14 Cubic Feet or 13 Cubic Feet Roof Cargo Boxes? Compared by Specs
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
Choosing between a 14 Cubic Feet vs 13 Cubic Feet roof cargo box depends on your specific gear and vehicle setup. Both options offer lockable, hard-shell storage for road trips. The primary difference lies in their capacity and dimensions. The 14 cubic feet model provides slightly more volume and a higher weight limit. The 13 cubic feet version is longer but narrower. You must weigh these physical differences against your loading needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Relaxcabine 14 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box | DNA Motoring 13 cu ft Lockable Roof Box |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 14 cu ft | 13 cu ft |
| Load Capacity | 150 lb | 110 lb |
| Dimensions | 62.5 x 32.48 x 13.19 in | 72 x 30 x 12 in |
| Opening | Dual-side | Side |
| Shell Material | ABS + PMMA | ABS |
| Weight | 30.2 pounds | 51.6 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Relaxcabine 14 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box if
- You need to carry heavier loads up to 150 lb.
- You want to load gear from both sides of your vehicle.
- You prefer a lighter box that is easier to handle.
Choose DNA Motoring 13 cu ft Lockable Roof Box if
- You have very long items that need extra length.
- You are storing lighter gear under 110 lb.
- You prefer a glossy black finish over white.
Verdict: The Relaxcabine model suits those prioritizing weight capacity and dual-side access. The DNA Motoring box is better for bulky, long items despite its lower weight limit. Your choice depends on whether you value volume and ease of loading over sheer length.
14 vs 13 Cu Ft Roof Box Specs
Capacity
The Relaxcabine model offers 14 cubic feet of storage, while the DNA Motoring unit provides 13 cubic feet. This one cubic foot difference may seem minor, but it adds up when you are packing for a long family road trip. The extra space in the 14 cubic feet box allows for slightly more bulky items like camping chairs or extra luggage. If you frequently carry large gear, that additional volume provides more flexibility. However, if your cargo fits comfortably within 13 cubic feet, the smaller box may be sufficient. The choice depends on how much volume you actually need versus how much space you have on your vehicle roof.
Load Capacity
Load capacity is critical for safety and durability. The Relaxcabine hard shell roof box supports up to 150 lbs of distributed weight. In contrast, the DNA Motoring carrier has a maximum load capacity of 110 lbs. This 40 lb difference is significant if you plan to carry heavy items such as water jugs, toolboxes, or multiple bags of gravel. The higher limit on the Relaxcabine suggests a more robust structural design for heavier loads. You must ensure your vehicle roof rails can also handle this weight. If you often transport heavy gear, the 150 lb rating offers a safer margin than the 110 lb limit.
Opening
Access to your cargo matters when you are loading gear in tight parking spots. The Relaxcabine features a dual-side opening design, allowing you to access the interior from either side of the vehicle. It includes a wide 15-inch passenger-side opening. The DNA Motoring box opens from the side, with an opening width of 14.5 inches. While both allow side access, the dual-side capability of the Relaxcabine provides more flexibility depending on where you park. You can load from the driver or passenger side without moving the car. The DNA Motoring unit is limited to one side, which might be inconvenient if you are parked next to a wall or another vehicle.
Dimensions
Physical dimensions affect aerodynamics and roof space utilization. The Relaxcabine measures 62.5 inches in length, 32.48 inches in width, and 13.19 inches in height. The DNA Motoring carrier is longer at 72 inches, but narrower at 30 inches wide and shorter at 12 inches high. The DNA Motoring box extends further over the vehicle, which may interfere with trunk access or antenna placement. The Relaxcabine is more compact in length but taller and wider. You should measure your vehicle roof to ensure the 72-inch length of the DNA Motoring box fits without overhang issues. The 62.5-inch length of the Relaxcabine may be easier to fit on smaller roof racks.
Weight
The weight of the cargo box impacts fuel efficiency and roof rack stress. The Relaxcabine hard shell weighs 30.2 pounds. The DNA Motoring carrier is significantly heavier at 51.6 pounds. This 21.4 pound difference is substantial. A lighter box reduces the strain on your roof rails and may have a slightly smaller impact on your vehicle's fuel economy. The heavier DNA Motoring unit requires more robust mounting hardware to handle the additional weight. If you frequently remove the box from your vehicle, the lighter Relaxcabine is easier to handle. The weight difference is a key factor in daily usability and installation ease.
Which roof box suits your gear
You need maximum volume for large loads
The Relaxcabine box offers 14 cubic feet of internal space. This extra volume accommodates bulky camping gear and luggage more easily than the 13 cubic feet option. Its 150 lb load capacity also allows you to carry heavier items without exceeding weight limits, making it ideal for family trips with substantial equipment.
You prioritize long storage for tall items
The DNA Motoring carrier measures 72 inches in length. This extended dimension provides ample room for long items like kayaks, ladders, or skis. While it has less total volume, the elongated shape is practical for transporting oversized gear that might not fit into shorter, wider boxes.
You want dual-side access for convenience
This model features dual-side opening capability. You can access your cargo from either side of the vehicle, which is helpful in tight parking spots. The wide passenger-side opening allows for quick loading and unloading, whereas the DNA Motoring unit only opens from one side.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Relaxcabine 14 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box | Dual-side access on standard bars | Check price of Relaxcabine 14 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box on Amazon |
| 2 | DNA Motoring 13 cu ft Lockable Roof Box | Long gear and secure locking | Check price of DNA Motoring 13 cu ft Lockable Roof Box on Amazon |
The products compared
Relaxcabine 14 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box
Best for: Dual-side access on standard bars
- Capacity
- 14 Cubic Feet (what this guide is about)
- Shell Type
- ABS + PMMA
- Opening
- Dual-side
- Load Capacity
- 150 lb
- Water Resistance
- Waterproof
- Security
- Key lock
View on Amazon: Relaxcabine 14 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box Affiliate link
This Relaxcabine cargo box offers 14 cubic feet of storage with a 150 lb load capacity. Its dual-side opening allows access from either side of your vehicle. The hard shell is made from ABS and PMMA materials for durability. It installs tool-free on round, square, or aerodynamic crossbars. The key lock system secures your gear during transport. It is suitable for luggage, camping equipment, and bulky items on road trips.
Pros
- 14 cubic feet capacity for extra storage
- Dual-side opening for easy access
- Tool-free installation on various crossbars
- 150 lb load capacity
- Key lock security system
Cons
- 30.2 lb weight adds vehicle load
- 13.2 inch height may limit clearance
- No mention of integrated mounting hardware
Good fit if
- You need quick access from the passenger side
- You carry bulky camping gear
- You have round or square crossbars
Skip if
- You require more than 150 lb capacity
- You need a 13 cubic feet model
- You have low clearance garages
Verdict: Relaxcabine 14 Cu Ft Dual-Side Roof Box fits drivers who prioritize side access and tool-free setup over minimal weight. It handles standard luggage loads well on compatible bars.
DNA Motoring 13 cu ft Lockable Roof Box
Best for: Long gear and secure locking
- Capacity
- 13 Cubic Feet (what this guide is about)
- Shell Type
- ABS
- Opening
- side
- Load Capacity
- 110 lbs
- Security
- key and lock
- Installation
- no tool assembly
View on Amazon: DNA Motoring 13 cu ft Lockable Roof Box Affiliate link
This DNA Motoring carrier offers 13 cubic feet of interior volume and supports up to 110 lbs of evenly distributed load. Its 72-inch length and 30-inch width provide ample space for bulky gear. The ABS shell is lockable with a key system. You get tool-free installation on crossbars. It suits drivers needing secure, weather-resistant storage that does not require complex mounting hardware.
Pros
- 13 cubic feet internal capacity
- 110 lbs max load limit
- 72-inch length for long items
- Tool-free installation on crossbars
- Key lock security system
Cons
- 110 lbs load limit is lower than the 14 cu ft competitor
- 51.6 lbs shell weight adds roof load
- Side-only opening limits access from driver side
Good fit if
- You need extra length for skis or kayaks
- You want a lockable ABS box
- You prefer tool-free mounting
Skip if
- You require more than 110 lbs capacity
- You need top and side opening
- You have narrow crossbars under 30 inches
Verdict: DNA Motoring 13 Cu Ft Roof Box fits those prioritizing length and secure locking over higher weight limits. It is a solid option for gear that needs protection from the elements.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Relaxcabine 14 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box | DNA Motoring 13 cu ft Lockable Roof Box |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 14 cu ft | 13 Cubic Feet |
| Shell Type | ABS + PMMA | ABS |
| Opening | Dual-side | side |
| Load Capacity | 150 lb | 110 lbs |
| Water Resistance | Waterproof | not stated |
| Security | Key lock | key and lock |
| Installation | Tool-free | no tool assembly |
| Vehicle Compatibility | Round, square, most aero crossbars | fits for vehicles with cross bars only |
| Dimensions | 62.5 x 32.48 x 13.19 in | 72" L x 30" W x 12" H |
| Recommended Use | Luggage, gear, camping equipment | not stated |
| Vehicle Type | not stated | Car |
| Mount Type | not stated | Roof Mount |
| Lockable | Lockable | Lockable |
| Weight | 30.2 pounds | 51.6 pounds |
| Size | 14 Cu Ft White | 13 cu. ft. |
| Color | White | Glossy Black |
| Model | Cargo Box 14 Cu Ft White | PT-ZTL-8326-GSBK |
Frequently asked questions
Is a 14 cubic foot roof box too wide for my car?
Width depends on your roof rack bars. The Relaxcabine 14 cu ft model measures 32.5 inches wide. The DNA Motoring 13 cu ft box is narrower at 30 inches. You must measure the distance between your crossbars. Ensure your bars can support the width of your chosen box. Check your vehicle manual for max roof width limits.
Can I fit a 14 cubic foot box on standard roof bars?
Yes, if your bars are compatible. The Relaxcabine 14 cu ft box is designed for dual-side access on standard bars. It weighs 30.2 pounds. This is lighter than the DNA Motoring 13 cu ft option, which weighs 51.6 pounds. Verify your bar weight limit. The Relaxcabine supports up to 150 lb of gear.
Which roof box is better for long skis or kayaks?
Length matters for long gear. The DNA Motoring 13 cu ft box is 72 inches long. The Relaxcabine 14 cu ft box is 62.5 inches long. If you carry items longer than 62 inches, the DNA Motoring unit offers more length. Both are lockable hard shells for secure transport.
Does the 14 cubic foot box open from both sides?
Yes, it features dual-side opening. The Relaxcabine 14 cu ft model allows access from either side. This is useful when parked in tight spaces. The DNA Motoring 13 cu ft model does not list dual-side access. Choose the Relaxcabine if you need easy access from the passenger side.
How much weight can a 14 cubic foot roof box hold?
Load capacity varies by model. The Relaxcabine 14 cu ft box holds up to 150 lb. The DNA Motoring 13 cu ft box holds 110 lb. Do not exceed these limits. Distribute weight evenly inside the box. Check your vehicle’s roof rack weight rating before loading.
Is the 13 cubic foot box heavier than the 14 cubic foot one?
Yes, in this comparison. The DNA Motoring 13 cu ft box weighs 51.6 pounds. The Relaxcabine 14 cu ft box weighs 30.2 pounds. The heavier box may affect fuel economy more. Consider your vehicle’s payload capacity. The lighter Relaxcabine is easier to lift and install.
Are these roof boxes lockable for security?
Both models are lockable. The Relaxcabine 14 cu ft box includes locking mechanisms. The DNA Motoring 13 cu ft box is also lockable. This protects your gear from theft. Always lock the box when you leave your vehicle. Keep keys in a safe place inside the car.
What is the height difference between 14 and 13 cubic foot boxes?
Height affects garage clearance. The Relaxcabine 14 cu ft box is 13.2 inches high. The DNA Motoring 13 cu ft box is 12 inches high. The DNA Motoring model is slightly lower. Measure your garage door height. Ensure you have enough clearance when driving with the box installed.