What are side rails and crossbars?
It’s a good idea to take a few minutes to get acquainted with rooftop cargo carrier terminology before shopping or buying a new carrier. Our Roof System Mounting Guide is a good resource. We have pictures and descriptions that will help you to learn to identify the parts of a rooftop cargo box and carrier and understand how they work together.
My vehicle doesn’t have factory-installed side rails or crossbars today. Am I out of luck, or are there any options for me to carry cargo on the roof of my vehicle?
It’s no problem if you don’t already have the side rails or crossbars. You can purchase a mounting system to fit your car and hold the rooftop cargo box. Check out the Bare Roof Vehicle section of our Roof System Mounting Guide which will explain your options for installing a mounting system.
Do the THULE or Yakima roof mounting systems used for bare roofs require that holes be drilled into the roof of my vehicle?
No, both THULE and Yakima have unique systems that don’t require drilling holes or any other modification to your car.
Do all roof cargo carriers require crossbars? Or is it enough if I just have side rails?
The systems that we sell at Car Top Carrier Shops will require crossbars to securely mount the cargo box.
Can I combine a mounting system from THULE or Yakima with a rooftop cargo box from another manufacturer?
Yes, that should be no problem. The THULE and Yakima mounting systems will accommodate cargo boxes from other manufacturers. If you have any questions about specific manufacturer products, please give us a call.
How much can I carry in a rooftop cargo box?
We stock cargo boxes that hold from 8 to 21 cubic feet. Our Rooftop Cargo Carrier Comparison Chart is a handy way to compare the sizes plus other features of the major manufacturers. We also have some tips on how to pack your rooftop cargo box that you may find helpful.
What are some advantages to a roof cargo box vs. a rear cargo carrier?
It really depends on some different factors unique to your situation. You may want to consider whether you’re carrying just luggage, or will you also carry bikes, coolers, camping gear, or other stuff. Consider which type of item will fit best and be easiest to load from either the roof or rear of the car, SUV, van or whatever vehicle you have. A rear cargo carrier will extend the length of your vehicle, so parking will be a consideration. A roof cargo box will give you a taller profile for driving into your garage and under low bridges. Either option will give you a secure way to travel and free up space inside the vehicle for travelers.
I’d like to be able to easily access my stuff in the rooftop cargo box while on my trip, but would rather not haul a ladder along. Any suggestions?
Both THULE and HitchMate make a wheel step that we have in stock. It easily mounts onto your wheel and provides a place to stand and reach the roof of your vehicle. It folds flat for easy storage. The wheel step is also handy for working under the hood of taller vehicles. Find these products in our Accessories section.
What is the best way to store a cargo box when not in use?
If you have a garage with an open ceiling, you may be able to manually lift the cargo carrier and situate it on the rafter boards. This may not be an easy task for everyone. A better solution: THULE makes a storage lift that may be installed in the garage right above your vehicle. Then all you need to do is drive under the storage lift, crank the system, and the cargo box is lifted off the top and stored above. Visit our Accessories section for more details on storage lifts.
Is there a way to securely lock a rooftop cargo box?
Yes, your cargo box will come equipped with a built-in locking system. Look for the extra feature that ensures that you won’t lock the key in the box.
I drive a small pickup truck with factory-installed side rails. Is there a rooftop cargo box that will fit on top?
We recommend that you refer to our Rooftop Cargo Carrier Fit Guides to ensure that you find the exact cargo box and car top carrier to best fit your vehicle. Give us a call if you still have questions.
I’d like to be able to open my car top carrier box from both sides of the vehicle. Is this possible?
Yes, there are many styles that have dual side openings. Check out our Car Top Carrier Comparison Chart to easily compare the major brands that we sell. Use the column labeled “Opening” to find the access information. Typically, most open either from both sides (dual) or from the passenger (right) side.
I want to carry items on a hitch cargo carrier, but am concerned about the vehicle exhaust pipe. Is there a hitch carrier that can accommodate my vehicle exhaust pipe?
If your vehicle’s exhaust system is such that it may interfere with the hitch cargo carrier, you may want to consider purchasing a hitch extender. A hitch extender comes in either an 8” or 14” length and will place the cargo carrier further out from the vehicle.
