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10 Best Hitch Carriers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

WEIZE 53" x 19" Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier, 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Cargo Basket with Waterproof Bag, Net, Strap, Tightener & 2" Hitch Shank for Car SUV Traveling Camping, Steel Construction

The WEIZE 53" x 19" Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier is designed to enhance your vehicle's storage capacity, making it a practical option for travelers and campers. With a solid weight capacity of 500 lbs, it can carry a good amount of luggage, gear, or equipment securely. Its heavy-duty steel construction provides durability, and the powder coating helps protect against rust, although it's suggested to take extra precautions like parking indoors or applying truck bedliner paint for optimal rustproofing.

Safety features are commendable, with rails on all sides ensuring stability for your cargo. The included accessories—a waterproof cargo bag, cargo net, tie-down straps, and hitch tightener—are great additions that help in securing larger items during transport, giving users peace of mind on the road.

Installation is straightforward, as it fits any vehicle with a 2" hitch receiver, which adds to its versatility. The carrier weighs 41 pounds, which may be a bit heavy for some users to handle during installation. Additionally, while the construction is sturdy, some users might find that the size could be daunting for smaller vehicles. While the rust protection is a bonus, it requires attentive maintenance to ensure longevity.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Weight Capacity
Durable construction confidently supports up to 500 lbs, demonstrating its robustness.
Carrier Size
Offers ample storage space, enough to fit a normal-sized cooler, multiple suitcases, and additional gear.
Hitch Receiver Compatibility
The extended hitch bar is essential for vehicles with rear-mounted spare tires, ensuring no interference with storage space.
Ease of Installation
Fits easily and quickly on vehicles, making it a hassle-free option for frequent use.
#2

MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails- Trailer Hitch Mount For RV's, Trucks, SUV's, Vans, Cars With 2" Hitch Receiver - 500-lb Load Capacity, Grey, 49" x 22.5"

The MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier is a well-constructed solution for those in need of extra storage space while traveling, especially for RVs, trucks, SUVs, vans, and cars with a 2-inch hitch receiver. Its robust aluminum build ensures durability and rust resistance, making it an excellent long-term investment for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone looking to transport bulky items without crowding the vehicle interior.

One of its standout features is the generous load capacity of 500 pounds, allowing users to carry a variety of cargo, from camping gear to heavy boxes. The large basket dimensions (49 x 22.5 inches) provide ample room, while the high side rails and multiple tie-down points keep items secure during transport. Additionally, safety is a priority with reflector lenses and red corner accents that enhance visibility on the road.

Installation is straightforward due to its compatibility with standard Class III and IV hitch receivers, which is a definite plus for users who may not be particularly handy. However, it's worth noting that the carrier is not foldable, which could be a concern for those with limited storage space when not in use. This cargo carrier is ideal for anyone needing a reliable and spacious hitch-mounted solution for heavy loads, especially for adventure seekers or frequent travelers. Just keep in mind the lack of foldability and additional security options when considering your purchase.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Material
Extremely durable and lightweight aluminum construction.
Security Features
Comes with a hitch and locking pin, eliminating the need for additional purchases.
Ease of Installation
Assembly was a breeze, taking roughly 15 minutes with basic tools.
#3

Rockland Steel Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier, 60" x 24" x 6", 500 LBS Capacity, Heavy Duty Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier, Foldable Hitch Rack Basket, Fits 2" Receiver for Cars SUVs Vans Trailers

The Rockland Steel Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier stands out with its robust construction and sizeable capacity. It can hold up to 500 pounds, making it ideal for heavy-duty use. The dimensions of 60 x 24 x 6 inches provide ample space for larger items, while the 6-inch high walls help secure your cargo effectively, especially when using cargo nets or bags. Made from durable tubular steel with an e-coat and black carbonized powder coat, this carrier promises longevity and resistance to harsh weather conditions.

Additionally, the mesh base is a practical feature that prevents smaller items from slipping through, ensuring you can carry a variety of goods without worry. The foldable design is another significant advantage, as it allows you to tilt the rack up when not in use, thus saving space and improving vehicle clearance. Reflectors are integrated for enhanced safety, making the carrier more visible in low-light conditions.

However, at 60.8 pounds, it's relatively heavy and might require some effort during installation. The carrier is designed to fit a 2-inch hitch receiver, which is commonly found on most cars, SUVs, vans, and trailers. This cargo carrier is an excellent choice for those needing a durable, high-capacity solution with the added benefit of foldability for easy storage.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Weight Capacity
I've already hauled several things on it attached to my UTV, like bags of deer feed, firewood, etc.
Material
Looks good and feels of good construction.
Hitch Receiver Compatibility
The only dislike is that there is a lot of play in the receiver hitch. It could stand to be a little tighter, but I added shims to fix this issue.
Ease of Installation
Assembly wasn't too bad, instructions were clear enough.

Buying Guide for the Best Hitch Carriers

Choosing the right hitch carrier for your vehicle can make a significant difference in your travel experience, whether you're going on a road trip, moving, or just need extra space for your gear. Hitch carriers attach to the hitch receiver of your vehicle and provide additional cargo space. To find the best fit for your needs, consider the following key specifications and how they align with your requirements.
Weight CapacityWeight capacity refers to the maximum weight the hitch carrier can safely hold. This is crucial because overloading the carrier can lead to damage or unsafe driving conditions. Weight capacities typically range from 300 to 600 pounds. If you plan to carry heavy items like camping gear or sports equipment, opt for a higher weight capacity. For lighter loads, a lower capacity will suffice.
Carrier SizeCarrier size includes the dimensions of the platform or basket. This is important because it determines how much cargo you can fit on the carrier. Sizes vary, with common dimensions being around 60 inches in length and 20 inches in width. Consider the size of the items you plan to transport and ensure the carrier is large enough to accommodate them without overhanging.
MaterialHitch carriers are typically made from steel or aluminum. Steel carriers are durable and can handle heavier loads, but they are also heavier and may be prone to rust. Aluminum carriers are lighter and resistant to rust, making them easier to handle and maintain. Choose a material based on your need for durability versus ease of use and maintenance.
Hitch Receiver CompatibilityHitch receiver compatibility refers to the size of the hitch receiver on your vehicle that the carrier will attach to. Common sizes are 1.25 inches and 2 inches. It's important to match the carrier to your vehicle's hitch receiver size to ensure a secure fit. Check your vehicle's specifications to determine the correct hitch receiver size.
Security FeaturesSecurity features include locks and anti-rattle devices that help secure your cargo and reduce noise while driving. These features are important for preventing theft and ensuring a quiet, stable ride. Look for carriers with built-in locks or the option to add them, and consider anti-rattle devices if you plan to carry valuable or delicate items.
Ease of InstallationEase of installation refers to how simple it is to attach and detach the hitch carrier from your vehicle. This is important for convenience, especially if you plan to use the carrier frequently. Some carriers come with quick-release mechanisms or require minimal tools for installation. If you prefer a hassle-free setup, look for carriers that are known for their easy installation process.
FoldabilityFoldability refers to the carrier's ability to fold up when not in use. This is important for saving space and reducing the need to remove the carrier when it's empty. Foldable carriers are ideal for those who want the flexibility to keep the carrier attached without it taking up too much space. If you have limited storage space or want to avoid frequent removal, a foldable carrier is a good choice.

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