A rooftop cargo box completely transforms the road trip experience — reclaiming your vehicle's cabin space and keeping bulky, dirty gear securely out of the way. Whether you're hauling skis for a winter retreat or packing camping equipment for a summer getaway, choosing the right roof box comes down to balancing capacity, aerodynamics, and ease of use. Here's how the hard-shell options we carry stack up.
Cargo Box Comparison
| Model | Capacity | Key Strength | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thule Motion 3 | 14–21 cu ft | Aerodynamic styling & one-handed access | Premium road-trippers and frequent skiers |
| Thule Force 3 | 11–21 cu ft | Rugged durability & dual-sided opening | Families seeking the best all-around value |
| Yakima CBX | 16–18 cu ft | Flat interior floor & rugged aesthetics | Bulky outdoor gear and overlanding setups |
Thule Motion 3 — The Sleek Space Maximizer
Thule's flagship roof box excels in user experience. The SlideLock system lets you pop the lid open with one hand — a lifesaver in cold weather — and the PowerClick mounting system clicks audibly when properly torqued, ensuring safe installation in minutes. Its highly aerodynamic shape reduces wind noise and drag at highway speeds, and the XL and XXL sizes comfortably swallow multiple snowboards, long skis (up to 200 cm), and heavy winter coats.
- Best for: Long-distance highway travel and winter sports
- Opening: Dual-sided lid for easy loading from either side
- Security: Integrated locking system included
Motion 3 L
A versatile mid-size hard-shell box with aerodynamic styling and one-handed SlideLock access.
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Motion 3 XL — Gloss Black
Extra-large capacity in a bold gloss black finish. Fits skis up to 200 cm and heavy winter gear.
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Motion 3 XL — Titan Glossy
Same XL capacity in a premium titanium gloss finish for a refined, understated look.
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Motion 3 XXL — Black Glossy
Maximum capacity for the biggest hauls — skis, snowboards, and full family gear loads.
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Motion 3 XXL Low
XXL storage in a lower-profile design — ideal for vehicles with height restrictions like garages or drive-thrus.
Shop NowThule Force 3 — The Unbeatable All-Rounder
The Force 3 delivers Thule's premium engineering — dual-sided opening and secure locking — wrapped in a rugged, matte-textured shell that costs less than the Motion line but stands up incredibly well to scrapes, branches, and heavy use. If you're throwing a mix of sandy beach chairs, damp wetsuits, and random duffel bags onto the roof, the Force 3's durable finish hides scuffs perfectly.
- Best for: Family vacations and mixed-gear hauls
- Opening: Dual-sided lid for convenient loading from either side
- Value: Premium Thule build at a more accessible price point
Force 3 L
A capable large-format box with rugged durability and dual-sided access for everyday family adventures.
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Force 3 L Sport
Sport-optimized large box — built for active families who need rugged reliability on every trip.
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Force 3 XL
Extra-large capacity with the same tough shell — handles the chaotic family load without complaint.
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Force 3 XXL
Maximum Force 3 capacity — when you need to bring everything and leave nothing behind.
Shop NowYakima CBX — The Rugged, Low-Profile Hauler
The CBX uses a unique flush-mount hardware system that leaves the interior floor completely flat — no clamps protruding into your packing space, so you can slide gear seamlessly from end to end. Its aggressive, angular design looks fantastic on modern SUVs and off-road builds, and the low-profile shape provides excellent clearance for low garage doors.
- Best for: Rigid, awkward items like folding tables, tent poles, and hard-sided coolers
- Standout feature: Completely flat interior floor — no wasted space
- Aesthetic: Angular, aggressive styling built for overlanding rigs
Yakima CBX LG Box
Large-format hard-shell box with a flat interior floor and rugged, angular styling for serious haulers.
Shop NowLoading Tips for Your First Roof Box Trip
Loading a cargo box takes a bit of practice to balance weight and secure items properly — but the payoff of a quiet, spacious cabin is unmatched. Keep heavier items centered and low, distribute weight evenly side-to-side, and always double-check your mounting hardware before hitting the highway.
