What to look for

Keep the following in mind as you search for the perfect rooftop freight carrier:

Types

Case: Cargo pods with a hard exterior are the safest option. They normally arrive pre-assembled, requiring just the use of clamps, U-bolts, or other mounting gear to secure them to your car. In most cases, the latch on a box carrier will be lockable. Boxy pods like these may be loud and waste gas since they provide more resistance to the flow of air around your car.

Unlike hard-sided bags, which need a roof rack for installation and removal, soft-sided bags include straps that allow them to be fastened directly to the roof of your vehicle. In addition, bag carriers are less expensive, often costing $100 or less. Even though most of them boast waterproof construction, soft-sided pods aren’t as safe or secure.

Straps, bungee cords, or rope may be used to secure the contents of these large metal baskets, which attach to the roof rack. When empty, they don’t form much of a wind barrier and don’t cost much. However, anything kept in a basket is vulnerable to the elements and may be easily stolen.

Specs

Measure the load carrier’s length to make sure it will fit in your automobile. If it goes beyond the windshield, it may obstruct your vision or, more likely, dramatically increase wind drag, leading to increased noise and worse fuel economy. If it reaches beyond the rear of your roof, it might obstruct the hatch from opening all the way. Think about how tall it is, too. When parking in a garage, a lower profile type (11 inches or less) may be preferable to the standard 15 to 18 inches.

Form and Keeping Capacity: You’ll need a longer cargo carrier to transport longer items like skis and golf equipment. You’ll need a tall enough cargo container to accommodate your baggage. You want to be in the center of the carrier’s range, which is between 8 and 22 cubic feet, for a typical load.

Think about how much you’ll have to lift to get the carrier into place. The lightest versions weigh just 15 pounds, while the heaviest are almost 60. Next, verify sure the carrier can handle your load by checking its weight capacity. Finally, keep in mind the dynamic load limit listed in your vehicle’s handbook. Some carriers can carry up to 175 pounds of goods, but that may be too much for your car’s roof.

Features

Fixtures and fittings. Check to see if the carrier you’re considering will fit on your car’s roof rack. Extra brackets or mounting systems may be needed in some circumstances.