How to Store a Thule Roof Box in the Garage? Solution & Tips (2023)

So, are you too tense because you still haven’t figured out how to store your Thule roof box in the garage? Hmm, it’s a genuine concern indeed! The traveling season is over and you need to store your big box. But, you’re out of ideas and in a problematic situation! Notwithstanding, it’s normal and happens to many people.

Thule cargo boxes are generally bulk in size. Therefore, it’s too hard to store them. They require a lot of space in a garage. However, you can follow some tricks such as hanging them into the wall, slinging them from the ceiling, etc.

So, it’s more or less certain that there are various ways to store these massive boxes without a huge-sized space. We’ll share some essential solutions to keep the Thule roof box safe and secured. Let’s begin –

How to Store a Thule Cargo Box? Updated for 2023

Thule is undoubtedly one of the world’s top-notch roof box producing companies. They’ve manufactured so many high-quality cargo box series over the years. Further, they’re highly expensive. So, keeping these boxes safe and protected is necessary.

Why is it Necessary to Store Thule Roof Boxes?

It is essential to store the Thule roof boxes when you’re not using them on the car. There are several reasons behind it –

The Roof Box might be Vandalized

When you’re not using the cargo roof box, there’s no point in keeping it on the rooftop of your vehicle. Otherwise, it could lose its lifespan and slowly lose its originality. Besides, adverse weather conditions could also harm the product.

For instance, the roof box might get heated during scorching weather conditions and lose its durability over time. On the other side, it could break or crack in snowy weather. So, you can clearly see how weather can negatively affect the roof box’s overall condition. This is why keeping roof boxes in a safe place is the best when they are not in use.

Can Negatively Affect the MPG

When you keep the cargo box over the car’s roof, it creates unnecessary drag and weight. As a result, your car might slow down when you drive it. This also draws higher fuel bills. Since fuel efficiency decreases and costs you more money due to lower miles-per-gallon, it will be a good thing to remove the Thule roof box from the car.

Cargo Box might Degrade Your Vehicle

A Thule roof box is a heavy and massive product. If you consistently keep it over the car’s head, it might put considerable strain on it. As a result, the car’s performance could degrade day by day. So, putting a heavier Thule box over the car is definitely not a good idea. It’s super harmful to the vehicle.

Keeping it in the garage is the best possible option when you’re not using it.

Some Essential Things to Take Into Consideration Before Storing a Thule Cargo Box

Roof Cargo Box Storage System

Before storing the Thule cargo box, you’ve to consider some factors. Let’s check them out –

1. Sunshine

Remember Eric Clapton’s song “Sunshine on my Shoulder“! It’s a good song that resembles the sweetness of sunshine. However, too much sunshine isn’t always a good thing. For instance, your high-end Thule roof box can deteriorate badly due to the unfiltered sunshine.

The extreme UV ray can slowly damage the box’s outer sector and eventually disfigure it. Therefore, it will be an intelligent move for you if you keep the Thule box away from the direct sunshine. But, there’s no chance of skipping it; you should apply a sophisticated sun-protective spray all over the box.

That spray works as a sunscreen that protects the face from extreme sunlight!

2. Cold Temperature

Yes, the cold or snowy temperature is not as adverse as sunlight. However, it can still significantly damage your beloved Thule box. The consistent freezing and frosting can make a hole in the box. Besides, if such an occurrence happens, you’ll have to spend big bucks on repairing it.

3. Moisture Condition

Too much moisture is never a good thing for a Thule roof box. It can degrade after a time being due to the heavy moisture conditions. As a result, you should keep them in a cool and windy place.

4. Storing at a Small Space

It will be best to avoid congested places to store the Thule roof box. Since Thule is a high-end product, keeping it in a bulky place is good. Hence, storing in a small space can negatively impact it.

5. Reachable

You must ensure that you can reach the box and bring it out conveniently whenever you want. Don’t put the box in a complicated space. Otherwise, a part of the box can be damaged.

Arrangements before Storing the Thule Roof Box into the Garage

Thule Roof Box Storage Lift

Are you getting ready to store the Thule roof box in your garage? Wait a bit, please! You have to do some crucial tasks before storing the box. Before storing the Thule cargo roof box into the garage, let’s check some arrangements or preparations. Here we go –

Clean the Thule roof box

The first thing you have to do is to clean the Thule roof box. If any dust, residue, or other unnecessary ingredients cover the box, remove them with a clean cloth. After cleaning with a cloth, spray the box with a cleaner.

Clean it thoroughly on both inside and outside. But, try to avoid chemical solvents. They can damage the plastic. Since Thule is a state-of-the-art product, it will be tough to find its plastic replacement. After cleaning, wipe down the product with a soft and dry cloth.

Moreover, empty the whole box before storing it in the garage.

Clear a Perfect Place in the Garage

Before placing the Thule roof box in the garage, you’ve to clean the place if it is packed up with various junks. Another thing is don’t put the box in a gathering place. Instead, place it in an ideal space where there’s no chance it will get damaged.

Select a Suitable Place to Lay it

Do you want to lay the Thule roof box on the floor? Then, you need to find a suitable place to put it. But, don’t lay it on the concrete floor. Otherwise, the bottom part of the box could be damaged. At least place some soft sheets or mats before placing the Thule roof box on the floor.

Moreover, we recommend you not lean the box against a wall or anything. Otherwise, it could be damaged permanently. So beware before laying the box on the floor.

Mount it to the Wall

If you’re good at DIY work, mount the Thule box to the wall. You can also take assistance from a DIY professional if you lack confidence. Further, if you aren’t willing to go for a mount, you can buy some hooks and attach them to the wall to hold the roof box.

Cover the Cargo Box

The next thing you can do is to cover the Thule roof box carefully. Ensure that no parts will be visible. This is how you can protect it from scratches, residues, and dust. Henceforth, your product will be in excellent condition due to the cover. We recommend you purchase a waterproof cover for a Thule roof box.

Yes, it will cost more money. But, it will provide the best service unambiguously. Moreover, Thule is an expensive product and it’s good to cover it with a high-priced product instead of a cheaper one.

Take Away the Key

Don’t leave the key to the Thule roof box inside the roof box. Besides, take away the key and keep it in a secure place. Otherwise, the key can get stuck in the lock mechanism.

How to Store a Thule Roof Box in the Garage?

StoreYourBoard Cargo Box Ceiling Storage Hoist

There are obvious ways to store the Thule cargo box in the garage. Here are some tips and recommendations from us. Let’s check them out –

Place it on the Ground

The most suitable way to keep the box is by laying it on the floor. But, in the end, it’s a high-end Thule roof box. You can’t just place it on the floor. Besides, you must ensure that the floor is large enough. Moreover, don’t lay the box on a concrete floor.

Another thing is don’t place the Thule roof box directly on the floor. The reason is you won’t like to mount hardware to stay on the ground. Therefore, putting a few 4*2 blocks of wood in order to keep up the cargo box from touching the floor will be good.

Mounted Flat to a Partition

So, you don’t want to keep your beloved Thule roof box on the floor? Well, no issues! There’s another way to keep it. Hence, you can install the box on the wall mount. On top of that, the installation procedure is not that hard. If you’re a DIY person or take assistance from DIY professionals, you can do it quite effortlessly.

Here we are providing you with some convenient steps that could be helpful to you in installing the Thule box –

  • Firstly, find the place in the wall or partition where you want to keep the box.
  • Then, closely estimate the ceiling and wall’s center where the Thule box will be situated.
  • The next thing you’ve to do is drill and set up two hooks on the wall.
  • Now, purchase an electrical conduit pipe from the nearest hardware shop. After purchasing, scale and cut down about the same width as the box’s bottom side.
  • Clasp down the mounting clips slowly from the inside part of the Thule box.
  • After that, install the pipe over the clips
  • Now, lift the cargo box and mount it on the hooks. You’re done.

Further, it’s not a difficult task and is simple to do. If you can’t do it, bring a professional DIY person who can do it. The fascinating thing about this system is it’s a multifunctional thing. Hence, you can use it to mount other products like bicycles, kayaks, boats, and many other outdoor products.

Installing the Garage Storage Rack

You can store the Thule roof box in the overhead garage storage rack. Hence, it’s a great solution. If your garage doesn’t possess adequate storage, you can apply this way. Additionally, this is an effective and fantastic method. You can use this ceiling space in your garage very effortlessly.

Apart from the roof box, you can also use this garage storage rack to keep various seasonal items like kayaks, ski-board, rafts, etc.

Install a Lift System

If you seek to utilize a shorter space in the garage, you can go for a garage storage lift system. There’s no complication in installing it. Besides, it keeps the whole carrier closer to the ceiling. It is a very efficient procedure to place a high-tech Thule roof box. In addition, you don’t have to worry about any damage or anything.

One of the most sophisticated lifts garage storage systems is –

Thule MultiLift Storage System
  • Storage solution for rooftop cargo boxes, kayaks, surfboards , and more
  • Mounts directly to ceiling
  • Built in winch helps lift loads up to 220 lbs/ 100 kg easily
  • Easily raise and lower cargo by turning the crank handle
  • Can be lowered up to 78 inches and raises up to 6 inches from the ceiling
  • Preassembled with drill patterns for easy installation
  • Ceiling fasteners will vary based on ceiling type and are not included. 14 fasteners are needed for installation
  • Includes 5 mm x 10 m long rope and 4 ft crank handle
  • Product weight: 7.5 lbs
  • Product dimensions: 36 x 60 x 30 inches

How to Store a Thule Roof Box? – FAQs

Question
What should I check when selecting a box lift?

You’ll find varieties of box lifts on the market. But, you have to check a few things before selecting a perfect one. For instance, you should check how much weight it can carry, the overall quality of the cranks, sturdiness, and price.

How can I install a Thule Multi-lift?

The Thule multi-lift installation procedure isn’t so hard. Here we are saying in short – the 6 screws hold the central element in place. Then, 2 screws each for the 4 wheels.
Further, you circle the rope over the wheels and through the center directly, tie it, put the stack between the 2 rope circles, and then wrench it up to the ceiling.

How heavy is a Thule roof box?

Thule roof boxes are around 20 to 25 kg. It also includes the roof bars.

Wrapping Up – Here’s the end story of it!

Thule is one of the top-class roof box manufacturing companies. Since it is an advanced product, you can’t show negligence on it. Furthermore, you should remove the roof box when it’s not in use. For this reason, you must keep the Thule box aside when you’re not traveling anywhere.

Unpacking the thing and keeping it in a safe place can stretch the longevity and durability of the product. So, we hope our methods will be helpful to you. Let’s practice one of the procedures and let us know how it goes! Bye!

Best Seller List of Thule Roof Box Storage Systems:

SaleBestseller No. 1
StoreYourBoard Cargo Box Ceiling Hoist – Heavy-Duty Garage Pulley Lift System for Rooftop...
  • Maximize Garage Organization – Free up floor space by storing your rooftop cargo box overhead using this ceiling-mounted pulley system – perfect for efficient garage organization.
  • Heavy-Duty Design Supports 150 Lbs – Built with solid alloy steel components and durable rope, this garage pulley lift system features a 2:1 mechanical advantage for easier lifting and lowering. Supports up to 150 lbs with ease.
  • Easy Installation With Flexible Mounting – Includes premium quality wood mounting hardware and can be installed parallel or perpendicular to ceiling joists for maximum flexibility.
  • Adustable To Fit Most Cargo Boxes – Includes adjustable loading straps and a center connecting strap to fit a variety of cargo carriers. Compatible with 8–10 ft tall garage ceilings.
  • Designed In The USA – Proudly engineered by the StoreYourBoard design team in Virginia, this cargo box ceiling hoist is built for long-term durability, reliability, and real-world garage use.
  • Built To Last – Backed By Life-Long Support: All our products are designed for durability and reliable performance. Manufacturer support is available when used and maintained as instructed. We stand behind the quality with warranty for life.
Bestseller No. 2
Teal Triangle Ceiling Storage Hoist for Cargo Box - Heavy Duty Garage Storage Lift - Garage Pulley...
  • Maximize garage space: Free up valuable floor space and keep your garage organized with this garage hoist ceiling mount. Perfect for lifting cargo boxes, kayaks, bikes, ladders, and more, this garage lift storage system securely stores bulky items overhead. By utilizing your ceiling for storage, you can create more room for parking and tools.
  • Heavy-duty & reliable design: Engineered with industrial-grade alloy steel and a high-strength rope system, this garage storage lift is built to last. It can safely hold up to 150 lbs, making it ideal for heavy-duty storage needs. The garage pulley lift system provides a mechanical advantage, allowing you to lift and lower your cargo box effortlessly while reducing strain on your arms and back. Whether for daily use or seasonal storage, this system ensures durability and long-term reliability.
  • Adjustable straps for a secure fit: Our pulley hoist includes 8 ft adjustable straps designed to accommodate various sizes and shapes of cargo boxes, kayaks, and other large items. The center connecting strap adjusts for length, ensuring a balanced lift. Additionally, the garage pulley storage system features a built-in locking mechanism to prevent accidental slips, keeping your gear securely in place at all times.
  • Easy installation on ceiling joists: Designed for a hassle-free setup, our ceiling hoist includes high-quality mounting hardware that allows for secure attachment to ceiling joists, whether they run parallel or perpendicular. With minimal tools required, even those with limited DIY experience can quickly install this garage hoist ceiling mount.
  • Dedicated customer support: We are committed to providing excellent customer service. If you have any questions about the garage pulley lift system, need installation guidance, or require troubleshooting assistance, our support team is available to help. Reach out via email, and we’ll ensure you have a smooth and stress-free experience with your garage lift storage system.
  • Built to last: All our products are designed for durability and reliable performance. Manufacturer support is available when used and maintained as instructed. We stand behind the quality with warranty for life.
Bestseller No. 3
KOSEOO Cargo Box Pulley System for Garage Storage, Heavy-Duty Kayak/Canoes/Bikes/Ladders Ceiling...
  • GARAGE OVERHEAD STORAGE: Free up valuable floor space in your garage by lifting cargo boxes, kayaks, bikes, and ladders off the ground. Our car top carrier hoist helps you make full use of vertical space, creating a cleaner, more organized garage and boosting overall space efficiency.
  • HEAVY-DUTY CONSTRUCTION: Built with thick steel components and high-strength rope, this car top carrier lift safely supports up to 150 lbs. The mechanical advantage combined with an extra-long 20-meter rope ensures smooth, effortless lifting even in garages with tall ceilings for long-lasting, reliable performance.
  • VERSATILE FIT FOR MULTIPLE ITEMS: Designed with adjustable straps, this cargo carrier garage storage securely accommodates various sizes of cargo boxes, kayaks, canoes, and more. A built-in locking mechanism keeps everything stable and prevents accidental slips during use for added safety.
  • QUICK & EASY INSTALLATION: Mount directly onto ceiling joists using the included premium hardware. From setup to daily use, our ceiling pulley system for roof box designed every detail to be intuitive and lasting.
  • CUSTOMER SERVICE: If you have any questions or concerns about our ceiling pulley system for rooftop carrier storage or installation, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our customer support team is here to assist you.
SaleBestseller No. 4
Cargo Box Ceiling Hoist – Garage Pulley Lift System for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Fits Garage or Shed...
  • 【MULTIPLE FUNCTIONE】This set includes two overhead pulley systems designed to securely hang bicycles, ladders, or roof luggage racks from the ceiling in your garage or shed
  • 【SPACE-SAVING DESIGN】The cable length is adjustable, enabling you to customize the hanging height to suit your specific needs and available ceiling clearance, By utilizing vertical space, these hangers free up floor area, maximizing the usable space in your storage area
  • 【HIGH QUALITY MATERIALS】Crafted from durable materials, each hanger supports up to 100 lbs, providing reliable storage for your valuable equipment
  • 【EASY TO INSTALL】The pulley systems can be easily mounted to the ceiling beams, allowing convenient access and retrieval of stored items, During the upgrade process of large items such as the roof luggage compartment and luggage rack, there may be asynchronous situations, and customers need to adjust the balance during the lifting process themselves
  • 【AFTER SALES SERVICE】"If you have any questions about the product, please do not hesitate to contact us for any kind of issues with the items or wrongly ordered items, returns or any kind of support or suggestion. We make money when our customers use our products, not when they buy it. YOUR SATISFACTION IS OUR FIRST PRIORITY"
Bestseller No. 5
TRUSOON Ceiling Storage Hoist for Cargo Box - Heavy Duty Garage Storage Lift - Garage Pulley Lift...
  • Maximize Garage Storage: Free up valuable floor space and keep your garage organized by lifting and storing your rooftop cargo box, kayaks, bikes, ladders and more overhead with this ceiling‑mounted pulley hoist system—perfect for creating extra room for parking and tools.
  • Heavy-duty and reliable design: With industrial-grade alloy steel components and a high-strength rope system, this garage pulley lift safely supports up to 150 pounds, making it ideal for efficient garage storage!
  • Durable and User Friendly: Our garage storage hoist is constructed from robust steel and high-strength rope, designed to safely support weights of up to 150 pounds. Pulley hoist system comes equipped with two ropes: one 20 meters and the other 10 meters. The mechanical advantage of the storage hoist system makes lifting heavy items easier and less strenuous, ensuring that you can manage your gear with minimal effort.
  • Easy Installation with Flexible Mounting : With minimal tools required, the cargo box storage hoist can be quickly mounted directly onto your ceiling joists. This streamlined setup process makes installation quick and hassle-free, even for those with limited DIY experience.
  • Purchase Without Worries: Whether you have questions about our cargo box ceiling storage, need help with installation, or require troubleshooting tips, simply send an email. Our customer support team is ready to provide timely and helpful assistance to ensure your satisfaction.
Bestseller No. 6
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. 7
Yakima EXO GearLocker Car Cargo Carrier, Hard Top Shell Box for EXO SwingBase System, Black -...
  • Spacious Cargo Solution: 10-cubic-foot Yakima EXO GearLocker provides ample cargo mount storage for cars and SUVs, ideal for luggage, gear, and bulky tools on family trips and outdoor adventures.
  • Quick & Easy Installation: This cargo carrier mounts effortlessly on the Yakima EXO SwingBase or EXO TopShelf; Tool-free setup saves time and offers a snug, reliable fit for hassle-free use.
  • Sleek & Secure Design: Hard-shell construction with aerodynamic shape reduces drag and noise while driving; includes a secure locking system to keep your items safe and protected during transport.
  • Built for Durability: Heavy-duty, impact-resistant plastic construction stands up to harsh weather, road trips, and rugged use; the durable black finish adds a sleek, modern look.
  • Take It Easy: Since 1979, Yakima has worked to simplify the way people travel and transport recreational sporting equipment. We put safety, sensibility, and street smarts into every product design.
Bestseller No. 8
HANDT Overhead Garage Storage Rack, Connectable Heavy Duty Metal Ceiling Rails For Garage Storage...
  • USA BASED & FAMILY OWNED - Our patent pending handy connectable garage ceiling storage racks design was invented by father and son tradesmen looking for a handy way to unlock more storage. The rails allow you to connect as many together as you can fit in your garage, shed, or workshop space.
  • UNLOCK MORE STORAGE - The double rail ceiling shelf design also allows you to unlock another row of overhead storage. The tote storage rack is the perfect garage hanging storage racks for more garage shelf space since the tote rack is customizable to fit your overhead storage space needs.
  • HIGH QUALITY - Designed of heavy duty powder coated steel metal allows each set to hold up to 100 pounds. The garage overhead storage racks are made of high gauge steel that is durable and built to last a lifetime. The prefect overhead storage rack to declutter your garage, workshop, or shed
  • Everything included - Each garage ceiling bin rails storage system has all needed assembly parts included in the ceiling storage rack package with one piece being the optional safety bolts allowing the garage ceiling rack to be locked in place so storage bins can not slide out. This allows for peace of mind with your garage overhead storage making it the smartest overhead storage rack to declutter your garage, workshop, or shed
  • Perfect Size - Each garage roof rack storage rail is 17 inches long, fitting perfectly to your 16" joists. With 24 inch joists you are able to connect 2 or more above garage door storage rack rails in a row and secure them to your 24" joists. Their perfect size of the garage storage overhead rack allows for compact storage and quick access to your garage ceiling shelves. Rail Dimensions: 17" Length x 3" Width x 3" Height
Bestseller No. 9
Auto Dynasty Heavy Duty Hard Shell Roof Top Mount Car Storage Travel Luggage Box Cargo Carrier with...
  • Universal Fit - This roof top storage box is universal fit for mounting to max 13 inches wide cross bar, please check the dimension before purchase.
  • Spacious Capacity - Expand your vehicle's cargo capability significantly with 11 cubic feet of spacious storage and a robust 110 lb weight limit. Designed with a 14-inch wide opening for easy loading of large gear, this box provides ample room for luggage and essentials while keeping your passenger area comfortable and uncluttered. It's perfect for families, road trippers, or outdoor adventurers.
  • Secure Lock, Stable Travel - The key lock system keeps your valuables safe. You can only remove the key after all lock points are fully secured. The belongings and luckages stay firmly in place inside during your drive, even on bumpy roads – no shifting or falling out. Open it from the passenger side for easy loading and unloading.
  • Impact-Resistant Protection - Built with UV-protected, weather-resistant ABS, the cargo box shields contents from rain, sun, snow, and impacts while maintaining structural integrity in all conditions for reliable long-term performance.
  • Overall Dimensions - 53" L x 34" W x 15" H | Capacity: 11 Cubic Feet and up to 110 LBS. Package includes [1] 53 inches length storage box, [2] security lock key, and [4] heavy duty tool free installation mounting brackets.
Bestseller No. 10
Dual-Side Opening Rooftop Cargo Carrier, 165Lbs Capacity Hard Shell Roof Box with Secure Locking...
  • Easy Dual Access: This rooftop cargo box features convenient dual-side opening panels, allowing you to load/unload from either side of your vehicle - perfect for tight parking spaces. The stay-open lids with gas struts provide hands-free access while loading gear, eliminating the need to walk around your vehicle.
  • Heavy-Duty Capacity: Engineered with reinforced structural supports, this roof top box safely carries bulky luggage, camping gear and sports equipment. The impact-resistant hard shell maintains perfect integrity even at highway speeds, making it ideal for road trips and family vacations.
  • Locking Security: Your belongings stay protected with the roof box's built-in locking mechanisms (includes 2 keys). Heavy-duty reinforced straps with anti-theft buckles ensure the car top carrier stays firmly attached to any roof rack system throughout your journey.
  • Weatherproof Shell: The car roof box features UV-resistant ABS material and premium silicone seals that keep contents completely dry in heavy rain or snow. The wind-resistant design eliminates noise while driving, making it quieter than standard cargo carriers.
  • High Compatibility: This versatile roof top cargo box fits most SUV, crossover and truck roof racks with its adjustable clamp system. The low-profile design maintains garage clearance while offering exceptional storage capacity - perfect for small families and adventure travelers alike.

Last Update : 2025-07-18

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