10 Best Roof Cargo Boxes 2025 in the United States

The Thule Motion 3 XXL rooftop cargo box offers a spacious 21 cubic feet of storage, making it ideal for families or travelers needing extra room for luggage or gear. It supports up to 165 pounds, which is sufficient for most vehicle roof racks without risking damage. The box is made from durable aluminum, ensuring solid protection for your items. However, since it is not water resistant, users should be mindful when driving in heavy rain to keep valuables dry.

Its aerodynamic, wing-shaped design helps reduce wind drag and may improve fuel efficiency compared to bulkier boxes. Mounting is a standout feature with the PowerClick quick-mount system that confirms secure attachment through a torque indicator click, allowing for tool-free and fast installation. Opening and closing is smooth and user-friendly due to its wide handle and one-handed operation. The SlideLock system adds security by locking the lid and providing visual confirmation that it’s closed properly.

Although the box is large and robust, it weighs around 35 kilograms, so handling it alone can be challenging when loading or removing. Accessories such as interior lighting and protective liners enhance convenience but are sold separately. This cargo box is well suited for users seeking a reliable, easy-to-use, and roomy carrier with solid security for road trips and outdoor adventures.

The Thule 614 Pulse Cargo Box is a practical option for those needing extra storage on road trips or for winter sports enthusiasts. With 14 cubic feet of packing space, it easily accommodates up to 5 snowboards, making it suitable for family or group outings. One of its key strengths is the durable plastic construction, which ensures the safety of your gear against the elements. The FastGrip quick-mount system simplifies installation, allowing you to secure it to your car's roof in minutes, and the universal fit means it can be mounted on a variety of vehicles.

For easy loading and unloading, the box opens on the passenger side. The central locking system with a Comfort Key ensures security, as it can only be removed when all points are locked, providing peace of mind that your belongings are safe.

However, users should be aware of some limitations. Weighing 34 lbs, it should be manageable but might still require some effort to lift and install, especially on taller vehicles. The box's aerodynamics could potentially affect fuel efficiency, as with most roof boxes, although its streamlined shape helps minimize wind resistance. Also, while it's water-resistant, extreme weather conditions might challenge its capacity to keep all contents completely dry.

For those seeking a reliable storage solution with a focus on security and ease of use, the Thule 614 Pulse Cargo Box stands out as a solid choice. However, it's worth considering your vehicle's roof height and your specific weather conditions when making a decision.

The SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box offers an impressive 18 cubic feet of internal cargo capacity, making it a great choice for family trips or transporting large items. The box is constructed from durable UV-resistant ABS material, ensuring it can withstand harsh weather conditions and long-term use. Weighing just 28 pounds, it's relatively lightweight for its size, which aids in easier installation and handling.

The rear opening design provides convenient access to your belongings while keeping you safe from traffic. The tool-free mounting hardware simplifies installation and removal, fitting well with SportRack systems, square bars, round bars, and most factory racks, though it's always wise to check the fit guide for compatibility. For security, the box includes a key and lock to secure both your contents and the cargo box itself.

One downside is the maximum weight capacity of 100 pounds, which may be limiting for some users. Additionally, aerodynamics could be affected depending on your vehicle's design, potentially impacting fuel efficiency. Despite these minor drawbacks, the SportRack Vista XL is a reliable and practical cargo box with a user-friendly design, suitable for those needing extra storage space on their travels.