Yakima DeepSpace Hard Shell Cargo Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

How the alternatives compare

KAIRAY 60"x24"x14.4" Hitch Cargo Carrier

The KAIRAY hitch carrier swaps roof mounting for a 2-inch receiver, offering 500 pounds of load capacity versus the DeepSpace’s 100 pounds. You gain massive hauling power for heavy gear but lose the aerodynamic, weatherproof enclosure of the hard shell. This unit weighs 68 pounds and includes a cargo bag and net for containment. It suits drivers who prioritize raw capacity over fuel efficiency and do not need to protect items from rain or theft. The hitch mount also keeps cargo away from the vehicle roof, which may be preferable if you lack strong crossbars. You must ensure your vehicle has a compatible hitch receiver to use this option effectively.

OKLEAD 60x24x14.4 Hitch Cargo Carrier

The OKLEAD hitch carrier provides 500 pounds of capacity on a 2-inch receiver, significantly exceeding the DeepSpace’s 100-pound limit. It is built from steel and weighs 64 pounds, making it a durable but heavy option for camping or travel. Unlike the enclosed Yakima box, this open basket exposes gear to the elements, requiring you to use straps or nets for security. It is ideal for users who need to transport large, bulky items that do not require weather protection. The steel construction offers rugged durability, though it lacks the lightweight ABS design of the original. You should choose this if you have a hitch and need maximum weight capacity rather than streamlined roof storage.

TUFFIOM 64x39x6 in Extendable Roof Basket

The TUFFIOM extendable roof basket offers adjustable length storage on your vehicle’s roof, unlike the fixed-size DeepSpace. It supports 250 pounds and is constructed from steel, weighing 32.6 pounds. The key difference is its expandable design, allowing you to adapt the cargo length to your specific needs. It includes a net for containment but remains an open basket, leaving gear exposed to weather. This option is best for buyers who need flexibility in cargo dimensions and have existing roof crossbars. It provides more capacity than the DeepSpace but lacks the secure, locked enclosure. You should pick this if you value adjustable space and do not mind securing items with straps rather than an integrated hard shell.

LOCKIETTA 60" x 24" Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier

The LOCKIETTA folding hitch carrier delivers 500 pounds of capacity on a 2-inch receiver, far surpassing the DeepSpace’s 100-pound rating. It folds for compact storage when not in use, a feature the hard shell lacks. Weighing no specific amount in the data, it includes a cargo bag for added containment. This unit is designed for heavy loads and convenience, making it suitable for users who frequently transport large items. You gain significant capacity and easy storage but lose the weatherproof protection of the Yakima box. The hitch mount also requires a compatible receiver. Choose this alternative if you prioritize load strength and portability over aerodynamic roof-mounted security and enclosed storage.

MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier

The MaxxHaul steel hitch carrier offers 500 pounds of capacity on a 2-inch receiver, a major increase from the DeepSpace’s 100-pound limit. It is built from steel and weighs no specific amount in the data, providing a sturdy, open-basket solution. This option is best for hauling large, durable items that do not require weather protection. You gain robust capacity and simple construction but lose the enclosed, secure design of the Yakima box. The hitch mount requires a compatible receiver and keeps cargo away from the roof. It is ideal for buyers who prioritize weight capacity and steel durability over aerodynamic efficiency and weatherproof storage. You should select this if you need to transport heavy gear and have a vehicle with a 2-inch hitch.

Nilight 84" x 39" x 6" Roof Rack Cargo Basket

The Nilight roof rack cargo basket provides 250 pounds of capacity on your vehicle’s roof, exceeding the DeepSpace’s 100-pound rating. It measures 84 inches in length, offering significantly more space for long items. This steel basket is an open design, leaving gear exposed to the elements, unlike the enclosed Yakima hard shell. It is best for buyers who prioritize length and have existing crossbars. You gain ample storage space and high capacity but lose the secure, locked enclosure. The open basket requires you to use straps for security. Choose this alternative if you need extensive roof-mounted storage for bulky items and do not require weather protection or integrated locking mechanisms.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Yakima DeepSpace Hard Shell Cargo Box

Best for: Weather-protected gear storage

Mount Type

Crossbars

Weight Capacity

100 lb

Material

ABS

Shell Type

Hard Shell

Vehicle Type

Car

Recommended Use

Travel, Camping

View on Amazon: Yakima DeepSpace Hard Shell Cargo Box Affiliate link

The Yakima DeepSpace is a 10 cubic foot hard shell cargo box made from textured ABS. It weighs 30.2 pounds and supports a 100-pound load. The design includes a wide-angle opening and interior tie-down points. It mounts on roof crossbars or in a truck bed. This carrier suits travelers needing secure, weather-protected storage for gear during transit.

Pros

• 10 cubic feet of interior volume
• 100-pound load capacity
• Integrated interior tie-down points
• Textured ABS hard shell construction
• SKS lock security system

Cons

• 100-pound capacity is lower than 500-pound hitch carriers
• 30.2-pound weight adds vehicle load
• Requires separate crossbars or bed mount

Good fit if

• You need weather protection for sensitive gear
• You have roof crossbars or a truck bed
• You prioritize security with integrated locks

Skip if

• You require over 100 pounds of capacity
• You want a hitch-mounted solution
• You prefer a lightweight soft bag

Verdict: Yakima DeepSpace Hard Shell Cargo Box offers secure, weatherproof storage for travelers who value protection over raw capacity. It fits buyers with existing roof bars who need to safeguard gear from the elements.

2 Best premium

KAIRAY 60"x24"x14.4" Hitch Cargo Carrier

Best for: heavy hauling on standard 2 inch hitches

Mount Type

hitch-mount

Weight Capacity

500 lb

Basket Dimensions

60" x 24" x 14.4"

Material

steel

Side Rail Height

14.4"

Receiver Size

2"

View on Amazon: KAIRAY 60"x24"x14.4" Hitch Cargo Carrier Affiliate link

The KAIRAY hitch mount carrier offers a 60 by 24 by 14.4 inch steel platform with a 500 pound distributed weight capacity. It features a mesh surface to prevent small items from falling through and includes safety reflectors for night driving. The unit weighs 68 pounds and fits standard 2 inch receivers. It comes with a storage bag and cargo net, making it suitable for camping or travel gear.

Pros

• 500 pound weight capacity
• 60 inch length for large loads
• Includes storage bag and cargo net
• Steel construction with rust-resistant coating

Cons

• Heavier build at 68 pounds
• No integrated locking mechanism mentioned
• Open mesh design limits security for small items

Good fit if

• You need to haul bulky camping equipment
• You have a standard 2 inch hitch receiver
• You prefer a steel frame for durability

Skip if

• You require a 1.25 inch hitch receiver
• You need aerodynamic hard-shell storage
• You want a lightweight aluminum carrier

Verdict: KAIRAY 60-inch 500 lb Hitch Cargo Carrier fits drivers who need maximum load space on a hitch mount. It suits those prioritizing capacity over aerodynamic efficiency.

3 Also great

OKLEAD 60x24x14.4 Hitch Cargo Carrier

Best for: Heavy loads on 2-inch receiver hitches

Mount Type

Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver)

Weight Capacity

500 lb

Basket Dimensions

60 x 24 x 14.4 in

Material

Steel

Side Rail Height

14.4 in

Receiver Size

2-inch

View on Amazon: OKLEAD 60x24x14.4 Hitch Cargo Carrier Affiliate link

This hitch-mount cargo carrier offers 500 lb capacity and measures 60 by 24 by 14.4 inches. It uses heavy-duty steel with a powder-coated finish to resist rust. The mesh surface keeps small items secure, while 14.4-inch side rails prevent sliding. It includes safety reflectors for night visibility. You should choose this if you need high weight capacity for camping gear or large luggage on a 2-inch receiver.

Pros

• 500 lb distributed weight capacity
• 60 by 24 by 14.4 inch dimensions
• Heavy-duty steel construction with powder coating
• 14.4-inch side rails prevent cargo shift

Cons

• 64-pound weight makes it bulky to handle
• No integrated locking mechanism mentioned
• Open mesh design offers no weather protection

Good fit if

• You need to haul heavy loads up to 500 lb
• You have a 2-inch receiver hitch
• You prioritize durability and high capacity over weather protection

Skip if

• You require a roof-mounted solution
• You need a compact carrier for small vehicles
• You want a locked, weather-tight enclosure

Verdict: OKLEAD 60" 500 lb Steel Hitch Carrier fits buyers who need to transport heavy camping gear or large luggage on a 2-inch receiver. It is a practical choice for those who value raw capacity and steel durability over weather protection.

4 Also great

TUFFIOM 64x39x6 in Extendable Roof Basket

Best for: adjustable length steel roof storage

Mount Type

roof-mount

Weight Capacity

250 lb

Basket Dimensions

64x39x6 in

Material

steel

Vehicle Type

Car, SUV, Truck, Van

Recommended Use

Travel, Camping

View on Amazon: TUFFIOM 64x39x6 in Extendable Roof Basket Affiliate link

The TUFFIOM roof basket offers 250 lbs of load capacity in a 64x39x6 inch steel frame. Its key feature is an extendable design, allowing you to adjust the length between 39 and 64 inches. This adaptability helps you fit smaller vehicles or maximize space for larger ones. It includes a cargo net and straps for secure transport. This carrier suits buyers needing flexible dimensions without the bulk of a hard shell.

Pros

• 250 lb weight capacity for heavy gear
• Extendable length from 39 to 64 inches
• Heavy duty tubular steel construction
• Includes cargo net and ratchet straps
• Fits cross bars up to 3.25 inches wide

Cons

• Lower 250 lb capacity compared to hitch carriers
• Open basket design offers no weather protection
• 32.6 lb weight adds roof load

Good fit if

• You need to adjust the basket length for different vehicle sizes
• You want a steel carrier with a 250 lb limit
• You prefer open-air storage for bulky items

Skip if

• You require a fully enclosed hard shell for weather protection
• You need to carry more than 250 lbs
• You want a hitch-mounted solution for easier loading

Verdict: The TUFFIOM 64x39 Extendable Steel Roof Basket provides a flexible, steel-built solution for drivers who need to adjust their cargo length. It is best for those prioritizing dimensional adaptability over enclosed protection.

5 Also great

LOCKIETTA 60" x 24" Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier

Best for: Heavy loads and compact storage

Mount Type

Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver)

Weight Capacity

500 lbs

Basket Dimensions

60" x 24" x 14.4"

Material

Steel

Side Rail Height

14.4"

Receiver Size

2"

View on Amazon: LOCKIETTA 60" x 24" Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier Affiliate link

This hitch-mounted basket offers 500 lbs of capacity in a 60 by 24 by 14.4 inch steel frame. It folds flat to save storage space. The design includes a combination lock and reflectors. You should choose this if you need heavy-duty hauling for camping gear or luggage. It fits vehicles with a 2-inch receiver.

Pros

• 500 lb weight capacity
• Folds flat for storage
• Includes combination lock
• Steel construction with rust-resistant finish

Cons

• Requires a 2-inch hitch receiver
• Open mesh design offers no weather protection
• No included mounting hardware

Good fit if

• You need to haul heavy loads up to 500 lbs
• You have a 2-inch hitch receiver
• You want a carrier that folds for compact storage

Skip if

• You only have a 1.25-inch hitch receiver
• You need a fully enclosed box for weather protection
• You prefer a roof-mounted solution

Verdict: LOCKIETTA 500 lb Hitch Cargo Carrier provides ample capacity for heavy gear. It is a solid option for users with 2-inch hitches who prioritize load strength and storage convenience.

6 Best budget

MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier

Best for: heavy, weather-resistant cargo on hitches

Mount Type

Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver)

Weight Capacity

500 lb

Basket Dimensions

60 x 21 x 6.5 in

Material

Steel

Side Rail Height

6-1/2 in

Receiver Size

2-inch

View on Amazon: MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier Affiliate link

This is a hitch-mount cargo basket made of all-steel mesh. It fits 2-inch receivers and holds up to 500 pounds. The outer dimensions are 60 by 21 by 6.5 inches. The inner basket is 59 by 20 by 5.5 inches. It includes reflectors for safety. You should use it for travel or camping gear that fits on a standard hitch receiver.

Pros

• 500 lb weight capacity
• Fits 2-inch hitch receivers
• All-steel construction
• Includes safety reflectors

Cons

• Open mesh design offers no weather protection
• Lacks a locking mechanism for security
• No integrated tie-down points listed

Good fit if

• You need to carry bulky, weather-resistant items
• You have a standard 2-inch hitch receiver
• You want a durable steel basket for heavy loads

Skip if

• You need to protect cargo from rain or dust
• You require a locking system for valuables
• You have a 1.25-inch hitch receiver

Verdict: MaxxHaul 500 lb Steel Hitch Basket is a sturdy option for hauling large, durable items. It suits buyers who prioritize weight capacity and simple steel construction over enclosed storage.

7

Nilight 84" x 39" x 6" Roof Rack Cargo Basket

Best for: long roof storage with crossbars

Mount Type

Roof-mount (crossbars)

Weight Capacity

250 lb

Basket Dimensions

84 x 39 x 6 in

Material

Steel

Side Rail Height

6 in

Vehicle Type

SUV, Truck

View on Amazon: Nilight 84" x 39" x 6" Roof Rack Cargo Basket Affiliate link

This Nilight basket measures 84 by 39 by 6 inches with a 250 lb load capacity. It mounts on roof crossbars using rubber-clad metal strips instead of U-bolts. A steel wind fairing reduces resistance and noise. The powder-coated steel resists corrosion. It suits SUVs and trucks needing extra roof storage for travel gear.

Pros

• 250 lb weight capacity
• 84 by 39 by 6 inch dimensions
• Steel wind fairing for noise reduction
• Rubber-clad mounting strips protect bars
• Powder-coated steel resists corrosion

Cons

• 250 lb capacity is lower than hitch carriers
• Requires existing roof crossbars
• Open basket design offers less security

Good fit if

• You need maximum roof length
• You already have crossbars installed
• You transport bulky outdoor gear

Skip if

• You lack roof crossbars
• You need over 250 lb capacity
• You prefer enclosed cargo boxes

Verdict: Nilight 84x39x6 Steel Roof Cargo Basket provides ample space for roof-mounted travel. It fits buyers who prioritize length and have existing crossbars.

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