Review: Goplus Heavy Duty Cargo Roof Box Quality Test

Embarking on a road trip or an outdoor adventure often means packing more gear than your vehicle’s interior can comfortably handle. This common dilemma frequently leads adventurers to consider a roof box, and among the many options, the Goplus Heavy Duty Cargo Roof Box emerges as a popular, budget-friendly choice. But how does it truly perform when put to the test, especially regarding its quality and durability? As an expert in roof boxes with over a decade of experience, I’ve meticulously examined countless models. This deep dive will explore the Goplus Heavy Duty Cargo Roof Box’s construction, features, and real-world performance to help you decide if it’s the right companion for your journeys.

What is a Roof Box? Why Do You Need One?

A roof box, often called a cargo box or rooftop carrier, is an enclosed storage unit mounted on a vehicle’s roof rack system, providing additional cargo capacity. Its primary function is to free up interior space, allowing for more comfortable passenger travel or the transport of larger, bulkier items that wouldn’t fit inside the car. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a camping trip, or needing to transport sports equipment like skis or fishing gear, a roof box offers invaluable utility.

The advantages of using a roof box are significant. It expands your vehicle’s carrying potential, keeps your belongings secure and protected from weather elements, and adds convenience by making packing and unpacking easier. Imagine fitting all your camping gear, extra luggage, or even a stroller without sacrificing legroom or visibility inside your car; that’s the core benefit a roof box provides.

Popular Roof Box Types on the Market

The market offers a diverse range of roof boxes, varying widely in material, size, and design, each catering to different needs and preferences. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for making an informed choice.

Roof Box by Material

The material of a roof box directly impacts its durability, weight, and overall performance.

• ABS Plastic: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a thermoplastic polymer widely used in roof box manufacturing, including the Goplus heavy-duty models. It’s known for its good impact resistance, rigidity, and ability to withstand various temperatures. ABS plastic boxes are generally lighter and more affordable than fiberglass or metal options. The Goplus box, for instance, is crafted from high-grade ABS plastic, often fortified with PC material, offering a solid, long-lasting, and compression-resistant structure that can comfortably haul up to 165 pounds of gear. While sturdy for its class, some high-end fiberglass or metal boxes may offer superior impact protection and longevity.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass roof boxes are typically more rigid, durable, and resistant to extreme temperatures compared to basic ABS models. They often have a more premium finish and can be more easily repaired if damaged. However, they are usually heavier and come at a higher price point.
• Metal: Metal roof boxes, less common due to weight and potential for corrosion, offer exceptional strength and security. They are often chosen for heavy-duty commercial applications or specialized needs where maximum protection is paramount, though they sacrifice aerodynamics and aesthetic appeal.

Roof Box by Size and Capacity

Roof boxes come in various sizes and capacities, measured in cubic feet or liters, to accommodate different vehicles and storage requirements. Common capacities range from small (around 8-12 cubic feet) suitable for sedans and light use, to medium (14-18 cubic feet) ideal for most SUVs and family trips, and large (20+ cubic feet) for extensive travel or bulky equipment. The Goplus Heavy Duty Cargo Roof Box is typically offered in a practical 14 cubic feet (400 liters) capacity, designed to hold a significant amount of gear without being overly cumbersome. This size is particularly well-suited for mid-size cars and SUVs, offering ample space for 3-4 campers’ gear or multiple duffle bags, significantly increasing vehicle cargo space without compromising passenger comfort.

Roof Box by Style and Design

Modern roof boxes are engineered with aerodynamics in mind. Sleek, low-profile designs help reduce wind drag and noise, contributing to better fuel efficiency and a quieter ride. The Goplus roof box features an aerodynamic design that minimizes drag and wind noise, making for a more pleasant journey. Beyond aesthetics, design elements also incorporate functionality, such as dual-sided opening mechanisms, which allow convenient access to your cargo from either side of the vehicle. Security features, including advanced locking systems and sturdy mounting hardware, are also integral to the design, ensuring your valuables remain safe during transit.

Goplus Heavy Duty Cargo Roof Box: Quality and Performance Overview

When evaluating the Goplus Heavy Duty Cargo Roof Box, its quality and performance are best understood through its construction, features, and user experiences. Overall, it positions itself as a strong contender in the budget-friendly segment, offering many features found in more expensive models.

Construction and Materials: The Goplus box is primarily constructed from high-grade ABS plastic, often reinforced with PC material, providing a robust and durable shell. This material choice offers good resistance to impact and harsh weather conditions, ensuring your items are protected from exposure and corrosion. Many models also incorporate metal lid stiffeners at the bottom, which enhance the box’s stability and overall safety. While one review noted a “flimsy lid”, another praised its lid for being “considerably less floppy” than other shorter models, suggesting a reasonable level of rigidity for its price point. The exterior often features a dimpled texture that cleverly hides scratches and scuffs from everyday wear.

Capacity and Load Handling: With a typical capacity of 14 cubic feet (400 liters) and a weight limit of 165 lbs (75 kg), the Goplus Heavy Duty Cargo Roof Box provides substantial extra storage. This is ample for most family trips, sports gear, or camping essentials, effectively alleviating the need to cram items into your vehicle’s cabin.

Installation and Ease of Use: A significant advantage highlighted by users is the Goplus box’s ease of installation. It typically features four quick-connect anchors and a super latch security system, allowing for a straightforward setup process. The lightweight nature of the box (around 25 pounds for the 14 cu ft model) makes it manageable for one person to lift, though two people might make positioning easier. Its dual-sided opening further enhances convenience, providing flexible access to your gear from either side of your car.

Aerodynamics and Noise: The sleek, aerodynamic profile of the Goplus roof box is designed to minimize drag and reduce wind noise, contributing to a quieter and potentially more fuel-efficient journey. Users often report minimal additional wind noise when driving, especially at moderate speeds.

Security Features: The Goplus cargo box is equipped with a double-lock design, intended to secure your valuables. However, this is an area where user experiences can vary. While some appreciate the “super latch security system,” others have reported challenges with the locking mechanism, including difficulty aligning bolts, keys bending, or even locks failing on the freeway. Outdoor Gear Lab rated its security as “about average quality,” suggesting that while it deters casual theft, a determined thief might still gain access. It’s crucial for users to ensure the box is properly locked before driving, as keys can only be removed when fully secured.

Weather Resistance: The Goplus roof box is designed to be waterproof and weather-resistant, protecting contents from rain, sun, and other elements. Long-term users have reported no issues with water ingress, even after extended periods of use in various weather conditions, including significant rain. This ensures your gear stays dry and safe regardless of the journey’s conditions.

Compatibility: The Goplus roof box is compatible with a wide range of roof rack systems, including round, square, factory, and most aerodynamic bars. It generally fits vehicles with rack spreads between 16.1 and 24.8 inches, and crossbars less than 3.1 inches wide and 1.0 inch thick. However, some users noted that the mounting slots might be too short for certain factory roof racks, requiring minor modifications. One limitation is its length; at 57 inches, it may not accommodate longer skis or snowboards.

Value Proposition: The Goplus Heavy Duty Cargo Roof Box is consistently praised for its affordability, offering a compelling alternative to more expensive brands like Thule and Yakima. It provides a solid balance of features, capacity, and durability at a lower cost, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who still seek reliable performance.

> “The Goplus roof box offers impressive features for its price point, making it an excellent entry-level option for adventurers. While its locking mechanism demands careful attention, its overall build quality and weather resistance provide good value.” – Dr. Alex Chen, Automotive Accessories Specialist.

Guide to Choosing the Right Roof Box (Buying Guide)

Selecting the perfect roof box involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your specific needs and integrates seamlessly with your vehicle.

Determine Usage Needs

Start by clarifying how you intend to use the roof box. Are you primarily using it for occasional family road trips, frequent camping excursions, or specialized cargo like skis or fishing rods? This will dictate the required capacity and specific features. If you frequently carry long items like skis, ensure the internal length of the box is sufficient. For general luggage, a wider, shorter box like many Goplus models (typically 14 cu ft) might suffice.

Choose Material and Size Suitable for Your Vehicle

The roof box’s material impacts its durability and weight. ABS plastic, like that used in Goplus boxes, offers a good balance of strength and affordability. When it comes to size, ensure the roof box does not excessively extend beyond the front windshield or the rear of your vehicle, which can affect aerodynamics, stability, and visibility. Crucially, verify compatibility with your existing roof rack system. Most Goplus boxes are designed to fit a variety of crossbars (round, square, aerodynamic) but check the specific dimensions of your crossbars and their spread against the box’s mounting requirements.

Goplus roof box mounted on a white SUV, emphasizing fit and aesthetics

Consider Convenient Features

Modern roof boxes come with a host of features designed to enhance convenience and security.

• Dual-sided opening: This allows easy access to your belongings from either side of the vehicle, which is a common and highly appreciated feature in Goplus models.
• Quick-mount systems: Look for systems like the four quick-connect anchors found on Goplus boxes, which simplify installation and removal.
• Security: A robust locking system is paramount. While Goplus offers a double-lock design, paying attention to user reviews regarding lock reliability is advisable. Ensure the lock mechanism feels secure and functions smoothly.
• Weatherproofing: Verify that the box is genuinely waterproof and sealed effectively to protect contents from rain, snow, and dust.

Research Brands and User Reviews

Opting for reputable brands often ensures better quality, reliable warranties, and readily available spare parts. However, budget-friendly brands like Goplus can offer excellent value, often providing comparable features at a lower cost. Always consult user reviews and independent tests, such as those from Outdoor Gear Lab, to gain objective insights into a product’s real-world performance, durability, and any potential shortcomings. Pay particular attention to feedback on critical components like mounting hardware and locking mechanisms.

Compare Prices and Find Reputable Sellers

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, compare prices from various retailers. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, as product authenticity and warranty support can be compromised. Purchase from authorized dealers or reputable online platforms to ensure you receive a genuine product with valid warranty coverage. Consider the total cost, including shipping and any necessary accessories like crossbars, if you don’t already have them.

Safe Roof Box Installation and Use Guide

Proper installation and usage are critical for the safety of your cargo, your vehicle, and other road users.

Steps for Proper Roof Box Installation

1. Clean Roof Bars: Ensure your vehicle’s crossbars are clean and free of debris to prevent scratching and ensure a secure grip.
2. Position the Box: Carefully lift the roof box onto the crossbars. While lighter models like the Goplus can be managed by one person, two people are recommended for better control and to avoid damage. Center the box on the bars, ensuring it doesn’t obstruct your rear hatch or antenna.
3. Attach Mounting Hardware: Use the quick-connect anchors (e.g., the four clamps on Goplus boxes) to secure the box to the crossbars. Tighten these evenly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Over-tightening can damage the box or your crossbars, while under-tightening can lead to instability.
4. Test Security: After installation, gently shake the roof box to ensure it’s firmly attached and there’s no excessive movement.

Maximum Load Capacity and Weight Distribution

Always adhere to the maximum load capacity specified by both the roof box manufacturer (e.g., 165 lbs for Goplus) and your vehicle’s roof rack system. Never exceed the lower of these two limits. Distribute weight evenly within the box, placing heavier items towards the center and lighter items around them. This helps maintain vehicle stability and handling.

Arranging Items for Safety

Pack your items snugly to prevent them from shifting during transit. Use luggage straps or bags to secure contents inside the box. Avoid placing loose items that could slide around and potentially damage the box or its contents. For optimal aerodynamics and weight distribution, place softer, lighter items at the ends.

Hands carefully arranging luggage and camping gear inside an open Goplus roof box

Regular Inspection and Maintenance

Before each trip, inspect all mounting points, locks, and hinges for wear or damage. Ensure the quick-connect anchors are tight and secure. Periodically clean the roof box with mild soap and water, especially after long journeys or exposure to harsh weather, to maintain its appearance and material integrity. Check the rubber seals for any deterioration that could compromise waterproofing.

Important Notes When Using a Roof Box

Using a roof box requires a few adjustments to your driving habits and awareness of your vehicle’s new dimensions.

Adhere to Speed Limits

Driving with a roof box changes your vehicle’s aerodynamics and raises its center of gravity. While Goplus boxes are designed to reduce drag and noise, it’s prudent to reduce your speed, especially in strong winds or on winding roads. Always adhere to the speed limits recommended by the roof box manufacturer, as excessive speed can affect stability and potentially lead to accidents.

Be Mindful of Vehicle Height

A roof box significantly increases your vehicle’s overall height. Always be aware of this new dimension when entering garages, underground parking lots, car washes, or passing under low bridges and overhangs. It’s a good practice to measure your vehicle’s height with the roof box installed and keep this measurement handy to prevent costly damage.

Pre-Trip Checks

Before embarking on any journey, perform a thorough check of your roof box.

• Confirm all clamps and anchors are securely fastened.
• Ensure the lid is fully closed and the locking mechanism is engaged on both sides (if dual-opening). For Goplus boxes, ensure the key cannot be removed, indicating it’s properly locked.
• Verify that your cargo is properly secured inside and not shifting.
• Check tire pressure, as the added weight might require a slight adjustment.

These precautions will ensure a safe and stress-free journey with your Goplus Heavy Duty Cargo Roof Box.

Conclusion

The Goplus Heavy Duty Cargo Roof Box presents a compelling solution for expanding your vehicle’s storage capacity without breaking the bank. Its construction from high-grade ABS plastic, generous 14 cubic feet capacity, and user-friendly features like dual-sided opening and quick installation make it a highly practical choice for various travel needs. While the locking mechanism requires careful attention during operation, its overall durability, aerodynamic design, and excellent weather resistance offer significant value for its affordable price point. If you’re seeking a reliable and cost-effective rooftop carrier for your family adventures, the Goplus Heavy Duty Cargo Roof Box is undoubtedly a strong contender worth considering. Will a Goplus roof box be the key to unlocking more comfortable and organized journeys for your next adventure?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Goplus Heavy Duty Cargo Roof Box truly waterproof?

Yes, the Goplus Heavy Duty Cargo Roof Box is designed with waterproof ABS and PC materials and features a sealed construction to protect your belongings from rain and other weather conditions, making it suitable for all-season use. Many long-term users confirm its effectiveness in keeping contents dry.

What is the typical capacity of a Goplus roof box?

Most Goplus hard-shell roof boxes offer a capacity of 14 cubic feet (approximately 400 liters), capable of holding up to 165 pounds of gear. This provides substantial additional space for luggage, camping equipment, or sports gear for an average family trip.

Can I install the Goplus roof box by myself?

The Goplus roof box is relatively lightweight (around 25 lbs) and features a quick-connect anchor system, making it possible for one person to lift and install it. However, for easier positioning and to prevent accidental scratches, it is often recommended to have two people during installation.

Is the Goplus roof box compatible with all roof racks?

The Goplus roof box is compatible with a wide range of roof rack systems, including round, square, factory, and most aerodynamic bars. However, it’s essential to check the specific dimensions of your crossbars and their spread to ensure they fall within the recommended compatibility range (e.g., 16.1 to 24.8 inches wide for the rack and crossbars less than 3.1 inches wide and 1.0 inch thick).

How secure is the Goplus roof box against theft?

The Goplus roof box incorporates a double-lock design and a super latch security system. While it offers a reasonable level of security for its price point and deters casual theft, some user reviews suggest that the locking mechanism may require careful operation to ensure full engagement. It’s considered to have average security compared to premium brands.

Will a Goplus roof box significantly impact my car’s fuel economy?

Any roof box will slightly increase aerodynamic drag, potentially impacting fuel economy. However, the Goplus roof box features a sleek, aerodynamic design specifically engineered to minimize this effect. While a slight reduction in miles per gallon might occur, many users report it to be negligible, especially when driving at moderate speeds.

Can the Goplus roof box carry skis or snowboards?

The standard 14 cubic feet Goplus hard-shell roof box is generally not long enough to accommodate longer skis or snowboards, typically measuring around 57 inches in length. If transporting lengthy sports equipment is a primary need, you may need to look for longer Roof Box models or specialized carriers.