13 Best Cargo Boxes for Hitch

Today’s SUVs and crossovers usually have tons of space for cargo and passengers both, which is how we’ve enjoyed road trips. However, sometimes, the factory storage hasn’t been enough, especially when it’s not just the family, but also the dogs, as well as stuff like camping gear, like coolers and tents, need to be loaded up in the car, just to discover that we’re short on space. This is where a cargo box for hitch has been a lifesaver, expanding our vehicular storage without using interior space. Since they securely attach to our tow hitch, they’re ideal for camping and long road trips as additional transport for awkward or large items. Plus, they also minimize wind resistance, unlike roof boxes, improving fuel range and efficiency. To that end, here are the best options for storage boxes for hitching.

Lund 601010 Universal Hitch Mounted Steel Cargo Carrier

13

We begin with the Lund 601010 Universal Hitch Mounted Steel Cargo Carrier, which is one of the most basic options when it comes to cargo hitch storage options. However, it’s a versatile option for beginners who need additional hauling capacity besides their own vehicle. This starter pack of a cargo carrier boasted a spacious 60×20-inch platform, the standard 2-inch hitch mount, and an impressive 500-lbs capacity. However, what set this carrier apart was its potential for expansion via a variety of available add-ons. Whether we wanted a PVC dry bag, a bike rack, or side rails, the brand always had optional carrier accessories available. So, we could expand its functionality based on our unique needs.

MeeFar Folding Cargo Carrier Plus Bag

12

The MeeFar Folding Cargo Carrier Plus Bag comes from MeeFar, which has been a consistent bestseller on Amazon for quite a while, and for a good reason: For less than USD 200, we got a 60×20-inch carrier, along with a cargo bag with 16 cu. ft. of space. Not just that, but also, we got every accessory and additional setup things we needed to keep our cargo and things secure. Featuring a 500-lbs weight capacity, the unit could be folded up toward the bumper of our vehicle when we weren’t using it. In fact, it was easier than completely removing it. Constructed from 700D Oxford material, the bag was 100% waterproof and even featured a DWR coated for extra protection from the elements.

Buyers Products Poly Cargo Carrier Box

11

The Buyers Products Poly Cargo Carrier Box was basically a polyethylene cargo carrier with 17 cu. ft. of space mounted on top of a sturdy and durable powder-coated steel frame. Not only was the unit water-resistant, but it also featured a lockable, double-walled lid and could hold up to as much as 300 lbs. of cargo. So, we could carry everything we needed for our camping trip within it. What’s more, the hitch worked with any two-inch receiver and came with a hitch pin for additional security. While it’s expensive at more than USD 600, it happens to be one of the most weather-resistant and secure models we’ve ever seen and used. Did we mention that the durable powder-coated steel frame was pre-drilled so we could assemble it easily? Yep.

Oklead Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier

10

The Oklead Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier is a heavy-duty, foldable steel luggage basket with as deep as 14.4-inch side rails. So, it was designed to keep things more secure than other low-profile alternatives on this list. In spite of the extra height, we could fold the side rails down and could even fold the entire unit up towards our vehicle when we weren’t using it. Featuring a load capacity of 500 lbs., we could pack our things the way we saw fit and didn’t have to do it in some specific way. Costing USD 230, it’s one of the cheapest options on this list, especially for someone who’s just starting out and doesn’t have a lot of things to pack and store.

Mockins Heavy Duty Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier

9

The Mockins Heavy Duty Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier was a value-for-money model we found that had all the accessories and attachments we needed for a road trip. Measuring 60×20 inches, the fold-up cargo carrier even had six-inch rails along the perimeter. In fact, this powder-coated build worked with a variety of two-inch receivers. Besides the carrier itself, the setup also came with a 16-cu-ft-huge weatherproof bag, a storage bag for keeping everything together when we weren’t using it, a cargo bag lock, and even side tie-down straps. If that wasn’t enough, the system also included a hitch lock and keys for preventing anyone from stealing our hitch when we were out and about.

Yakima Exo Hitch System 

8

The Yakima Exo Hitch System is nothing like the other systems on this list. Instead of being merely a standard platform with a hitch attachment, this double-storied unit was effectively a base upon which we could add a variety of attachments. This included everything from a cargo box hitch mount to a closed cargo carrier. However, the best part was that we could stack the unit with not just two storage boxes, but also a cargo rack atop the box or even a dedicated bike rack. The idea is to begin with the Swingbase, and then build out the Exo system the way one wants it. That’s why it’s one of the most versatile options we’ve ever seen.

Yakima HoldUp Bike Rack

7

Best for cyclists. Are you looking for a cargo box to hold your bicycles? Then the Yakima HoldUp Bike Rack is perfect for you. We loved this specialized carrier that could mount two bicycles easily, and we could load them onto the rack with practically zero disassembly. What’s more, the product had clamps and straps built right into it, so we didn’t require any additional equipment. Moreover, they were secured to our vehicle by their wheels, ensuring that the bicycle frame didn’t get scratched or dented. Plus, there were some other convenience features, including the loaded rack being able to swivel down slightly to allow rear hatch access on the vehicle. Plus, the whole assembly could be folded into a compact package when we weren’t using it.

StowAway Max Hitch Swingaway Frame Cargo Carrier

6

Best closed cargo box. The StowAway Max Hitch Swingaway Frame Cargo Carrier was perfect for storing valuables as it was an enclosed hard plastic shell box, complete with a locking lid. So, when it was closed, the cargo box was not only weatherproof but was also tough enough to keep curious wildlife at bay. In fact, when we went camping, we were able to leave the box on our vehicle while we went looking for a spot, coming back for it later.

With 200 lbs of capacity and 16 cu. ft. of storage space, the entire assembly weighs 99 lbs., so it definitely needed more than one person. However, it did come with a swinging hitch mount that allowed for easy hatchback and tailgate access without us having to remove the carrier. Did we mention that it came with a 10-year service warranty? Yep.

Erickson 07600 Pick-Up Bed Extender

5

Best for pickup trucks. Do you have a pickup truck that you need a cargo box for? Look no further than the Erickson 07600 Pick-Up Bed Extender, a specialty hitch cargo carrier for pickups. It featured an additional secure strap point for long cargo like ladders and lumber and could be folded up against the vehicle’s body for easy low-profile storage. What’s more, it added 48 inches in bed length when it was extended and could hold up to as much as 400 lbs. of material. If that wasn’t enough, the entire steel assembly weighed only 38 lbs., so installation was very easy even for a single person.

MaxxHaul 70422 48×21 Compact Aluminum Cargo Carrier

4

The MaxxHaul 70422 48×21 Compact Aluminum Cargo Carrier was basically a flat aluminum box with a steel beam that served as the hitch’s connector. We loved the lightweight-ness of the entire assembly, which weighed just 22 lbs. So, a single adult could lift it relatively easily. That being said, here are some fairly large gaps between the metal portions, so bear in mind that some smaller items might slip through. The low profile was perfect for our needs, while the reflectors at all four corners improved visibility in low light.

“We were looking for something that a single adult could handle and install easily, and this cargo carrier was just right.”

WOW Travel

MaxxHaul Cargo Carrier with Ramp

3

Best ramp combo. The MaxxHaul Cargo Carrier with Ramp has been specifically designed for wheeled equipment, like mobility scooters, lawnmowers, and wheelchairs. Everything we had less than 500 lbs. easily fit in this 27×47 carrier, which could simply be rolled up the 47-inch integrated ramp. When we were done using it, the ramp could easily be placed in a static upright position, not only providing an additional large strap point but also forming the fourth wall of the cage. Plus, the other three sides featured seven-inch-tall barriers, which ensured that nothing went rolling off. Finally, the 52-lbs carrier’s sides could also be used as tow strap mounting points for extra security.

King Bird Waterproof Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier

2

This King Bird Waterproof Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier is the complete package when it comes to general-purpose hitch carriers. With this, we not only got the steel basket, but also the two included tow straps as well as a waterproof polyvinyl carbonate cargo bag that keep our things protected during long road journeys. What’s more, it had plenty of reflectors, including a few on the bottom that helped us with visibility when the basket would be put up in the upright folded position. While the carrier weight is 60 lbs., it made sense with the large size, with the 60×24 dimensions allowed for more than 18 cu. ft. of storage, along with the secure PVC cover.

CURT 18153 60 x 24-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier

1

Best overall. Sitting at the top of the list is the CURT 18153 60 x 24-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier. This powder-coated steel hitch carrier roughly weighed 70 lbs. and has a weight capacity of 500 lbs. So, it did take two-three of us to install, and it might be a bit difficult to do so without help. However, the additional heft allowed us to have a grate-style bottom where we didn’t have to worry about things falling through. Moreover, the six-inch-tall flanking wall provided a sturdy base to strap down all the cargo and stuff that we wanted. That, along with the raised hitch connector, gave us some additional ground clearance too. Rounding things up were the bright red reflectors for visibility.

Our Verdict!

While we loved all the options for cargo carriers, you might have trouble choosing only one. To that end, here’s a list that will help you.

• Best for cyclists: Yakima HoldUp Bike Rack
• Best closed cargo box: StowAway Max Hitch Swingaway Frame Cargo Carrier
• Best for pickup trucks: Erickson 07600 Pick-Up Bed Extender
• Best ramp combo: MaxxHaul Cargo Carrier with Ramp
• Best overall: CURT 18153 60 x 24-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier

How To Choose The Best Cargo Storage Boxes For Hitch?

Weight Capacity

One of the first things you need to look at is the weight of the cargo carrier to ensure that it’s strong enough to support everything you need to store. Additionally, it’s critical to consider the tongue weight limit of your car, that is, how much weight your car’s hitch system can support. For instance, if a 500 lbs.-rated hitch carries a 300-lbs load, it’s not a problem. However, if the weight rating of the tongue is just 250 lbs., then there could be serious issues.

Compatibility

Along the lines of weight capacity and limit is compatibility. You need to make sure that the cargo unit you’re looking at is compatible with the hitch system of your car, trailer, or vehicle. Firstly, note the type and size of the hitch, as the standard length might be two inches, but it’s still better to check the specifications and compare them with that of your vehicle’s hitch.

Material

When we’re talking about storage boxes, they obviously need to be durable. To that end, we have always looked for cargo carrier crafted from durable materials. While steel carriers are the strongest, aluminum is corrosion-resistant and lightweight choice.

Vehicular Access and Security

The next thing we looked at for was folding/swinging cargo carriers, as they were very useful for when we’d want to constantly need to get to the back of our vehicle. Such designs allowed is to easily move the carrier aside so we could access the window, tailgate, hatch, and trunk without having to unload our cargo.

Additionally, securing our cargo was a necessity while we’d be traveling, so we considered the security features too. While some units came with secure attachment points and integrated hitch locks, yet others featured lockable cages and boxes to keep our stuff safe.

Additional Accessories

Finally, decide whether or not you’ll need extra accessories, such as straps, nets, cargo bags, ramps for loading/unloading wheeled devices or bike racks.

You might also want to look into the best hitch luggage racks and the best RV bumper hitches.

Can I install a cargo carrier hitch by myself?

Yes, hitch-mounted cargo carriers are usually quite easy to install without any professional assistance.

What are the different kinds of hitch-mounted cargo carriers?

The commonest are the swinging and folding types, as they allow regular access to the vehicle’s rear. Plus, they can be removed when we don’t need them.

Do I need any other products?

Yes, you’ll need either straps or bungee cords at the minimum for securing the load, but according to us, straps are more versatile.