JEGS 18 cu. ft. Rooftop or JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier? Which JEGS Model to Buy
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You are comparing the jegs 18 cu ft rooftop vs rooftop cargo carrier models. Both are 18 cubic foot hard shell carriers made from HDPE plastic. They share the same 110 lb load capacity and weather-tight seals. The main difference is the opening mechanism. One model opens from the rear for easy loading. The other features dual side openings for access from either flank. This affects how you load gear and secure it.
Key differences
| Aspect | JEGS 18 cu ft Rooftop Cargo Carrier | JEGS 18 cu ft Hardshell Rooftop Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| Opening | Rear | Dual Side |
| Security | Four corner locking system, front latch | Dual side locking system, front latch |
| Interior Dimensions | 57 L x 39 W x 19-1/2 H inches | 57 L x 38 1/2 W x 17 3/4 H inches |
| External Dimensions | 61.3" L x 39" W x 12" H | 57" L x 38.5" W x 17.8" H |
| Weight | 35.5 pounds | 35 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose JEGS 18 cu ft Rooftop Cargo Carrier if
- You prefer loading gear from the rear of your vehicle.
- You need a taller interior for bulky items.
- You want a wider internal footprint.
Choose JEGS 18 cu ft Hardshell Rooftop Carrier if
- You need access from both sides of the car.
- You have a lower roof rack and need a flatter profile.
- You want a slightly lighter carrier.
Verdict: Choose the rear-opening model if you prioritize tall storage and rear access. Pick the dual-side model if you need flexibility in loading from either side or have a lower roof profile. Both offer the same capacity and security features.
Side-by-Side JEGS Carrier Specs
opening mechanism
The JEGS 18 cu ft Rooftop Cargo Carrier (Model 555-90093) opens from the rear. This design allows you to load gear from the back of the vehicle. The JEGS 18 cu ft Hardshell Rooftop Carrier (Model 555-90109) features dual side opening. This lets you access the interior from either side of the car. Side access is often more practical for tight parking spots. Rear access requires more space behind the vehicle. Both options keep the top sealed. However, side access provides more flexibility in confined areas. You should choose based on your typical parking situation.
interior dimensions
Both carriers offer 18 cubic feet of total capacity. However, the internal shape differs. The rear-opening model has interior dimensions of 57 inches long, 39 inches wide, and 19.5 inches high. The side-opening model measures 57 inches long, 38.5 inches wide, and 17.75 inches high. The rear-opening unit is slightly wider and taller inside. This gives you a bit more room for bulky items. The side-opening unit is narrower and shorter. If you need to fit wide luggage or tall boxes, the rear-opening model provides a larger usable volume. The difference is small but noticeable for large gear.
external height
External height affects clearance under garages and low bridges. The JEGS 18 cu ft Rooftop Cargo Carrier stands 12 inches tall. The JEGS 18 cu ft Hardshell Rooftop Carrier is 17.8 inches tall. The rear-opening model is significantly lower to the ground. This lower profile helps you fit under standard garage doors or low overhangs. The side-opening model is taller. You must check your garage clearance before buying the taller unit. For most residential garages, the 12-inch height is safer. The 17.8-inch height may require careful measurement of your specific entrance.
security features
Security is critical for rooftop storage. The rear-opening carrier uses a four-corner locking system plus a front latch. This secures the lid at multiple points around the perimeter. The side-opening carrier uses a dual side locking system with a front latch. Both systems include weather-tight seals to keep water out. The four-corner lock on the rear model may offer slightly more stability against wind lift. It anchors the lid at the corners. The side-locking system is also robust. Both models provide strong protection for your gear. The difference in security is minor, as both use hard shells and multiple locks.
weight
Weight impacts fuel efficiency and roof rack stress. The rear-opening JEGS carrier weighs 35.5 pounds. The side-opening JEGS carrier weighs 35 pounds. The difference is only 0.5 pounds. This is negligible for most vehicles. Both units are made from HDPE plastic, which is lightweight yet durable. You will not notice a difference in handling or fuel economy based on this small weight variation. Both carriers fall within a similar weight class for 18 cubic foot hard shells. Choose based on other features, as weight is not a deciding factor here.
Which JEGS Roof Box Fits Your Needs
You need rear access for easy loading
This model features a rear opening design. You can load gear directly from the back of your vehicle. The interior height is 19.5 inches, offering more vertical space for taller items. The exterior height is 12 inches, which may help with low garage clearance. It weighs 35.5 pounds and includes a front latch for added security.
You prefer side access for convenience
This carrier opens from both sides. You can load gear from either side of the vehicle, which is useful in tight parking spots. The interior width is 38.5 inches, slightly narrower than the other model. The exterior height is 17.8 inches. It weighs 35 pounds and uses a dual side locking system with a front latch for security.
You want the lightest option available
This model weighs 35 pounds. The other model weighs 35.5 pounds. The difference is small but measurable. Both carriers share the same 110 lb load capacity. Both use HDPE plastic hard shells. Both include weather-tight seals. The lighter weight may make handling and installation slightly easier for you during initial setup.
The products compared
JEGS 18 cu ft Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Best for: rear-loading weatherproof storage
- Capacity
- 18 cu ft
- Shell Type
- Hard shell, HDPE plastic
- Opening
- Rear
- Load Capacity
- 110 lb
- Water Resistance
- Weatherproof
- Installation
- Tool-free
View on Amazon: JEGS 18 cu ft Rooftop Cargo Carrier Affiliate link
The JEGS 18 cu. ft. Rooftop Cargo Carrier is a hardshell unit made from HDPE plastic. It offers a 110 lb load capacity and measures 61.3 inches long. The rear-opening design allows for easy loading from the back of your vehicle. A weather-tight seal and four-corner locking system provide security. It requires no tools for installation. This carrier suits drivers needing durable, weather-resistant storage for gear.
Pros
- 18 cubic feet of interior storage space
- Rear-opening design for easy access
- Weather-tight seal protects contents
- No tools required for installation
Cons
- 110 lb load capacity is limited
- Heavy at 35.5 pounds
- Fixed black color option only
Good fit if
- You need rear access to your cargo
- You want a tool-free setup
- You require weatherproof storage
Skip if
- You need to carry over 110 lbs
- You prefer a lighter carrier
- You want multiple color choices
Verdict: JEGS 18 cu. ft. Hardshell Rooftop Carrier fits drivers who prioritize rear access and weather protection. It is a solid option for moderate loads under 110 lbs.
JEGS 18 cu ft Hardshell Rooftop Carrier
Best for: Side-access needs and weather protection
- Capacity
- 18 cu ft
- Shell Type
- Hard shell (HDPE plastic)
- Opening
- Dual-side
- Water Resistance
- Waterproof
- Security
- Dual-side locking system with keys
- Dimensions
- 57 x 38.5 x 17.8 in
View on Amazon: JEGS 18 cu ft Hardshell Rooftop Carrier Affiliate link
This JEGS rooftop cargo carrier offers 18 cubic feet of weatherproof storage in a hard shell made from HDPE plastic. It measures 57 by 38.5 by 17.8 inches and weighs 35 pounds. The unit features dual side opening and a dual side locking system with a front latch. You get secure, weather-tight protection for your gear. This model is suitable for drivers needing durable, high-capacity storage that opens from the side for easy access.
Pros
- 18 cubic feet of interior capacity
- Dual side opening for convenient access
- Dual side locking system with front latch
- Weatherproof HDPE plastic hard shell construction
Cons
- 35-pound weight adds significant load to your roof
- 17.8-inch height may not fit low garage doors
- No mention of aerodynamic design features in the data
Good fit if
- You need side-access to your cargo
- You prioritize weatherproof hard shell protection
- You require a 18 cubic foot capacity
Skip if
- You need a carrier under 30 pounds
- You require a slim profile for low clearance
- You prefer a soft-sided cargo bag
Verdict: JEGS 18 cu ft Hardshell Rooftop Carrier is a heavy-duty option for those who need side access and weatherproof storage. It fits drivers who prioritize security and capacity over low weight.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | JEGS 18 cu ft Rooftop Cargo Carrier | JEGS 18 cu ft Hardshell Rooftop Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 18 cu ft | 18 cu ft |
| Shell Type | Hard shell, HDPE plastic | Hard shell (HDPE plastic) |
| Opening | Rear | Dual-side |
| Load Capacity | 110 lb | not stated |
| Water Resistance | Weatherproof | Waterproof |
| Security | not stated | Dual-side locking system with keys |
| Installation | Tool-free | not stated |
| Dimensions | 61.3 x 39 x 12 in | 57 x 38.5 x 17.8 in |
| Recommended Use | Luggage | Luggage, camping, road trips |
| Mount Type | Roof Mount | Roof Mount |
| Lockable | Lockable | Lockable |
| Weight | 35.5 pounds | 35 pounds |
| Size | Stock | Stock |
| Color | black | black |
| Model | 555-90093 | 555-90109 |
Frequently asked questions
Which JEGS roof box is lighter to carry?
The JEGS 18 cu ft Hardshell Rooftop Carrier (Model 555-90109) is slightly lighter. It weighs 35 pounds. The rear-loading model (Model 555-90093) weighs 35.5 pounds. The difference is half a pound. This small gap rarely affects manual handling. Both units are heavy enough to require two people for safe installation.
Does the side-access model have more interior height?
No, the side-access model is taller externally but offers less interior height. The rear-opening carrier has an interior height of 19.5 inches. The side-access unit has a lower internal clearance due to its 17.8-inch external height. If you need to store tall items, the rear-loading model provides more vertical space.
Are both carriers compatible with standard roof racks?
Yes, both models use a standard roof mount type. They are designed to fit crossbars on most vehicles. You should verify your crossbar width and shape before purchase. The carriers do not include mounting hardware, so you must use your existing rack system for installation.
Which model is better for loading from the back?
The JEGS 18 cu ft Rooftop Cargo Carrier (Model 555-90093) is built for rear access. Its lid opens toward the rear of the vehicle. This allows you to load gear without reaching over the car. The side-access model requires you to open the lid to the side, which may be difficult in tight parking spaces.
Do these carriers include a locking mechanism?
The provided data does not specify locking details. Both models feature weather-tight seals to protect contents. You should check the product manual for lock type and key inclusion. Typically, hardshell carriers include a central lock, but you must confirm this with the seller or manual before relying on security.
What is the maximum weight limit for these boxes?
Both carriers have a load capacity of 110 pounds. You must not exceed this limit for safe driving. Distribute weight evenly inside the box to maintain vehicle handling. The roof rack itself must also support this weight plus the box weight. Always check your vehicle manual for total roof load limits.
Is the black color standard for both models?
Yes, both the rear-loading and side-access models come in black. The color is listed as black in the specifications for both units. This neutral color helps the carrier blend with most vehicle exteriors. No other color options are listed in the current product data.