Mount Type Explained: What It Means for Roof Cargo Boxes

Understanding Roof Cargo Mount Types

The mount type explains how a cargo carrier attaches to your vehicle. This spec determines where you place the box and how it connects. You will see two main categories in this niche: roof mount and hitch mount. Understanding mount type explained helps you choose the right carrier for your car shape and driving habits.

A roof mount attaches to the top of your vehicle. You need a roof rack system to use these boxes. The carrier clips onto crossbars or side rails. This style keeps your trunk and rear door open. You must lift the box onto the roof. This can be heavy for some users. Roof mounts work with most sedans, SUVs, and hatchbacks. They do not block your rear view. However, they add height to your vehicle. You must check garage clearance before buying.

A hitch mount slides into the rear receiver tube. This receiver is a square opening on the back of the car or truck. You slide the carrier in and lock it. This method is much easier than lifting. You do not need a roof rack. The box hangs behind the vehicle. This style is common for trucks and large SUVs. It keeps the roof clear for other gear. You must ensure the hitch can hold the weight. The carrier may block your rear license plate or taillights. You might need an adapter light kit.

Why does this matter to you? The mount type decides your vehicle compatibility. A sedan without a roof rack cannot use a roof mount. A truck without a hitch receiver cannot use a hitch mount. Check your vehicle features first. Then look for the mount type in the product specs. This simple check prevents buying the wrong item. It ensures the carrier fits your daily needs. Choose the style that matches your access and storage goals.

Roof Mount vs Hitch Mount

Roof Mount

This mount type attaches to your vehicle’s roof. You place the cargo carrier on top of the car. This includes hard boxes or soft bags. Soft bags, like the MeeFar 15 cu ft Roof Bag, work well on cars without existing roof racks. They use straps to secure the load. This option keeps your rear view clear. It does not block the license plate. You must lift items up to load them. This can be difficult for heavy gear. Roof mount boxes also add height to your vehicle. You need to check garage clearance. This mount type is best for keeping the rear of your car open for easy access.

Hitch Mount

This mount type connects to your vehicle’s hitch receiver. You slide the carrier into the hitch tube. This places the cargo behind the vehicle. The HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Basket is an example of this style. It sits low, near the ground. This makes loading and unloading easier. You do not need to lift items high. The cargo stays out of the way of the rear window. However, it may block your license plate. You might need a plate holder. This mount type requires a hitch receiver on your car. It is ideal for heavy loads. It keeps the roof free for other uses. It offers stable storage for bulky gear.

Is This Spec Worth Your Attention

Who needs it

You need to understand mount type explained if you plan to carry bulky or heavy items regularly. Roof mount carriers sit on your vehicle’s roof, which keeps your trunk and rear hatch completely free for other uses. This is ideal for families who need to load groceries, sports gear, or luggage without blocking access to the back of the car. However, you must ensure your vehicle has compatible roof rails or crossbars. If you do not have these, you will need to install them first, which adds to the setup time. Hitch mount carriers attach to your vehicle’s rear receiver. This option is better if you want to load items at waist height, which reduces the risk of back strain. You should prioritize this spec if you frequently move large boxes or awkwardly shaped items that are difficult to lift onto a roof. The mount type directly impacts your daily loading routine and vehicle compatibility.

Who can skip it

You can ignore this spec if you only carry small items occasionally. If you use a trunk-mounted carrier or a bike rack, the roof or hitch mount type explained does not apply to your current setup. You can skip this section if you already know your vehicle has the necessary attachments. For example, if you have a roof rack installed, you already know you need a roof mount box. If you have a hitch receiver, you are set for a hitch mount carrier. Focus on volume capacity and dimensions instead. These factors determine how much you can actually carry. The mount type is just the connection point. If your vehicle already supports the carrier you want, this spec is a given. Do not let this section delay your purchase. Check your vehicle’s existing hardware first. If it matches the carrier type, move on to comparing sizes and materials. This spec is foundational, not a deciding factor for most buyers.

Mount Type Glossary

Roof Mount

Attaches to roof rails or bare roofs using crossbars. Uses clamps or straps to secure the carrier. Keeps trunk space open for other items.

Hitch Mount

Plugs into the vehicle’s rear hitch receiver. Sits behind the car. Ideal for heavy loads or when roof height is restricted by garages.

Shell Type

The outer material and shape. Hard shells offer better aerodynamics. Soft bags fold for storage. Shape affects wind noise and fuel efficiency.

Capacity

Total volume for storage, measured in cubic feet. A 15 cu ft box holds several large suitcases. Check this number to ensure it fits your gear.

Opening

How the lid opens for access. Side opening allows access from the door. Top opening requires standing on the roof. Side opening is often more convenient.

Load Capacity

Maximum weight the carrier can safely hold. Exceeding this limit strains your vehicle. Check your car’s roof rating. Do not exceed the lower of the two limits.

Water Resistance

Ability to keep contents dry in rain. Look for sealed gaskets. Drain plugs remove trapped water. High resistance protects your gear from moisture damage.

Security

Features that prevent theft. Integrated locks secure the lid. Locking mechanisms attach to the vehicle. Choose carriers with keyed locks for peace of mind.

Quick picks

Our 6 picks

1

MeeFar 15 cu ft Roof Bag

Best for: waterproof storage on cars without roof racks

Mount Type

Roof Mount (what this guide is about)

Capacity

15 cu ft

Shell Type

Soft shell, 700D PVC tarpaulin

Water Resistance

100% waterproof

Security

Combination lock

Vehicle Compatibility

Vehicles with or without roof rack

View on Amazon: MeeFar 15 cu ft Roof Bag Affiliate link

This MeeFar roof cargo bag offers 15 cubic feet of storage using 700D PVC tarpaulin. It is fully waterproof and tearproof. The bag fits vehicles with or without existing roof racks. You get a combination lock for security. The soft shell folds for storage. It measures 44 by 34 by 17 inches. This soft carrier suits buyers who need flexible, weather-resistant storage for cars.

Pros

• 100% waterproof 700D PVC tarpaulin construction
• Universal fit for cars with or without roof racks
• Includes combination lock for zipper security
• Folds flat for compact storage

Cons

• 15 cubic feet capacity is smaller than hard shell boxes
• Soft shell offers less impact protection than rigid materials
• No hard shell structure to prevent sagging under heavy loads

Good fit if

• You need a waterproof carrier for cars without roof racks
• You want a bag that folds flat for storage
• You prefer a soft shell over a rigid box

Skip if

• You require more than 15 cubic feet of space
• You need a rigid hard shell for maximum protection
• You want a carrier with a fixed aerodynamic shape

Verdict: MeeFar 15 CuFt Waterproof Roof Bag provides a flexible, waterproof solution for vehicles lacking roof racks. It is ideal for travelers who prioritize packability and weather resistance over rigid cargo protection.

2

HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Basket

Best for: Heavy loads with waterproof protection

Mount Type

Hitch Mount (what this guide is about)

Capacity

16 cu ft

Shell Type

Soft shell bag

Load Capacity

500 lbs

Water Resistance

Waterproof

Vehicle Compatibility

Fits 2-inch receiver

View on Amazon: HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Basket Affiliate link

This hitch mount carrier features a 60-inch by 20-inch basket with a 500-pound load capacity. It includes a 16 cubic foot waterproof soft shell bag and a stabilizer to reduce wobble. The unit fits standard 2-inch receivers on SUVs, trucks, and vans. The basket folds for compact storage. It is designed for rear-mounted cargo that needs to stay secure and dry during travel.

Pros

• 500 lb load capacity
• Includes 16 cu. ft. waterproof bag
• Fits 2-inch hitch receivers
• Folds for space-saving storage
• Includes hitch stabilizer

Cons

• 16 cu. ft. capacity is smaller than rigid roof boxes
• Basket is only 20 inches wide
• Soft shell bag offers less protection than hard plastic

Good fit if

• You need to carry heavy loads up to 500 lbs
• You want to keep gear dry with a waterproof bag
• You need to fold the carrier when not in use

Skip if

• You require more than 16 cubic feet of space
• You prefer a hard shell for maximum impact protection
• Your vehicle uses a 1.25-inch hitch receiver

Verdict: HubPax 16 CuFt Hitch Cargo Carrier fits drivers who need heavy-duty rear storage with waterproof protection. It is a practical solution for hauling large items without blocking rear visibility.

3

FIVKLEMNZ 30 Cubic Feet Roof Bag

Best for: Vehicles without roof racks needing high volume

Mount Type

Roof Mount (what this guide is about)

Capacity

30 cu ft

Shell Type

840D PVC soft bag

Water Resistance

100% waterproof

Security

Luggage lock

Installation

Straps and door hooks

View on Amazon: FIVKLEMNZ 30 Cubic Feet Roof Bag Affiliate link

This is a soft rooftop cargo bag with 30 cubic feet of capacity. It measures 60 by 43 by 20 inches and weighs 12 pounds. The shell uses 840D PVC with welded seams for waterproofing. It attaches using 10 straps and 6 door hooks. You can use it on vehicles with or without a roof rack. This option suits you if you need extra space without installing hard carriers.

Pros

• 30 cubic feet of storage space
• 840D PVC waterproof shell
• Fits vehicles without roof racks
• Includes 10 straps and 6 door hooks

Cons

• Soft shell offers less impact protection than hard cases
• Higher profile at 20 inches tall
• Strap-based mounting requires more effort than fixed mounts

Good fit if

• You need flexible storage for occasional trips
• Your vehicle lacks a roof rack
• You want to maximize cargo volume

Skip if

• You drive frequently in high winds
• You need secure storage while away
• You prefer a low-profile aerodynamic design

Verdict: FIVKLEMNZ 30 CuFt Roof Cargo Bag fits you if you need maximum volume on a vehicle without a rack. It works well for occasional trips where you can secure straps manually.

4

Mockins 30 cu ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag

Best for: Bulky gear storage in waterproof soft shell

Mount Type

Hitch Mount (what this guide is about)

Capacity

30 cu ft

Shell Type

Abrasion-resistant vinyl soft-shell

Water Resistance

Waterproof

Security

Combination lock

Installation

Buckle straps

View on Amazon: Mockins 30 cu ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag Affiliate link

This hitch mount cargo carrier offers 30 cubic feet of soft-shell storage. It measures 60 by 24 by 36 inches and weighs 20 pounds. The bag uses three heavy-duty buckle straps for installation. It includes six packing cubes and a combo lock for security. The waterproof vinyl construction protects gear from weather. It suits buyers who need flexible, high-volume storage for towing or truck beds.

Pros

• 30 cubic feet of capacity
• Includes six packing cubes
• Waterproof vinyl shell
• Combo lock for security

Cons

• Soft shell lacks rigid protection
• 20 pounds adds tongue weight
• Buckle straps are less secure than hard mounts

Good fit if

• You need extra space for bulky items
• You want waterproof protection for gear
• You prefer flexible storage over rigid cases

Skip if

• You require rigid impact protection
• You want a permanent hard mount
• You need aerodynamic efficiency for highway driving

Verdict: Mockins 30 CuFt Hitch Cargo Carrier provides ample, weather-resistant storage for bulky loads. It is a practical solution for users who prioritize volume and flexibility over aerodynamic performance.

5

Sailnovo 21 cu ft Soft Roof Bag

Best for: cars without roof racks needing waterproof storage

Mount Type

Roof Mount (what this guide is about)

Capacity

21 cubic feet

Shell Type

Soft Shell

Water Resistance

Waterproof

Installation

Tie-Down Strap

Dimensions

9.84 x 7.09 x 13.8 in

View on Amazon: Sailnovo 21 cu ft Soft Roof Bag Affiliate link

This is a soft-shell roof bag with a 21 cubic foot capacity. It mounts to your car roof using tie-down straps. The bag is waterproof and weighs 8.16 pounds. It fits cars without luggage racks. You get two height options: 13.8 or 17 inches. This carrier is for you if you need flexible storage on a smooth roof.

Pros

• 21 cubic feet of soft-shell storage
• Waterproof construction for weather protection
• Tie-down strap installation system
• Lightweight at 8.16 pounds

Cons

• Smaller 21 cubic foot capacity than 30 cubic foot competitors
• Soft shell offers less rigid protection than hard plastic boxes
• No integrated locking mechanism mentioned in specifications

Good fit if

• You have a car roof without luggage racks
• You need a waterproof storage solution for outdoor gear
• You want a lightweight carrier that folds flat for storage

Skip if

• You require a hard-shell box for maximum impact protection
• You need a capacity larger than 21 cubic feet
• You have a vehicle with existing roof racks

Verdict: Sailnovo 21 CuFt Soft Roof Bag is a practical soft-shell option for cars without racks. It suits buyers who prioritize waterproofing and low weight over rigid protection and high capacity.

6

StowAway Max 16 cu ft Hitch Cargo Box

Best for: hitch-equipped vehicles needing rear access

Mount Type

Hitch Mount (what this guide is about)

Capacity

16 cubic feet

Load Capacity

200 lb

Water Resistance

weather-resistant

Security

keyed locking latch

Dimensions

26 x 23 x 51 in

View on Amazon: StowAway Max 16 cu ft Hitch Cargo Box Affiliate link

This hitch-mounted carrier offers 16 cubic feet of enclosed storage with a 200 lb load rating. Its swingaway frame pivots to the side, allowing full rear access without removal. Constructed from impact-resistant polymer, it provides weather resistance for your gear. The unit includes LED taillights and a keyed lock for security. It suits drivers who need secure, accessible cargo space without using roof rails.

Pros

• Swingaway frame pivots to the side for rear access
• 200 lb load capacity for heavy gear
• Impact-resistant polymer construction
• Integrated LED taillights and reflectors
• Keyed locking latch for security

Cons

• 16 cubic feet capacity is smaller than the 21-30 CuFt roof bags on this list
• Requires a hitch receiver, not suitable for roof mounting
• Dimensions are 51 inches tall, which may limit clearance in some garages

Good fit if

• You need full rear access to your hatch or tailgate
• You want to keep cargo secure and weather-resistant
• Your vehicle has a hitch receiver but no roof rails

Skip if

• You require more than 16 cubic feet of storage space
• You prefer to mount cargo on your roof
• You need a carrier that fits under low garage doors

Verdict: StowAway Max 16 CuFt Hitch Cargo Box is a secure, accessible option for drivers with hitches who prioritize rear door access over maximum volume.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions