Racks & Carriers

Cargo racks are open baskets or racks, usually made of durable metal bars welded together. They act almost as a cage for cargo, leaving it exposed to the outside world, yet contained within the confines of the rack. Cargo racks can mount to roofs or hitch receivers, expanding the cargo capacity of the vehicle they attach to. They’ll create plenty of extra space in your vehicle, whether that’s for extra cargo or another passenger. They help organize and store cargo in a secure way, ensuring safety during travel.

When comparing roof boxes vs. cargo racks, in what areas do cargo racks reign supreme?

They’re Open and Exposed:

While the open nature of cargo racks will certainly be mentioned in the cons section, it can also be a benefit. If you have to transport wet or dirty cargo, like a spare tire or diving gear, you don’t want to throw that in your dry, freshly cleaned car. Keep it outside the vehicle, in a cargo rack.

They Offer Options:

Cargo racks come in many different shapes and sizes to accommodate a vast range of gear. They also come in varying price ranges so you can stay within your budget, or splurge on a high-quality model. From hiking equipment to skis to that weirdly shaped lamp you found at a yard sale, cargo racks can carry a variety of items.

Increased Storage Capacity:

Sometimes you need to haul a mountain of gear and other miscellaneous items for your adventures. Cargo racks turn your car into a mobile storage unit, if that’s what you need. If you believe in packing everything, you’ll want to get some cargo racks!

Easy Access:

No more playing Tetris with your trunk space. With a cargo rack, you can grab and go. Just reach out for your cargo and grab it!

Durability Done Right:

A well-made, high-quality cargo rack is built tougher than your neighbor’s overcooked barbeque. They can handle whatever Mother Nature throws at them.

Keep It Secure:

Many cargo racks come with locks, so your belongings stay where they’re supposed to. You won’t be caught driving down the freeway like a fool with bait and tackle flying off the roof!

In the battle between roof boxes vs. cargo racks, cargo racks have a few weak points.

Fuel Efficiency:

Your car might consume a bit more gas with a cargo rack. But hey, can you really blame it? No lifter ever became a heavyweight by eating string beans for dinner. If you want to be able to carry more, you have to consume a little more- the same goes for your car.

Noise Nuisance:

Wind noise can be a thing when you have a cargo rack installed on your vehicle. However, this is not a con if you think of those whooshing sounds as a personal traveling orchestra that follows you throughout your travels to shower you in symphonies.

Cost Conundrum:

Quality cargo racks can be pricey. This can be a deterrent if you’re on a budget. Sometimes it’s worth forking over the extra bit of cash to transport your prized possessions.

Installation Obstacle:

Some cargo racks are like IKEA furniture – they can be a bit tricky to assemble at first. Depending on the rack at hand, it might require a degree in engineering to get the job done. Most, however, just require a bit of patience, and actually reading the instructions instead of just pretending like you did.

Height Clearance:

A cargo rack will add a bit of height to your vehicle, so watch out for low bridges and parking garages. You don’t want your cargo to get flattened like a pancake.

Even with the cons noted above, cargo racks are still where it’s at. There are so many functional uses for cargo racks. You just need the right size, shape, material, and cargo rack type for your vehicle. Once you figure out the right specifications for you, look for trusted brands like Curt, Smittybilt, and Rhino Rack USA.

Overall, roof boxes have better options for aerodynamic, quiet, and highly secure transport. Cargo racks have roof boxes beat in the areas of accessibility, durability, and versatility to carry cargo of different shapes and sizes. Choose your cargo carrier wisely, and you’ll watch your car’s storage capacity skyrocket! Don’t be afraid to bring that extra gear for ultimate preparation. With the right cargo storage solutions, your vehicle will be optimized and ready to go!