10 Best Roof Top Cargo Carriers 2025 in the United States

The MeeFar Roof Rack Carrier Basket Universal Rooftop stands out with its durable build, featuring tubular steel and a rust-free black epoxy powder coating. This ensures both high strength and a relatively lightweight design at 40.6 pounds. The carrier basket boasts a significant load capacity of 200 pounds, making it suitable for heavy cargo. Its dimensions (51 x 36 x 5 inches) provide ample space for various items, and the included waterproof bag offers an additional 15 cubic feet of storage space (44 x 34 x 17 inches). This makes the MeeFar cargo carrier ideal for long trips or transporting bulky items that don't fit inside your vehicle.

One of the key strengths of this product is its aerodynamic design with a wind shield, which helps reduce wind resistance and protect your cargo from damage during travel. This feature enhances fuel efficiency and minimizes noise. The mounting system uses universal U-bolts, making installation straightforward, though it does require existing cross bars on your vehicle. The included accessories—cargo net with attachment hooks and ratchet straps—add value by providing extra security for your load.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The carrier's weight is relatively heavy compared to other models, which might make installation and removal more challenging. Additionally, while the U-bolt mounting system is generally secure, it might not be as quick to install or remove as some other mounting systems. In sum, the MeeFar Roof Rack Carrier Basket Universal Rooftop is a solid choice for those needing a robust and spacious cargo carrier, especially with its added accessories and aerodynamic features. It's best suited for users who prioritize cargo capacity and durability over lightweight design and quick mounting.

The Thule 614 Pulse Rack is a solid option for anyone needing extra space for their outdoor gear or luggage. With a spacious capacity of 14 cubic feet, it can easily hold up to 110 lbs, making it suitable for family trips or weekend getaways. Its rugged design protects your belongings from the elements, which is a huge plus for adventurous users. The FastGrip quick-mount system is user-friendly, allowing you to set it up in minutes, and the passenger-side opening simplifies loading and unloading, especially in tight spaces.

Security is well addressed with its central locking system, ensuring that your items are safe when you’re away from your vehicle. The Thule Comfort Key adds an extra layer of convenience by only allowing removal when all locks are secure, which is a thoughtful feature for peace of mind.

However, there are a few considerations. While the external dimensions fit a variety of vehicles, the size may not be suitable for smaller cars, and its weight of 34 lbs can add to the load of your vehicle. Additionally, while it is designed to fit up to 5 snowboards, this is limited to those with a maximum length of 155 cm, which might not accommodate larger boards or other sports equipment without careful planning. Lastly, being made of plastic, some might question its durability compared to metal alternatives, though its rugged design does help in this regard. The Thule 614 Pulse Rack is best for outdoor enthusiasts or families looking for a dependable, spacious cargo solution, provided they check compatibility with their vehicle and gear sizes.

The Thule 613 Pulse Cargo Box Alpine is a solid choice if you need about 11 cubic feet of extra storage on your vehicle’s roof. It offers a decent load limit of 110 pounds, which suits medium-sized gear like 4-6 skis or 3-4 snowboards, making it great for winter sports trips. Its dimensions—roughly 88.5 by 25.5 inches externally—are fairly large, so ensure your roof and crossbars can accommodate it comfortably. Weighing 30 pounds, it’s manageable to install and remove without too much hassle.

Thule’s FastGrip quick-mount system is a standout for ease of use, allowing you to attach the box securely in minutes without needing extra tools. The passenger-side opening simplifies loading and unloading, especially in tight parking spaces. The hard plastic shell is rugged and water-resistant, providing reliable protection from weather and road debris. Security is well thought out with a central locking system that ensures your belongings stay safe, and the unique Comfort Key only comes out when all locks are properly secured. This adds peace of mind when leaving your cargo unattended.

The box is moderately tall (12.5 inches) and extends 11.3 inches above the crossbars, which might affect vehicle aerodynamics slightly, potentially increasing wind noise and fuel consumption during long drives. The plastic material, while durable, may not be as robust as some premium models made with reinforced composites. This Thule cargo box is a reliable and user-friendly option for those needing extra space for skis, snowboards, or similar equipment, combining good security and convenient mounting. Just keep in mind its size and weight limit to ensure it fits your vehicle and cargo needs comfortably.