The trick of road tripping is figuring out how to fit all of your belongings in the vehicle without compromising on ease of movement or security. If you detest packing the car, maybe it’s time to consider a roof box, and Thule is a brand you may be familiar with.
With a Thule Roof Box, you can rest assured that your automobile has a reliable load carrier.
Thule has been one of the leading brands of rooftop luggage boxes and automobile storage solutions for many years, frequently receiving “best-in-test” accolades from industry experts and consumers alike. It’s not hard to see why, considering their impeccable safety record, varied roof box sizes, and use of long-lasting, high-quality materials.
You can use the info in this overview to Thule’s car roof boxes to determine whether one is right for you.
What is a thule roof box?
With an ever-expanding market, it can be difficult to determine just what purchase and how to obtain the best value in a car roof box. Since its inception in 1942 in Sweden, Thule has become widely recognized for manufacturing high-quality roof racks, bike racks as well as cargo boxes that are also secure, aesthetically pleasing, and simple to operate.
Cargo containers with a Thule roof box are tough and weatherproof. These multifunctional items are made to ease your mind while on the road by accommodating a wide variety of storage demands. Thule makes a case for just about any kind of outdoor gear or travel necessities, be it a camp stove, snowboard, deck chair, or fly rod.
Rooftop storage is a game-changer for people who regularly go on road trips. Their ability to adapt to different situations is remarkable. A roof box can be found in an abundance of forms, including numerous sizes, colors, and styles. Of course, Thule excels at this to a remarkable degree. The strength, stiffness, and polish of Thule roof boxes are generally constant between models. Because of the two doors on most Thule roof boxes, loading and unloading are a breeze.
How much weight can a thule cargo box hold?
Thule’s assortment of roof boxes varies from long and thin to wide and heavy, so you can transport everything from skis to fishing rods to your entire camping set-up. Outdoorsy types can find boxes in a variety of sizes and forms to store their stuff, whether it’s for camping, climbing, skiing, or surfing. You can fit more supplies in a higher capacity box if you have a bigger car, but that’s also dependent on the box’s form and size. One of the greater capacity crates might not fit in your Yaris, but it will fit on your Suv with no issues.
When it comes to storage capacity, how much can you fit in a Thule roof box? Thule rooftop containers come in sizes as small as ten to twelve cubic feet, making them suitable for carrying the belongings of one or two individuals. The largest of the cargo containers, at 20 cubic feet or more, can hold five people and their belongings, at the very least.
Typically, a four-person family may fit into a storage unit that is 15 to 18 feet in length, making this size the most common. Fishing rods and skis fit perfectly in longer variants, while most luggage and camping gear fits in shorter boxes. Tools and other small objects can be easily transported in a box, whereas larger items like wheelbarrows might be difficult to fit in a roof box.
If you want to store as much as possible on your Honda Accord’s roof, you’ll need a box around the size of a Honda Accord’s trunk. Expanding the length of objects you can carry and the amount of space you have available for storing are both possible. Having a spacious roof box makes it much easier to haul heavy lumber, supplies, and equipment back from the hardware store.
The Thule Force XT XXL is the longest roof box available at 92.5 inches in length. This box can fit as many as seven pairs of Nordic skis with a width of 215 centimeters. The extra-large Force XT, like the standard Motion XT, has a weight capacity of 165 pounds and a volume of 22 cubic feet.
Although it is somewhat lengthy, the layout makes it simple to reach the back seats of most regular cars. This lengthy Thule container has dimensions of 35.5 inches in width and 18 inches in height.
What is the biggest thule roof box?
There are two different Thule models that meet the criteria for the largest box that is currently available. Even the largest and most cumbersome pieces of equipment can be stored in any of these two large-capacity boxes, regardless of whether you prioritize length, width, or capacity storage.
The Thule Motion XT XXL has the maximum weight rating of any Thule box. It has a 22-cubic-foot capacity and can accommodate belongings weighing up to 165 pounds. Additionally, with a width of 37.5 inches, this option provides the most space-efficient breadth of any Thule box.
The length of the Motion XT XXL is 91.5 inches, and its height is 18 inches. It weighs 55 pounds, which is less than many other boxes of a larger size. The Motion XT features a one-of-a-kind design that optimizes both its capacity and its aerodynamics, making it compatible with a diverse range of vehicles. Users have stated that it is calm on the road, despite the fact that it is quite large.
With the Motion XT XXL, you can easily open the trunk of your car, and there’s plenty of room for larger items. It would be a waste of money to pay for more storage only to be unable to access the back of your vehicle. Access is made simple and speedy thanks to the lid-lifters and grip-friendly grips that are integrated into the two holes on either side of the container.
What are thule cargo boxes made of?
Safety, strength, and longevity are the hallmarks of Thule roof storage boxes. The five-layer box is made from automotive-grade acrylic, a lightweight and impact-resistant material commonly used in molding applications. If environmental considerations are high on your wish list for a storage box, you will be delighted to learn that Thule uses up to 80% recyclable materials in the construction of several of their products.
The desired form is formed by heating a big sheet of plastic, then vacuum-forming it into the appropriate shape. By including grooves and various other indentations in their designs, Thule molds are intended to deliver an increased level of both strength and stability. The base of the majority of boxes include embedded support bars that serve to increase the rigidity of the box as well as its capacity to carry weight. Struts with a dual purpose ensure that the lid of the box will stay firmly in place and can be opened without the need for holding or propping it. The design and features of your rooftop container will be very customizable.
When they are being used, car roof boxes are subjected to practically unbroken contact with the elements, especially the sun. The material that makes up the outside has had ultraviolet protection added to it to ward off fading and other forms of sun damage. Depending on the model, you can choose from a glossy finish or a matte finish in either black, gray, or white. Thule is capable of producing a wide variety of surface textures. The Sonic Alpine box, for instance, has a dimpled top like a golf ball’s surface to increase its aerodynamic efficiency. Thule’s Force products have a diamond-patterned AeroSkin surface that improves aerodynamics and keeps rain out of the box.
The sides of the majority of Thule boxes feature various lock-down points that can be used to secure the box. Thule’s innovative dual-side opening is made possible by these devices, which function as locks and hinges.
The components that go into making Thule storage boxes are put through rigorous testing across a wide variety of criteria. An exciting journey awaits visitors who delve into the product testing section of Thule’s website. Thule invests a significant amount of time and resources to ensure that its products can withstand every imaginable kind of severe weather.
In order to verify the materials’ long-term durability and tensile strength, the boxes need to be able to withstand simulations of wear and tear, which may include drop, shock, and crash testing. Each Thule box goes through a rigorous approval process that involves a virtual world tour in which it is subjected to everything from arctic cold to pelting rain to desert heat to severe winds.
Are thule roof boxes waterproof?
Given that roof storage boxes spend most of their time exposed to the weather, it’s important to have faith that your items will be in good shape once you’ve reached your destination. Just like any other hard-shelled rooftop storage box, Thule boxes are not completely waterproof. But that’s merely a question of procedure…
Even when entirely submerged in water, the interior of a product must be able to maintain its dry state in order for the object to be considered waterproof. The construction of Thule storage boxes is such that they are impervious to the effects of precipitation like rain and snow. The components that make up the shell are water resistant, and the apertures have seals installed to prevent moisture and wet conditions from getting inside. The rugged exterior of the Thule and its curved aerodynamics both contribute to the box’s weatherproofing properties by efficiently channeling moisture away from the container.
Even if severe weather is forecast for the duration of your road journey, you shouldn’t let your anxiety over it get the best of you. Your gear won’t get wet if you don’t overstuff the box and make sure it’s properly sealed and secured once you put it away.
How Do You Install a Thule Roof Box?
It’s crucial that your Thule box is easy to install and remove from your vehicle for the times when you don’t need it. The attachment systems that Thule makes have been developed with the user’s comfort and safety in mind.
You can’t just throw a roof storage box on top of your car — you need a roof rack strong enough to handle the load. Some cars don’t have a roof rack or bars installed when you buy them, but many do. There is a wide selection of aftermarket roof bars available, and you should have no trouble locating one that is a suitable match for your automobile.
The good news is that Thule boxes are made to fit on the majority of the market’s most popular roof racks. It is highly suggested that you make sure the Thule box you want to purchase is compatible with the roof rack you currently have. Roof racks have different weight capacities, so it’s important to pick one that can support your load if it has a large roof cargo box. Thule and other manufacturers produce a wide variety of roof racks, and they make it simple and straightforward to select the rack that is best suited for your car using online tools.
Your Thule roof box can now be mounted on your car’s top after you’ve had a suitable roof rack installed. If your box has Thule’s characteristic AcuTight bolts, you’ll need to open the clamps at the bottom by turning the knobs on the interior of the box. Because of this, positioning will be considerably simpler. When it comes to putting the container onto the roof, the majority of box sizes require the assistance of a second person. Before you attach the container to your rack, you will need to take into consideration a number of different elements while the box is lying on the cross bars of the roof rack.
The idea is to move the box forward enough to avoid interfering with any roof antennas while yet having full access to the trunk. It is important that the box does not protrude forward past the top of the windscreen. Thule boxes should not be used if they prevent the back hatch from opening and closing without some effort. While this is not necessarily dangerous, it is inconvenient and may cause damage to either the vehicle or the box. Whether or not you are also transporting another item, such a bicycle, on the rack will determine how the box is positioned with respect to the horizontal and vertical axes. In the event that there is not a second item, put the rack in the middle of the room.
After the roof rack has been installed, a Thule box can be fastened to it by a single individual. The bolts that secure your roof box to your roof rack can only be tightened from the inside of the box, adding an extra layer of safety. In order to gain access to the interior mechanism for fastening, you will most likely be required to open one of the doors of your car and walk on the step-in plate. Some Thule products have strong U-bolts that go all the way around the bars of the roof rack and into the storage compartment. Plates of reinforcement inside the box provide a solid anchor between the container and the rack above it.
Claw-like clamps on other Thule boxes are easily positioned along the roof rack thanks to a sliding roof mount system. Large, easy-grip knobs inside the box fasten the clamps that hold the roof rack rods. By turning the bolt clockwise, the clamps may be closed and the box can be fastened to the rack.
When the box is securely fastened in place by the Thule AcuTight mounting system, you will receive both tactile and audible feedback in the form of a click. This feedback will let you know that the system is working as intended. This device, similar to that found on a gas cap, protects the cap from being over- or under-tightened.
The installation process is simplified by the dual-side opening feature of the Thule roof rack, which allows the mounting bolts to be accessed from either side. When you hear the distinctive click from each of the bolts, it means that you are ready to start loading things into your storage box.
How to remove a thule roof box?
In keeping with Thule’s reputation for user-friendly products, the company has made it simple to remove a roof box. To release the clamps that attach the box to the roof rack, just unscrew each knob from the inside of a box equipped with the AcuTight fastening mechanism.
You can disassemble systems held together by U-bolts and plates by loosening the easy-grip knobs. As soon as the locking mechanisms are released, the box may be removed from the roof rack and set down on a level surface.
Unless you have a very tiny roof box, you should probably enlist the aid of another person to assist you in lowering the box down from the roof. Even after all of that safety tests, you don’t want to take the chance of letting go of the box and having it drop to the ground, so it’s best to leave it to the professionals. It may well be enticing to do it yourself.
How do you unlock a Thule box?
Even the keys, locks, and closing mechanisms used by Thule are innovative creations made with safety and usability in mind. When it comes to making sure the box stays closed and locked, Thule has you covered, too.
A single key will unlock the lock on both sides of a box having a dual-sided opening. Many Thule boxes include a key slot in the middle of a comfortable LockKnob, enabling them to open with gloves on.
The Thule SlideLock system is used on certain other boxes, and it has two distinct locking and closing mechanisms. By sliding the SlideLock tab to the side, you may secure the lid, and a light will turn on to show you that the lid has been securely closed. All latches must be properly engaged before the key can be turned, adding an extra layer of security. If the box lid isn’t closed and locked, the key won’t come out of the lock.
How do you open a Thule roof box without the key?
A key-operated lock is included on all Thule rooftop containers. There are two keys for each brand-new container. It’s fairly uncommon to lose something in the chaos of packing or unpacking. You may get a new key for your Thule box if you ever misplace the original. Key replacement requires the four-digit number printed on the lock core’s face.
Replacement keys often take between three days and a week to arrive. A locksmith may be necessary if waiting many days is not an option. Given the importance the company places on security, opening a Thule safe requires more than just a fumble with the lock. You may want to see a locksmith if you require quick access to the box.
If the lock on your storage container breaks and you can’t get inside, you may buy a new lock from Thule or another company. In the event that no key fits into the lock, the cylinder may need to be drilled out and replaced. If you take this route, be cautious not to puncture the plastic around the area.
Thule offers both replacement locks and comprehensive instructions for putting them in. Thule sells change keys in case you wish to replace the lock cylinder but the lock itself is in good working order. The cylinder may then be taken out and swapped out for a new one. You can find the replacement cylinder for your Thule storage box and the corresponding component number for your model on the website.
How Do You Repair a Thule Cargo Box?
Let’s say you’ve forgotten your Thule box on the roof when you pulled into your garage. As you drive in, you barely avoid hitting the garage door, which causes the box’s top to chip or dent. It would take a lot to hurt a Thule, but it’s not impossible. Plastic becomes increasingly brittle and more prone to breaking as the temperature drops.
DIY solutions like epoxy resins, liquid rubber, liquid glue, and patches may be used to repair small dings and cracks. In order to perform your specific sort of repair, you may choose from a wide variety of supplies, procedures, and processes, each of which comes with its own set of in-depth instructions. Tape is used to support the crack before filling it with the substance of your choice, curing it, and finally sanding and polishing. This procedure is analogous to that of vehicle body repair. We suggest getting an expert opinion from a plastic repair agency and having them assess the damage and make any necessary repairs for you if the fractures or dings are extensive.
Spare parts and repair kits are available for every Thule roof box model in the event of damage to the mechanism or the need for maintenance. You may buy a wide variety of components, including adjusting knobs, locks, hardware kits, lifters, seals, and more.
How do you store a Thule car top carrier?
During the warmer months, you’ll want to put away your ski gear, so removing the roof storage box is a must if that’s how you typically use it. Depending on the specifics of your scenario, there are several viable options for stowing away your box.
A garage, storage shed, or basement that is large enough to house your Thule would be ideal. Make sure it’s on a solid, flat surface, however. If the box has to be relocated, a towel or blanket placed below it might assist prevent damage to the bottom. Protect your box from the weather by storing it indoors or under a tarp if you have to keep it outdoors.
Not an issue if you can’t seem to locate a suitable spot for your Thule. You won’t have to hide it beneath the golf clubs, the holiday decorations, and the camping gear every autumn. Thule is aware of how precious garage space is, which is why the company has developed cutting-edge storage options for rooftop boxes and other types of outdoor gear.
A Thule MultiLift is indeed a pulley mechanism that may be installed on the ceiling of a garage or basement to provide convenient, out-of-the-way storage for a box. Using a pulley system and some sturdy ropes, you can hoist your storage box to the uppermost floor. Users prefer lifts where they can crank the mechanism themselves instead of having to deal with the ropes.
It is essential to check the weight capacity of the lift you want to purchase before making a purchase decision. As a high-capacity lift, the Thule MultiLift can hold up to 220 pounds without a problem. You won’t have to worry about the top end being scratched up if you crash against the lifting mechanism, thanks to the rubber bumper. The equipment is pre-assembled and includes drill templates for quick and simple assembly. Instead of keeping your Thule box in your MultiLift, you may keep your canoe, kayak, or surfboard in it.
Cargo containers mounted on a vehicle’s roof rack should be cleaned thoroughly before being put away in storage since they may become rather grimy during usage. In addition to protecting the paint job from being scratched by storage straps or ropes, this also protects you from a clump of dirt crashing down on your noggin as you exit your vehicle.
Cleansing should be done using a mild soapy mixture that doesn’t include any harsh chemicals like ammonia, chlorine, or alcohol. It’s best to give the box a quick rinse before applying cleaning solution and wiping it down with a microfiber cloth. After washing, rinse with fresh water and pat dry with a fresh microfiber towel. You may be certain that your travel container will be spotless and ready for use when you need it.
Where would you recommend I put my Thule roof box? It is dependent upon how much room you have for storage. If you’re short on room at home, the Thule MultiLift provides a clever answer without taking up any more square footage.
Which Cargo Box Brand Is Better, Yakima or Thule?
If you’ve done any research on roof racks for your car, you probably already know that Thule and Yakima are the finest brands out there. Sweden’s own Thule has gone global because to the quality of its goods, which have won praise for their cutting-edge engineering and stylish looks. The Washington State-based brand Yakima is well-known for the quality and usefulness of its wares.
Thule and Yakima both make high-quality, durable, and practical storage containers that will keep your belongings dry and safe on their way to their final destination. The two brands are almost identical in terms of how quickly and easily they can be set up and how seriously they take issues of safety and protection.
Both companies stand behind their storage boxes with lifetime guarantees, although Yakima’s warranty is more restricted in scope. Users have shown a preference for Yakima’s installation process, while Thule’s characteristic click indication takes the guesswork out of adjusting the clamps.
According to feedback from customers, Thule is somewhat better than Yakima because of its sleeker, more aerodynamic designs and higher quality, more specialized finishes. While these amenities are convenient, they may add up in cost, making Yakima the better option for those on a tighter budget. Thule also has a wider variety of automobile storage goods and accessories than its competitors. In the end, any manufacturer is a safe bet. Thule is an excellent buy if you care about appearances and don’t mind spending a little extra money.
An additional storage option is a car roof luggage box, which is especially useful if you’ve been taking long car trips with bulky items like a snowboard sticking out of the front seat.
Carrying too much luggage is not only a hassle for the passengers, but it may also be dangerous for the driver. Cargo containers for the roof are not the kind of novelty item you’ll acquire and then never use. Every season, their adaptability and practicality have proven their worth.
