wing-shaped, forward-leaning nose that helps reduce wind drag and improves fuel efficiency—a nice plus for longer trips.

Mounting the box is simple and secure thanks to the PowerClick quick-mount system, which uses an audible click to confirm proper fitting. This adds confidence that the carrier is safely locked onto your roof rack. Security is further enhanced by the SlideLock system with separate locking and opening functions, ensuring the lid stays firmly closed and providing a clear indicator when locked. Opening and closing are user-friendly, thanks to a wide handle designed for one-handed operation. However, the box is not water resistant, so care should be taken in very wet conditions or heavy rain. Also, while it’s a large carrier, its dimensions (96 x 40 x 16 inches) mean you need to verify it fits your vehicle and garage space. Accessories like an interior light and protective liner are available but sold separately.

This carrier is well suited for those who want a robust, aerodynamic, and secure storage solution for roof transport, especially if ease of use and quick installation are priorities.

The Thule Force 3 XL is a hard-shell car roof carrier designed to add 18 cubic feet of extra storage space, making it suitable for SUVs, trucks, cars, and electric vehicles. Its large size (about 85 x 34 x 18.5 inches) offers plenty of room for luggage, camping gear, or sports equipment, which is great if you often need extra cargo space for trips. Weighing 66 pounds, it’s moderately heavy, so you might want some help to install or remove it, but the plastic shell keeps it durable and resistant to weather conditions, protecting your belongings from rain or snow.

The aerodynamic design aims to reduce wind noise and drag, which helps maintain better fuel efficiency compared to bulkier boxes, though you should expect some impact on mileage when fully loaded.

The Yakima SkyBox NX XL 18 is a spacious hard-shell roof cargo carrier offering 18 cubic feet of storage, making it great for families or groups needing extra room on trips. Its large size (84" long by 36" wide and 16.5" high) can fit long items like skis or snowboards up to 195 cm, which suits outdoor enthusiasts well. Weighing 53 pounds, it's solid but still manageable for loading and unloading.

The dual-sided opening is a standout feature, allowing easy access from either side of your vehicle, which is very convenient especially in tight parking spots. Security is thoughtfully handled with a sturdy metal handle that locks both the box and the carrier to your roof, helping keep your belongings safe. The material is durable plastic with a sleek finish, though this model is not water-resistant, so it may not fully protect contents in heavy rain.

The mounting system is universal, designed to fit most roof racks, making installation straightforward. This carrier balances ample storage and ease of use, making it a solid choice for those who frequently travel with bulky gear, but you might want to consider weather protection options if you expect wet conditions.