10 Best Roof Top Cargo Carriers 2025 in the United States

The Thule Force 3 XL is a hard-shell rooftop cargo carrier with an 18 cubic feet capacity, making it a great choice for families or adventurers needing extra storage space on SUVs, trucks, cars, or EVs. Its size (about 85 x 34 x 19 inches) offers plenty of room without being overly bulky. Weighing 66 pounds, it’s fairly lightweight for a box this size, which helps with installation and handling.

The carrier is made from durable plastic, designed to withstand daily use and resist weather elements, though it is water resistant rather than fully waterproof, so it should keep your gear safe in most conditions but might not protect against heavy rain for long periods. Mounting the box is user-friendly, thanks to a tool-free system with a clear click indicator showing when it’s securely attached; this makes setup quick and reduces the risk of improper installation. The aerodynamic design helps reduce wind noise and drag, which can improve fuel efficiency compared to less streamlined boxes.

A standout feature is the dual-sided opening, allowing easy access to your belongings from either side of the vehicle—a real convenience if you park tight or want quick reach without walking around. Security is well-thought-out with the SlideLock system that automatically locks the lid and shows when it’s securely closed, giving peace of mind when leaving your cargo unattended. This carrier suits active lifestyles and those needing reliable, spacious rooftop storage with easy access and solid security features.

The Thule Force 3 XXL rooftop cargo box is a solid choice if you need plenty of extra storage on your vehicle. With a roomy 21 cubic feet capacity and large dimensions (about 91.4 x 35.2 x 17.9 inches), it can carry sizable gear for family trips or outdoor adventures. It supports a good weight limit typical for rooftop carriers, and its plastic shell is designed to be durable and weather resistant, helping protect your belongings from rain and road grime. One of its standout features is the dual-sided opening, which makes loading and unloading much easier because you can access your cargo from either side of your vehicle. The mounting system is tool-free and user-friendly, with a click indicator that confirms the box is securely attached—this adds peace of mind and saves time when installing or removing the carrier. Additionally, the SlideLock system enhances security by locking the lid in place and signaling when it's properly closed, discouraging theft.

The aerodynamic design helps reduce wind noise and drag compared to bulkier boxes, which is helpful for fuel efficiency during long drives. On the downside, the unit weighs about 53.5 pounds, making it a bit heavy to handle alone, especially during installation. Also, while it fits most SUVs, trucks, cars, and EVs, its size might be too large for smaller vehicles or tight parking spaces. For those seeking a reliable, spacious, and easy-to-use rooftop cargo box that balances convenience with strong build quality, the Thule Force 3 XXL is a highly recommended option.

The Thule Force 3, Size M, is a solid choice for those looking to expand their vehicle's cargo space with a roof-top box. It offers a good capacity of 14 cubic feet, making it suitable for family trips or active lifestyles where extra storage is needed. Measuring 69 x 32 x 17.4 inches and weighing 32.6 pounds, it’s relatively easy to handle and fits universally on SUVs, trucks, cars, and electric vehicles. The hard plastic shell is weather-resistant, helping to keep your gear dry and protected in most conditions.

One of the standout features is the aerodynamic design, which helps reduce wind noise and drag, potentially improving fuel efficiency compared to boxier carriers. Mounting is straightforward and tool-free, with an intuitive system that clicks to confirm secure attachment — great for hassle-free installation. Accessing your items is convenient thanks to dual-sided opening, allowing you to reach your cargo from either side of the vehicle. Security is well thought out with the SlideLock system, which automatically locks the lid and gives a clear indication when it’s securely closed.

This model performs well in durability tests and has a strong customer rating. Being a hard-shell carrier, it is less flexible in terms of storage when not in use compared to soft carriers. The Thule Force 3 balances convenience, protection, and style, making it a dependable option for most car owners needing extra rooftop storage.