We’ve all been there. The car is packed to the gills for the annual family road trip. Suitcases are wedged into the trunk like a complex puzzle, coolers are occupying the entire back seat, and there’s a rogue duffel bag sitting precariously between the kids. That’s when you realize you’ve forgotten the camping chairs and the fishing gear. It’s a moment of pure spatial defeat. This exact scenario played out in my driveway last summer, leading to a tense negotiation over what was “essential” versus what had to be left behind. Not having enough space transforms an exciting adventure into a stressful exercise in compromise. It limits your experiences, forces difficult choices, and puts a damper on the journey before it even begins. That’s when I knew we needed a better solution—a way to reclaim our vehicle’s interior and expand our cargo horizons skyward.
What to Consider Before Investing in a Roof Cargo Basket
A Vehicle Cargo Basket is more than just an accessory; it’s a key solution for reclaiming your vehicle’s interior and unlocking new possibilities for travel and transport. Whether you’re an avid camper needing space for bulky gear, a growing family on a cross-country vacation, or a DIY enthusiast hauling supplies, a roof basket provides a secure, external platform for the items that simply won’t fit inside. The primary benefit is the immediate liberation of cabin space, leading to a more comfortable, safer, and enjoyable ride for all passengers. It allows you to carry everything you need, not just what you can cram in, turning logistical headaches into simple, straightforward packing.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who frequently finds their vehicle’s internal capacity lacking. This includes outdoor adventurers, large families, and anyone who uses their SUV, truck, or crossover for more than just commuting. It’s for the person who sees their vehicle as a tool for exploration and utility. On the other hand, a roof-mounted basket might not be suitable for those who rarely travel with excess luggage, are concerned about the added height for garage clearance, or primarily drive in urban environments where fuel economy is a top priority. For those needing to haul extremely heavy items (over 500 lbs) or who prefer easier ground-level access, a hitch-mounted carrier might be a more fitting alternative.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: The physical size of the basket is paramount. You need to ensure it’s large enough for your intended cargo but also fits proportionately on your vehicle’s roof without excessive overhang. Measure your roof and crossbar spread. The ARKSEN 150LB Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo Carrier Basket, at 64 by 39 inches, offers a massive footprint, ideal for larger SUVs and trucks.
- Capacity/Performance: Pay close attention to two weight limits: the basket’s capacity and your vehicle’s roof load limit (found in your owner’s manual). The ARKSEN is rated for 150 pounds. This is crucial for safety; never exceed the lower of the two ratings. Performance also includes aerodynamics—look for a wind fairing, which helps reduce drag and noise at highway speeds.
- Materials & Durability: Most roof baskets are made of powder-coated steel, offering a great balance of strength and cost-effectiveness. While strong, steel can be susceptible to rust, especially at weld points or if the coating gets scratched. We’ve found that a little preventative maintenance, like applying a rust-inhibiting spray before installation, can dramatically extend the life of the product.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the assembly and mounting process. Most baskets, including this one, use a universal U-bolt system that attaches to existing vehicle crossbars. For long-term care, periodically check that all hardware is tight and inspect the finish for any chips or scratches that could become rust points, touching them up with black paint as needed.
Finding the right cargo solution is a critical step in preparing for any adventure. It’s about making your vehicle work for your lifestyle.
While the ARKSEN 150LB Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo Carrier Basket is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
First Impressions: Unboxing the ARKSEN Cargo Carrier
Upon arrival, the ARKSEN 150LB Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo Carrier Basket came in a surprisingly compact, heavy-duty box. This was our first clue that assembly was required. Inside, each component was neatly organized and, as many users have noted, secured with an impressive number of zip ties—have a pair of snips handy. The black powder-coated steel components felt substantial and weighty in our hands, giving an immediate sense of durability that belies its budget-friendly price point. The kit includes the main basket sections, an extension piece to reach the full 64-inch length, a steel wind fairing, and all the necessary mounting hardware.
Compared to premium-brand racks that can cost three or four times as much, the ARKSEN holds its own in terms of initial build quality. The welds are functional, if not perfectly uniform, and the powder coating provides a clean, semi-gloss finish. The instructions are basic, but the assembly is intuitive enough for anyone with a little mechanical aptitude. It quickly becomes clear that this isn’t a flimsy, throwaway accessory; it’s a serious piece of equipment designed to expand your vehicle’s utility in a big way.
What We Like
- Generous 64″ x 39″ dimensions provide a massive amount of storage space.
- Heavy-duty steel construction feels robust and ready for tough loads.
- Universal U-bolt mounting system fits a wide variety of vehicle crossbars.
- Exceptional value for the size and build quality compared to competitors.
What We Didn’t Like
- Prone to rust at weld points and joints without preventative treatment.
- Mounting bracket screws can protrude into the cargo area, potentially damaging items.
Deep Dive: Putting the ARKSEN Roof Basket to the Test
A roof rack is only as good as its performance on the road. We didn’t just assemble the ARKSEN 150LB Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo Carrier Basket in the garage; we mounted it on our test SUV, loaded it up, and took it on a 1,000-mile round trip through varying weather and road conditions. Here’s our detailed breakdown of how it performed.
Assembly and Installation: A DIY Project with a Few Caveats
Putting the ARKSEN basket together is a straightforward affair that took us about 45 minutes at a relaxed pace. The modular design, which allows you to use it with or without the center extension piece, is a clever touch. The process involves bolting the main sections together using the provided screws and plastic spacers. Here, we echo the advice of many savvy users: do yourself a favor and use your own tools. The included Allen wrench is serviceable in a pinch, but a good ratchet or hex driver will make the job much faster and allow you to get the bolts properly tightened.
A critical pro-tip we confirmed from user feedback is the value of applying a thread-locking compound (like red Loctite) to every screw. While the bolts feel tight initially, the constant vibration of the road can loosen them over time. This is a small, inexpensive step that provides significant peace of mind. Mounting the assembled basket to the vehicle’s crossbars is a two-person job due to its size and 30-pound weight. The four universal U-bolts are simple to use, but their design presents a notable drawback. The threaded ends and hand-tightened knobs face upwards, protruding slightly above the basket’s floor. As one user aptly pointed out, this means your cargo will rest directly on these screw ends. We solved this by laying down a thick moving blanket first, but it’s a design quirk worth noting. Some users have cleverly flipped the mounting plates to have the knobs face down, which is a viable, albeit slightly more complex, modification.
On the Road: Real-World Performance and Durability
Once secured, the ARKSEN basket feels like an integral part of the vehicle. We loaded it with approximately 120 pounds of gear—coolers, tents, and several waterproof cargo bags. On the highway, the included steel wind fairing does an admirable job of deflecting air up and over the cargo, significantly reducing wind noise. While there is a noticeable increase in wind noise compared to a bare roof, it was far from intrusive and was easily drowned out by the radio at a normal volume. This was confirmed by users who installed it on vehicles like the Subaru Crosstrek and noted the noise was “not horrible.”
As for fuel economy, any rooftop accessory will create drag. One user with a Jeep Renegade reported a 4-5 MPG drop on the highway, which aligns with our experience. This is a standard trade-off for the immense utility a roof basket provides and is not unique to this model. Throughout our 1,000-mile journey, which included stretches of rain and bumpy back roads, the basket remained solid. We performed checks at every stop, and the U-bolt mounts and all assembly screws (treated with thread locker) held firm without any need for retightening. The 6-inch-high side rails provided ample tie-down points for ratchet straps and cargo nets, keeping our load completely secure. We were impressed by stories from users who took this rack on epic trips, including one 8,000-mile, two-month journey where it “performed exceptionally well.” This speaks volumes about its fundamental structural integrity when properly assembled.
The Rust Factor: Proactive Protection for Longevity
The single most-discussed topic surrounding the ARKSEN 150LB Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo Carrier Basket is its long-term durability against the elements, specifically rust. Let’s be clear: this is a powder-coated steel rack. Any scratch, chip, or imperfectly sealed weld is a potential entry point for moisture, which will lead to rust. This is not a defect, but rather the nature of the material at this price point. However, our testing and the overwhelming consensus from long-term users show that this is an easily preventable issue.
We followed the community’s advice and took preemptive action. Before final assembly, we sealed every joint where the tubes connect with a bead of clear, all-weather silicone. We then sprayed the entire rack, paying special attention to the welds, with two coats of a high-performance rust-inhibiting enamel spray paint. This simple process, which adds about an hour of work and a few dollars in cost, fundamentally transforms the product’s longevity. Users who have taken similar steps, from applying clear Rust-Oleum to coating it in durable truck bed liner, report years of rust-free use. Viewing this prep work not as a hassle, but as part of the installation process, is the key to being thrilled with this purchase. For those unwilling to do this prep, it may be better to invest in a more expensive aluminum or specially coated rack.
What Other Users Are Saying
Scouring feedback from hundreds of owners, a clear picture of the ARKSEN 150LB Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo Carrier Basket emerges. The sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding the product’s incredible value. One user summed it up perfectly: “Is this thing perfect, no, not at all; but it’s also not a $600 Smitty Built either.” This highlights the rack’s target audience—those looking for maximum utility without the premium price tag. Many users, like one family who took a 1,000-mile trip, praise it for eliminating vehicle overcrowding and enabling them to bring everything they need.
The constructive criticism is just as consistent and valuable. The potential for rust is the main concern, but it’s almost always mentioned alongside the simple, effective solutions of sealing joints and applying a protective coating. One user noted, “I read the reviews and saw one that said to seal the joints against the weather and I decided to do just that.” This proactive approach is a common theme among the most satisfied owners. The other minor gripe relates to the mounting hardware, with several people mentioning the awkwardness of the knobs protruding into the cargo space. Despite these small, fixable issues, the consensus is that the rack is strong, spacious, and performs reliably on long journeys, making it a highly recommended purchase for the hands-on buyer.
How Does the ARKSEN Compare to the Alternatives?
The ARKSEN 150LB Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo Carrier Basket is a rooftop carrier, which is a key distinction from many popular alternatives that are hitch-mounted. Rooftop baskets are great for lighter, bulkier items and keep your rear hatch and backup camera fully accessible. Hitch-mounted carriers, however, excel at carrying heavier loads and are easier to access without reaching overhead. Here’s how the ARKSEN stacks up against three popular hitch-mounted options.
1. CURT 18153 60×24-Inch Basket Cargo Carrier
The CURT 18153 is a titan of the hitch-mounted world, boasting a massive 500-pound capacity. This is more than three times the ARKSEN’s limit, making it the clear choice for hauling extremely heavy items like coolers packed with ice, firewood, or heavy-duty equipment. Its 2-inch folding shank is a fantastic feature, allowing the carrier to be tilted up against the vehicle when not in use, saving space in parking lots and garages. Someone should choose the CURT over the ARKSEN if their primary concern is maximum weight capacity and they already have a 2-inch trailer hitch installed. However, it blocks rear access when loaded and lacks the aerodynamic profile of a roof rack.
2. Mockins 60″ Heavy Duty Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier w/ Waterproof Bag
The Mockins carrier is a direct competitor to the CURT, also offering a 500-pound capacity and a folding design. Its major value proposition is the inclusion of a 16 cubic foot waterproof cargo bag, ratchet straps, and a bungee net right out of the box. This creates a complete, all-in-one cargo solution that’s ready for any weather. A buyer might opt for this Mockins package if they want the convenience of a turnkey system without having to purchase a bag and straps separately. While it shares the same high capacity as the CURT, it trades the ARKSEN’s overhead placement for a package deal that emphasizes ground-level convenience and weather protection.
3. Mockins XXL 70″x30″ Cargo Carrier w/Bag
For those who need the absolute maximum amount of hitch-mounted storage, the Mockins XXL is in a class of its own. Its enormous 70×30-inch platform is significantly larger than other hitch baskets, and it comes paired with a gargantuan 40 cubic foot waterproof bag—more than double the standard size. This setup is ideal for very large families or extended trips where you need to transport a massive amount of gear. The trade-off is its sheer size; it will extend significantly from the rear of the vehicle. This is the choice for the “more is more” packer who has a vehicle large enough to handle it and values sheer volume over all else, a clear contrast to the more balanced, rooftop approach of the ARKSEN.
Final Verdict: An Unbeatable Value for the Hands-On Adventurer
After extensive assembly, road-testing, and analysis, our conclusion is clear: the ARKSEN 150LB Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo Carrier Basket represents one of the best values on the vehicle cargo market today. It delivers an expansive storage platform and a sturdy, reliable build at a fraction of the cost of big-name competitors. Its universal fit and modular design make it a versatile choice for a wide range of vehicles, instantly solving the problem of interior clutter on any road trip or hauling job.
It’s not without its quirks—namely, the need for some DIY rust-proofing and a slightly awkward mounting screw design. However, for the buyer who doesn’t mind spending an extra hour on preparation to save hundreds of dollars, these are minor hurdles. We wholeheartedly recommend this rack to families, campers, and adventurers who need maximum space on a budget and are willing to be hands-on with their gear. If you’re ready to expand your vehicle’s horizons and say goodbye to cramped car rides, this is the smart, cost-effective way to do it. You can check the current price and see more user experiences right here.
