Thule Roof Cargo Box Guide
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Thule Roof Cargo Box Guide

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Have you been wanting to get out and explore the world around you? Do you feel like your car is just too small for all of your stuff? A Thule roof cargo box can give you the freedom to take everything with you on your next journey. It’s an easy way to liberate yourself from limited storage space.

You don’t have to worry about not having enough room for everyone in your vehicle anymore! This Thule Roof Cargo Box Guide will help make sure that you find the perfect size and style of box for your needs.

You’ll also learn how to install and use it properly, so there are no worries when heading out on a new adventure.

Who Are Thule

Thule is a company that helps you transport your possessions with ease! They provide products like the Thule Motion XT, Thule Vector, and Thule Force cargo boxes. Along with these, they also offer their unique One-Key System to personalize each product for maximum security and convenience.

How Are Thule Cargo Boxes Made

Thule roof boxes are simply amazing! Crafted from the highest-quality materials, these rooftop cargo carriers are designed to be easy to install and use. Plus, they come with secure locks that keep your belongings safe.

Here’s what you can expect when shopping for a Thule premium cargo box:

  • Durable construction for long-lasting performance
  • Easy installation and removal process
  • Locking mechanisms that securely store your belongings
  • Weatherproof material designed to withstand harsh conditions and keep your gear safe from the elements.

Are Thule Roof Boxes Any Good

Thule roof boxes are some of the best on the market. They offer a variety of options to fit any lifestyle, allowing you to get just what you need for your vehicle’s roof. Whether you’re looking for something simple or something more complex, Thule has got it all.

When it comes to rooftop box choices, Thule Motion is one of the best overall rooftop cargo boxes available. It offers plenty of storage space and ease of use, while also being lightweight and easy to install onto the roof of your vehicle. 

Let’s look at some of the best cargo boxes of 2023.

Best Small Capacity Thule Cargo Box

When it comes to rooftop storage, Thule cargo boxes are some of the best. They offer a great balance between size and capacity so that you can store all your gear inside. What’s more, they’re designed for easy access with their dual side opening, meaning loading and unloading is hassle-free.

Plus, thanks to their aerodynamic shape and wind resistance, these cargo boxes stay firmly in place at highway speeds!

But perhaps the most impressive feature of Thule cargo boxes is their mounting system. Reinforcement plates and adjustable brackets provide a secure fit to racks while also ensuring that everything stays in place even when subjected to tough weather conditions or rough road surfaces.

And don’t worry about weight either – this small capacity box has an internal volume of 8 cubic feet yet only weighs 16 pounds! So if you need reliable rooftop storage solutions then look no further than Thule cargo boxes – they’ll make sure your gear gets safely wherever you go!

Great for storing camping gear or other types of luggage on your road trip.

BEST Small capacity

Amazon Product Image sidekick

Thule Sidekick

  • Space-saving design carries the load with room for other items on roof rack.
  • Passenger-side opening for easier loading and unloading.
  • Includes 2 locks to secure box contents and lock the box to the carrier.
  • Heavy-duty design protects gear and helps keep out the elements.
  • Fits Thule rack systems, round bars, and most factory racks.
  • Volume: 8 ft³ / 227L
  • Exterior Dimensions: 54 x 25 x 15.5′
  • Load Capacity: 75 lbs
  • Product Weight: 16 lbs

Best Large Capacity Thule Cargo Box

Are you looking for the best large-capacity Thule cargo box? Look no further! The Thule Motion XT is the perfect solution for your bulky cargo needs.

It has 16 cubic feet of space, so you can fit 5-7 pairs of skis or 3-5 snowboards in it. Plus, it’s designed for optimal space efficiency and aerodynamics. Installing it on your roof rack couldn’t be easier with its quick mounting system that clicks when you know it’s secure and properly mounted.

This rooftop cargo box also makes accessing your items a breeze since you can do so from either side with its dual-side opening feature. And don’t worry about not having full trunk access; this bad boy won’t touch your car at all!

When closing the lid, an automatic locking system will keep everything safe and sound – plus there’s even a One Key System compatible option if needed! All in all, this is definitely one of the best options out there for those needing extra storage space without sacrificing too much vehicle room.

BEST LARGE capacity

Amazon Product Image motion xt

Thule Motion XT

  • Secure Slidelock System with separate locking and opening functions to automatically lock the lid and indicate when the box is closed
  • Rear of Vehicle Access for full trunk access with minimal risk of contact with the cargo box
  • Dual Side Opening for easy opening and closing in all conditions with grip-friendly outer handles and supporting lid lifters
  • PowerClick Quick-Mount System for easy installation with extra wide, pre-installed quick mount system
  • 3 Color Options in sizes L, XL, and XXL in Glossy Black and Glossy Titan, and Alpine size in Glossy Black and White (limited time)
  • 4 Size Options in Aerodynamic fits for a wide range of vehicles and needs

How To Install A Thule Cargo Box

Choosing a Box – When picking out a Thule roof box, make sure to consider the size you’ll need and the weight capacity it offers.

Mounting the Box – To mount the box, you’ll need the right mounting hardware and crossbars. They may come with the box, but double-check before you buy.

Install a Thule cargo carrier

Choosing A Box

First, you need to check out the limits on your vehicle. Manufacturers will recommend the total weight that the roof can support. Often this will be in the region of 165lbs. Don’t forget that this includes the weight of the box and any fixings that you need to attach it to the roof.

Once you know the maximum load capacity you can then think about the size of roof box. While it would be tempting to go for the largest possible size it may not be a practical option, particularly with smaller cars. Do you really want a massive roof box on top of your Mini?

You also need to consider the type of items you will want to transport. If you like to hit the slopes regularly then a low-profile box might be sufficient to carry skis or snowboards (alpine models). 

If you need to carry more bulky items then you’ll need to look at one of the standard boxes instead.

Mounting The Box

Once you’ve chosen the right Thule roof box for your car, it’s time to get mounting!

This will depend on your vehicle. Some come with roof rails which means you will only need to fit crossbars to mount the box onto. Other vehicles will need you to get a set of feet to attach to the roof that can support the crossbars.

Thule boxes usually come with adjustable attachments that can be moved to fit a wide variety of crossbars.

The box is attached by tightening the feet so they grip the bar.

How To Remove A Thule Cargo Box

Removing a Thule roof box is easy when you know the right steps. It is just the reverse of the installation process. Unlock the box from one side and undo the screwtops on the feet. Repeat on the other side and you should be able to lift the box away.

For larger boxes, you might want to get someone to help you lift it off the roof as they can be a bit bulky to handle.

Be sure to store your Thule roof boxes away safely after removing them so they remain in good condition for future trips!

Thule Cargo Box Models

Thule roof boxes are a great way to transport your camping gear, strollers and even golf clubs. They come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find the perfect one for your needs!

There are even ones specifically designed for carrying sports equipment like ski boards or snowboards. Not only do these boxes keep everything safe from the elements, but they also help reduce drag on your vehicle when traveling at high speeds compared to using an open rack or basket.

Models currently available:

  • Vector
  • Motion XT
  • Force
  • Pulse
  • Pulse Alpine
  • Sidekick

Comparing Thule Cargo Boxes

Now that we’ve discussed the different types of Thule roof boxes, let’s compare them. It’s like apples and oranges—they all have their own unique pros and cons!

In terms of size, some cargo boxes are bigger than others. If you need to store multiple sets of skis or snowboards, it might be best to go with a larger model. On the other hand, if you don’t need as much storage space, then a smaller box may do the trick.

The type of material used in each roof box also plays an important role when selecting one for your car or truck. Some materials offer more protection from elements such as rain and wind than others.

Additionally, heavier-duty materials tend to last longer over time which can save money in the long run. Ultimately, finding the right balance between durability and weight is key when choosing a Thule rooftop cargo box for your vehicle.

Capacity ft³Load Capacity (lbs)Weight (lbs)Dual Opening
Vector1316559Yes
Motion XT XXL2216555Yes
Motion XT XL1816546Yes
Motion XT L1616542Yes
Force XXL2216552Yes
Pulse Large1611036No
Pulse Alpine1111030No
Sidekick87516No
comparing Thule cargo carriers

Alternatives To Thule

Yakima is a well-respected manufacturer in the cargo box segment. Their Rocketbox Pro 14 is an excellent option for many as is their SkyBox range.

Thule Roof Cargo Box Guide: Conclusion

Thule roof boxes are a great addition to any vehicle. They offer plenty of storage space and come in various sizes and models. From small capacity to large capacity, there is sure to be a perfect box for you.

Installing and removing the cargo boxes is also simple with their easy-to-follow instructions. If you’re looking for something reliable, then look no further than these timeless classics that will last through years of wear and tear.

With so many options available, you can rest assured knowing your belongings are safe and secure while traveling!

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