Equipping your vehicle with the best hitch cargo carrier is always the best solution to free up your vehicle’s back seat while optimizing the storage space for your loads during any trip. It gives you instant storage space without disturbing the back view while you’re driving.
However, you must choose the right one that not just fits your vehicle hitch receivers but also your needs and budget.
Rest assured, we’re here to help!
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Table of Contents
Best Hitch Cargo Carrier Comparison Chart 2021
Comparing products side-by-side is an important step for everyone during their decision-making process as it helps you find out the best hitch cargo carrier for your needs.
That’s why we made this comparison chart:
What Are The Best Hitch Cargo Carrier To Buy?
If your time funds are limited, this section comes in handy because it aggregates the strengths of each option in our review list, as well as points out what is the best hitch cargo carrier for you to buy:
- Best Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag: FIVKLEMNZ Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best for Tahoe: Pro Series 63153 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best for Honda Pilot: MaxxHaul 70107 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best for Subaru Outback: ROLA 59102 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best for RV: MaxxHaul 70108 49″ Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best Rola Cargo Carrier: ROLA 59119 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best for SUV: Tow Tuff TTF-2762KR Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best for Toyota 4Runner: ROLA 59502 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best for Jeep Wrangler: MaxxHaul 70422 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best With Ramp: MaxxHaul 70275 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best for Trailer Hitch: Tricam ACC-1F Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best for Bike Racks: Pro Series 63155 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier: CURT 18153 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best for Truck: Highland 1042000 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier: ARKSEN Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best CURT Hitch Cargo Carrier: CURT 18145 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best for Cars: CURT 18110 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best for Flex Ford: Vault Cargo Management Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best Overall for 2021: CURT 18152 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best Aluminum Cargo Basket: Detail K2 HCC502A Hitch Cargo Carrier
Top 20 Best Hitch Cargo Carrier Reviews In 2021
Now, we guess you’ve had some of your potential candidates in your mind, let this section help you filter out and pick the best hitch cargo carrier to buy:
FIVKLEMNZ Hitch Cargo Carrier


Start off this list with the FIVKLEMNZ Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag, which offers 20 cubic feet area. It efficiently solves a common problem when it comes to other ordinary hitch cargo carrier rack – limited storage space.
You can put up to 8 suitcases and other large items like sleeping bags, tents, and luggage case easily.
The bag is made of 100% PVC tarpaulin cloth with a waterproof zipper plus a double flap, which makes it a perfect choice to use in extreme weather conditions.
With the additional six reinforced adjustable straps, it is arguably one of the safest cargo carrier bags out there. The biggest bonus is it’s backed by a 12-month limited warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
When not in use, you can simply hold it to get it out of the way. Very convenient!
Pros
- Dependable and reliable
- 100% waterproof and secure
- Easy to install
- Large storage space
Cons
- Prone to deform
Product specs:
| Dimensions | 59″*23″*23″ |
| Weight | 7.39 pounds |
| Capacity | 20 cubic feet |
| Highlight features | 12 months limited warranty & 30 days money-back guarantee
PVC tarpaulin cloth, heat welded and stitched seams, a double flap, and a genuine waterproof zipper 20 cubic feet capacity 6 reinforced adjustable straps |
Pro Series 63153 Hitch Cargo Carrier


Pro Series 63153 is one of the most popular lines these days for any vehicle with a Class III, 2″ receiver, which means if you own a Tahoe, like Tahoe 2003 and Tahoe 2007, it is a perfect choice.
Its price is a little bit on the expensive side, in turn, the whole construction is coated with corrosion-resistant black powder finish along with smart, rugged mesh floors. This awesome combo makes its longevity lengthen significantly while the maintenance is not a problem.
It also appears to be sturdy with a weight capacity of 500 pounds.
The rise shank construction rises the cargo, improving its ground clearance a lot. You’re also able to attach other accessories for experience enhancement if wanted, like functional light systems or bike clips. But take note that they’re sold separately.
Watch Pro Series 63153 Hitch Cargo Carrier review video here:
Pros
- Durable, weather-resistant, and sturdy
- Easy to clean
- Improve ground clearance
Cons
- Lack of some basic reflectors
Product specs:
| Dimensions | 60” L x 24” W x 5.5” H |
| Weight | 60 lbs. |
| Capacity | 500 lbs. |
| Highlight features | durable powder coat finish
rise shank design Weight capacity – 500 lbs. Smart, rugged mesh floors |
MaxxHaul 70107 Hitch Cargo Carrier


If you are in need a hitch cargo carrier that fits well Honda Pilot without wobbling while you are driving, the MaxxHaul 70107 is your best bet.
It is specifically designed to fit all Class III and IV Standard 2” Hitch Receivers, with a distributed weight capacity of 500 pounds. It’s measured by 53” x 19” x 5”, highlighting a heavy-duty steel construction coated with a black powder finish to resist corrosion and rust.
Making it superior to the Pro Series 63153 is the added reflectors for safety reasons.
Besides, the high side rails allow the carrier to keep taller items more safely.
So whether you’re about to go camping or want instant cargo space for handling your luggage, this is a more affordable pick.
Pros
- Perfect for Class III and IV Standard 2” Hitch Receivers
- Able to keep taller items more safely
- Equipped with some reflectors for safety reasons
Cons
- Require tightening the parts
Product specs:
| Dimensions | Inner basket size: 51-1/2 x 17-1/2 x 4 inch
Outer basket size: 53 x 19 x 5 inch |
| Weight | 22.3 pounds |
| Capacity | 500 lbs. |
| Highlight features | high side rails & steel tubular construction
500 lbs. weight capacity reflectors |
ROLA 59102 Hitch Cargo Carrier


For those who are driving a Subaru Forester and want something that can last for years come, even in extreme conditions, this is it.
This hitch cargo carrier box by ROLA is quite similar to the FIVKLEMNZ above: made of premium-quality, rainproof material secured by 6 straps.
But this one is a bit higher-end (but don’t worry, we often find it to be on a discount on Amazon).
The key elements making it stand out of the competition are the added two inner pockets for organizing smaller stuff and the expandable storage. Thanks to the extra zipper, it’s able to expand from 9.5 cubic feet to 11.5 cubic feet.
The dimensions are also changed from 11.6” x 5.7” x 9.2” to 19” x 22” x 48”. When not in use, just collapse the design for simple storage.
Pros
- Help with organization
- Expandable storage
- Able to collapse for neat storage
Cons
- Not hold the shape on its own
Product specs:
| Dimensions | Expanded Dimensions: 48” L X 19” W X 22” H
Un-Expanded Dimensions : 9.2″ L x 11.6″ W x 5.7″ H |
| Weight | 0.16 ounces |
| Capacity | 9.5 to 11.5 cu ft |
| Highlight features | 2 interior pockets
Premium quality rainproof construction Collapsible design Storage space expands from 9.5 Cu. ft of storage to 11.5 Cu. feet |
MaxxHaul 70108 49″ Hitch Cargo Carrier


Regardless of your RV line, as long as it features 2” hitch receivers, this basket-style cargo carrier should fit perfectly.
As constructed from extruded aluminum material, one person can easily install as well as detach it when in need. Meanwhile, the carrier gives a sturdy and durable hand-feel with a 500-pound distributed weight capacity. It also resists rust, dirt, and corrosion for easy maintenance.
Designed with safety in mind, it is equipped with red-colored corners and a reflector lens for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.
The high side rails are another big plus to keep it in place as well as offer extra security when accommodating taller items.
Pros
- Provide extra visibility
- Hold taller things more securely
- Lightweight, easy to install but durable, and rust-resistant
Cons
- The hitch mount bolts are prone to deform
Product specs:
| Dimensions | Inner basket size: 47-1/4 x 20-1/4 x 6 inch
Outer basket size: 49-1/4 x 22-1/2 x 7-1/4 inch |
| Weight | 29.3 pounds |
| Capacity | 500 Lbs. |
| Highlight features | High side rails
red-colored corners & reflector lens extruded aluminum material fit standard Class III and IV hitch receivers. |
ROLA 59119 Hitch Cargo Carrier


If extra-large storage space is your top priority when looking for a hitch cargo carrier bag, this is the best ROLA line that’s worth investing in.
It is just like a bigger version (measured by 59″ x 24″ x 24″) of the ROLA 59102 (47.5″ x 27.5″ x 10.75″). That also means it should fit great cargo baskets sizing 60 x 24″ or larger.
The best thing about this line is that you can pack it at least 6” to 8” above the top. Additionally, the Velcro, zippers, and flaps keep your kinds of stuff inside ultimately dry regardless of the weather.
A good thing is you can fold the carrier up for easy storage when you aren’t using it.
Pros
- Perfect for cargo baskets sizing 60 x 24″ or larger
- Keep items inside ultimately dry
- Easy to store
Cons
- The zip needs careful handling around the sharp corners.
Product specs:
| Dimensions | 59″ x 24″ x 24″ |
| Weight | 8.6 pounds |
| Capacity | 20 Cu Ft |
| Highlight features | measured by 59″ x 24″ x 24″
watertight Velcro, zippers, and flaps foldable construction |
Tow Tuff TTF-2762KR Hitch Cargo Carrier


Built to be a rigid mount system, the Tow Tuff TTF-2762KR is a dependable option for your SUV.
It doesn’t have the ability to swing down or out of the way while attached to your vehicle and as the carrier is assembled below the SUV’s bumper in the receiver mount, just worry-free to open your trunk. Featuring a weight capacity of 500 pounds and a 2-in-1 construction, it can haul a bike without wobbling.
The factory wheel cradles are designed to fit all types of bikes, with a capacity of up to 4 bicycles at a time, which is a huge bonus.
We do appreciate that it comes with a tie-down strap.
Although made of heavy-duty steel, it is very easy to install. One can mount it to their SUV alone with no problem.
Pros
- Multifunctional – work as an ordinary hitch cargo carrier and a bike rack
- Able to keep 4 bikes at a time without wobbling
- Easy to mount by one person
Cons
- Prone to get scratched
Product specs:
| Dimensions | 27” x 62” x 3” |
| Weight | 10.2 ounces |
| Capacity | 500 lbs. |
| Highlight features | Includes a tie-down strap
The universal-fitting wheel cradles adjustable wheel holder and tie-down holes 2-in-1 carrier design |
ROLA 59502 Hitch Cargo Carrier


This option has got plenty of suggestions from Toyota 4Runner owners.
Most of them gave compliments for its ease of installation thanks to the minimalist 2-piece construction, its decent durability, quality, and high capacity. As crafted from a heavy-duty steel material with a corrosion-resistant black powder, it is strong and long-lasting.
In addition to the extra-large 600-pound distributed weight capacity, it is a fantastic choice to haul bigger items, such as camping gear, coolers, bags, and many more.
Unlike aluminum, it isn’t prone to deform, either. On the other hand, it has a fully functional lighting system for extra safety at night.
Pros
- Provide extra-large storage space
- Durable, sturdy, and long-lasting
- Extra safety and visibility at night
Cons
- The price is on the expensive side
Product specs:
| Dimensions | 56 x 23 x 5 Inches |
| Weight | 73.2 pounds |
| Capacity | 600 lbs. |
| Highlight features | a fully functional lighting system
2-piece assembly Strong, high-quality, heavy-duty steel construction A 600-pound weight capacity |
MaxxHaul 70422 Hitch Cargo Carrier


At this great price, this high-quality, easy-to-assemble, and lightweight hitch cargo carrier with a 500-pound load capacity seems to be a real bargain.
It is specifically designed to fit all 2” x 2” Class III and IV hitch receivers, which also means that this option can fit nicely any jeep wranglers without interfering with the spare tire or rear door. The extruded aluminum material gives you plenty of strength and support to handle heavy stuff up to 500 pounds.
Regardless, it is lightweight enough that an elderly can easily lift and have it installed within minutes. Meanwhile, the extra-large dimensions with taller side rails allow it to carry 2 big-sized coolers at once without deforming or falling.
For extra security, MaxxHaul also provides it with some tie-down options as well as integrated reflectors with red-colored corners.
Pros
- Ideal for jeep wranglers without interfering with the spare tire or rear door
- Extra-large dimensions & taller side rails
- Offer decent security
Cons
- Some included bolts are in the wrong size
Product specs:
| Dimensions | Outer basket size: 49-1/4″ x 22-1/4″ x 3-1/4”
Inner basket size: 48-1/4” x 21-1/4” x 2” |
| Weight | 22.4 pounds |
| Capacity | 500-lb |
| Highlight features | Some tie-down options, integrated reflectors, and red-colored corners
heavy-duty steel under a support frame |
MaxxHaul 70275 Hitch Cargo Carrier


MaxxHaul 70275 is our proud choice for anyone seeking the best hitch cargo carrier with a ramp.
It is measured by 53.5″ L x 29.75″ W x 8″ H, fits two-inch Class III & IV receivers, and features a 500-pound weight capacity while the ramp is rated for 250 pounds.
This ramp is locked in an upright position 90 degrees from the deck, slightly smaller than the cargo size of 29 inches, and you can fold it up for easy storage. The whole construction is made of lightweight yet sturdy, corrosion-resistant aluminum.
The extra-wide size helps it accommodate bigger things, the added reflectors for enhanced safety, and the anchor points to secure your loads better.
It also has closer rungs to roll smaller wheeled items, which comes in handy.
Pros
- Very handy and convenient to use
- Offer enhanced security and safety
- The ramp is functional and easy to store
Cons
- Poor instructions
Product specs:
| Dimensions | Inside dimensions – 46.5” L x 28” W x 7” H
Cargo Carrier dimensions – 53.5″ L x 29.75″ W x 8″ H |
| Weight | 72 lbs. |
| Capacity | 500 lbs. |
| Highlight features | Lightweight extruded aluminum construction
Reflectors; Anchor points; and Closer rungs The ramp is rated of 250 pounds weight capacity & locked in an upright position 90 degrees from the deck |
Tricam ACC-1F Hitch Cargo Carrier


Next up is the Tricam ACC-1F, which we highly recommend for people who want an instant storage space behind their travel trailer.
It comes fully assembled so all you need to do is using the stock four bolts to add the hitch bar to the cage, which takes under 15 minutes to finish. A good thing is that you can open/close the back door of your trailer with it on and loaded.
Another cool feature is this carrier isn’t made of 100% aluminum or 100% steel. It’s in-between so the unit inherits advantages of both kinds of materials – lightness, strength, not easy to deform, or get scratched.
The measurement is exactly 48” x 21.7” x 20.1”, which is a bit small to our standard. But if the size doesn’t matter, do yourself a favor. And if this is your very first time trying this brand, rest assured, it is backed by a 1-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Lightweight, ultra-strong, and ultra-durable
- Simple to install
Cons
- Too small
Product specs:
| Dimensions | 50-inch by 20-inch |
| Weight | 28.4 pounds |
| Capacity | 500-Pound |
| Highlight features | a 1-year limited warranty
strong, ultra-light aluminum and steel |
Pro Series 63155 Hitch Cargo Carrier


This one is a bit different from others. It is for bikes so the dimensions are smaller – 48” x 20” – while the maximum load capacity is 300 pounds.
It’s designed to fit 1 ¼” bike receivers. Making it outstanding from other similar counterparts is the rise shank design with 5.5” side rails for improved ground clearance. Meanwhile, it keeps the carrier firmer and more secure once installed.
The rugged mesh floors prevent water buildup efficiently but they’re strong enough to handle heavy stuff easily.
Thanks to the powder coat finish, it is also resistant to rust, scratches, and other elements to last with you longer.
Pros
- Improved ground clearance
- Sit firmer behind your bike
- Prevent water buildup
Cons
- It’s costly
Product specs:
| Dimensions | 48” x 20” |
| Weight | 39 pounds |
| Capacity | 300 lbs. |
| Highlight features | powder coat finish
Fits 1-1/4” vehicle receivers rise shank design & 5.5” side rails rugged mesh floors |
CURT 18153 Hitch Cargo Carrier


When searching on the internet for folding hitch cargo carriers, you’ll receive thousands of results of different brands, designs, and price points.
But for the best one, this option is worth trying.
It is made of tubular steel for superior strength and lightness – giving you the best of both worlds. On the outside, it’s coated with carbide black powder finish and E-coat for enhanced durability. These extra layers combined with a mesh base design also make the carrier itself very easy to clean.
Another thing set this folding carrier apart from the competition is its angled shank for additional ground clearance and extra-high 6” walls with a cargo net for decent security.
Pros
- Offer superior strength and lightness
- Enhanced durability & ease of cleaning
- Provide additional ground clearance and security
Cons
- Not for people who are in a tight budget
Product specs:
| Dimensions | 60 x 24-Inch |
| Weight | 70 pounds |
| Capacity | 500 lbs. |
| Highlight features | finished with an E-coat and carbide black powder coat
tubular steel a folding, angled shank 6-inch high walls + a cargo net |
Highland 1042000 Hitch Cargo Carrier


Highland 1042000 is a fantastic option for trucks.
It is made of heavy-duty steel with black powder coat finish, measured by 60” x 20” x 2 ½” with an additional metal deck that perfectly fits all two-inch receiver hitches. Built to last, it offers 500 pounds of max loading weight, which is perfect to secure your garden tools, camping gear, and sports gear.
A cool thing about this hitch cargo carrier is the screw holes made specifically for a license plate. We also like the red reflectors to help people watch out for this extension of your vehicle.
In a nutshell, this is a good design with an emphasis on sturdy construction and a perfect size for bigger vehicles, like SUV or trucks.
Pros
- Perfect for bigger vehicles, like SUV or trucks
- The screw holes made specifically for a license plate
- Enhance safety and visibility in low-light conditions
Cons
- The pre-drilled bungee holes around the edge are hard to find at night
Product specs:
| Dimensions | 60 inch x 20 inch x 2-1/2 inch |
| Weight | 2.06 pounds |
| Capacity | 500 pounds |
| Highlight features | Heavy-duty steel construction
includes convenient tie-down points an expanded metal deck |
ARKSEN Hitch Cargo Carrier


The ARKSEN Hitch Cargo Carrier is a durable bolt-together design with a heavy-duty mesh base in a black epoxy powder coating for water buildup prevention and an ultra-strong platform.
The real star is its welding points! All are welded by robot arm utilizing high-tech welding tech for a better firm and precise.
It also means that there’ll be absolutely no weak welding or leakage welding during your use, and compared to other counterparts at the same pricing, the strength and reliability of this option are at the next level.
While the mesh surface is thoughtfully designed to not let small items fall through, our testers find its extra-high 6” rails to be extremely practical and handy. They are perfect for holding taller things, like luggage, camping gear, and cargo bags.
Based on such highlight points we’ve just stated above, this steel hitch cargo carrier persuasively brings home our Best Buy Choice Award.
Pros
- Efficient water buildup prevention
- Strong welding points for superior durability
- Prevent small things fall through while keeping higher items more securely
Cons
- It does not come with a hitch pin/lock
Product specs:
| Dimensions | 60″ x 24-3/4″ inch |
| Weight | 53 pounds |
| Capacity | 500 lbs. |
| Highlight features | Strong mesh base with reasonable mesh surface design
A folding shank Robot welding 6” tall rails |
CURT 18145 Hitch Cargo Carrier


There’re lots of good reasons we choose this option as the best CURT hitch cargo carrier but the most typical one is its additional adapter sleeve which allows the shank to virtually fit all industry-standard 2” or 1 ¼” trailer hitch receivers.
That also means compared to other CURT siblings, this line is the most versatile.
Meanwhile, it is one of the more affordable options you can find out of many CURT hitch cargo carriers. Not to say that the product is usually on a discount so you can save more.
Regardless, other parts of this carrier are generally like others, like the tubular steel construction with carbide black powder coat and E-coat, reflectors, and 6” walls.
Pros
- Versatile enough to fit all industry-standard 2” or 1 ¼” trailer hitch receivers
- Durable – tubular steel construction with carbide black powder coat and E-coat
Cons
- Due to the mesh surface, it isn’t suitable for hauling small stuff
Product specs:
| Dimensions | 48 x 20-Inch |
| Weight | 27.6 pounds |
| Capacity | 500 lbs. |
| Highlight features | an adapter sleeve
tubular steel construction with carbide black powder coat and E-coat 6” walls |
CURT 18110 Hitch Cargo Carrier


Designed as a hitch-mounted cargo carrier that will be mounted on the rear or front end of the vehicle, the CURT 18110 works flawlessly on cars no matter you prefer a roof-rack or hitch-mounted option.
We love it because it’s versatile, sturdy, and easy to use.
By offering an attachment to adapt to a 2” x 2” receiver tube as well as a 1 ¼” x 1 ¼” shank, it fits anywhere. The biggest bonus is an additional vent shank for improved ground clearance.
It also features holes along the exterior edge where you can mount bungees or a cargo net for extra security when hauling your stuff. Meanwhile, the storage space of 48” x 20” is spacious enough to accommodate lots of thing with comfort, regardless of where you plan to head to.
Pros
- Able to be mounted on the rear/front end of a car or on its roof
- Fit either 2” or 1 ¼” hitch receivers
- Allow you to mount bungees or a cargo net for extra security
- Improve the ground clearance
Cons
- Not use a standard hitch pin
Product specs:
| Dimensions | 48 x 20-Inch |
| Weight | 16 pounds |
| Capacity | 300 lbs. |
| Highlight features | a hitch-mounted cargo carrier design
provide an attachment to adapt to a 2” x 2” receiver tube as well as a 1 ¼” x 1 ¼” shank holes along the exterior edge an additional vent shank |
Vault Cargo Management Hitch Cargo Carrier


The Vault Cargo Management Hitch Cargo Carrier is a simple yet effective solution for maximizing the storage space of your Flex Ford.
It is redesigned with a bend to raise your cargo as well as save it against being exposed to the vehicle’s exhaust fumes. The dimensions are ideal for accommodating camping gear, luggage, and coolers. Anything taller is also fine with this carrier because it boasts a 7” railing.
Included with your purchase are a free clip and 5/8” hitch pin for security enhancement. Plus, a 360-degree tie-down location for strapping your cargo.
Pros
- Save your gear from being affected by the vehicle’s exhaust fumes
- Perfect to haul big and tall items
- Give you security enhancement
Cons
- Poor packaging
Product specs:
| Dimensions | 60” x 24” |
| Weight |
52.7 pounds |
| Capacity | 500 Lbs. |
| Highlight features | Elevated Shaft
a free 5/8″ hitch pin and clip 360 degrees of tie-down locations 7″ Railing Surrounds the Cargo Basket |
CURT 18152 Hitch Cargo Carrier


CURT 18152 adds a ton of extra trunk space while keeping messy items outside of your vehicle.
It is well-built and easy to use for the price, with an emphasis on 500-pound weight capacity, tubular steel construction with carbide black powder coat and E-coat, and reflectors for better visibility. It has the feature commonly found on higher-end hitch cargo carrier – an angled shank for additional ground clearance.
So, if you own a low-riding or off-road vehicle, this will be your best companion for instant storage space.
The 6” edges are high enough to prevent items from sliding out and you can fasten a cargo net to it like a breeze. Lastly, assembly is like a piece of cake.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Robust and long-lasting
- Give you additional ground clearance
Cons
- The frame flexes a bit
Product specs:
| Dimensions | 60 x 24-Inch |
| Weight | 16 pounds |
| Capacity | 500 lbs. |
| Highlight features | E-coat and carbide black powder coat
integrated reflectors an angled shank 6-inch high walls around the cargo basket |
Detail K2 HCC502A Hitch Cargo Carrier


Lightweight, sturdy, and good looking, that’s what exactly we’d like to describe this functional aluminum hitch cargo carrier by Detail K2.
Its inside dimensions are 47.25″ x 20.5″ x 6″, which is perfect to carry firewood, coolers, luggage, and more cargo. Unlike other low-end aluminum carriers, this one doesn’t wobble while loading or while you’re driving, which is so reliable.
A big thank you to the anti-wobble hitch pinch!
Another great thing about this option is its decent corrosion-resistant and rust-proof properties. When not in use, you can simply flip it up for easy storage.
Due to such outstanding features, it is our top pick for an aluminum hitch cargo carrier.
Pros
- Not wobble during the use
- Easy storage
- Provide decent corrosion-resistant and rust-proof properties
Cons
- Wish there were more reflectors
Product specs:
| Dimensions | 49.5 x 22.25 x 6.5 inches |
| Weight | 29 pounds |
| Capacity | 500 Pounds |
| Highlight features | Able to flip up for storage
rust-proof and corrosion-resistant aluminum construction anti-wobble hitch pin |
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Hitch Cargo Carrier In 2021
Materials
When it comes to hitching cargo carriers, there’re two common kinds of materials – aluminum and steel. Neither of them is absolutely perfect for everyone.
Each would have its own pros and cons, and your needs are key to find out which is better for you:
| Pros | Cons | |
| Steel | Heavy-duty
Fewer risks of wobbling during the transportation Not easily bent or deformed |
Heavy
Prone to be corroded Costly |
| Aluminum | corrosion-resistant & anti-rust
lightweight (one person can easily assemble an aluminum cargo carrier) more affordable |
Prone to be deformed
Easily wobble while driving |
Hitch sizes
Hitch sizes refer to the internal dimensions of your vehicle’s hitch receiver. Class I and some Class II hitches have a measurement of 1.25” while Class III and Class IV hitches are referred to as “2” receivers”.
Most hitch cargo carriers are designed to fit either of them, some might be added with a shank or a special attachment that allows it to fit both.
Depending on the number of vehicles you’re going to mount it on as well as their hitch receiver size to pick the right option.
Distributed Weight Capacity
The choice of this feature is based on the size of your loads.
For example, there must be lots of camping gear, like coolers, camping tents, camping bags, and many more that need carrying during a camping trip. These items are generally big-sized so your go-to cargo carrier should be large enough to accommodate all of them.
Besides, the distributed weight capacity of a hitch cargo carrier depends on the hitch class of your vehicle. There are commonly four as below:
| Towing Capacity
(pounds) |
Tongue Weight Capacity
(pounds) |
|
| Class I | 1,000 – 1,500 | 100 – 150 |
| Class II | 2,000 – 3,500 | 200-350 |
| Class III | 7,500 | 350-500 |
| Class IV | 10,000 | 500+ |
Others
Foldable design – worth considering if your needs of transporting stuff aren’t frequent, or simply, you just want to have it out of the way when not in use.
Enhanced visibility – we suggest that your hitch cargo carrier should have this feature for safety reasons. Choose one that is attached with reflectors and red-colored corners.
Higher wall/side rails – perfect for hauling taller items, like coolers. Taller walls keep these kinds of stuff more securely and fewer risks of falling out.
FAQs
What is the best hitch cargo carrier?
Our suggestions are:
- FIVKLEMNZ Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Pro Series 63153 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- MaxxHaul 70107 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- ROLA 59102 Hitch Cargo Carrier
- MaxxHaul 70108 49″ Hitch Cargo Carrier
Do hitch cargo carriers need lights?
Your hitch cargo carrier only needs a light kit if it and the cargo loaded on it do obscure your vehicle tail lights. This additional feature is added for safety reasons.
Can you put a bike rack on a cargo carrier?
You only can put a bike rack on a cargo carrier if its rails aren’t too tall while its distributed weight capacity is at least 350 pounds.
How do you stabilize a cargo carrier?
First thing first, make sure the distributed weight capacity of your cargo carrier matches your loads. For non-trailer loads, you should have a stabilizing strap. In some cases, an additional anti-rattle lock helps reduce movements inside the hitch, giving a more stable connection.
How much weight can a cargo carrier hold?
It depends on the hitch class of your vehicle, commonly ranging from 100 to 500+ pounds. For more information, please read our buying guide.
Conclusion
To find the best hitch cargo carrier in our fleet, we rated each one’s durability, along with loading capacity, ease of storage, and more.
Our testing progress took months and even years to finally come up to this rounded-up review list, which is the reason why we feel proud and confident that you’ll absolutely get the right one quickly. That’s all for this article! Thanks for reading.
