Roof Cargo Carrying Options that Do Not Use a Roof Rack

Updated 02/27/2013 | Published 02/22/2013

Question:

Im looking for a cargo basket or carrier for a crew cab truck. It does not have cargo bars. Im looking for a basket or carrier that mounts directly to the truck, and sits low profile. Everything Im finding that you have listed mounts to OEM roof racks and sits higher then Id like. Thanks

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

All of the cargo baskets and boxes we offer are meant to attach to crossbars that are first installed on the truck.

We do not offer any baskets or boxes that would mount directly to the roof surface.

We do offer some roof mounted cargo bags like the Rightline Gear Ace 2 Rooftop Cargo Bag - Water Resistant - 15 cu ft - 44" x 34" x 17", Item # RL100A20. Although these cargo bags work best with crossbars or a cargo basket, they can be mounted directly to the roof and the mounting straps run through the cab to hold the bag in place. Keep in mind that the straps running through the vehicle can allow rain to enter in some cases. Before mounting a bag to the vehicle roof, you will want to ensure that both the bottom of the bag and the vehicle roof are perfectly clean and free of grit that would cause scratching.

Another option would be a ladder rack installed in the truck bed. The ladder rack would provide an attachment point for the basket or roof box. If this option sounds good to you, I can make some specific recommendations if you would reply with the model year of your GMC Sierra.

I have linked you to other roof bags that are capable of being mounted directly to a vehicle roof.

expert reply by: Mike L