Comparing Rhino-Rack, Thule, and Yakima Roof Mounted Cargo Boxes

Updated 08/03/2015 | Published 08/01/2015

Question:

What is the difference in all of these? Is there anyone that is superior to the other?

asked by: Jake P

Expert Reply:

The Yakima and Thule roof mount cargo boxes are the major players. Rhino-Racks are still fairly new to the US market but are bigger overseas. Probably the most popular is Thule which is what I would go with. The boxes are all fairly comparable in terms of features and quality. The major differences, apart from appearance, is the way the boxes attach to the roof rack crossbars as well as the bar spreads they will fit.

The Thule and Rhino-Rack boxes use what is essentially a claw that grabs around crossbars from the top. The Yakima boxes use what is basically a clamp that goes down around the bars from the front. Both types are secure and easy to use.

As far as bar spread it is going to depend on the specific boxes.

So then what it comes down to is the size you want and how much you want to spend. Generally the Rhino-Rack boxes cost less than Thule or Yakima but replacement parts are more readily available for Thule and Yakima.

expert reply by: Michael H