Best 10 Cargo Boxes - Budget & Premium

Installing a roof box might seem daunting, but with the right preparation and equipment, the process is straightforward and can be completed in under an hour. Proper installation ensures your roof box is securely mounted, preventing any issues during travel. While the process can vary slightly depending on the brand and model of your roof box, the basic steps remain the same.

Here’s a detailed guide on how to install a roof box, covering everything from preparation to securing your cargo.

1. How To Choose The Right Roof Rack

Before installing a roof box, you’ll need a compatible roof rack. Roof racks come in various styles, such as crossbars or raised side rails, and your roof box must be mounted onto these. If your car doesn’t already have a roof rack, you’ll need to purchase and install one that fits your vehicle’s make and model.

• Crossbars: Most roof boxes are compatible with standard crossbars that run horizontally across the roof of your vehicle. Popular brands like Thule WingBar Evo or Yakima JetStream offer aerodynamic designs that reduce drag and wind noise.
• Raised Side Rails: Some vehicles come equipped with raised side rails, allowing you to attach crossbars or mount certain roof boxes directly.

Make sure to measure the distance between your crossbars and confirm that they can support the weight of the roof box and cargo. Check your vehicle’s manual for the roof weight capacity, as exceeding this limit can affect your car’s stability and handling.

2. Assemble the Roof Box

Once you have the appropriate roof rack in place, unpack and assemble your roof box according to the manufacturer’s instructions. While many roof boxes come pre-assembled, some models may require minor setup, such as attaching mounting brackets, tightening clamps, or installing any included safety straps.

• Mounting Hardware: Roof boxes like the Thule Motion 3 XXL or Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite come with mounting hardware that attaches to the crossbars. This usually includes U-bolts or clamps that secure the box in place.
• Check All Parts: Ensure all parts, such as the hinges, latches, and locks, are functioning properly before installation. A malfunctioning latch or loose hinge could cause the roof box to open unexpectedly during travel.

3. Position the Roof Box

With the roof box assembled, position it on top of your vehicle. It’s best to have a second person help with this step, especially if the box is large and bulky. Align the roof box with the crossbars so it sits evenly on your roof and doesn’t obstruct your view or access to the trunk.

• Center the Roof Box:
  Position the box as centrally as possible, distributing the weight evenly across the roof. If the roof box is mounted too far to one side, it could cause your vehicle to lean slightly or affect its aerodynamics.

• Adjust Front-to-Back Position:
  Make sure the roof box isn’t positioned too far forward or backward. The front of the roof box should not hang over your windshield excessively, and it should leave enough space for your trunk or hatchback to open fully without hitting the box.

4. Secure the Roof Box to the Crossbars

Once the box is correctly positioned, use the provided mounting hardware to secure it to your crossbars. Most roof boxes use either U-bolt systems, quick-mount clamps, or T-track systems that attach to the crossbars, ensuring the box stays in place during your trip.

• U-Bolt Systems:
  Roof boxes like the SportRack Vista XL often come with U-bolts that wrap around the crossbars and attach to the bottom of the box. You’ll need to tighten them using screws or nuts, which are usually included.

• Quick-Mount Clamps:
  Higher-end models like the Thule Motion 3 XXL often use tool-free quick-mount clamps that can be adjusted and tightened by hand. These clamps latch onto the crossbars with a simple twist, making installation faster and easier.

• T-Track Systems:
  Some roof boxes, like the Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite, use a T-track mounting system. This involves sliding the mounting hardware into a track on the crossbars for a more streamlined and secure fit.

5. Tighten and Secure the Mounting Brackets

Once the roof box is attached, make sure to tighten all bolts or clamps securely. It’s important that the roof box doesn’t move or shift when you pull on it. Tightening the mounting hardware ensures the box remains stable, even during sharp turns or sudden stops.

• Check Stability:
  After securing the box, give it a firm shake to ensure it doesn’t wobble or move. If you notice any movement, tighten the bolts or clamps further until the box feels stable.

• Safety Check:
  After driving for a few minutes, stop and check the roof box to ensure everything is still tightly secured. Over time, vibrations from the road can cause the mounting hardware to loosen, so it’s a good idea to check it periodically during long trips.

6. Load Your Cargo Properly

Now that the roof box is securely mounted, it’s time to load your gear. To maintain your vehicle’s balance and safety, distribute the weight evenly across the roof box and avoid overloading it.

• Heavier Items:
  Place heavier items toward the center of the roof box and lighter items around them. This helps maintain stability by keeping the center of gravity low.

• Do Not Overload:
  Every roof box has a weight limit, typically between 50-75 kg (110-165 lbs), depending on the model. For example, the Thule Motion 3 XXL can hold a higher load than smaller models like the SportRack Vista XL, but you still need to ensure the combined weight of the box and cargo doesn’t exceed your car’s roof capacity.

• Securing the Load:
  Use the internal straps or tie-down points that come with the roof box to secure your items. This prevents them from shifting during the drive, which could affect your vehicle’s handling.

7. Lock the Roof Box

After loading your gear, close the roof box and ensure it’s locked securely. Most roof boxes, like the Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite, come with integrated locking systems that secure the lid to the box and prevent unauthorized access. Make sure the lid is completely closed and the lock is engaged before hitting the road.

• Double-Check the Lock:
  Give the lid a tug after locking it to confirm that it’s securely shut. Some roof boxes have indicators that let you know when the box is properly closed and locked.

8. Test Drive and Final Check

Before embarking on a long journey, it’s a good idea to take a short test drive to make sure the roof box is secure and isn’t causing any issues. Listen for unusual noises, such as rattling or whistling, which could indicate that something isn’t properly tightened.

• Noise Check:
  Roof boxes can sometimes create wind noise at high speeds, especially if they’re not aerodynamic. If the noise is excessive, double-check the alignment and make sure all mounting points are properly secured.

• Visibility Check:
  Ensure the roof box doesn’t obstruct your view from the front or rear, especially if you have a larger model like the Thule Motion 3 XXL. Adjust the position if necessary.