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4 Best Folding Cargo Carriers
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Buying Guide for the Best Folding Cargo Carriers
Choosing the right folding cargo carrier can make transporting extra items with your vehicle a hassle-free experience. These carriers are designed to mount onto a hitch at the rear of your car, SUV, or truck, providing extra storage space for luggage, camping gear, or other bulky items. It's important to consider the type of items you plan on transporting, the frequency of use, and how easy you want the installation and folding process to be. Focusing on key specifications will help ensure you pick a carrier that matches your needs and fits your vehicle safely and securely.Load CapacityLoad capacity indicates the maximum weight the cargo carrier can safely hold, usually measured in pounds. It's essential to choose a capacity that meets or exceeds the combined weight of the items you intend to carry. Lightweight carriers may support up to 300 pounds, suitable for smaller trips or lighter items, while heavy-duty models can hold 500 pounds or more, ideal for extensive gear or heavier objects. Think about your most demanding hauling needs, and ensure the carrier you pick is rated to handle that weight to avoid safety issues or potential damage.
Platform SizeThe platform size refers to the width and length of the carrier’s surface area. A larger platform can accommodate bigger or more items, whereas a smaller one is lighter and easier to store. Common sizes range from about 48 to 60 inches long and 20 to 24 inches wide. To choose correctly, consider the size of the largest items you intend to carry and ensure they'll fit comfortably, with enough room to secure them. Make sure it doesn’t obstruct your vehicle’s taillights or license plate when loaded.
Folding MechanismThe folding mechanism allows the cargo carrier to be folded up vertically against the back of your vehicle when not in use. Some mechanisms are simple and manual, while others have an easy-release feature. Consider how often you expect to fold the carrier up while it's still attached to your vehicle, and whether you want a design that locks securely in both open and closed positions to prevent wobbling. If space or convenience is important, prioritize user-friendly folding systems.
Material & DurabilityMaterials used in cargo carriers include steel, aluminum, and combinations thereof. Steel carriers are sturdy and typically carry more weight, but they’re heavier and can rust if not protected with coatings. Aluminum is lighter and naturally resists rust, but may offer slightly less capacity. If you’ll be using the carrier frequently or for demanding loads, a robust, well-coated steel model may serve you best. For occasional or lighter use, or for easier handling and storage, aluminum is a solid choice.
Attachment CompatibilityAttachment compatibility refers to the size of your vehicle’s hitch receiver that the carrier is designed to fit. Most cargo carriers attach to 2-inch hitch receivers, which are common on trucks and SUVs, while some fit 1.25-inch receivers found on smaller vehicles. Always check your vehicle’s hitch size before purchasing, and select a cargo carrier that matches. Using the wrong size can lead to unsafe transport and may require additional adapters.
Safety FeaturesSafety features enhance stability and visibility on the road. These can include reflectors, attachment points for tie-down straps, anti-wobble mechanisms, and raised side rails. Reflectors increase the carrier’s visibility in low light, while tie-down points help keep your cargo secure. Anti-wobble devices prevent excessive rattling, and side rails contain items safely. Consider which features are most important based on your typical cargo and whether you’ll be driving in busy or low-light conditions.