Abstract: Cargo rack systems are described. The systems include side rails that are easily attached to support members mounted on a vehicle's roof portion. The side rails include an opening such as a channel portion formed on a top surface thereof. One or more fastening members are then employed to secure the side rails to the stanchions. The cross rails are easily attached to the side rails in any number of configurations. The cross rails are fastened to a stanchion with one or more fastening members, wherein the stanchion fits over the cross rail, with the stanchion being fastened to the side rail with a clamp member that is fastened to the stanchion by one or more fastening members. In this manner, any number of different combinations and different types of cargo rack systems may be easily attached to the vehicle's roof portion.