Roof Box Buying Guide

Size: Whilst you could fit most roof boxes available on our web site irrespective of size, to any vehicle with the addition of a pair of roof bars, most people prefer the box to be sufficiently large enough to carry their luggage, but still look balanced to the size of vehicle it is being fitted to. You will see many examples of previous customers cars with boxes attached, which you may find helpful.

Dimensions: The dimensions of the box are a good starting point, and some manufacturers are now adding the descriptions of small, medium, large, extra-large and extra extra large and eliminating the volume measurements which can be confusing. It can be useful if you have a vehicle with a tailgate, to open it fully and measure the available length from the spoiler (if fitted) to just over the top of the windscreen. This does not apply to vehicles with a boot as the length can protrude over the rear without causing any problems. The width will only need to be considered if you intend to carry other items at the same time as the box, e.g. bike or ski carriers, as most box widths will fit most cars.

Volume: This can be extremely confusing, as the same volume (usually described in litres) can be applied similarly to a lump of child’s Plasticine, which still retains its same volume irrespective of the shape created and moulded to. Therefore e.g. a 320L roof box could be either a narrow long box or a square luggage box, so you need to be certain you are selecting the correct shape. There is also confusion in the UK market as different methods of calculating the volumes have been applied, to those used in Europe (where most of the boxes are manufactured) which may make some boxes sound larger than they actually are when comparing different brands. It is important therefore to check the dimensions listed to ensure you are not being misled.

Comparisons: Taking a 450-litre box (the most popular holiday box size) and comparing it with typical car boot spaces (with seats up in use position) may be helpful to establish what that capacity you may need.

Vauxhall Corsa – 285 litres
Ford Focus – 316 litres
Ford Mondeo Hatch – 550 litres
VW Passat Estate – 650 litres

Increased Vehicle Height: If your journey involves travelling where you may encounter height restrictions (Ferries, Eurotunnel and car parks with barriers), remember to allow for the increased height which normally is around 45cm for the box plus an additional 10cm for the bars (55cm). You may find your cars standing height in the Vehicles Log Book, on the vehicle manufacturers web sites or Wikipedia.

Weight restrictions, handling and noise: Check your vehicle makers advice for the maximum weight carrying capability of your vehicle roof then adding the weight of the bars box and its contents. Adding a roof box to your vehicle should not affect the way your car handles, but do be aware of crosswinds in severe weather in open areas (e.g. motorways and mountains) You should not hear much noise from the roof box but this is often dependent upon the type of box and the roof bars you purchase as some are much more aerodynamic than others.