Midwest Aftermarket Rooftop Cargo Carrier Car Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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You might be looking for Midwest Aftermarket rooftop cargo carrier car alternatives because this specific model prioritizes maximum volume over other features. The Midwest Aftermarket 18 Cu Ft Rooftop Carrier offers 18 cubic feet of storage and a 110 lb load limit. It is built from HDPE and fits most OE and aftermarket cross rails. This carrier is ideal if you need the largest capacity in this group and prefer domestic manufacturing. However, you may want a different option if you require dual-side access or a smaller footprint for your vehicle.
The 6 similar picks compared here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original product. These alternatives provide varying capacities, load limits, and opening styles to suit different needs. Some models offer side access for easier loading, while others focus on compact design or higher weight limits. You can choose based on whether you need 11 cubic feet or up to 15.5 cubic feet of space. Each option is selected for its practical specs, ensuring you find a carrier that matches your exact requirements for roof storage.
How each alternative compares
DNA Motoring 13 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box
The DNA Motoring 13 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box offers a smaller 13 cubic foot capacity compared to the 18 cubic feet in the Midwest Aftermarket model. It maintains the same 110 lb load limit but adds side access, which the Midwest carrier lacks. This design allows you to open the box from the side for easier loading in tight parking spots. It is a practical choice if you prioritize convenient access over maximum storage volume. The textured black finish provides a durable exterior, and it fits standard cross bars. Choose this if you need a mid-sized carrier that balances space with usability.
Ausum Motor 14 cu ft Dual-Side Box
The Ausum Motor 14 cu ft Dual-Side Box provides 14 cubic feet of storage, which is less than the 18 cubic feet of the Midwest Aftermarket carrier. It matches the 110 lb load capacity but adds dual-side opening functionality. This feature allows access from either side of your vehicle, a convenience the Midwest model does not offer. It weighs 45 pounds, which is heavier than some competitors. The glossy black shell is durable and weather-resistant. Select this option if you frequently need to access your gear from the side of your car and prefer a slightly smaller volume for easier management.
VISRACK 13 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box
The VISRACK 13 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box has a 13 cubic foot capacity, significantly less than the 18 cubic feet of the Midwest Aftermarket unit. However, it supports a higher 130 lb load limit, offering 20 lbs more weight capacity. It features dual access, allowing you to open the box from the side, which the Midwest model does not. It weighs only 27.8 pounds, making it lighter and easier to handle. The compact design fits standard roof racks well. Pick this carrier if you need to haul heavier loads relative to its size and value side access over maximum volume.
PM Performotor 11 cu ft Rooftop Cargo Carrier
The PM Performotor 11 cu ft Rooftop Cargo Carrier offers 11 cubic feet of storage, which is much smaller than the 18 cubic feet of the Midwest Aftermarket model. It shares the same 110 lb load limit. This compact size is ideal for drivers with smaller vehicles or those who do not need extensive roof space. It provides secure, weatherproof storage without the bulk of larger carriers. The textured black finish is durable and stylish. Choose this alternative if you prioritize a low-profile look and sufficient space for weekend trips rather than long-distance moving or heavy equipment transport.
Goplus 14 cu ft Dual-Side Opening Roof Box
The Goplus 14 cu ft Dual-Side Opening Roof Box provides 14 cubic feet of capacity, less than the 18 cubic feet of the Midwest Aftermarket carrier. It stands out with a 165 lb load limit, which is 55 lbs higher than the Midwest model. This makes it suitable for heavier gear. It also features dual-side opening for easy access from either side of your vehicle. The black hard shell is durable and weather-resistant. Select this option if you need to carry heavier loads regularly and value the convenience of side access over the maximum volume offered by the Midwest Aftermarket carrier.
Runave 15.5 cu ft Dual-Side Roof Box
The Runave 15.5 cu ft Dual-Side Roof Box offers 15.5 cubic feet of storage, which is smaller than the 18 cubic feet of the Midwest Aftermarket model. It supports a 150 lb load limit, providing 40 lbs more capacity than the Midwest carrier. The dual-side opening allows you to access your gear from either side, a feature the Midwest model lacks. It weighs less than the Midwest unit, making it easier to install. The white color stands out visually. Choose this carrier if you need higher weight capacity and side access, even if it means sacrificing some storage volume.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Midwest Aftermarket 18 Cu Ft Rooftop Carrier
Best for: Maximum storage volume needs
- Capacity
- 18 cubic-foot
- Shell Type
- HDPE
- Load Capacity
- 110 lb
- Installation
- No tool assembly
- Vehicle Compatibility
- Fits most OE and aftermarket cross rails
- Vehicle Type
- Car
View on Amazon: Midwest Aftermarket 18 Cu Ft Rooftop Carrier
This Midwest Aftermarket carrier offers 18 cubic feet of storage with a 110 lb load limit. It is constructed from durable HDPE and features no-tool assembly. The unit fits most OE and aftermarket cross rails. It is made in the USA and includes a lifetime warranty. This large capacity suits buyers needing extra space for gear.
Pros
- 18 cubic-foot capacity
- No tool assembly
- HDPE shell construction
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- 110 lb load limit is lower than some competitors
- Single-side opening design
- Requires cross rails for installation
Good fit if
- You need maximum storage volume
- You want durable HDPE material
- You prefer lifetime warranty coverage
Skip if
- You need dual-side access
- You require higher weight capacity
- You lack cross rails
Verdict: Midwest Aftermarket 18 Cu Ft Rooftop Carrier provides the largest volume in this group. It fits buyers prioritizing storage space and domestic manufacturing over dual-side access.
DNA Motoring 13 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box
Best for: Drivers needing side access and moderate storage
- Capacity
- 13 Cubic Feet
- Shell Type
- Hard Shell, ABS
- Opening
- Double side
- Load Capacity
- 110 lbs
- Water Resistance
- Weatherproof
- Security
- Security locking system with keys
This DNA Motoring rooftop cargo box offers 13 cubic feet of hard-shell storage with a 110 lb load capacity. Its double-side opening design allows access from either side of the vehicle. The weatherproof ABS shell protects contents from the elements. It mounts to cross bars without tools. This unit suits drivers needing flexible access and moderate volume for weekend trips or seasonal gear.
Pros
- 13 cubic feet internal capacity
- 110 lbs maximum distributed load
- Double-side opening for easy access
- Weatherproof hard shell construction
- Tool-free installation on cross bars
Cons
- 110 lb load limit is lower than some competitors
- Requires vehicle cross bars for mounting
- Limited to 13 cubic feet volume
Good fit if
- You need side access to your cargo
- You have cross bars installed on your vehicle
- You want a weatherproof hard shell for gear protection
Skip if
- You require a load capacity above 110 lbs
- Your vehicle lacks cross bars for mounting
- You need more than 13 cubic feet of space
Verdict: DNA Motoring 13 Cu. Ft. Rooftop Cargo Box is a practical option for drivers who prioritize side access and weather protection over maximum weight limits. It fits those with cross bars who need a reliable, mid-sized carrier for standard travel loads.
Ausum Motor 14 cu ft Dual-Side Box
Best for: Dual-side access on standard roof racks
- Capacity
- 14 cubic feet
- Shell Type
- Hard shell
- Opening
- Dual side
- Load Capacity
- 110 lbs
- Water Resistance
- Weather-tight seal
- Installation
- No special tools required
The Ausum Motor rooftop cargo box offers 14 cubic feet of storage in a glossy black hard shell. It supports up to 110 pounds of gear. The dual-side opening allows access from either side. A weather-tight seal protects contents from rain. It fits roof racks with crossbars spaced between 24.0 and 29.1 inches. Installation requires no special tools. This unit weighs 45 pounds.
Pros
- 14 cubic feet capacity
- Dual-side opening access
- 110 lb load limit
- Weather-tight seal
- No special tools needed
Cons
- Strict 24.0-29.1 inch crossbar spacing requirement
- 45 pound weight
- No mention of integrated lock core
Good fit if
- You need extra storage for skiing or camping gear
- You have roof racks with 24 to 29 inch spacing
- You want side access without removing the box
Skip if
- Your crossbars are outside the 24.0-29.1 inch range
- You need to carry more than 110 pounds
- You prefer a single-side opening design
Verdict: Ausum Motor 14 Cu Ft Dual Side Hard Shell fits drivers with 24-29 inch crossbar spacing who need side access. It provides ample space for travel gear while keeping items dry.
VISRACK 13 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box
Best for: Standard roof racks needing dual access
- Capacity
- 13 cu ft
- Shell Type
- Hard shell (ABS and PMMA)
- Opening
- Dual-side
- Load Capacity
- 130 lb
- Installation
- Tool-free
- Vehicle Compatibility
- Fits round, square, and aerodynamic bars
The VISRACK 13 cubic foot roof box uses a hard shell made of ABS and PMMA materials. It holds up to 130 pounds and fits round, square, and aerodynamic bars. You get dual-side opening for easier access. The unit weighs 27.8 pounds and measures 55.9 by 29.5 by 15 inches. It installs without tools. This carrier suits travelers needing secure, weather-resistant storage on standard roof racks.
Pros
- 13 cubic feet of storage capacity
- 130 lb load capacity
- Dual-side opening design
- Tool-free assembly
- ABS and PMMA hard shell
Cons
- 27.8 lb weight adds roof load
- 15 inch height may affect clearance
- No mention of integrated lock keys included
Good fit if
- You need dual-side access for loading
- You have round or square crossbars
- You want tool-free installation
Skip if
- You require aerodynamic low-profile design
- You need more than 130 lb capacity
- You prefer a lighter unit under 25 lb
Verdict: VISRACK 13 Cu Ft Hard Shell Roof Box offers solid 130 lb capacity and dual access for standard roof racks. It fits buyers who prioritize easy loading and durable hard-shell protection over aerodynamic efficiency.
PM Performotor 11 cu ft Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Best for: compact hard-shell roof storage
- Capacity
- 11 cu ft
- Shell Type
- ABS plastic
- Load Capacity
- 110 lbs
- Water Resistance
- weatherproof
- Security
- key and lock
- Installation
- tool-free
View on Amazon: PM Performotor 11 cu ft Rooftop Cargo Carrier
This PM Performotor carrier offers 11 cubic feet of hard-shell storage with a 110 lb load capacity. Its 53 x 34 x 15 inch ABS plastic shell is weatherproof and includes a key lock for security. The tool-free installation fits most vehicles with cross bars. It suits drivers needing reliable, compact roof storage for gear without the bulk of larger carriers.
Pros
- 11 cubic feet internal storage capacity
- 110 lb maximum load limit
- Key and lock security system
- Tool-free installation with mounting brackets
- Weatherproof ABS plastic construction
Cons
- Smaller 11 cubic feet capacity compared to 13-14 cu ft competitors
- 110 lb load limit is lower than typical 150 lb ratings
- No mention of dual-side opening mechanism
Good fit if
- You need a compact carrier for smaller vehicles
- You prefer hard-shell durability over soft bags
- You require a key lock for security
Skip if
- You need more than 11 cubic feet of space
- You plan to carry loads over 110 lbs
- You want a dual-side opening design
Verdict: PM Performotor 11 Cu Ft Rooftop Cargo Box fits drivers who prioritize security and compact storage over maximum volume. It is a practical solution for smaller loads on vehicles with standard cross bars.
Goplus 14 cu ft Dual-Side Opening Roof Box
Best for: Heavy loads and side access
- Capacity
- 14 Cubic Feet
- Shell Type
- ABS and PC
- Opening
- Dual-side
- Load Capacity
- 165 lbs
- Water Resistance
- Waterproof
- Security
- double-lock design, super latch security
This Goplus rooftop cargo carrier offers 14 cubic feet of storage in a hard shell made of ABS and PC. It supports a 165 lb load and features dual-side opening for convenient access. The waterproof design protects gear, while the aerodynamic shape reduces drag. It fits crossbars between 17 and 22.8 inches wide. You get a secure double-lock system and quick-connect anchors for installation.
Pros
- 14 cubic feet capacity
- 165 lb load limit
- Dual-side opening
- Waterproof hard shell
- Double-lock security
Cons
- 25 lb weight is heavy for manual lifting
- Requires crossbars under 3.1 inches wide
- No mention of integrated bike or ski mounts
Good fit if
- You need dual-side access for tight parking spots
- You carry heavy gear up to 165 lbs
- Your crossbars are narrow and standard width
Skip if
- You require integrated bike or ski racks
- Your crossbars exceed 3.1 inches in width
- You prefer a lighter unit for easy handling
Verdict: Goplus 14 Cu Ft Dual-Side Hard Shell suits drivers who prioritize high load capacity and side access. It is a practical option for families with narrow crossbars needing secure, weatherproof storage.
Runave 15.5 cu ft Dual-Side Roof Box
Best for: Heavy loads and dual-side access needs
- Capacity
- 15.5 Cubic Feet
- Shell Type
- ABS and PMMA
- Opening
- dual-sided
- Load Capacity
- 150 lbs
- Water Resistance
- waterproof
- Security
- 2 keys and 2 straps
The Runave cargo box offers 15.5 cubic feet of storage with a 150 lb load capacity. Its hard shell is made from ABS and PMMA materials for durability. The dual-side opening design allows access from either side of your vehicle. It measures 58.3 x 35.4 x 13 inches and fits crossbars under 3 inches wide. This unit is designed for cars, vans, and SUVs with roof racks.
Pros
- 150 lb maximum load capacity
- 15.5 cubic feet of storage space
- Dual-side opening for flexible access
- ABS and PMMA hard shell construction
- Waterproof and UV-resistant design
Cons
- Requires a roof rack for installation
- Crossbars must be under 3 inches wide
- Limited to 150 lb weight limit
Good fit if
- You need high weight capacity for heavy gear
- You want access from both sides of the car
- You have a roof rack with narrow crossbars
Skip if
- You do not have a roof rack installed
- Your crossbars are wider than 3 inches
- You need more than 150 lbs of load capacity
Verdict: Runave 15.5 Cu Ft Dual-Side Hard Shell is a practical choice for drivers who need to haul heavier loads up to 150 lbs. The dual-side opening adds convenience for accessing items from either side of your vehicle.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Midwest Aftermarket 18 Cu Ft Rooftop Carrier | DNA Motoring 13 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box | Ausum Motor 14 cu ft Dual-Side Box | VISRACK 13 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box | PM Performotor 11 cu ft Rooftop Cargo Carrier | Goplus 14 cu ft Dual-Side Opening Roof Box | Runave 15.5 cu ft Dual-Side Roof Box |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 18 cubic-foot | 13 Cubic Feet | 14 cubic feet | 13 cu ft | 11 cu ft | 14 Cubic Feet | 15.5 Cubic Feet |
| Shell Type | HDPE | Hard Shell, ABS | Hard shell | Hard shell (ABS and PMMA) | ABS plastic | ABS and PC | ABS and PMMA |
| Opening | not specified | Double side | Dual side | Dual-side | not specified | Dual-side | dual-sided |
| Load Capacity | 110 lb | 110 lbs | 110 lbs | 130 lb | 110 lbs | 165 lbs | 150 lbs |
| Water Resistance | not specified | Weatherproof | Weather-tight seal | not specified | weatherproof | Waterproof | waterproof |
| Security | not specified | Security locking system with keys | not specified | not specified | key and lock | double-lock design, super latch security | 2 keys and 2 straps |
| Installation | No tool assembly | No tool assembly | No special tools required | Tool-free | tool-free | 4 quick connect anchors | no additional tools required |
| Vehicle Compatibility | Fits most OE and aftermarket cross rails | Fits vehicles with cross bars only | Inter-crossbar distance 24.0-29.1 in | Fits round, square, and aerodynamic bars | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | not specified | 56.3" L x 36.8" W x 16.25" H | not specified | 55.9 x 29.5 x 15 in | 53 x 34 x 15 in | 63 x 31 x 15 in | 58.3 x 35.4 x 13 in |
| Vehicle Type | Car | Car | Car | Car | Car | Car | Car |
| Recommended Use | not specified | not specified | not specified | Travel | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Size | 18 Cubic Feet | 13 cu. ft.-16.25" H | 14 Cubic Feet | 13Cubic | 11 Cubic Feet-A | not specified | 15.5 Cubic Feet |
| Mount Type | Roof Mount | Roof Mount | Roof Mount | Roof Mount | Roof Mount | Roof Mount | Roof Mount |
| Lockable | not specified | Lockable | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Weight | not specified | not specified | 45 pounds | 27.8 pounds | not specified | 25 pounds | not specified |
| Color | Black | Textured Black | Glossy Black | Black | Textured Black | Black | WHITE |
| Model | CC18CFT | PT-ZTL-8188 | Glossy Black | B-56 | PM-64342-A | not specified | WHITE |
Frequently asked questions
Which roof box has the highest load capacity?
The Goplus 14 Cu Ft Dual-Side Hard Shell offers the highest load capacity at 165 lb. This makes it suitable for drivers needing to haul heavier gear. It also features dual-side opening for easy access. The carrier fits standard roof racks and provides weatherproof storage for your items.
Are there options with dual-side access?
Yes, several models provide dual-side opening for convenience. The Ausum Motor 14 Cu Ft, Goplus 14 Cu Ft, and Runave 15.5 Cu Ft all feature this design. You can load or unload items from either side of your vehicle. This is helpful when parked in tight spaces between other cars.
What is the largest storage volume available?
The Midwest Aftermarket 18 Cu Ft Rooftop Carrier provides the largest volume in this group. It offers 18 cubic feet of storage space. This model is ideal if you prioritize maximum capacity over other features. It maintains a standard 110 lb load limit while fitting most car roof racks.
Which carrier is best for heavy loads?
The Runave 15.5 Cu Ft Dual-Side Roof Box supports up to 150 lb. It combines a large 15.5 cubic foot volume with a high weight limit. The dual-side opening adds practicality. This hard shell box is a robust choice for transporting substantial equipment or travel gear securely.
Do any boxes include a lock?
The DNA Motoring 13 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box is explicitly listed as lockable. This feature adds security for your stored items. Other models do not specify locking mechanisms in their data. If security is a primary concern, this DNA Motoring option provides a clear advantage with its lockable design.
What is the lightest roof box listed?
The VISRACK 13 cu ft Hard Shell Roof Box weighs 27.8 pounds. This is the lightest option among the listed carriers. It offers a 130 lb load capacity and dual access. Its lower weight may simplify installation and removal. The compact dimensions fit standard crossbar spacing effectively.
Which model is best for compact storage needs?
The PM Performotor 11 Cu Ft Rooftop Cargo Box is designed for compact storage. It offers 11 cubic feet of volume, making it suitable for smaller loads. It maintains a 110 lb load limit. This model fits vehicles with standard crossbars and provides a secure, hard-shell solution for everyday travel items.
Can I find a white roof box?
Yes, the Runave 15.5 Cu Ft Dual-Side Roof Box is available in white. Most other listed carriers are black or textured black. This white option provides the same 15.5 cubic feet of storage and 150 lb capacity. It offers dual-side access for convenient loading and unloading from either vehicle side.