Can a Rooftop Cargo Box Be Mounted to a Rooftop Cargo Basket

Updated 03/02/2017 | Published 03/01/2017

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Question:

I have a Yakima roof cargo box and I am wondering if I can install that box on top of a roof mounted cargo basket? so I can put dirty items in the basket and other items in the box. Thanks,

asked by: Patrick R

Expert Reply:

It is possible to mount a rooftop cargo box like the Yakima SkyBox 12 # Y07334 on top of a roof-rack-mounted cargo basket like the Rhino-Rack # RMCB02. There are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare to do this.

Your vehicle will have a finite roof weight capacity. Check your owner's manual or with a local dealership (using your car's VIN) to confirm how much total weight the roof can handle. The total combined weight of both carriers and your loaded cargo cannot exceed the vehicle's capacity. Metal cargo baskets typically weigh in the range of 30 to 50-lbs, and plastic cargo boxes usually weight a bit more. Just the two carriers alone (without your cargo) could easily approach some car's roof weight limit so choose your roof box carefully to ensure you do not choose a carrier so large and heavy that you end up without much weight capacity left.

You also want to note that the plastic box's hardware will require that the baskets front and rear tubing be within their mounting range. The Yakima box requires that those mounting points be between 24- and 42-inches apart.

You also want to note the vehicle's height with both cargo items installed as this could affect clearance at your garage entry point.

A simple step like the Telesteps # TE97FR will make it easier to load and unload your cargo. This step lightweight step folds up for easy storage.

expert reply by: Adam R