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How-To GuidesHitch Carriers 101

 
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So, you've decided on a Hitch Mounted Cargo Carrier, the convenient alternative to a rooftop carrier. Great!  There are two major styles of hitch cargo carriers: enclosed cargo boxes and flat bed cargo racks.  The best way to narrow down your search is to ask yourself the following questions:  What do you plan to carry?  How often will you use the hitch carrier?  What's your budget? 
 
The following table will help with your decision.  

 

 
hitch-cargo-carrier 
 
 
hitch-cargo-rack

Load Capacity

Generally limited to 200 pounds cargo capacity.

Up to 500 pounds capacity (depending on Hitch class/size); average is about 200 pounds load capacity.

Weather Protection

Generally offer very good weather protection, similar to what you might expect from a truck box. Most boxes are “Weather Resistant.”

Generally your gear will be exposed to the elements.  Cargo Bag options are available to protect your gear when necessary.

Ease-of-Use / Installation

Often there is some initial setup and installation. Once assembled, generally very easy to use: plug and play into your vehicle’s hitch. Bulk of box can sometimes make it difficult to maneuver.

Extremely easy to use. Generally plug and play into your vehicle’s hitch.

Trunk Accessibility

Swing away and tilt down options are available if you need to access your vehicle’s rear cargo area.  Without a swingaway or tilt down model, access to your trunk may be limited.

Swing away options are available if you need to access your vehicle’s rear cargo area.  Without a swingaway model, access to your trunk may be limited.

Accessories/ Options

Cargo Boxes can be outfitted with full function tail lights, wheels, extra locks, you name it. Totally customizable.

Racks can fold up, add side rail extensions, add tail light, add bike rack or cargo bag options. Very versatile depending on how often you want to use it. 

Ideal For:

Daily use to transport gear that needs to be protected from the elements or a long-term road trip when space is at a premium in your vehicle and security is a top priority.

Daily use to transport gear that doesn’t need weather protection. Long-distance trips to carry extremely large items that won’t fit inside a box.

Price

Low-End options ($319) to high-end options ($629)

Low-End options ($79) to High-end options ($360)

Items To Carry

Suitcases, Tools, Generators, Sports Equipment, Camping Gear, Anything that needs to be protected from the elements.

Lawn Mowers, Coolers, Extremely Big and Bulky items that won’t fit into a Box.

 
Want to read more?
 
Read this guide to Choosing a hitch Cargo Rack.



 
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