Can a Roof Box Overhang? Reasons and Solutions (2023)

Yes, a roof box can overhang the edges of a vehicle’s roof. However, it’s important to ensure that the overhang doesn’t obstruct visibility, exceed weight limits, or create safety hazards during travel.

Can a Roof Box Overhang?

It’s undeniable that roof cargo boxes are a super essential product for a vehicle. The main reason is that it can immensely help during a trip. Besides, it can take a lot of stuff and make more space in the car. If you are a frequent traveler or like to arrange camping trips, a roof cargo box is indispensable. But why a roof cargo overhang?

This is complaining about this product. The criticism has emerged more in recent times. But is it true? Yes! Nevertheless, a small amount of overhang is not alarming though. It’s vital to deliver proper storage space in it. Nonetheless, too much hanging is a negative sign.

Now, we’ll discuss a roof cargo box overhang. How to avoid such a scenario? Let’s go –

Can a Roof Box Overhang? Reasons and Solutions

Of course, a bit of overhang might happen, and it’s not a severe issue. But it doesn’t mean the cargo box can hanging too far off the backspace of the vehicle. You won’t be comfortable with such a scenario, will you? When packing the roof box, remember that it shouldn’t go out too far.

On the other side, you can take some preventive measures. Let’s check –

  • Before purchasing, check out the size. Ensure that it isn’t too big or small in terms of size.
  • Closely check whether it is overhanging or not. If a little bit of hanging is happening, it’s all right.
  • The last concern is that you must securely mount the box to the roof.

Now, check out some crucial matters on roof box overhanging. Take a look –

A Little Overhang is OK

Tell us honestly – is the question “can a roof cargo box overhang” makes your head twisted?! Ow! Don’t worry! It’s not a matter of overthinking! Get relaxed! People who drive the car with a roof box regularly know that a bit of overhang is inevitable. It’s a pretty much usual matter.

Notwithstanding, too much overhang is not a good thing. It can create drag and negatively impact the vehicle’s overall fuel capability. Further, it can develop issues on the stability of the car. A bit of an overhanging issue won’t bother you at all.

You must ensure that the box is correctly secured on the rooftop before entering the highway. The reason is you won’t definitely expect that the cargo roof box will be flying off the road when you’re driving the car at super speed!

All you need to do is act wisely to enjoy the advantages of safely roof-mounted storage.

Rear Overhang Must be Avoided

The front overhang is ok. But, the overhang situation on the rear side can cause problems. Even a bit of overhang in the backside is not a big deal. However, things could turn nasty if the overhang becomes too much. For this reason, car manufacturers always recommend that customers should fit cargo boxes on the front instead of the back.

On the other hand, it could also depend on the vehicle type. If you’re using a car with no rear hatch, you can expect a bit of overhang, and it’s no big deal. Nevertheless, you can take some steps to reduce the overhang situation significantly.

  • Before purchasing, buy a roof box that can perfectly fit your vehicle.
  • Check overhang in the neighborhood before hitting the highway road. Don’t take the car on the main street if it is too much.
  • Ensure that it is mounted well to the rooftop of the vehicle.

How to Reduce the Roof Box Overhang Situation?

Best Rooftop Cargo Carrier

Most people don’t like the overhang situations in their vehicles. But, are there any steps or measurements that can be effective against it? Yes! Here, we’ll discuss some solutions you can apply to deal with this problem. Let’s check –

Car Type

Do you think all cars possess a rooftop? No! If you believe in that way, you’re absolutely wrong. There are still so many car models that are not manufactured to hold a roof cargo box. So, you should think about it before making a final move.

Right-Sized Racks and Boxes

The right-sized roof box will indeed matter to you. If you want to have a flexible trip by car, you should buy a perfect-sized roof box. Moreover, buy the box according to the size of your roof rack. If the rack is small and you purchase a larger box, it will increase the possibility of an accident.

Therefore, you must keep things within the limit when selecting a box. Further, don’t buy a far larger roof box than your vehicle. It will ultimately be suicidal. Hence, purchase the box according to the size of the car. Otherwise, you will surely regret it.

Positioning

Do you want to reduce the drag to a minimal range? If yes, then you can reposition the cargo box. Consider not to place it too far back. Otherwise, the rear hatch can fall into a deep trouble. This is how you’ll get a fair chance to decrease the overhang on the front or backside of the vehicle.

Stability

This is another crucial thing for a roof cargo box. If your box isn’t stable enough, it can fall off during driving. So, there’s no point in ignoring it to avoid a colossal fiasco. Consequently, the right-sized box generally provides stability. But, if you buy a wider box, it could raise a problematic situation.

Nevertheless, you can purchase a widespread bar to bring stability. This is how everything will place in order. Before beginning the journey, you can run a test on whether the box is stable or not.

Can a Roof Box Overhang? – FAQs

How much weight can a roof box carry?

Roof boxes have limitations. Different sizes can carry different types of weights. Notwithstanding, the usual limit is between 50 to 80 kg.

Can I keep the bigger box in the small-sized car?

You can. But, it will create problems. For this reason, you can use a widespread bar. Avoiding purchasing a bigger box for a small-sized car will be the best task.

Conclusion

If you want a superb travel experience, you’ll need a roof cargo box. Can a roof cargo box overhang? Of course, it is! All you need to do is some intelligent task to avoid it. Buy a right-sized box and implement other factors we’ve discussed above. This is how you can make your journey more convenient.

Happy traveling!

Best Seller List of Rooftop Cargo Boxes:

Bestseller No. 1
Thule 614 Pulse Cargo Box, Medium, Black
  • 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
Bestseller No. 2
SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box,Black
  • 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)
Bestseller No. 3
Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier with Security Keys,165 lbs Weight Capacity 14 Cubic Feet Hardshell Roof...
  • Premium Material: The hard shell rooftop cargo box is contructed with high quality ABS material which guarantees long time use, able to protect your valuables from exposure to the elements.
  • 14 Cu-Ft (390L) Storage Capacity: With dimensions of 60.6"L*31.5"W*13.4"H, this carrier provides extra space for bulky gear like suitcases, camping equipment, or ski gear. Holds up to 165 lbs—ideal for family road trips or outdoor adventures without sacrificing cabin comfort.
  • Universal Fit for Most Vehicles: this vehicle cargo carrier is designed with the security lock that has keys.Take the cargo box to the park, the beach, the sports field, or any place you need to store. Works on all vehicles with rack, suitable for cars, SUVs, etc.
  • Dual-sided Opening: The dual-sided opening system is designed for easily access on both sides.Comes with 2 keys and 2 straps highly increase the security.When opening one side of the box,please make sure the other side is locked.
  • Easy Installation & Hassle-Free Use:With equipped hardware and detailed instruction, the car rooftop cargo carrier is easy to be mounted to the car top.
Bestseller No. 4
JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier for Car Storage - Large Roof Rack Style Carrier - Heavy Duty Weatherproof...
  • 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 on Vehicles with Roof Luggage Rails and Crossbars.All mounting hardware and simple instructions are included to get you safely on the road quickly. The base is pre-drilled for 24in crossbar spacing - if your vehicles crossbars are NOT adjustable the plastic base can be re-drilled to match your vehicle (20in to 30in bar spacing)
  • Made in USA, limited lifetime guarantee. The JEGS car top carrier’s high-quality construction and performance give you peace of mind
  • Comfortably Holds 3 golf bags, up to 5 if stacked depending on size.
  • Designed to fit ONLY on cross-rail systems rated at 150 lbs. and greater. (See Vehicles Owners Manual for Weight Carrying Capacity)
  • This cargo carrier must be mounted onto a roof rack with horizontal crossbars
  • Be sure to allow for clearance of rear hatchback, roof-mounted antennas, and navigation fins
  • Load cargo carrier paying careful attention to distribute the weight evenly and not exceed the maximum allowed weight of the box or cross rails
Bestseller No. 5
Thule Force 3 - Size XXL - 21 cu ft - Aerodynamic roof Mounted Box - Dual-Sided Opening with Locks -...
  • Offers durability and maintains a sleek appearance, designed to handle daily use and the demands of active lifestyles
  • A quick, secure, and intuitive mounting system that indicates when the cargo box is safely attached with a simple click
  • Provides easy access to your cargo from both sides of the vehicle, enhancing convenience and efficiency
  • Extensively tested for road safety and durability in the Thule Test Center, ensuring top-notch quality and reliability
  • SlideLock system with separate locking and opening functions, automatically locks the lid in place and indicates when the box is closed securely
Bestseller No. 6
Heavy Duty Rooftop Cargo Carrier ABS Lockable Car Roof Rack Cargo Carrier, Capacity 110 LBS, 53 X 34...
  • 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐥 - Roof cargo box is universal, fits for vehicles with cross bars only, and no tool assembly and installation. Can help increase cargo space without impeding on passenger comfort.
  • 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐮𝐦 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥 - Made of high quality ABS plastic, hardness and durable for long lasting using. Can help protect your contents from exposure to the inclement weather.
  • 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐨 - 110 LBS loading bearing, strong support arm. Cargo box dimension: 53 inches X 34 inches X 15 inches, design with black textured surface finish and non-slip bottom.
  • 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 - Great design with secure key lock, gives us peace of mind when storing our luggage, and also easy opening and closing. Also it can use in variety weather such as rainy, dirt and freezing, etc,.
  • 𝐏𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬 - 1 X cargo roof box, 1 X pair of keys, 4 X ABS plastic mounting brackets and mounting hardware as shown.
Bestseller No. 7
Elementool Rooftop Cargo Carrier Hard Shell, 17.7 Cubic Feet Heavy-Duty Roof Cargo Box, Lockable...
  • 【Durable Construction】Crafted from enhanced thick ABS material, this rooftop cargo carrier hard shell ensures superior impact resistance and is waterproof, rust-resistant, and heat-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor use in varied weather
  • 【Spacious Storage】The roof cargo box offers an impressive 17.6 cubic feet of storage capacity, supporting up to 165 lbs when evenly distributed, complete with two secure straps to keep your belongings safe and meet all your storage needs during travels
  • 【Universal Compatibility】This heavy-duty hard shell rooftop cargo carrier is compatible with various roof rack styles including Square, Round, Aero-Style, and Factory Cross Bars, allowing for easy no-tool installation while maximizing cargo space
  • 【Secure Locking System】Equipped with a secure locking mechanism and two keys, this hard shell rooftop cargo carrier ensures the safety of your valuables and proper lid alignment, allowing for side access that remains open until you're ready to close it
  • 【Ideal for Road Trips】Perfect for any adventure, this hard-shell roof top mount car storage solution fits all vehicles with racks including cars, wagons, and SUVs, while its sleek aerodynamic design reduces drag and minimizes noise for a smooth drive
Bestseller No. 8
SportRack Sidekick Cargo Box
  • 8 cubic foot cargo capacity
  • Compact roof box. ideal for small loads such as camping gear or gold clubs
  • Space-saving design carries the load with room for other items on roof rack
  • Sturdy U-bolts with reinforcement plates mount cargo box securely to the rack
  • Passenger-side opening for easier loading and unloading
  • Fits SportRack Rack Systems, square bars, round bars and most factory racks
  • Includes lock to secure contents in the box
  • Dimensions: 54 x 25 x 15.5 inches
  • Weight: 19.85 pounds
  • Load capacity: 75 pounds
Bestseller No. 9
FIVKLEMNZ 21 Cubic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without...
  • 【Most Safe Design】: For security reasons, we use 10 reinforced adjustable straps to keep the cargo carrier in place. In addition, equipped with free anti-slip mat to keep the cargo bag stay in place even in high speed road or bump road, no slip, no scratch to your car.Also a security lock to prevent theft of your luggage.
  • 【Large Storage Space】: FIVKLEMNZ roof bag (52 x 40 x 18 inches) was designed to solve the problem of limited storage space in the car. 21 cubic feet rooftop cargo bag allows you to hold 6-8 suitcases, travel luggage cases, tents, sleeping bags, and more. Free up inside vehicle space for more comfortable on the way.
  • 【Easy to Install】:FIVKLEMNZ rooftop cargo carrier fits for any car, truck, or SUV. If there is not roof side rails on your car, it can be quickly and easily installed to roof rack in minutes with 6 door hooks.
  • 【Durable Material】: Made from 700D PVC, the FIVKLEMNZ roof bag features a double-layered waterproof cover design. All seams are constructed using heat-sealed welding and stitching techniques to ensure a completely seamless and waterproof structure. However, under extreme weather conditions or in cases of improper use leading to tears, 100% waterproof and rainproof functionality cannot be guaranteed. Please follow the user manual and use the product correctly.
  • 【Important Notes】: This is a soft rooftop cargo carrier, not hard. The front and back straps should not beattached to the side bars during installation to prevent tearing over time. This may cause leaks or holes!!!
  • 【Size Choose】: We recommend a 15 cubic roof bag for small cars, a 21 cubic meter roof bag for SUVs, and a 30 cubic meter roof bag for SUVs and larger vehicles.
SaleBestseller No. 10
GarveeTech Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier,Dual-Side Opening Roof Mount Travel Luggage Storage...
  • 【DURABLE CONSTRUCTION】Crafted from high-quality ABS material, the hard shell rooftop cargo box ensures long-lasting durability. Its waterproof and UV-resistant design protects luggage from various weather conditions, making it ideal for road trips. The aerodynamic shape also reduces fuel consumption and noise for a smoother ride
  • 【SPACIOUS 12 CUBIC FEET STORAGE】With dimensions of 54.3"L x 31.5"W x 13.4"H, the rooftop cargo box offers 12 cubic feet (340L) of extra storage space. With a maximum capacity of 165 lbs, it significantly increases storage capacity for your belongings
  • 【UNIVERSAL FIT】Compatible with all vehicles equipped with a roof rack, including cars, vans, and SUVs. Prior to purchase, please verify compatibility by checking the roof rack fitting guidelines
  • 【CONVENIENT DUAL-SIDED OPENING】The dual-sided opening system allows easy access from both sides of the cargo box. Includes 2 keys and 2 straps for added security. Ensure one side is locked when opening the other side
  • 【RELIABLE WARRANTY】GarveeTech is committed to delivering high-quality products and meeting customer expectations. Enjoy a one-year warranty for added peace of mind. For any inquiries, our team is available to assist you within 24 hours

Last Update : 2025-09-23

Automotive products are like an addiction to me. Years ago, I started my job at a Roof Box installation co. Then I realized that I have a passion for cars. It is a perfect scope to share my different experiences about automotive products.

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