Roof boxes are generally safe for carrying luggage and equipment on vehicles, but their safety in high winds depends on factors like the box’s quality, proper installation, and driving speed. It’s advisable to follow manufacturer guidelines, secure the box tightly, and adjust driving behavior to ensure safety during windy conditions.
Are Roof Boxes Safe?
Do you have a habit of driving your car at the highest speed on the road? Then, it’s easy to guess that you’ll have a fear that your roof box might be flying off on the highway! Too much fear for personal belongings, right ya?! It’s simple. But, don’t be afraid! Hence, the car roof box manufacturing companies are giving the highest priority to safety issues. Now, it’s safe to use a car roof box.
When traveling at high speed on the highway, you could fear that opposite high wind force might take away your box and its internal products. However, it’s kind of unnecessary to think in that way. The reason is the cargo box is tightly fastened to the roof rack.
We’ll discuss is it safe to use a car roof box? Some things you must know in this article. Let’s go –
Are Roof Boxes Secure? Are Roof Boxes Safe in High Winds?
People who travel often and owners of small vehicles can benefit from cargo roof boxes. But, the big question is – Are these boxes secured enough? The answer is yes. These boxes are safe and secured. Moreover, the manufacturing companies always prioritize the safety of the roof box.
They are designed to handle extreme winds and harsh weather, even on rough terrains. Additionally, their aerodynamic shape assists in cutting the heavy wind pretty smoothly. Since there are things like multiple locks, cords, etc., it’s almost impossible that the box will fly away because of wind.
Nevertheless, you still need to act smart. You have to be watchful with the box. Besides, cargo boxes contain elements like latch straps, lock systems, mounting systems, etc. So, you should install them properly.
Now, we’ll talk about the overall safety measurements of these cargo roof boxes –
Don’t Use it Until it is Fully Secured
What’s your thinking about using a roof box? Are they too simple to use? Nope! But, they’re not hard to operate also. All you need to do is act smart before using them. Henceforth, you should carefully read the instructions to learn the rules and regulations to know how you can safely use the cargo box.
If you take adequate precautions, it will be helpful for you while you are driving your car. You can drive it more safely. Consequently, don’t overload or drive over speed. It will be perilous.
Further, don’t drive the car until you precisely install the box. Otherwise, it could be dangerous. The box has a massive chance of flying off when it is not correctly fastened to the crossbars. On the contrary, many cargo boxes have clamps or straps to tighten the items.
You should ensure that those things work smoothly. The harshest weather condition could make things hard. So, you need to think up for it mentally. The storm, snowy weather, etc., are not that favorable weather for driving along with the car roof box.
Moreover, don’t cross the limit of the capacity of the roof box. Overloading is unsafe. In addition, you have to fill the box according to the filling method. For instance, put heavier items first and then lighter elements in the carrier box. This is how the security measurement increases gradually.
Other risk factors can be present. Those factors are –
- Loose straps
- Improper weight distribution
- Low tire pressure
- Repulsion to the cargo box lock
Our advice is to read the guidance carefully. The manufacturing company knows best and you should follow the suit provided by them. This is how you can reduce the risk significantly.
Proper Installation is Necessary
Do you want to fit the cargo roof box in your car? Good. But, you should know how to install it in the correct method. Therefore, you must read the instructions and follow those steps. Not all the cargo boxes’ installation style is the same. Different boxes require different installation methods.
However, it’s not that hard to learn the process. There are two types of cargo roof boxes – soft-shell and hard-shell boxes. Hence, soft-shell cargo boxes are effortless to install. There are no difficulties at all. But, hard-shelled boxes need special care to set up. They are rigid, good-looking, stylish, waterproof and sexy in whatever way!
Over-torquing and under-torquing both are pretty bad for the box. So, it’s better to tight the thing correctly. Don’t make any errors while installing the product. It could be hazardous.
If you don’t have a relevant idea on how to install the box, we recommend you get help from Google, YouTube, or any professional person.
Type of Car
The type of car you’re using has a considerable influence on the safety of your rooftop carrier. It’s not difficult to understand that a roof box generally increases the gravity center of a car. Consequently, the higher the gravity center is, the higher the risk. You’re enhancing the gravity center when using an SUV or any higher sitting vehicle.
So, you need to distribute the overall weight equally to create a risk-free situation. Suppose you’re on a highway road. Suddenly, snowfall starts with heavy wind. Then, your car is holding an uneven carrier! What would it be like? It will be a frightful situation.
But, things are pretty good for lower-seat vehicles. However, weight balancing is crucial and you should maintain it consistently.
Restrictions
It’s undeniable that the cargo roof boxes are designed to stand against highway speeds and significant weight. But, in this world, everything has its limit. Crossing the boundary is always harmful and it could backfire badly. Different vehicles possess different weight end.
You have to know the weight limit of the car at any cost. Apart from the weight of the belongings, you should know the overall weight of the roof box. Further, you should drive your car slowly and steadily in harsh weather. Running your vehicle at the highest speed in bad weather conditions always brings utter risk.
Safety Nets
You are most welcome to use some added safety features for your roof box. For this reason, you can use a safety net to protect your belongings. If somehow your personal things come out from the box, they will be protected within the safety net.
Keep the Box in Tip-The Condition
Always keep the rooftop box in tip-top condition. If you can’t clean it perfectly, better take help from a professional. But, don’t underestimate it. Hence, when you consistently use a roof box – mud, dust, residue, and grease can attach to it. As a result, corrosion can hit the box and it becomes unsafe day by day.
Try to clean it regularly and keep it fresh. Moreover, use the lubricated item if any grease gets fixed in the box. Apart from such tasks, store the box in a sophisticated and dry place when you’re not using it.
Wrap Expensive Products in Plastic
Cargo boxes are waterproof and sealed tightly to reach the water. But, you need to be careful. It will be best to wrap up the expensive products in a plastic bag. As a result, the bag will get an added layer of protection.
Check out Noises
If your cargo box is making noise, you should be careful. Stopping the car and checking everything closely will be a good decision. If something is loose or disconnected, take quick action to fix it. Checking everything thoroughly could prevent potential risks.
Best Seller List of Rooftop Cargo Boxes:
- 18 cubic foot (510 L) internal cargo capacity
- Made from durable UV-resistant ABS material
- Rear opening for easy access away from traffic
- Tool-free mounting hardware for easy installation and removal
- Includes key and lock to secure contents in the box, and the box to your rack
- Fits SportRack Rack Systems, square bars, round bars and most factory racks (check fit guide)
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 63 x 38 x 19 in / 160 x 96.5 x 48 cm
- Min-Max Crossbars Spacing: 23 5/8 - 29 3/4 in (60 - 75.5 cm)
- Max Weight Capacity: 100 pounds (45 kg)
- Functional rooftop cargo box provides 14 cubic feet of additional packing space
- Rugged and durable design keep contents protected
- FastGrip quick-mount system assembles in minutes
- Passenger-side opening for easy loading and unloading
- Central Locking system provides maximum safety
- Thule Comfort Key can only be removed when all locking points are securely closed
- Fits 3-5 snowboards (max length: 155 cm)
- External dimensions: 67 x 35 x 16 inches; Internal dimensions: 61 x 33 x 14 inches
- Load capacity: 110 lbs; Product weight: 34 lbs
- Height off crossbar: 16 inches. Fast and secure mounting
- Secure & protect your gear in this 18 cubic ft. HDPE plastic hard shell vehicle cargo carrier; high-capacity interior dimensions 57 L x 38 1/2 W x 17 3/4 H inches; aerodynamic design for fuel efficiency
- Weatherproof storage for your luggage with a four corner locking system, front latch, and weather-tight seal for ultimate car rooftop protection and security
- Easy & convenient loading and unloading from either side of the car make for smooth travel and hassle-free storage
- No tools required, easy assembly and installation. All mounting hardware and simple instructions are included to get you safely on the road quickly
- Made in USA, limited lifetime guarantee. The JEGS car top carrier’s high-quality construction and performance give you peace of mind
- Holds 3 golf bags
- ▶️ This roof top storage box is universal fit for mounting to max 13 inches wide cross bar, please check the dimension before purchase.
- ▶️ The package comes with [1] 53 inches length storage box, [2] security lock key, and [4] heavy duty tool free installation mounting brackets.
- ▶️ It is constructed of rugged, impact-resistant ABS material to ensure a long lasting life in outdoor conditions. More, it can open from the side and stay open till you close it with the strong support arm.
- ▶️ Opens on the passenger side to 14 inches wide to store bulky items from the side and stays open till you close it, and it is very easy to install without any tool required to assembly.
- ▶️ Overall Dimensions: 53" L x 34" W x 15" H | Capacity: 11 Cubic Feet and up to 110 LBS
- A versatile roof-mounted cargo box for everyday use
- Provides 18 cubic feet of additional packing space
- Designed to fit a wide range a vehciles with maximum space efficiency
- Quick-mount system "clicks" when roof box is secure and properly mounted
- Dual-side opening for easy access to all areas of the box, from either side of the vehicle
- Full trunk access with no roof box contact
- Fits 5-7 pairs of skis / 3-5 snowboards (up to 195 cm)
- External dimensions: 82.75 x 33.75 x 17.25 inches
- Internal Dimensions: 77.5 x 29.5 x 15.25 inches
- Load capacity: 165 lbs; Product Weight: 47 lbs
- Oversized roof-mounted cargo box provides 22 cubic feet of additional packing space.Height off crossbar : 17 in
- Designed for optimal space efficiency, aerodynamics, and vehicle fit
- Quick-mount system "clicks" when roof box is secure and properly mounted
- Dual-side opening for quick access from either side of the car
- Easy to open and close with grip-friendly handles and supporting lid-lifters
- Full trunk access and no roof box contact
- Lid automatically locks in place and indicates a secure closure (One Key System compatible)
- Fits 5-7 pairs of skis / 3-5 snowboards
- External dimensions: 91.5 x 37.5 x 18 inches; Internal dimensions: 84.5 x 33 x 16 inches
- Load capacity: 165 lbs; Product Weight: 55 lbs
- 【UNIVERSAL】This extra long rooftop cargo carrier fits for vehicles with cross bars only, no tool assembly & installation. Increases vehicle cargo space without impeding on passenger comfort.
- 【LARGE CAPACITY】Rooftop cargo box provides 11 cubic feet of additional storage space. The maximum storage capacity of 110lbs when evenly distributed. And it can be opened up to 14" wide to store bulky items.
- 【ROBUST DESIGN】Constructed of rugged, impact-resistant ABS material for long-lasting durability, able to protect your contents from exposure to the inclement weather.
- 【SECURITY LOCKING SYSTEM】Includes key and lock to secure valuables in the box, to ensure cargo safety and s proper lid alignment. It can open from the side and stays open til you close it.
- 【SPECIFICATION】Size: 11 Cubic Feet Internal Storage, 110lbs Max Capacity | Overall Dimensions: 53" L x 34" W x 15" H | Surface Finish: Black Texture Finish
- UNLOAD FROM BOTH SIDES - the patent-pending dual side-opening design allows you conveniently load and unload your travel luggage and gear from both sides of the rooftop cargo carrier so you're out of the way of traffic while you unload
- FUEL EFFICIENT DESIGN - the aerodynamic design of the roof rack cargo carrier reduces drag and wind resistance to minimize fuel economy disruption. The 18 cu ft carrier measures 57" x 38.5" x 17.75" and the 10 cu ft carrier is 46.5" x 30.5" x 17.75"
- SECURE LOCKING SYSTEM - this car top carrier secures your luggage with a four-corner cam locking system to ensure that the lid won't blow open while you're on the road with a keyed theft-resistant lock for peace of mind at stops. Includes 2 keys
- WATERPROOF & UV RESISTANT - proudly made in the USA, this waterproof rooftop cargo box is manufactured from durable, all weather high-density polyethylene material that includes a built-in UV stabilizer that resists cracking and fading
- MOUNTS TO CROSS BARS - the car rooftop cargo carrier is a quick and easy no-tool installation and allows you to mount to your vehicle's cross-bars (not included). Pre-drilled mounting holes for cross-bar attachment are drilled 24" on center
- 【840D CHAMPION QUALITY MATERIAL】 Made with heavy-duty 840D abrasion-resistant PVC fabric, this ultra-durable car roof cargo carrier stands up to any rough treatment or harsh weather. Better still, the triple-reinforced welded seams make it hard to tear or rip for years to come.
- 【MORE THAN WATERPROOF】 Featuring waterproof zipper wrapped with 6 inches widened velcro zipper flaps, our vehicle cargo carriers will exceed your expectations with the waterproof effet. The reinforced seams will make it possible "zero leakage" even in downpours.
- 【EASY INSTALLATION】 Our roof rack cargo carrier comes with an anti-slip mat and 8 thickened adjustable straps that will keep the cargo bag in place. The smooth zipper, adjustable straps, door hooks and robust buckles allows you to effortlessly secure it to any car.
- 【SECURE FIT & LARGE CAPACITY】 Our 21 cubic feet rooftop cargo bag is compatible with vehicles with our without roof rack, the large capacity can keep the shape nicely, even when holding many luggage cases, blanket, tents, sleeping bags and more.
- 【PACKAGE LIST】You will receive 1x roof top carrier bag, 1x storage bag, 1x anti-slip mat, 6x door hooks, 2x extra luggage straps, 1x luggage lock.
- DUAL-SIDE OPENING FOR EASY ACCESS: Dual-side opening design allows you to open it from either the driver side or the passenger side, which brings more convenience for loading and unloading. (NOTE: There is protective film on the lid. Please peel off the film before use.)
- FAIR CAPACITY: With 13.4 cubic feet maximum storage capacity and 150lbs loading capacity, the roof cargo carrier can allow for more space in your car. What’s more, its streamlined design will reduce drag and noise during driving.
- LOCKING SYSTEM FOR SAFETY: It is designed with locks on both sides and comes with keys for protecting your valuables. And the stiffeners at the bottom of the roof cargo box strengthen its stability.
- EASY TO INSTALL: It is simple in structure and light in weight (approximately 24.25lbs). It won’t be difficult for you to lift it and install it to your car. And it can work with most vehicles with crossbars, such as car, suv, van, etc. Applicable Cross Bar: Max. Width 2.36”. Max. distance between bottom holes for installation: 40.94”. Min. distance between bottom holes for installation: 15.35”.
- QUALITY MATERIAL FOR DURABILITY & BETTER PROTECTION: Made from ABS material for long-lasting use. And it can protect your luggage or equipment from being exposed to sun, rain or dust. And it is protected with 3-Year Warranty.
Final Say
Now, the question comes again – is it safe to use a car roof box? Yes, of course! Why not? It’s an expensive product and is designed to fit suitably on your car’s rooftop. Moreover, the aerodynamic shape and sturdy materials make this box strong and wind-resistance.
However, you must follow the guidelines properly and pack your belongings perfectly. This is how you can avoid risk or disaster. So, mind these instructions and have your ride!
Last Update : 2024-06-27
