The weight capacity of a cargo carrier varies depending on its design and size, ranging from a few hundred pounds for hitch-mounted carriers to over 1,000 pounds for larger roof-mounted carriers. It’s essential to check the specific specifications and weight limits provided by the manufacturer for your particular carrier to ensure safe and proper use.
Cargo Carrier Weight Limits Unveiled
Are you a travel enthusiast? Then, it’s highly likely that you must carry many items with you during your travels. But is it possible to fit these items into your car’s trunk? Of course not. This is where a cargo carrier comes in handy. It can significantly make your travel experience super convenient and flexible.
Nowadays, people can carry a lot of equipment while traveling. It has become possible thanks to cargo carriers. Additionally, a cargo carrier can easily hold a lot of equipment. These carriers are designed to be mounted onto a vehicle’s roof or hitch and provide extra space for carrying heavy items.
However, does that mean you can load the items onto the carrier as you wish? Of course, not. Before loading the cargo carrier, you must understand its weight capacity. Generally, most cargo carriers can hold anywhere from 70 to 200 pounds. We’ll discuss more details about this in the following discussions.
Then, why so late?! Let’s get into it –
How Much Weight a Roof Box/ Cargo Carrier Can Hold?
Before purchasing a rooftop carrier, everyone should conduct thorough research to understand it fully. This is the best way to get the best carrier. Nowadays, almost all carriers are capable of fitting any type of vehicle, such as minivans, pickup trucks, SUVs, and cars.
However, it doesn’t mean you can just go to a shop and buy any carrier you want. That would be a wrong move. Hence, you must consider some essential factors. One of the top factors is the carrier’s weight when loaded.
To clarify, the weight capacity of a carrier refers to the maximum amount of weight the carrier can safely carry without damaging itself, the car, or endangering the passengers in the vehicle.
Several factors contribute to a cargo carrier’s weight capacity, such as its construction, material, size, and vehicle type. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to check the car’s manual in case the vehicle has any weight limitations.
Almost all cars have specific weight limits that cannot be exceeded when using a cargo carrier. Therefore, you should check the car manufacturer’s website to learn about them.
It’s important to note that state laws deeply impact cargo carrier capacity. Some states only allow a limited weight limit. Hence, you should check your state’s cargo carrier laws to avoid legal issues.
Largest Cargo Carriers
If you’re too curious about cartop carriers, I’ll recommend two of the largest carriers that can make your journey more fun and effortless. Let’s check –
- LEDKINGDOMUS Rooftop Cargo Bag
- Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Variation of Weight Capacity of a Cargo Carrier

Different cars possess different types of weight capacities. It actually varies. For instance, the weight capacity ranges from 70 to 200 pounds in a variety of kinds of cars. However, if I say, in general, most cars have a weight capacity of around 150 pounds.
It is adequate for carrying various items like camping gear, sport gears, luggage, or other household equipment.
But if you want to carry larger sports equipment, such as kayaks, cycles, snowboards, etc., you must need a larger-sized carrier. The larger carrier has more weight capacity and can easily convey bulkier items.
Usually, small cars can convey around 100-150 pounds of weight.
Contrariwise, larger SUVs can carry around 160-200 pounds of weight. It will depend on their respective sizes. Notwithstanding, these are only general estimations. You should check the user manual guide to confirm it.
The manual will teach you the restrictions or specific cargo carrier weight amount.
Things to do While Choosing the Cargo Carrier
Before choosing a cargo carrier, you must learn some crucial matters. Here’s a list of things to consider before selecting a cargo carrier:
Vehicle’s Roof Weight Capacity
Before selecting a cartop carrier, knowing the weight capacity of your vehicle’s roof or hitch is necessary. The weight capacity of the carrier should not exceed the weight capacity of your vehicle’s roof or hitch. Trust me; it can be dangerous.
Exceeding the weight capacity of your vehicle’s roof or hitch can drastically reduce safety measures.
Check for Specific Limitations
If you’re a sports enthusiast, you might need a larger-sized carrier. Before selecting a cargo carrier, check for any specific limitations. Check the manual closely, and you can also contact customer service to verify.
Cargo Shape
Cargo shape is another factor to consider before choosing a cargo carrier. Some cargo carriers are aerodynamic and can handle more aerodynamic cargo than others. Cargo that creates significant wind resistance can make the car unstable, so consider cargo shape as much as you stay within the weight limits.
Things to Remember While Loading the Cargo Carrier

During loading the cargo carrier, you must keep some crucial things in mind –
Weight Distribution
When loading the carrier, it’s necessary to distribute the weight evenly. The heaviest items should be placed in the center of the carrier, while the lighter products should be stored around the edges.
Overloading one side is risky as it can increase the car’s instability during driving and raise the carrier’s detachment risk from the vehicle.
Secure the Cargo Properly
It’s crucial to secure the cargo correctly to prevent it from shifting during transit. Therefore, use tie-down straps or cargo nets to secure your items to the carrier and ensure they’re tightened enough to prevent them from coming loose.
Conclusion
There’s no denying that cargo carriers are an excellent solution for carrying extra gear and sporting equipment. Still, you must select a carrier with the suitable capacity and secure it correctly to achieve a hassle-free journey. I hope my discussion has helped you understand the weight capacity of a cargo carrier and what things to consider when choosing a carrier. Thanks for reading the article. If you find this article helpful, please share it with your friends and family. Bye.