A hitch cargo carrier can free up cabin and trunk space, but a high capacity rating alone does not tell you whether a carrier is right for your vehicle or cargo. Check the receiver size, the carrier’s stated limit, and your vehicle and hitch tongue-weight limits before loading. The options below range from a basic steel basket to ramp-equipped carriers designed for mobility equipment and other heavy items.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Stated capacity | Platform or basket | Notable feature | Hitch fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAXXHAUL 70107 Steel Cargo Carrier | 500 lb, distributed | Outer: 53 × 19 in | High side rails | 2 × 2 in receiver |
| 800 lb Foldable Carrier with Ramp | 800 lb | 50 × 28 in | 90-degree fold and 49.2 in ramp | 2 in receiver |
| 800 lb Foldable Carrier with 49 in Ramp | 800 lb | 50 × 28 × 5.1 in | Mesh platform and hitch stabilizer | 2 in receiver |
| 800 lb Heavy-Duty Foldable Carrier | 800 lb | 50 × 28 × 5.1 in | Ramp, folding design, and hitch stabilizer | 2 in receiver |
| 800 lb Folding Alloy Steel Carrier with Ramp | 800 lb | 50 × 30 × 9.5 in, as listed | Foldable ramp and reflective markings | Confirm your receiver fit |
Our Picks: Best Hitch Cargo Carriers For Heavy Loads reviews
MAXXHAUL 70107: A Straightforward Steel Basket for Heavy Gear
The MAXXHAUL 70107 is a basic steel basket for drivers who want extra hauling space without a loading ramp. Its stated maximum is 500 pounds of distributed cargo, and its outer dimensions are 53 by 19 inches. The narrower footprint may suit long, bulky items better than wide loads.
High side rails help contain cargo, while the steel construction is intended for demanding loads. The carrier is designed for a 2-by-2-inch receiver, so check your vehicle’s receiver before ordering. Tie-down straps or other suitable restraints are still essential; rails are not a substitute for securing a load.
Compared with the ramp-equipped options below, this is the simpler choice for boxes, tools, and outdoor gear that can be lifted onto the basket. Its lower stated capacity and narrower platform make it less suited to wide mobility equipment or items that need to be rolled aboard.
Pros:
- 500-pound distributed capacity
- High side rails around the basket
- Steel construction
- Fits a 2-by-2-inch receiver
Cons:
- No loading ramp is listed
- Narrower platform than the ramp-equipped carriers
Verdict: Choose the MAXXHAUL if you need a simple steel basket for secured cargo and its 500-pound rating and dimensions suit your load.
800 lb Foldable Carrier with Ramp: A Wide Platform for Mobility Gear
This carrier pairs a 50-by-28-inch platform with a stated 800-pound capacity and a 49.2-inch loading ramp. It is described for mobility scooters, wheelchairs, tools, luggage, and outdoor equipment. The steel frame, mesh floor, and welded support structure are intended to support heavy cargo, while the open platform lets water and debris pass through.
The 90-degree fold-up design can reduce how much space the carrier occupies when it is not in use. It is also listed with a hitch stabilizer to help limit movement where the shank meets the receiver. The listing specifies a 2-inch receiver and describes an extended center connection to help provide bumper clearance after correct installation. Confirm clearance on your own vehicle rather than assuming it will be adequate.
Its ramp and wider platform make it a more practical starting point than a plain basket when you need to roll equipment aboard. The product information does not state a separate ramp weight limit or give detailed ramp dimensions beyond its length, so confirm those details if they matter for your equipment.
Pros:
- Stated 800-pound capacity and wide platform
- 49.2-inch loading ramp
- Folds upward when not in use
- Mesh floor and included hitch stabilizer
Cons:
- Requires a compatible 2-inch receiver
- Separate ramp capacity is not specified in the supplied details
Verdict: Consider this option if you need a wide platform and ramp for mobility or outdoor equipment, and can verify the ramp and vehicle limits before loading.
800 lb Foldable Carrier with Ramp: Mesh Deck and Stabilizer
This model is described with a 50-by-28-inch platform, 5.1-inch height, and 800-pound stated capacity. Its steel frame and mesh deck are intended for heavy items such as mobility equipment, luggage, tools, and outdoor gear. The listing also includes a 49-inch folding ramp for loading wheeled items.
Like the other ramp-equipped models in this group, it folds upward 90 degrees and fits a 2-inch receiver. The product description also calls out reinforced welded joints, locking pins, bolts, anti-loosening hardware, and a hitch stabilizer. These features address connection movement and frame support, but they do not change the need to stay within the limits of your vehicle, receiver, and hitch.
This option is close in size and features to the 800-pound carrier with the 49.2-inch ramp above. The listed ramp is slightly shorter, and the product details specify the platform height. If those measurements do not affect your setup, compare the full listing details and fit requirements before choosing between the similar designs.
Pros:
- Stated 800-pound capacity
- 50-by-28-inch mesh platform
- 49-inch folding ramp and 90-degree fold-up design
- Hitch stabilizer and reinforced connection hardware are listed
Cons:
- Requires a 2-inch receiver
- Ramp capacity is not separately stated in the supplied details
Verdict: This is a good fit to consider when you want a ramp-equipped, foldable platform and the listed dimensions match your cargo and vehicle.
800 lb Heavy-Duty Foldable Carrier: Ramp and Bumper-Clearance Focus
This carrier has a listed capacity of 800 pounds and a 50-by-28-inch platform measuring 5.1 inches high. It includes a 49-inch folding ramp and a 90-degree fold-up design. The description highlights reinforced welded joints and a hitch stabilizer, along with bolts, locking pins, and hardware intended to resist loosening.
It is designed for a 2-inch receiver, and its extended center connection is described as helping maintain clearance from the rear bumper when properly installed. That design may be useful if your vehicle has limited room behind the receiver, but actual clearance depends on the vehicle and installation. Check the dimensions and positioning before use.
Compared with the other two 800-pound ramp models in this set, its listed platform size and ramp length are very similar. Its description puts particular emphasis on bumper clearance and reinforced joints. The supplied details do not give a separate ramp load rating, so do not assume the platform capacity also applies to the ramp.
Pros:
- Stated 800-pound capacity
- 49-inch ramp and 90-degree fold-up design
- Reinforced joints and hitch stabilizer are listed
- Extended connection is designed to help with bumper clearance
Cons:
- Receiver fit is limited to 2-inch hitches as described
- Actual bumper clearance and ramp capacity need to be verified
Verdict: Choose this model if its clearance design and ramp setup suit your vehicle, but verify fit and all load limits before buying.
800 lb Folding Alloy Steel Carrier: Ramp and Reflective Markings
This folding steel carrier is listed with an 800-pound capacity and dimensions of 50 by 30 by 9.5 inches. It includes a foldable ramp and is described for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and heavy equipment. Reflective markings are also listed as a visibility feature.
The product description says it has an anti-rust coating and a foldable design for storage when idle. It describes compatibility with most vehicles, but does not specify a receiver size in the supplied details. That makes fit verification especially important: confirm the receiver dimensions and any vehicle-specific limits before ordering or loading it.
Its stated platform dimensions are wider than the 50-by-28-inch ramp carriers above, but the listed 9.5-inch measurement is not explained in detail. Check the product listing to confirm exactly what each dimension measures and whether the platform suits your equipment. As with the other ramp models, the supplied information does not provide a separate ramp capacity.
Pros:
- Stated 800-pound capacity
- Foldable ramp for wheeled equipment
- Reflective markings are listed
- Steel construction with an anti-rust coating
Cons:
- Receiver size is not specified in the supplied details
- The listed dimensions and ramp capacity need clarification before purchase
Verdict: This could suit shoppers looking for a ramp and reflective markings, provided the receiver fit, dimensions, and ramp limits are confirmed first.
How to Choose a Hitch Cargo Carrier for Heavy Loads
Check the full weight limit, not just the carrier rating
A carrier’s stated capacity is only one part of the limit. Your vehicle, hitch, and receiver may each have a lower tongue-weight limit. The cargo weight also adds to the load placed on the hitch, and the carrier itself has weight too. Follow the lowest applicable limit in your vehicle and hitch documentation, and do not treat an advertised carrier capacity as permission to exceed it.
Match the receiver size and measure clearance
Several carriers here are specified for a 2-inch receiver, while the MAXXHAUL model calls for a 2-by-2-inch receiver. Check your receiver opening and the product’s fit requirements before purchase. Measure the space between the receiver and bumper, and consider how a loaded carrier may sit behind your vehicle. A description of added clearance does not guarantee fit on every vehicle.
Choose a platform that fits your cargo
Compare the usable platform dimensions with the size and shape of your load. A basket with high side rails may help contain general cargo, while a broader mesh platform can better suit some bulky equipment. Leave room to secure the load properly and make sure it will not block lights, a license plate, or other required vehicle features.
Decide whether a ramp is necessary
A ramp can make it easier to load wheeled equipment, but check the ramp length, how it attaches, and its separate weight limit before relying on it. The supplied details for the ramp-equipped options do not state a distinct ramp capacity. If you plan to load a mobility device, confirm that the carrier and ramp are intended for its weight and dimensions.
Consider folding and storage needs
A folding carrier can move upward when empty, which may be useful when you do not want the platform extended behind the vehicle all the time. Check how the carrier folds and whether the folded position works with your vehicle. Do not assume a folded carrier will leave the rear door or hatch accessible; verify the setup for your vehicle.
Look at construction, stability, and upkeep
Steel frames, welded supports, mesh decks, stabilizers, and protective coatings are listed on some of these models. These features can matter for repeated use, road movement, drainage, and exposure to moisture. Inspect connections and fasteners before trips, follow the assembly instructions, and keep the carrier and cargo in good condition.
Secure the load and check driving visibility
Use suitable tie-downs to prevent cargo from shifting, and distribute weight as directed by the manufacturer. Before driving, check that the load is stable and does not obstruct lights, the plate, or your view. A heavy load behind the vehicle can affect handling, so drive cautiously and stop to recheck the setup when appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an 800-pound carrier safe for an 800-pound load?
Not necessarily. The carrier rating does not override the lower limit of your vehicle, hitch, receiver, or ramp. The carrier’s own weight also contributes to the load on the hitch. Check all applicable limits and follow the product instructions.
What hitch size do these carriers fit?
The MAXXHAUL 70107 is specified for a 2-by-2-inch receiver. The three similar ramp-equipped models are described for 2-inch receivers. The fifth product’s supplied details do not state a receiver size, so confirm its fit before purchase.
Can I use a ramp-equipped carrier for a wheelchair or mobility scooter?
The ramp-equipped products are described for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or mobility equipment. Still, verify the dimensions and weight limits for both the platform and ramp, and confirm that your vehicle and hitch can handle the loaded carrier.
Does a hitch stabilizer increase the weight capacity?
No. A stabilizer is described as helping reduce movement at the hitch connection. It does not raise the capacity of the carrier, receiver, hitch, or vehicle.
Will a folding carrier let me open my rear hatch?
That depends on your vehicle and the carrier’s position. A fold-up design does not guarantee that a hatch or tailgate will open. Check the product dimensions and your vehicle’s rear clearance before buying.
How should cargo be secured on a hitch carrier?
Use suitable tie-downs and follow the carrier’s instructions for load placement. Keep the weight distributed as directed, prevent shifting, and make sure cargo does not block vehicle lights or the license plate.
Final Recommendation
For a simple steel basket with high side rails, the MAXXHAUL 70107 offers a clear 500-pound distributed capacity and 2-by-2-inch receiver fit. If you need a ramp for wheeled equipment, compare the three 800-pound foldable models by their ramp length and clearance details. The fifth carrier also lists an 800-pound capacity and reflective markings, but its receiver fit and measurements need closer confirmation. Whichever you choose, let the lowest vehicle, hitch, receiver, carrier, or ramp limit determine your load.