Garvee 11.5 cu ft Dual-Side or Garvee 12 Cu Ft Dual-Side? Which Garvee Model to Buy
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When you compare the garvee 11 5 cu ft dual side vs 12 cu ft dual side, you find two nearly identical hard-shell carriers. Both feature dual-side opening, ABS construction, and 135 lb load limits. The main difference is height. The 11.5 cu ft model stands 11.4 inches tall. The 12 cu ft version adds 2 inches, reaching 13.4 inches. This extra height provides more storage volume. You get 11.5 cubic feet or 12 cubic feet. Both fit all vehicles with roof racks. Your choice depends on how much height you need.
Key differences
| Aspect | Garvee 11.5 cu ft Dual-Side Hard Shell Box | Garvee 12 Cu Ft Dual-Side Hard Shell |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 11.5 cu ft (326 L) | 12 cu ft (340 L) |
| Height | 11.4 inches | 13.4 inches |
| Length | 54.3 inches | 54.3 inches |
| Width | 31.5 inches | 31.5 inches |
| Weight | 37 pounds | 39 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 135 lb | 135 lb |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Garvee 11.5 cu ft Dual-Side Hard Shell Box if
- You want the lower profile for better aerodynamics.
- You prefer a slightly lighter box at 37 pounds.
- You have limited vertical clearance on your roof rack.
Choose Garvee 12 Cu Ft Dual-Side Hard Shell if
- You need the extra 0.5 cubic feet of storage space.
- You want the taller box for easier access to items at the bottom.
- You do not mind the 2-pound weight increase for more volume.
Verdict: Both carriers share the same footprint and security features. Choose the 11.5 cu ft model if you prioritize a lower height and lighter weight. Pick the 12 cu ft version if you need maximum internal volume and do not mind the extra height.
11.5 vs 12 Cu Ft Specs
Storage capacity
The primary difference between these two Garvee models is their internal volume. The 11.5 cu ft Dual-Side Hard Shell Box offers 11.5 cubic feet, or 326 liters, of storage space. The 12 Cu Ft Dual-Side Hard Shell provides 12 cubic feet, equaling 340 liters. This adds 0.5 cubic feet, or 14 liters, of extra room in the larger model. For most road trips, both sizes handle standard luggage well. However, if you are packing bulky items like large suitcases or camping gear, the additional space in the 12 cu ft version helps. It allows you to fit more without stacking as high. You should measure your typical load to see if that extra volume matters.
External dimensions
Both carriers share the same footprint on your roof rack. Each model measures 54.3 inches in length and 31.5 inches in width. This consistent width ensures they fit standard crossbars on most cars, SUVs, and vans. The key difference lies in height. The 11.5 cu ft model stands 11.4 inches tall, while the 12 cu ft version is 13.4 inches tall. That 2-inch increase in height is what creates the extra storage volume. The taller profile of the 12 cu ft model may slightly affect your vehicle’s clearance in tight garages or low parking structures. Check your garage height if you plan to store the box indoors when not in use.
Load capacity
Both the Garvee 11.5 cu ft Dual-Side Hard Shell Box and the Garvee 12 Cu Ft Dual-Side Hard Shell share the same maximum load capacity. You can safely carry up to 135 pounds in either carrier. This limit applies to the total weight of your luggage and gear. It is important not to exceed this weight, as it can affect vehicle handling and safety. The identical load rating suggests that the structural integrity of the ABS shell is similar in both models. You should distribute the weight evenly inside the box to maintain stability while driving. Always check your vehicle’s roof rack weight limit as well, as it may be lower than the box’s limit.
Weight
The empty weight of the carriers differs slightly due to the size variation. The 11.5 cu ft model weighs 37 pounds. The 12 cu ft model is slightly heavier at 39 pounds. This two-pound difference is negligible for most users and will not significantly impact your vehicle’s fuel economy or handling. Both boxes are constructed from durable ABS material, which keeps them relatively lightweight compared to aluminum options. The slightly lighter 11.5 cu ft box might be easier to lift onto the roof if you are doing it alone. However, the 12 cu ft model’s extra weight is minimal and should not be a deciding factor for you.
Opening mechanism
Both models feature a convenient dual-sided opening system. This allows you to access your gear from either the driver’s side or the passenger side of your vehicle. This feature is useful when parking on narrow streets or in tight spots where you cannot open the trunk. Each carrier includes two keys and two straps for security. You must ensure one side is locked while opening the other side to maintain stability. This mechanism is identical on both the 11.5 cu ft and 12 cu ft versions. You will not notice any difference in ease of use or locking mechanism between the two models. It is a standard feature for both hard-shell carriers in this line.
Which Garvee Roof Box Fits You
You need maximum cargo volume
The 12 Cu Ft model offers 12 cubic feet of storage, which is 14 liters more than the 11.5 Cu Ft version. This extra space comes from its taller 13.4-inch height compared to the 11.4-inch height of the smaller box. Both share the same 54.3-inch length and 31.5-inch width, so the taller profile provides more vertical room for bulky items without increasing the footprint on your roof rack.
You prefer a lower profile
The 11.5 Cu Ft model stands 11.4 inches tall, making it slightly lower than the 12 Cu Ft alternative. This reduced height can help maintain a lower center of gravity and may improve aerodynamics slightly. It still provides 11.5 cubic feet of capacity and fits all vehicles with roof racks. If you prioritize a sleeker look or have height restrictions, this slimmer design is the practical choice.
You want the lighter carrier
The 11.5 Cu Ft box weighs 37 pounds, while the 12 Cu Ft version weighs 39 pounds. The 2-pound difference makes the smaller model easier to lift and install on your roof rack. Both use durable ABS hard shells and include dual-side opening mechanisms with keys and straps. If you handle the box frequently or have back concerns, the lighter weight offers a tangible benefit.
The products compared
Garvee 11.5 cu ft Dual-Side Hard Shell Box
Best for: Drivers needing side access and compact size
- Capacity
- 11.5 cu ft (326 L)
- Shell Type
- ABS hard shell
- Opening
- Dual-side
- Load Capacity
- 135 lbs
- Water Resistance
- Waterproof
- Security
- Keys and straps
View on Amazon: Garvee 11.5 cu ft Dual-Side Hard Shell Box Affiliate link
This Garvee hard-shell carrier offers 11.5 cubic feet of storage in a compact 54.3-inch length. Its dual-side opening allows access from either side, while the ABS shell provides waterproof protection. You get a 135-pound load capacity and a 37-pound weight. It fits any vehicle with a roof rack, making it a practical option for standard road trips.
Pros
- Dual-sided opening for flexible access
- Waterproof ABS hard shell construction
- Fits all vehicles with roof racks
- Includes two keys and two straps
Cons
- 135 lb load capacity is modest
- 37 lb weight adds to vehicle load
- 11.5 cu ft capacity is smaller than the 12 cu ft alternative
Good fit if
- You need access from both sides of the vehicle
- You have a standard roof rack system
- You prefer a compact 54-inch length
Skip if
- You require more than 11.5 cubic feet of space
- You plan to carry loads over 135 pounds
- You need a lighter carrier than 37 pounds
Verdict: Garvee 11.5 Cu Ft Dual-Side Cargo Box is a solid choice for drivers who prioritize side access and a compact footprint over maximum volume. It suits those with standard roof racks who do not need heavy-duty hauling.
Garvee 12 Cu Ft Dual-Side Hard Shell
Best for: Medium loads needing dual-side access
- Capacity
- 12 cu ft (340L)
- Shell Type
- Hard shell, ABS
- Opening
- Dual-sided
- Load Capacity
- 135 lbs
- Water Resistance
- Waterproof
- Security
- 2 keys and 2 straps
View on Amazon: Garvee 12 Cu Ft Dual-Side Hard Shell Affiliate link
This Garvee cargo box offers 12 cubic feet of storage with a dual-side opening design. Measuring 54.3 by 31.5 by 13.4 inches, it fits vehicles with roof racks. The ABS hard shell is waterproof and UV-resistant. It supports up to 135 pounds of gear. You get two keys and two straps for security. This model is ideal for travelers needing extra space and easy access from either side of the vehicle.
Pros
- 12 cubic feet (340 L) capacity
- Dual-sided opening for easy access
- Waterproof ABS hard shell construction
- Includes 2 keys and 2 straps
Cons
- 135 lb maximum load capacity is modest
- 39 lb weight adds to roof load
- No mention of aerodynamic noise reduction specs
Good fit if
- You need dual-side access for loading
- You have a roof rack on your vehicle
- You require waterproof storage for gear
Skip if
- You need more than 135 lb capacity
- You drive a vehicle without a roof rack
- You prefer a larger 15+ cu ft box
Verdict: Garvee 12 cu ft Dual-Side Hard Shell provides reliable dual-access storage for medium loads. It suits buyers who prioritize side access and waterproof protection over high weight capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Garvee 11.5 cu ft Dual-Side Hard Shell Box | Garvee 12 Cu Ft Dual-Side Hard Shell |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 11.5 cu ft (326 L) | 12 cu ft (340L) |
| Shell Type | ABS hard shell | Hard shell, ABS |
| Opening | Dual-side | Dual-sided |
| Load Capacity | 135 lbs | 135 lbs |
| Water Resistance | Waterproof | Waterproof |
| Security | Keys and straps | 2 keys and 2 straps |
| Vehicle Compatibility | Vehicles equipped with roof rack | Vehicles with roof rack |
| Dimensions | 54.3 x 31.5 x 11.4 in | 54.3 x 31.5 x 13.4 in |
| Recommended Use | Luggage | Luggage |
| Mount Type | Roof Mount | Roof Mount |
| Weight | 37 pounds | 39 pounds |
| Size | 11.5 Cubic | 12 Cubic |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | a3EHag9CC3YwtxBJV0mGHQXT5V | QstjLtOJo73b-FowD8QOmQhcB6q1M |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Garvee 11.5 cu ft dual side smaller than the 12 cu ft model?
Yes, the 11.5 cu ft model is slightly smaller in height. It stands 11.4 inches tall, while the 12 cu ft version is 13.4 inches tall. Both share the same 54.3-inch length and 31.5-inch width. The difference in volume comes entirely from that extra two inches of height in the larger unit.
Do both Garvee roof boxes open from the side?
Yes, both models feature dual-side opening. This allows you to access your cargo from either the driver or passenger side of your vehicle. You do not need to climb onto the roof or move to the opposite side of the car to load or unload items. This design adds convenience for tight parking spots.
How much does the Garvee 11.5 cu ft box weigh?
The Garvee 11.5 cu ft Dual-Side Hard Shell Box weighs 37 pounds. This makes it the lighter option between the two models. The 12 cu ft version is slightly heavier at 39 pounds. The difference is minimal, but the lighter box may be easier to handle during installation if you are working alone.
Can I mount these Garvee boxes on any roof rack?
Both models use a standard roof mount system. They are designed to attach to common crossbars found on most vehicles. You should ensure your existing roof rack bars are compatible with standard mounting clamps. The hard shell construction provides durability, but the mounting mechanism relies on your vehicle's existing rack setup.
What is the main difference between the two Garvee models?
The primary difference is internal volume and height. The 12 cu ft model offers 12 cubic feet of storage, while the 11.5 cu ft model offers 11.5 cubic feet. Both have the same length and width. The extra space in the 12 cu ft version comes from its taller profile, which is 13.4 inches compared to 11.4 inches.
Are both Garvee roof boxes made of hard shell material?
Yes, both the 11.5 cu ft and 12 cu ft models are hard shell carriers. They are built from durable ABS plastic to protect your gear from weather and road debris. This construction ensures they remain rigid and secure while driving at highway speeds. You get reliable protection for your cargo in both versions.