10 Best Hard Rooftop Cargo Carriers 2026 in the United States

The Thule Motion 3 LTitan is a robust hard-rooftop-cargo-carrier ideal for anyone needing extra storage space on their vehicle. With a generous capacity of 450 liters, this carrier offers ample room for your belongings. Its dimensions (80 x 38 x 18 inches) ensure it can hold quite a bit without being overly bulky. The 24.04 kg weight makes it manageable for mounting and dismounting.

Made of durable aluminum, it promises longevity and resistance to elements, ensuring your cargo stays dry and secure with its water-resistant design. The wing-shaped profile and dynamic, forward-leaning nose improve aerodynamics, reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency. The PowerClick quick-mount system makes installation straightforward, with a helpful torque indicator to ensure secure fitting. The SlideLock system provides additional security by automatically locking the lid and indicating when it's securely closed.

However, some users might find the carrier's large size challenging to store when not in use. The wide handle makes opening and closing the lid easy, even with one hand, but this might not compensate for its somewhat hefty size. Accessories such as an interior box light, protective box liner, and storage cover enhance functionality but come at an extra cost. The Thule Motion 3 LTitan suits those seeking a spacious, durable, and efficient rooftop cargo solution, though its size and extra costs for accessories might be worth considering.

The Thule 613 Pulse Cargo Box Alpine is a solid choice if you need extra space on your vehicle's roof for gear like skis or snowboards. It offers 11 cubic feet of storage, which fits about 4-6 skis or 3-4 snowboards, making it ideal for winter sports trips or general luggage. Its external dimensions (roughly 88.5 x 25.5 x 12.5 inches) and internal space are fairly generous, while still being low-profile enough to help reduce wind drag. The box weighs 30 pounds and can hold up to 110 pounds, which balances sturdy capacity with ease of handling for most users.

Made from durable plastic, it’s designed to protect your items from the elements and minor impacts, and it is water resistant though not fully waterproof. The FastGrip quick-mount system lets you install or remove it quickly without fuss, and the passenger-side opening makes loading easier in tight parking spots. Security is a strong point here: the central locking system keeps your belongings safe, and the Thule Comfort Key only comes out when all locks are securely closed, helping prevent accidental unlocking.

Its height off the crossbar (11.3 inches) can add to your car’s profile but remains relatively modest compared to bulkier boxes. The cargo box may be a bit large for smaller cars or those with limited roof clearance. If you need a reliable, easy-to-use cargo box with secure locking and good capacity for winter gear or road trips, this Thule model is a practical option.

The Thule Force 3 XL is a solid choice if you need a spacious, hard rooftop cargo carrier for your SUV, truck, car, or EV. Its 18 cubic feet capacity provides ample room for luggage and gear, making it suitable for family trips or outdoor activities. The dimensions (about 85" long, 34" wide, and 18.5" tall) are fairly large, so ensure your vehicle’s roof can accommodate it comfortably. Weighing 66 pounds, it’s on the heavier side compared to some competitors, which might make installation a bit challenging for one person, but the tool-free mounting system with a clear click indication simplifies the setup and gives confidence that it’s securely attached.

The carrier's plastic shell is sturdy and weather-resistant, protecting your cargo from rain and road debris. Its aerodynamic design helps reduce wind noise and drag for better fuel efficiency compared to boxier options. Accessing your belongings is convenient thanks to the dual-sided opening, a big plus for parking in tight spaces. Security is well thought out with the SlideLock system, which automatically locks the lid and clearly shows when it's closed and secure.

If you want a reliable, easy-to-use roof box with good weather protection and secure locking, the Thule Force 3 XL is a strong candidate. Just keep in mind its size and weight when planning installation and roof compatibility.