If your vehicle has limited storage capacity, then a cargo carrier may be just what you need.
It gives SUV owners the same storage capacity as a pickup truck, without breaking the bank, and if you are the proud owner of a pickup truck then it also gives you that extra bit of storage space if you ever need it.
Hitch cargo carriers tend to be affordable, and are always versatile and simple to use. Moving items from A to B becomes so much simpler when you have a cargo carrier on your side. That’s why we’ve rounded up five of the best hitch cargo carriers for you!
We’ve also provided you with a handy buyer’s guide, broke down the types of cargo carriers available, and provided some safety tips so you can use your cargo carrier with confidence.
But first, let’s take a closer look at why a hitch cargo carrier is such a worthy investment.
Table of Contents
Why Buy A Hitch Cargo Carrier?
There are many advantages to owning a cargo carrier, but the most obvious advantage is that it leaves your back seat free for passengers, rather than your stuff!
As well as being able to accommodate more people, this means you get a clear view in the rearview mirror, and gives your passengers more legroom.
Cargo carriers are also ideal for transporting items that are better to be moved outside your car, such as any potentially dangerous substances, items too large to fit in the inside of your vehicle, or even things that will get the inside of your car dirty.
While having a hitch cargo carrier is undoubtedly convenient, if you just want to transport things like bicycles, then a hitch mount bike rack might be a better option.
Folding Vs Fixed Carriers: Which Is Better?
If you plan on using a cargo carrier a lot then we would recommend a folding carrier. With a folding carrier you don’t have to worry about disassembling and installing it again every time to your hitch.
We should also remember that not all cars allow folding carriers. If your vehicle has a rear-mounted tire, for example, you will be unable to fold a carrier behind them, unless you remove the spare tire first.
Also, a folding carrier might prevent you from opening your rear hatch or tailgate. So if you envision only using your carrier occasionally, it’s better to go with a fixed cargo carrier.
Different Types Of Cargo Hitches
When shopping around for hitch cargo carriers, you’ll notice that the styles of the carriers and what materials are used to make them will vary.
It’s important to pay attention to these differences, as they will present their own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. But how you intend to use your hitch-mounted cargo carrier will determine what type of cargo carrier you’ll need.
Basket Style Cargo Carrier
This type of cargo carrier has railed sides to keep your cargo safe and you can conveniently attach cargo straps and cords for more security. Baskets are perfect for moving heavy items and are the more popular style of cargo carrier.
Flatbed Style Cargo Carrier
A flatbed cargo carrier does not come with high rails on the side but does have slightly elevated edges. Most of them also have anchor points for cargo straps, nets, and bungee cords.
A flatbed cargo carrier is ideal if you regularly transport large items, or items that have an unusual shape.
Ramp Style Cargo Carrier
If you regularly transport large cargo or cargo with wheels on it, then the ramp cargo carrier is ideal for you. Like a basket or flatbed style, a folding ramp slides onto ground level, which makes loading, large, heavy or wheeled items a lot more convenient.
So without further ado, let’s take a look at the top 5 hitch cargo carriers!
- ENHANCED SECURITY. This trailer hitch cargo carrier keeps your items secure during travel, featuring 6-inch high walls around the cargo basket. These walls can be used to fasten a cargo net or cargo bag
- ADAPTABLE. This cargo hitch carrier is equipped with a folding, angled shank. The folding feature allows the cargo carrier to be folded up when not in use, and the angled shank provides additional ground clearance
- EASY TO CLEAN. This hitch mounted cargo carrier frees up cargo space inside your vehicle and keeps messy items outside your vehicle. It also features a mesh base to easily clean up messes
- INTEGRATED SAFETY. With integrated reflectors on the frame, this hitch cargo rack promotes a safe ride. The reflectors add visibility to the cargo carrier and your vehicle
- DURABLE BUILD. This trailer hitch cargo carrier is constructed from tubular steel to promote high strength and a lightweight design. It is rated for 500 lbs. It is also finished with an E-coat and carbide black powder coat
Last update on 2023-04-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Curt has a wide variety of trailer hitch cargo carriers with plenty of mounting options to choose from, including front and rear mount cargo carriers, some of which have a folding shank.
The Curt Basket Style Cargo Carrier 18153 provides you with strength, security, durability and plenty of cargo space. That is what makes it the best overall cargo carrier on our list!
The basket-style 18152 features a 2 x 2-inch bent folding shank that folds up against a vehicle to give you more ground clearance when you’re not using it. For even more ground clearance, the shank is also angled upwards.
When you’re using this cargo carrier, it can carry up to 500 lbs of load weight with an inner tray dimension of 60-inch x 24 inches that gives you plenty of space for loading gear, large cargo bags, and even motorcycles.
The cargo is kept in place with heavy-duty carbide steel. The basket is also tubular and strong enough that it can hold heavy luggage and withstand rough weather.
The outside is coated in a durable, rust-resistant black powder that also protects the carrier from UV damage and scratches.
The support and stability provided by this cargo carrier is unrivalled. It has a robust mesh platform and 6-inch sides that keep your luggage safe and protects it from sliding out while you’re on the move.
The high side rails also allow you to conveniently attach a cargo net or cargo bag strap so you can secure multiple pieces of luggage.
The carrier also has extra safety features like built-in reflectors for extra visibility and safety when driving in the evening or in low-light areas.
The Curt basket-style cargo carrier 18153 is quick and easy to install. It takes no time at all to mount this to your vehicle, and you don’t need any complex tools. You just fold the shank up first for easy connection, then lower the shank while inserting the hitch pin.
The sturdy bolt design can withstand long-distance travel and rough roads. Even when driving over speed bumps or bumpy terrain, the carrier holds up.
The angled shank elevates it enough so you can load cargo comfortably and keeps the carrier safe from damage, but it’s still low enough that it can easily fit in the trunk of most vehicles.
If we had to criticize one thing about this cargo carrier it would be the inside of the steel rubes not being rust-resistant. As the tube ends are open, water can easily get in and lead to rust.
While this is not guaranteed to happen, if you’re concerned about rust you can protect your steel pipes by painting the inside or even plugging the open tubes to stop water from getting in.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| It has a 500lbs load capacity. | The open-ended steel tubes do not have rust-resistant interiors. |
| Heavy-duty carbide steel covered in a rust-resistant coating. | |
| Keeps items secure on uneven terrain and during long-distance travel. |
Also Available At
Alternatives
The Mockins steel cargo basket is a good alternative to the Curt 18153 cargo carrier. The basket dimensions are smaller, and it isn’t really compatible with rear-mounted spare tires.
- Assembled Dimensions: 56 x 23 x 5 Inches. Rainproof-No
- HIGH-CAPACITY SYSTEM: Free up space in your vehicle with the robust capacity of this hitch cargo carrier ideal for coolers, camping gear, bags, and other equipment.
- BUILT TO LAST: Strong, high-quality, heavy-duty steel construction with a durable black powder coating helps protect against the elements and resists rust and scratches.
- EASY INSTALLATION: 2-piece assembly with attachment points for a vehicle license plate easily attaches to 2" sq. receivers on cars, trucks, SUVs, vans and other large vehicles.
- OPTIONAL LIGHTING: Upgrade the ROLA Vortex Steel Cargo Carrier with a fully functional lighting system: Incandescent #20174 or LED #59516.
Last update on 2023-04-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Rola is a company with a long history and a reputation for creating strong roof racks and cargo management products, and the Vortex steel hitch mount carries on that tradition.
It is able to support a cargo weight of up to 600 lbs, and its heavy-duty steel framing makes it ideal for rough roads and long-distance travel.
So if you’re looking for a heavy-duty cargo carrier, or drive a large truck or SUV, then we highly recommend the Vortex.
The Rola Vortex steel cargo carrier is one of the most robust carriers out there, with the ability to load up to 600 lbs of bags, camping gear, coolers and other items on its sturdy mesh floor.
Steel bars provide extra support to the mesh floor, preventing the mesh from giving way when carrying heavy luggage. To hold down your cargo, there are holes in the carrier to fix straps.
At 5.25 inches the side rails are high enough to stop luggage from falling out. Plus, there are two light reflectors to let other drivers know you’re there in low-light.
This cargo carrier was designed with convenience and security as a priority, and as well as the reflectors, this carrier also has built-in attachment points for license plate relocation.
Additionally, the curved hitch mount means you don’t have to worry when driving over speed bumps and on rough roads. The 2-inch rise shank gives better ground clearance, and fits most Class III and IV receivers.
The Vortex is made of durable, high-quality, and heavy-duty steel with a black powder coating that makes it rust-resistant as well as scratch-resistant.
It is built to withstand more bumps and scrapes than other carriers, so if you want to put a cargo carrier to the test, this is the one to do it with.
But how do you install the Vortex? Well, it has an easy-to-use two-piece assembly mechanism. You just need to insert and tighten its bolts with nuts and connect it to any 2-inch receiver, and you’re ready to go!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy and straightforward to install. | Non-foldable. |
| Made of durable materials. | More expensive than other carriers on our list. |
| Comes with two reflector lights. |
Also Available At
Alternatives
The King Bird upgraded folding hitch mount cargo carrier is a good alternative to the Vortex as it is more affordable. It also has a bigger basket than the Vortex but doesn’t have the weight capacity or durability.
- This basket style cargo carrier is constructed from extruded aluminum that is durable, compact and lightweight making it easy to install. Will not rust and easy to clean and maintain.
- Inner basket size: 48-1/4” x 21-1/4” x 2”; Outer basket size: 49-1/4" x 22-1/4" x 3-1/4”, product weight: 25 lbs.
- Features a heavy duty steel under support frame with a 2" x 2" hitch shaft to fit Class III and IV hitch receivers.
- Raised side rails help keep cargo in place and provide tie-down options. Built-in reflectors with red colored corners to provide extra visibility and added safety
- Whether you are camping, going to a long road trip or simply transporting a load that you don't want inside your car, this basket-style rack will provide the instant cargo space you need.
Last update on 2023-04-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you would like a strong, durable, easy-to-clean carrier that doesn’t break the bank, then this compact MaxxHaul 70422 Hitch Cargo Carrier is for you. This small and lightweight cargo carrier is definitely value for money.
MaxxHaul is one of the most popular manufacturers for recreational towing and hitch-mount products. The high quality construction and value for money are what makes MaxxHaul such a respected and trusted company in the industry.
This compact carrier is made from extruded aluminum with steel frames. This material is rust-resistant and is more robust than the average aluminum carrier.
It also has a higher weight capacity while remaining lightweight. This carrier also weighs just 23 lbs, definitely light enough for one person to carry and maneuver.
The under-support and hitch shaft of this cargo carrier is made from high-grade steel with a powder-coated finish.
The side of this hitch cargo carrier is 2.25 inches tall, so you can rest assured your luggage won’t slide out. There are no straps included with this carrier, but for extra security we recommend purchasing some.
This carrier has multiple tie-down points as the floor has six strong aluminum planks with some spaces in between. There are four holes with two at the back and two at the front, which is ideal for tie-down hooks.
The large spaces between the base aluminum planks may be an issue if you would like to load smaller items that may fall through the gaps. However, this of course isn’t a problem for large, heavier cargo.
The base planks are made of high-grade steel and a sturdy powder coating making it resistant to corrosion. The base is incredibly easy to clean. You just need to spray it with water and wipe it down with a damp cloth.
Due to the small size of the cargo carrier, you can still open the rear hatch in most vehicles, as long as you avoid a very close break-over point when loading luggage.
What is the break over point? Well, it’s when your rear hatch comes into contact with your luggage.
To stay visible in low light, the carrier has built-in reflectors on the sides. These reflectors are made of plastic at the edges of the carrier.
It’s important to remember how close your exhaust will be to the cargo carrier when installing it, as the plastic edges may melt if the carrier is too close to the exhaust.
Once you’ve installed the cargo carrier you should have about 8 inches between your vehicle and the carrier.
This carrier has a straightforward, simple design that makes installation even easier. You just have to connect it to any 2-inch Class III and IV hitch receiver, and keep it in place with a hitch pin and clip.
What’s more, this all comes with the carrier so there is no need to make separate purchases.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Has powder coated underside support. | This carrier is not as stable as others and may require some modification to help keep cargo stable on rough roads. |
| An extremely lightweight carrier that is ideal for smaller transits. | |
| It has a huge load capacity despite its small size. |
Also Available At
Alternatives
The compact Camco hitch cargo carrier (48475) is a great alternative to the MaxxHaul 70422. However, it doesn’t have the lightweight aluminum design or the thick aluminum bars as its base.
- The Tow Tuff Cargo Carrier measures 27” x 62” x 3” deep, giving you plenty of room to take care of your various hauling needs
- With a total weight capacity of 500 lbs., this Tow Tuff product can hold large loads. Constructed of heavy-duty steel for a durable product
- The unique design allows this 2-in-1 carrier to function as a cargo carrier or as a bike rack by simply removing the pins to turn the bike rack into a cargo carrier or vice versa; fits 2" receivers for easy mounting onto your vehicle
- When using as a bike rack, the adjustable wheel holder and tie-down holes secure the bike(s) in place. The wheel cradles fit most bikes and holds up to 4 bikes
- Includes a tie-down strap; 1 year limited Manufacturer's parts warranty
Last update on 2023-04-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The most versatile cargo carrier and the one with the best flatbed, what really makes the Tow Tuff TTF-2762KR unique is the fact that it’s a 2-in-1 cargo carrier with a removable bike rack.
Tow Tuff are innovative manufacturers that make high-quality, durable automotive and trailer management tools and equipment, and this 2-in-1 steel cargo carrier is no different.
If you like flatbed cargo carriers, then the Tow Tuff TTF-2762KR has a large base platform, heavyweight carrying capacity, and the additional bike rack is a good choice for you.
Measuring 60” x 27” x 3”, this cargo carrier gives you plenty of space to transport a wide range of cargo. It is definitely one of the more unique cargo carriers on our list thanks to its 4-bike rack.
The adjustable wheel cradle and tie-down holes keeps your bikes secure and in place when using the carrier as a bike rack. It can carry up to 500 lbs, which also makes it ideal for heavy-duty hauling.
The heavy-duty steel of this carrier is durable and robust and has a durable tie-down strap, tie-down holes, pull-out bar, and four-wheel cradles that you can adjust and fit most bikes into while keeping your cargo secure.
Plus, this Tow Tuff carrier is backed by a 1-year limited manufacturer’s part warranty. It’s easy and quick to install. The carrier can easily accommodate all the 2-inch receivers.
When you want to convert the carrier to a bike rack, you just connect the bike rack pins into the allotted openings.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| It is both a bike rack and a cargo carrier. | The bike rack does move about in the hitch on uneven terrain. |
| It has a large loading capacity. | |
| Comes with a tie-down strap and pull-out bar. |
Also Available At
- [ULTRA-STRONG CONSTRUCTION] Features heavy-duty square tube steel construction and can haul up to 500 lbs of cargo, gear, or equipment. Black epoxy powder-coated finish protects it from rust, debris, and weather elements.
- [CONVENIENT CARGO CARRIER] Tall, independently framed 6" steel tube rails keep cargo contained and provide vertical load support during transport. A pull-pin design to conveniently fold up to a vertical position to save space.
- [LARGE STORAGE SPACE] Perfect rack size to haul several items and to free up interior space in your vehicle when traveling. Easy to install in the rear of your car, SUV, RV, truck, or van.
- [STURDY MESH SURFACE] The mesh surface prevents smaller items from falling through, while the bolt-together design provides a strong base for cargo of any type, including coolers, boxes, firewood, and more.
- [ENHANCED SECURITY] Affixed are reflector srip stickers on the frame, so vehicles behind you can see the attached hitch, especially when it's dark. This prevents accidents and promotes a safer ride.
Last update on 2023-04-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
We have chosen the ARKSEN luggage basket as it is a high-quality and sturdy carrier for your cargo.
The welded design is made for heavy-duty cargo weighing up to 500 lbs and the square tube steel construction has an epoxy powder coating to protect the carrier from sun damage.
Since it is a single piece, you can rest assured that it’s not going to break anytime soon. The basket is also foldable and has 6-inch side rails. It’s ideal for hauling camping bags, luggage, and cargo bags.
Installation is easy too and fits 2” trailing openings for quick attachment.
If you’re looking for a large hitch carrier, you can’t go wrong with this one!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High side rails. | The hitch carrier sits lower to the ground, which won’t be ideal for some vehicles. |
| Folding design is convenient. | |
| 500 lbs capacity. | |
| High-quality construction. |
Alternatives
The Oklead hitch cargo carrier is an ideal alternative if you’re mainly making short trips but would still like a cargo carrier with a large base.
Its foldable rails make this a versatile cargo carrier, and it is also durable. However, it has a smaller loading capacity than the cargo carrier above.
Best Hitch Cargo Carrier Bags
To keep your cargo extra safe in your hitch cargo carrier, you may want to store it in a hitch cargo carrier bag. Let’s take a look at two of the best!
- Rugged weather-resistant construction, concealed zipper, and sonically sealed seams keep your stuff protected from the elements and prying eyes
- Expertly engineered six-strap system keeps everything in place
- Fits cargo baskets up to 60 x 24" and up
- Folds up for easy storage when not in use
Last update on 2023-04-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
ROLA is a manufacturer based in Australia known for making cargo carrier bags that are both high-quality and affordable. They have been making racks and bags for years that are more than capable of withstanding harsh conditions.
At 24” x 24” x 59” the ROLA Wallaroo (59102) is a huge bag with a large 20 cu.ft capacity. To give you some context, 20 cu.ft is about the capacity of a standard refrigerator!
This bag is also made of high-quality, rainproof material with sonically welded seams and a Velcro storm flap over the zipper.
This bag is sure to keep your luggage dry, protected, and clean. It also has six dual-adjustable tie-down straps to keep the bag secure and to compress your load.
When the bag is empty it folds down neatly and weighs just 8.4 lbs.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| It has 6 securing straps. | The soft fabric sides make the bag difficult to load. |
| The bag has sonically welded seams to keep the contents of the bag safe. | The bag might be too large for some people. |
| Made of a waterproof material. |
- Size: 59 x 18.5 x 24 inches
- 15 Cubic Feet of dry storage
- Rainproof construction with 6 tie-down points included
- Keeps cargo clean and folds flat for easy storage when not in use
- Fits most cargo carriers with 60 x 20 inches or larger platform
Last update on 2023-04-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Reese Amigo is a universal waterproof cargo carrier bag that is suitable for any hitch cargo carrier that’s at least 59” x 18.5.”
It’s also made of a durable, thick material that keeps its 15-cubic-foot volume in shape. It also has a heavy-duty zipper closure and a Velcro flap. The Reese Amigo is 24 inches tall, perfect for holding large items.
It includes six straps and buckles and has multiple rows of reinforced stitching so it can hold its own in even the hardest weather conditions. Plus, the bag compresses its contents to keep your possessions safe.
Like with all cargo bags, it’s recommended to add a couple of ratchet straps so you’ll know your cargo is safe on bumpy roads.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great for heavy-duty hauling. | The heavy fabric can make the bag difficult to zip up. |
| Holds up to extreme weather. | |
| It has six lash-down straps to keep your cargo safe. |
Things To Consider When Buying A Hitch Cargo Carrier
What You’ll Be Using Your Carrier For
If you’re interested in buying a hitch cargo carrier the first thing you’ll have to think about is what you’ll mainly be using your cargo carrier for.
When you have a good idea of what items you’ll be carrying, you’ll know if you should purchase a box carrier, a rack carrier, or any other type of hitch cargo carrier.
What Type Of Vehicle You Drive
What vehicle you’ll be hitching your cargo carrier to is also an important factor when determining the size of the cargo carrier you need, as your vehicle will need to support its weight.
The tongue weight capacity refers to the maximum vertical weight that can be supported by a vehicle hitch during ideal driving conditions.
You also need to consider the design of your vehicle, especially the rear design. You need to consider if your car’s tailgate will be an issue, for example.
The class hitch is also something to consider. There are five trailer hitch classes based on the size and the strength of your vehicle, and the design of the hitch.
Hitch Cargo Carrier Buyer’s Guide
If you plan on regularly using a cargo carrier, then these are the factors you need to consider before making your purchase, and what to look for when you’re shopping around.
Materials
Cargo carriers tend to be made of steel or alloy steel, but they can also be made of other robust materials too. No matter what material your cargo carrier is made of, it has to be of high quality.
Cargo carriers are made of steel as it is an incredibly durable material that can withstand heavy pressure. If you purchase a steel carrier, it should be powder-coated to keep it safe from damage, rust, and harsh weather.
Cargo carriers are also sometimes made of aluminum. This material is a lot lighter than steel, but is just as durable. An advantage of aluminum is that it doesn’t rust as easily as steel, but it’s still susceptible to scratches.
Rear Hatch Access
If rear hatch access is essential, you should choose a carrier without a curved hitch so you can have better ground clearance. Careers with no rise built into the shank can give you better access to your rear hatch. This is almost impossible with curved/high carriers.
Proper Attachment
You need to make sure that the receiver and main shaft properly fit and that there is absolutely no wriggle room.
You also need to know how the attachment mechanism of your vehicle works and what it looks like, as most carriers can fit a standard 2-inch receiver. However, receivers may differ on larger or smaller vehicles.
If the attachment is poor then you’re in for a loud journey! As you’ll be able to clearly hear your cargo rattling on bumpy roads.
Weight Capacity
You need a heavy-duty cargo carrier that can comfortably support the weight of your cargo. Carriers can usually support between 500 lbs and 600 lbs.
Carrier Weight
How much your carrier weights can have an impact on a lot of things. For instance, the heavier a carrier is, the harder it will be to install. On the other hand, aluminum carriers are extremely lightweight and simple to assemble and install.
If you’re installing a carrier by yourself, then an aluminum carrier makes this easier. But still carriers are also easy to install with another person on hand.
Cargo Carrier Base
A cargo carrier base should have a practical design. The base needs to be strong enough to support a heavier load to properly secure the cargo. Things can’t fall through, and the base should be easy to clean.
Side Rails
It’s generally considered better to have high side-rails as they do an excellent job of keeping cargo secure and preventing it from sliding off the carrier on rough terrain. Rails are normally around 6 inches.
However, high side rails can make loading cargo difficult. It can also make transporting large, oddly-shaped items that are larger than the carrier base difficult too.
Base Dimensions
Before purchasing a hitch cargo carrier, you need to consider the dimensions you need. To know what dimensions you’ll need, think about how large the cargo is you wish to transport.
Rear Or Front-Of-Vehicle Hitch Options
Some cargo carriers are able to be attached to the front of the vehicle. Some people like this option as they feel a lot safer when they see the cargo ahead of them.
Locking Mechanism
Many cargo carriers have a locking mechanism to protect against theft, such as a locking hitch pin that makes the carrier impossible to be removed from the vehicle. This is a crucial feature as it reassures you your cargo is always safe and secure.
Weather Protection
This is crucial, as you don’t want your carrier to rust! Aluminum carriers have the best rust and weather resistance. However, steel is more sturdy and black-powder coated steel can fend off rust when the carrier is well looked after and stored correctly.
When it comes to weather protection, look at the bottom too. If the bottom is a full pan or tight mesh, then water can pool there. Of course, water can have an effect on rust resistance as well.
You also need to check if there are open tubes that can also trap water. Tubes that are not powder-coated will rust quicker, so it’s best to go for carriers with powder-coated tubes to ensure you get value for money.
How To Stay Safe Using A Hitch Cargo Carrier
The main safety concerns for cargo carriers are proper load security and clear visibility, so let’s take a look at how you can stay safe while using a hitch cargo carrier.
Be Aware That A Hitch Cargo Carrier Has Added On To The Length Of Your Vehicle
A hitch cargo carrier can add up to three feet onto the existing length of your vehicle, which makes it very likely that you’ll reverse into things without realizing it.
You also need to keep in mind that the rotation space of your car has increased significantly when trying to turn the car, and you’ll need to compensate for that.
Before you hit the road, try practicing rotating and reversing your vehicle for some so you get used to the extra length and you can drive and park safely.
Be Mindful Of Bumps And Uneven Terrain
Not being mindful of bumps can lead to your cargo falling off your vehicle as you’re not prepared when you drive over them.
That is why it’s so important to make sure your cargo is securely strapped down, so when you come to a stop double-check that your straps are still tight. You should also make sure that no straps are flapping or hanging off.
Keep Your License Plate Visible
If your carrier is obscuring your license plate you will get pulled over and get given a ticket, as it is illegal for your license plate to not be visible.
To avoid this, move your license plate temporarily to your cargo carrier with a universal license plate bracket. When relocating your license plate, make sure it is 12-inches off the ground.
Purchase A Hitch Tightener
A hitch tightener or trailer hitch tie-down is a recommended purchase alongside the hitch cargo carrier itself. This reduces the risk of your cargo moving around and rattling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Use Any Accessories With A Hitch Cargo Carrier?
Yes, you can! The most popular accessories to use with a hitch cargo carrier are cargo bags, cargo nets, hitch stabilizers, LED indicator lights, receiver adapter, and stabilizing straps.
Is It Legal To Use A Hitch Carrier?
Yes, it is. Hitch carriers are legal but if you overload a carrier you are running the risk of breaking the law if they collapse and cause damage or injury.
What Is The Maximum Speed You Can Drive With A Hitch Cargo Carrier Attached?
You generally shouldn’t drive more than 90 mph with a hitch cargo carrier attached to your vehicle, as this could cause the carrier to collapse.
What’s Better? A Hitch Cargo Carrier Or A Roof Carrier?
The answer to this all depends on what you’re looking for with a carrier. If you would like easy access to your cargo then a hitch cargo carrier is the better option.
Does A Hitch Cargo Carrier Affect Gas Mileage?
Not really, when driving at the same speed you normally would, you’re unlikely to even notice any effect on your gas mileage when driving with a hitch cargo carrier attached.
