10 Best Hard Top Cargo Carriers 2025 in the United States

The SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box is a solid choice for those needing a spacious and durable cargo carrier. With an 18 cubic foot capacity, it offers ample storage for long trips or bulky items, making it ideal for families or road trippers. The UV-resistant ABS material ensures durability, protecting your belongings from sun damage and the elements. Its rear opening design allows for easy access away from traffic, enhancing safety and convenience during loading and unloading.

The box includes tool-free mounting hardware, simplifying installation and removal, which is a significant plus for those who prefer hassle-free setup. Additionally, the built-in lock and key system adds an extra layer of security, ensuring your items stay safe during transit. This cargo box is compatible with various rack systems, including square bars, round bars, and most factory racks, making it versatile for different vehicles.

However, due to its size (63 x 38 x 19 inches), it may impact the aerodynamics of your vehicle, potentially affecting fuel efficiency, especially at higher speeds. The 100-pound weight capacity is adequate but may be limiting for those needing to transport heavier items. In summary, the SportRack Vista XL is a robust and convenient option with a few minor trade-offs in aerodynamics and weight capacity.

The Thule Motion 3 XXL Rooftop Cargo Box offers a spacious solution for those in need of additional vehicle storage. Its standout feature is the 21 cubic feet of storage space, making it ideal for long trips or when transporting bulky items. The aerodynamic design, with its wing-shaped profile, aids in reducing drag, potentially improving fuel efficiency during travel.

One of the significant advantages of this cargo box is its user-friendly installation. The PowerClick quick-mount system simplifies attachment to the vehicle roof, with a torque indicator that ensures a secure fit. Additionally, the SlideLock system provides added security by automatically locking the lid in place and indicating when the box is securely closed. This serves as a reassurance that your items are safe.

However, it's worth noting that the box is not water-resistant, which could be a drawback in adverse weather conditions. The one-handed opening and closing mechanism, along with included locks, enhance the user experience by making access easy while keeping contents secure. The material used is aluminum, contributing to durability, although the large size and weight (35 kilograms) might make handling a challenge for some users. Despite this, its compatibility with a wide range of vehicles makes it a versatile choice for many. The lack of water resistance might require users to take additional precautions for weather-proofing. With a strong reputation and positive customer ratings, this Thule cargo box appeals to those who prioritize space and ease of use, especially on longer journeys.

The Thule Force 3 XXL is a spacious hard-top cargo carrier, offering 21 cubic feet of storage which makes it suitable for large families, road trips, or anyone needing extra cargo space on SUVs, trucks, cars, and electric vehicles. Its aerodynamic shape helps reduce wind resistance and noise while driving, which benefits fuel efficiency and comfort. Installation is straightforward and tool-free, featuring a mounting system that confirms when the box is securely attached with a clear click, making it easy even for first-time users.

The dual-sided opening adds convenience by allowing access from either side of the vehicle, which can be handy in tight parking spots. Security is well-covered with Thule's SlideLock system, which automatically locks the lid and signals when it is properly closed, helping to keep belongings safe from theft or accidental opening. Made from durable plastic, the box is weatherproof and designed to handle regular use and rough conditions, ensuring it will last over time.

The size and compatibility are excellent for a wide range of vehicles, although at 53.5 pounds, it is somewhat heavy to handle during installation. The Thule Force 3 XXL serves as a reliable and user-friendly option for those looking to increase their vehicle’s cargo capacity with a secure, easy-to-install, and durable hard-shell carrier.