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10 Best Hitch Cargo Carriers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60" X 20" X 6"+Waterproof Cargo Bag 16 Cubic Feet(58" 19" 24"),Hauling Weight Capacity of 500 Lbs and A Folding Arm.with Hitch Stabilizer,Net and Straps

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,401
Material
Mounting System
Security Features

Most important from
2942 reviews

Material
Very sturdy and well made, perfect for long trips.
Mounting System
Ease of installment was superb. Truly the best bang for your buck!
Security Features
The lock included seems flimsy, but it still works.

The MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket offers a robust solution for hauling cargo, with a weight capacity of 500 lbs—ideal for transporting heavy loads. Its dimensions of 60 inches by 20 inches by 6 inches provide ample space for a variety of items, and the included waterproof cargo bag with 16 cubic feet of space ensures weather resistance for your belongings. The carrier is built from tubular steel with a black epoxy powder coating, combining strength with a lightweight design for easier handling.

The mesh base is a practical feature for cleaning up spills or debris, making maintenance straightforward. The angled shank provides additional ground clearance, which is beneficial for offroad or low-riding vehicles, enhancing versatility. Safety is also covered with added reflectors for improved visibility at night. The mounting system uses a U-Bolt configuration, which may be less convenient compared to quick-release systems but is reliable and sturdy.

The included hitch stabilizer helps reduce noise and movement during travel, while the cargo net and ratchet straps offer extra security for items. While the carrier excels in many areas, it may be somewhat cumbersome to install and remove due to its size and mounting system. Additionally, the black coating might wear over time with heavy use. However, for anyone needing a spacious, secure, and durable hitch carrier, this product is a strong contender.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,401
Material
Mounting System
Security Features

Most important from
2942 reviews

Material
Very sturdy and well made, perfect for long trips.
Mounting System
Ease of installment was superb. Truly the best bang for your buck!
Security Features
The lock included seems flimsy, but it still works.
#2

WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60" x 20" x 6" with Waterproof Bag, Net, Strap, 2-Inch Folding Shank, 500 lbs Capacity Hitch Rack, Steel Construction

Rating
8.2
Weight Capacity
Mounting System
Weather Resistance

Most important from
1496 reviews

Weight Capacity
The storage bag is very secure and holds a substantial amount of items, ideal for long trips or moves.
Mounting System
The rack is sturdy and fits perfectly without sticking out, making zero noise when properly assembled.
Weather Resistance
Assembly is straightforward, but the zippers on the bag can be difficult to manage, especially in cold weather.

The WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier offers a spacious 10 square feet of additional storage, making it an excellent choice for those needing extra cargo capacity during travels or moves. With a robust weight capacity of 500 lbs, it can handle a variety of items, from luggage to larger outdoor gear. Made from heavy-duty steel, the rack is designed for durability and includes a powder coating for rust and corrosion resistance, though it's advised to take extra measures for prolonged outdoor use.

One of its standout features is the included waterproof bag, net, and straps, which enhance its usability by providing additional protection and security for your cargo. This makes it particularly appealing for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone transporting valuable items that need safeguarding from the elements.

Assembly is straightforward, as it comes in four sections and is compatible with standard 2-inch receivers, making it a versatile option for various vehicles. The manufacturer also offers reliable customer support and a warranty, ensuring peace of mind for buyers. There are some considerations to keep in mind. The weight of 66.5 pounds can be cumbersome for some users when installing or removing the carrier. Additionally, while the design is weather-resistant, users are still advised to store the carrier indoors to prolong its lifespan. Those who frequently transport heavier items may want to ensure their vehicle can support the additional weight without compromising safety.

Rating
8.2
Weight Capacity
Mounting System
Weather Resistance

Most important from
1496 reviews

Weight Capacity
The storage bag is very secure and holds a substantial amount of items, ideal for long trips or moves.
Mounting System
The rack is sturdy and fits perfectly without sticking out, making zero noise when properly assembled.
Weather Resistance
Assembly is straightforward, but the zippers on the bag can be difficult to manage, especially in cold weather.
#3

Yakima Swing Rack 2 Inch Hitch Cargo System, EXO SwingBase, Bundled with EXO GearLocker Storage Box - Car Vehicle Accessories for Travel and Camping

Rating
7.9
Carrier Size
Mounting System
Security Features

Most important from
6 reviews

Carrier Size
The cargo box offers ample space and is very easy to attach and remove, making it a convenient choice for campervans and road trips.
Mounting System
The swing-away design provides excellent accessibility to the rear vehicle door without unloading the cargo, adding real convenience on the road.
Security Features
Security features are well thought out, including a HitchLock and SKS locks to keep gear safe from theft.
Weather Resistance
The hard-shell GearLocker is water repellent, protecting belongings from light rain and splashes, but it’s not fully waterproof for harsher conditions.

The Yakima Swing Rack 2 Inch Hitch Cargo System with the EXO SwingBase and 10-cubic-foot GearLocker storage box offers a smart and flexible way to add extra storage to your vehicle for trips, camping, or hauling bulky gear. It attaches easily to a standard 2-inch hitch and provides a solid 100-pound weight capacity, which covers moderate loads like luggage or tools well. The hard-shell GearLocker is water repellent, protecting your belongings from light rain and splashes, though it's not fully waterproof for heavy downpours or submersion.

One of its standout features is the swing-away design, which lets you move the cargo box aside to access your rear vehicle door without unloading everything — a real convenience for road trips. The mounting system uses Yakima’s tool-free EXO Cleat and SpeedKnob, making installation and removal quick and hassle-free. Security is also thoughtfully covered, with included HitchLock and two SKS locks to help keep your gear safe from theft.

This system suits drivers who want a reliable, easy-to-use hitch cargo carrier with decent storage size and strong security, especially for family camping or weekend adventures. While the 10 cubic feet of space is good for many uses, it might be a bit small for those needing to carry very large items or heavier loads beyond 100 pounds. Additionally, since the carrier is water repellent rather than fully waterproof, it may not be ideal for extended exposure to harsh weather.

Rating
7.9
Carrier Size
Mounting System
Security Features

Most important from
6 reviews

Carrier Size
The cargo box offers ample space and is very easy to attach and remove, making it a convenient choice for campervans and road trips.
Mounting System
The swing-away design provides excellent accessibility to the rear vehicle door without unloading the cargo, adding real convenience on the road.
Security Features
Security features are well thought out, including a HitchLock and SKS locks to keep gear safe from theft.
Weather Resistance
The hard-shell GearLocker is water repellent, protecting belongings from light rain and splashes, but it’s not fully waterproof for harsher conditions.

Buying Guide for the Best Hitch Cargo Carriers

Hitch cargo carriers are a great solution for expanding your vehicle's storage capacity, especially for long trips or when transporting bulky items. When choosing a hitch cargo carrier, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you select the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and get the most out of your purchase.
Weight CapacityWeight capacity refers to the maximum amount of weight the hitch cargo carrier can safely hold. This is important 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 is the physical dimensions of the cargo carrier, usually measured in inches (length x width x height). This spec is crucial because it determines how much cargo you can fit on the carrier. Sizes can vary widely, with common dimensions being around 60 x 24 inches. Consider the size of the items you plan to transport and ensure the carrier is large enough to accommodate them without being too bulky for your vehicle.
MaterialThe material of the hitch cargo carrier affects its durability and weight. Common materials include steel and aluminum. Steel carriers are typically more 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.
Mounting SystemThe mounting system refers to how the cargo carrier attaches to your vehicle's hitch. This is important for ensuring a secure fit and ease of installation. Most carriers use a standard hitch receiver, but some may have additional features like anti-wobble mechanisms or quick-release systems. If you frequently install and remove the carrier, look for a user-friendly mounting system. For permanent or long-term use, a more secure system may be preferable.
Security FeaturesSecurity features include locks and tie-down points that help secure your cargo and prevent theft. This is important for protecting your belongings during transit. Some carriers come with built-in locks, while others may require additional accessories. If you plan to leave your vehicle unattended with the carrier loaded, prioritize models with robust security features.
Weather ResistanceWeather resistance refers to the carrier's ability to withstand various weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and UV rays. This is important for protecting both the carrier and your cargo from the elements. Look for carriers with weather-resistant coatings or materials, such as powder-coated steel or UV-resistant plastics. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions or plan to use the carrier year-round, this spec is particularly important.

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