A strong folding aluminum cargo carrier adds usable rear storage, folds upright when idle, and suits drivers who need to move gear without filling the cabin. The Elevate 60-Inch Carrier is a leading all-around option, with a 500-pound capacity, a broad platform, a folding pull handle, and a 2-inch receiver fit. This group also includes compact 50-inch baskets, larger platforms, and ramp-equipped carriers designed for loading mobility equipment.
Compare the usable platform dimensions—not just the outside dimensions—and check that your vehicle has the right receiver before choosing. Capacity figures describe the carrier, not necessarily what your vehicle or hitch can safely carry.
The rankings prioritize folding function and aluminum construction, then platform size, stated capacity, receiver details, and useful included equipment.
The Elevate 60-Inch Carrier leads this roundup because it combines a 500-pound capacity with a 60-by-22.5-inch outer basket, a folding pull handle, and compatibility with Class III or IV 2-inch receivers. Its slatted platform lets moisture and debris pass through, while tie-down points and rear reflectors add practical hauling details. Choose it for general gear hauling when its 47-pound listed weight and platform dimensions suit your vehicle and storage needs.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallIts 60-by-22.5-inch basket, 500-pound capacity, folding pull handle, and included anti-rattle bolt suit broad everyday hauling needs.
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Lightweight PickThis 32.7-pound aluminum carrier supports 500 pounds, measures 50 by 22 inches, and adds high rails and tie-down points.
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Wide PlatformIts 60-inch-long, 19-inch-wide aluminum tray has a 500-pound capacity, mesh base, and a folding design for storage.
View on Amazon- Ramp Option Loezora Ramp Carrier
- Highest Capacity Generic 800-Lb Ramp Carrier
Compare Folding Aluminum Cargo Carriers
| # | Product | Dimensions | Load Capacity | Material | Compatible with Vehicle Type | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. Elevate 60-Inch CarrierBest Overall | — | — | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. MaxxHaul 50149 CarrierLightweight Pick | 50 x 22 x 5 in | 500 lb | Aluminum | Vehicle with 2" Receiver | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. CURT 18100 CarrierWide Platform | 31 x 4 x 21 in | 500 lb | Aluminum | Car, Trailer | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. Guide Gear Extra Large CarrierLarge outdoor hauling loads | 62 x 23.5 x 5.5 in | 500 lb | Aluminum | Truck, Car, SUV | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. Guide Gear Folding CarrierTruck camping equipment haulers | 51 x 23.5 x 5.5 in | 500 lb | Aluminum | Truck | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. Loezora Ramp CarrierRamp Option | 49.98 x 29.5 x 8.6 in | 5E+2 lb | Aluminum | SUV, Trailer, Truck | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. YOEXTO Ramp CarrierSUV ramp and scooter haulers | 52 x 28 x 9 in | 500 lb | Aluminum Alloy | Car, Trailer, Truck, Van | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. Generic 500-Lb Ramp CarrierScooter and ramp loading | 52 x 31 x 10 in | 500 lb | Aluminum | ATV, Car | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. Generic 800-Lb Ramp CarrierHighest Capacity | 52 x 30 x 6 in | 800 lb | Aluminum | Car, Trailer, Truck, Van | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. Northbound XL CarrierWelded aluminum truck hauling | — | 5E+2 lb | Aluminum | Truck | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Folding Aluminum Cargo Carrier
Why it ranks #1: Its 60-by-22.5-inch basket, 500-pound capacity, folding pull handle, and included anti-rattle bolt suit broad everyday hauling needs.
A 60-inch-wide basket gives the Elevate folding carrier room for broad cargo, while its pull handle lets you raise the empty rack upright to reduce the vehicle's footprint. The 500-pound-capacity aluminum tray fits Class III or IV 2-inch receivers and includes an anti-rattle hitch bolt and pin.
The 60-by-22.5-inch outer basket and 55-3/8-by-21-1/8-inch inner area clarify the usable space for planning wider loads. Slats let moisture and debris pass through, which can simplify cleanup after carrying wet or dirty gear. When unloaded, the pull handle makes it possible to fold the carrier upright without removing it. The included anti-rattle bolt and hitch pin serve the specified Class III or IV 2-inch receiver setup.
- 60-inch outer basket width
- Folding pull handle for upright storage
- Slatted base allows moisture and debris to pass through
- Anti-rattle bolt and hitch pin included
- The carrier weighs 47 pounds, which is a consideration when handling it for installation.
Skip it if you need a 500-pound capacity explicitly stated; the MAXXHAUL 50149 lists that load rating and a 50-by-22-inch basket.
This suits buyers carrying broad camping gear or coolers who want to fold the empty rack upright rather than remove it. Its stated receiver fit is limited to Class III or IV 2-inch hitches.
Full product details
| Brand | Elevate |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 47 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Elevate Outdoor |
| Part Number | HCCA-FOLDING-60 |
| Dimensions | 22.5 x 60 x 4.75 inches |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Elevate Aluminum Cargo Carrier, 500 lb, Folding Hitch Rack, Outdoor, 60"
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#2 · Lightweight Pick
2. MaxxHaul 50149 Carrier
- Dimensions: 50 x 22 x 5 in
- Load Capacity: 500 lb
- Material: Aluminum
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Vehicle with 2" Receiver
Best for: Everyday secured cargo haulers.
Why it ranks #2: This 32.7-pound aluminum carrier supports 500 pounds, measures 50 by 22 inches, and adds high rails and tie-down points.
High side rails and multiple tie-down points give the MAXXHAUL 50149 a secure, adaptable cargo area for gear that needs restraint in transit. Its 50-by-22-inch basket adds space outside the vehicle, while a 500-pound distributed load capacity accommodates substantial hauling for compatible 2-inch receivers.
The 5-inch-high rails help contain cargo, and the multiple tie-down points let you secure different loads rather than relying on the basket walls alone. Extruded aluminum keeps the carrier lightweight and resistant to rust and corrosion, useful for outdoor hauling. The basket arrives assembled, leaving attachment of the heavy-duty steel under-support and 2-by-2-inch hitch shaft as the main setup step. Its folding design can help reduce the carrier's footprint when not in use.
- 500-pound distributed load capacity
- 50-by-22-inch basket with 5-inch-high side rails
- Multiple tie-down points for securing varied loads
- Extruded aluminum resists rust and corrosion
- The 32.7-pound carrier still requires attaching its steel under-support and hitch shaft.
Skip it if you need a 60-inch-wide basket; Elevate's 60-inch folding carrier provides a wider loading area.
Choose this for a 2-inch receiver and loads that benefit from high rails and multiple tie-downs. The 50-by-22-inch basket is a more compact loading area than a 60-inch tray, so check that it suits your cargo.
Full product details
| Brand | MAXXHAUL |
|---|---|
| Color | silver |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Vehicle with 2" Receiver |
| Included Components | 50149 |
| Item Dimensions | 50 x 22 x 5 inches |
| Item Weight | 32.7 pounds |
| Dimensions | 50 x 22 x 5 inches |
| Load Capacity | 500 pounds |
| Manufacturer | MaxxHaul |
| Part Number | 50149 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 90 days |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Model Number | 50149 |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including bisphenol A (BPA) which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: MaxxHaul 50149 500-lb Capacity 50 inch x 22 inch Hitch Mount Premium Folding Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack Basket with High Side Rails and Reflector Lens for Added Safety
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#3 · Wide Platform
3. CURT 18100 Carrier
- Dimensions: 31 x 4 x 21 in
- Load Capacity: 500 lb
- Material: Aluminum
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Car, Trailer
Best for: Simple tray-style trip packing.
Why it ranks #3: Its 60-inch-long, 19-inch-wide aluminum tray has a 500-pound capacity, mesh base, and a folding design for storage.
A mesh base makes the CURT 18100 easier to clean after carrying muddy equipment, firewood, or other messy cargo outside the cabin. Its 60-by-19-inch tray offers extra vehicle storage, and the folding design lets the carrier tilt up when it is not in use.
The 500-pound capacity and 60-by-19-inch dimensions give a practical frame for planning a load, while the 2-inch receiver fit identifies the hitch connection. Lightweight aluminum construction and an assembly process that uses bolts make setup more manageable. The mesh base allows dirt and debris to be cleaned from the tray, a useful detail for messy gear. When the carrier is idle, its folding design allows it to tilt up rather than remain fully extended.
- 500-pound capacity
- 60-by-19-inch tray dimensions
- Mesh base facilitates cleanup
- Folding design tilts up when not in use
- The stated receiver fit is 2 inches, so it does not cover other receiver sizes.
Skip it if you need side rails to contain loose cargo; the MAXXHAUL 50149 lists high side rails and multiple tie-down points.
Choose this tray for buyers who need extra trip storage and expect to carry gear that can leave dirt behind. Its mesh base and folding tilt-up feature are practical, but the specified receiver size is 2 inches.
Full product details
| Brand | CURT |
|---|---|
| Color | Silver |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car, Trailer |
| Included Components | Tray Cargo Carrier |
| Item Dimensions | 31 x 4 x 21 inches |
| Item Weight | 8 ounces |
| Dimensions | 31 x 4 x 21 inches |
| Load Capacity | 500 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Curt Manufacturing |
| Part Number | 18100 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Model Number | 18100 |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Listed on Amazon as: CURT 18100 Tray-Style Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier, 500 lbs. Capacity, 60-Inch x 19-Inch, Fits 2-Inch Receiver
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#4
4. Guide Gear Extra Large Carrier
- Dimensions: 62 x 23.5 x 5.5 in
- Load Capacity: 500 lb
- Material: Aluminum
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck, Car, SUV
Best for: Large outdoor hauling loads.
Why it ranks #4: The listed platform measures 58.5 by 21 inches and supports 500 pounds; its aluminum construction suits larger gear loads.
A 500-pound capacity and extra-large platform make the Guide Gear folding tray a candidate for hauling bulky camping, moving, or hunting gear outside the vehicle. Its welded aluminum construction combines light weight with an anti-UV powder-coated finish intended to resist fading, rust, and corrosion during outdoor use.
The listed overall dimensions are 62 by 23.5 by 5.5 inches, giving buyers useful context for vehicle clearance and storage planning; the product description separately gives a 58.5-by-21-inch platform. At 48.1 pounds, the carrier is not weightless to handle, but aluminum construction is specified as lightweight. The anti-UV powder-coated finish is intended to resist fading as well as rust and corrosion, supporting use across outdoor hauling tasks.
- 500-pound load capacity
- 58.5-by-21-inch platform stated in the description
- Welded aluminum construction
- Anti-UV powder-coated finish resists fading, rust, and corrosion
- At 48.1 pounds, it takes substantial handling to install or remove.
Skip it if you need a smaller basket for a truck; Guide Gear's 51-inch folding utility carrier has a shorter listed length.
Consider it for buyers who want an extra-large platform for camping, moving, or hunting loads and value a coated aluminum build. Account for the 62-inch overall length when checking vehicle and storage space.
Full product details
| Brand | Guide Gear |
|---|---|
| Color | black |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck, Car, SUV |
| Item Dimensions | 62 x 23.5 x 5.5 inches |
| Item Weight | 48.1 pounds |
| Dimensions | 62 x 23.5 x 5.5 inches |
| Load Capacity | 500 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Guide Gear |
| Part Number | 10101212 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 30-day returns |
| Material | Aluminum |
Listed on Amazon as: Guide Gear Hitch Vehicle Cargo Carrier, Luggage Rack, Storage, Folding Tray, Aluminum, Extra Large
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#5
5. Guide Gear Folding Carrier
- Dimensions: 51 x 23.5 x 5.5 in
- Load Capacity: 500 lb
- Material: Aluminum
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: Truck camping equipment haulers.
Why it ranks #5: This 500-pound aluminum carrier measures 51 by 23.5 inches and is described as a folding utility trailer for a 2-inch receiver.
A 51-inch overall length gives this Guide Gear folding carrier a more compact listed footprint than its extra-large sibling, while its 500-pound capacity supports substantial truck-hauling loads. The aluminum basket has a welded construction and anti-UV powder-coated finish for corrosion resistance and year-round outdoor use.
The 51-by-23.5-by-5.5-inch overall dimensions help buyers judge space behind a truck, while the 500-pound capacity establishes its stated hauling limit. Guide Gear specifies a 2-inch Class III receiver and says installation takes minutes, making the hitch connection straightforward for compatible trucks. Aluminum construction is corrosion-resistant, and the anti-UV powder-coated finish is intended to resist fading. Together, those features suit camping or hunting equipment that travels outside the vehicle.
- 500-pound capacity
- 51-by-23.5-by-5.5-inch overall dimensions
- Aluminum construction resists corrosion
- Welded basket with anti-UV powder-coated finish
- The listed compatible vehicle type is truck, limiting its stated fit to that vehicle category.
Skip it if you want a longer platform for bulky cargo; Guide Gear's extra-large carrier lists a 62-inch overall length.
This fits truck owners hauling camping or hunting equipment who want a folding aluminum basket with a stated 500-pound capacity. Its listed vehicle compatibility is truck, and the overall length is 51 inches.
Full product details
| Brand | Guide Gear |
|---|---|
| Color | black |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Item Dimensions | 51 x 23.5 x 5.5 inches |
| Item Weight | 42.9 pounds |
| Dimensions | 51 x 23.5 x 5.5 inches |
| Load Capacity | 500 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Guide Gear |
| Part Number | 10101210 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 30-day returns |
| Material | Aluminum |
Listed on Amazon as: Guide Gear Folding Utility Trailer, Hitch Cargo Carrier, Truck Camping, Aluminum
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#6 · Ramp Option
6. Loezora Ramp Carrier
- Dimensions: 49.98 x 29.5 x 8.6 in
- Load Capacity: 5E+2 lb
- Material: Aluminum
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: SUV, Trailer, Truck
Best for: Ramp-equipped mobility loading.
Why it ranks #6: A 49.98-by-29.5-inch platform, 500-pound capacity, folding ramp, and reflective plates make it suited to ramp-loading needs.
An included folding ramp gives the Loezora carrier a loading route for equipment that can be rolled rather than lifted directly into a basket. The aluminum hitch carrier has a stated 500-pound capacity and measures about 50 by 29.5 inches, with listed compatibility for SUVs, trailers, and trucks.
The nearly 50-by-29.5-inch carrier provides a broad loading area, while the included folding ramp supports a roll-on workflow for compatible cargo. Its 500-pound capacity sets the stated load limit, and aluminum construction keeps the material consistent with the roundup's lightweight-carrier focus. The package also lists two reflective plates, which add visible markers to the carrier. SUV, trailer, and truck compatibility is specified, giving buyers several vehicle categories to consider.
- 500-pound load capacity
- About 50-by-29.5-inch carrier dimensions
- Folding ramp included
- Two reflective plates included
- The listed specifications do not state a receiver size, so hitch compatibility is unclear.
Skip it if you need a stated 2-inch receiver fit; YOEXTO's ramp carrier explicitly includes a 2-inch hitch receiver tube.
This suits buyers seeking a ramp-equipped carrier for an SUV, trailer, or truck and whose cargo fits its roughly 50-by-29.5-inch area. The specifications do not identify receiver size, a key fit detail to resolve.
Full product details
| Brand | Loezora |
|---|---|
| Color | Silver |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | SUV, Trailer, Truck |
| Included Components | 1 x Folding Ramp, 1 x Hitch Cargo Carrier, 1 x Instruction Manual, 1 x Set of Assembly Hardware, 2 x Reflective Plate |
| Item Dimensions | 49.98 x 29.5 x 8.6 inches |
| Item Weight | 35.7 pounds |
| Dimensions | 49.98 x 29.5 x 8.6 inches |
| Load Capacity | 5E+2 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Loezora |
| Part Number | cargo-01 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 2 |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Model Number | 50x 29.5 x 8.7 in Hitch Cargo Carrier |
Listed on Amazon as: Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier with Folding Ramp, 500 lb Capacity
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#7
7. YOEXTO Ramp Carrier
- Dimensions: 52 x 28 x 9 in
- Load Capacity: 500 lb
- Material: Aluminum Alloy
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Car, Trailer, Truck, Van
Best for: SUV ramp and scooter haulers.
Why it ranks #7: Its aluminum-alloy platform offers 500-pound capacity, a 50-by-28.3-inch loading area, and an included foldable ramp.
A foldable loading ramp and included 2-inch receiver tube make the YOEXTO carrier a ready-to-plan option for rolling scooters or gear onto an SUV hauling setup. Its aluminum-alloy frame supports a stated 500-pound load across a 50-by-28.3-inch loading area.
The 50-by-28.3-by-5.1-inch loading area and 500-pound rating help buyers assess whether a scooter, garden tools, or camping gear fit the stated limits. The foldable ramp offers a roll-on loading workflow, while the included 2-inch hitch receiver tube identifies the connection hardware. YOEXTO specifies an aluminum-alloy frame as lightweight and corrosion-resistant, a useful combination for outdoor use and exposure to the elements.
- 500-pound load capacity
- 50-by-28.3-by-5.1-inch loading area
- Foldable loading ramp included
- 2-inch hitch receiver tube included
- The carrier weighs 44 pounds, which adds handling effort during installation or removal.
Skip it if you need an 800-pound load rating; the Generic TYYJU ramp carrier lists that capacity for its carrier.
This suits SUV owners who need ramp-assisted loading for scooters, tools, or camping gear and want the 2-inch receiver tube included. Keep the 500-pound capacity and 44-pound carrier weight in mind.
Full product details
| Brand | YOEXTO |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car, Trailer, Truck, Van |
| Included Components | 1 x 500LBS Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier 1 x Foldable Loading Ramp 1 x Hitch Receiver Tube (2") |
| Item Dimensions | 52 x 28 x 9 inches |
| Item Weight | 44 pounds |
| Dimensions | 52 x 28 x 9 inches |
| Load Capacity | 500 Pounds |
| Manufacturer | YOEXTO |
| Part Number | AW100LYY14 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 30days |
| Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Model Number | AW100LYY14 |
Listed on Amazon as: Aluminum Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier with Ramp,500 Lbs Carrier for SUV
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#8
8. Generic 500-Lb Ramp Carrier
- Dimensions: 52 x 31 x 10 in
- Load Capacity: 500 lb
- Material: Aluminum
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: ATV, Car
Best for: Scooter and ramp loading.
Why it ranks #8: The 500-pound carrier has a 50-by-29.5-inch platform and built-in ramp, but the supplied details give limited receiver and included-component information.
A built-in loading ramp pairs with a 50-by-29.5-inch platform to support rolling mobility scooters or other compatible cargo onto this folding hitch carrier. Its aluminum construction and 500-pound stated capacity suit buyers seeking a large loading area for a truck, SUV, or van.
The ramp offers a roll-on alternative to lifting cargo onto the 50-by-29.5-inch platform, which the product description identifies as suitable for mobility scooters, luggage, and gear. A 500-pound capacity sets the listed load ceiling, while the aluminum construction is described as corrosion-resistant. The title identifies a 2-inch receiver and folding design, useful for planning hitch compatibility and stowing the carrier when it is not needed.
- Built-in ramp for loading cargo
- 50-by-29.5-inch platform
- 500-pound load capacity
- Folding design and 2-inch receiver stated in the title
- The specifications list no included components, so the package contents are not established.
Skip it if you want an 800-pound stated capacity; the Generic TYYJU ramp carrier lists that higher load rating.
Consider this for buyers who need a ramp-equipped platform for scooter, luggage, or gear loading and have a compatible 2-inch receiver. The stated 500-pound capacity is the boundary for planning the total load.
Full product details
| Brand | Generic |
|---|---|
| Color | Grey |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | ATV, Car |
| Included Components | NO |
| Item Dimensions | 52 x 31 x 10 inches |
| Dimensions | 52 x 31 x 10 inches |
| Load Capacity | 500 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Little Storeer |
| Part Number | cargo carrier hitch mount |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | No |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Model Number | hitch cargo carrier |

#9 · Highest Capacity
9. Generic 800-Lb Ramp Carrier
- Dimensions: 52 x 30 x 6 in
- Load Capacity: 800 lb
- Material: Aluminum
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Car, Trailer, Truck, Van
Best for: Higher-capacity ramp transport.
Why it ranks #9: Its stated 800-pound capacity exceeds the other listed carriers, with a folding design and ramp; material details conflict between listing fields.
An 800-pound stated capacity sets this folding ramp carrier apart for buyers whose hauling needs exceed a 500-pound rating. Its 50-by-28.5-inch platform and reflective strips suit ramp-assisted loading and visible rear transport, while the listed fit covers cars, trailers, trucks, and vans.
The 50-by-28.5-inch platform provides room for the ramp-assisted mobility and wheelchair transport named in the title, and the 800-pound rating establishes its stated load limit. Folding construction saves storage room when the carrier is idle. The included mounting bracket, safety flag, tie-down strap, and wheel strap support securing and marking a load. Listed compatibility spans cars, trailers, trucks, and vans, with a 2-inch receiver identified in the title.
- 800-pound stated load capacity
- 50-by-28.5-inch dimensions in the title
- Folding design saves storage room
- Mounting bracket, safety flag, tie-down strap, and wheel strap listed
- The product description calls the material heavy-duty steel, despite the aluminum title and material specification.
Skip it if you require consistent material details; the MAXXHAUL 50149 clearly specifies extruded aluminum construction and a 500-pound capacity.
This is for buyers prioritizing the listed 800-pound capacity, ramp-assisted transport, and included tie-down accessories. The material descriptions conflict, so buyers who need unambiguous construction details should account for that before choosing.
Full product details
| Brand | Generic |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car, Trailer, Truck, Van |
| Included Components | Mounting Bracket, Safety Flag, Tie Down Strap, Wheel Strap |
| Item Dimensions | 52 x 30 x 6 inches |
| Dimensions | 52 x 30 x 6 inches |
| Load Capacity | 800 Pounds |
| Manufacturer | TYYJU |
| Part Number | Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier with Ramp 01 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Model Number | Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier with Ramp |

#10
10. Northbound XL Carrier
- Load Capacity: 5E+2 lb
- Material: Aluminum
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: Welded aluminum truck hauling.
Why it ranks #10: The welded aluminum construction and 500-pound capacity are useful, but the supplied listing does not state a folding feature or platform dimensions.
An all-welded aluminum construction gives the Northbound X-Large a straightforward platform for truck hauling, with 2-by-2-by-quarter-inch and 1-by-2-inch D-tube cross supports specified. It lists a 500-pound capacity, making it an option for buyers prioritizing a welded build over folding features.
Northbound specifies an all-welded aluminum carrier with D-tube cross supports and a top angle, giving buyers concrete construction details when comparing platforms for truck cargo. The listed 500-pound capacity supplies a load limit for planning gear. Truck is the stated compatible vehicle type. No dimensions or folding feature are supplied in the listing, so buyers should account for that information gap when checking available space and storage workflow.
- All-welded aluminum construction
- 2-by-2-by-quarter-inch cross supports specified
- 1-by-2-inch D-tube cross supports
- 500-pound load capacity
- No folding feature is listed, so storage may require keeping the carrier extended.
Skip it if you need a folding carrier for upright stowage; Elevate's 60-inch aluminum rack lists a pull-handle folding design.
This fits truck owners who prioritize a welded aluminum build and have cargo within the stated 500-pound capacity. Since dimensions and a folding feature are not listed, verify the available storage and vehicle clearance independently.
Full product details
| Brand | Northbound |
|---|---|
| Color | Silver |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Load Capacity | 5E+2 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Northbound |
| Part Number | 116873 |
| Material | Aluminum |
Listed on Amazon as: Northbound Aluminum Cargo Carrier/Hauler (X-Large)
View on AmazonCheck clearance before choosing a folding carrier
A carrier can fit a 2-inch receiver and still interfere with the vehicle, so check clearance and access before loading it. The listed platform dimensions describe the basket, not how far the installed carrier extends behind the bumper or whether a tailgate can open. Folding functionality does not guarantee access while the basket is loaded; the Elevate listing describes folding the empty carrier upright.
The Elevate basket is 60 inches wide, while the MaxxHaul measures 50 inches, so their installed footprint and vehicle fit may differ substantially. Compare your receiver position, bumper shape, exhaust location, and tailgate path with the carrier’s actual installed dimensions and instructions.
The listings do not provide a universal clearance measurement, so do not infer one from basket size alone. Also verify that the carrier will not obscure required lights or the license plate once loaded.
A ramp adds access, but changes the hauling setup
A ramp can make loading wheeled equipment easier, but it also adds a different loading and securing task than a plain basket. Loezora and YOEXTO list included folding ramps, and the Generic 500-Lb Ramp Carrier describes a built-in ramp. Their wide platforms—about 28 to 29.5 inches—are intended for a different cargo shape than the narrower general-purpose trays.
Before buying, confirm that the ramp’s usable width and length suit the equipment you plan to load; the supplied listings do not specify all ramp dimensions or loading angles. You will also need to secure cargo after loading: a capacity rating alone does not keep wheels or gear from shifting.
For boxes, camping gear, or varied luggage, a railed basket such as the MaxxHaul may be the simpler format. Choose a ramp carrier when its loading function matters enough to justify the larger platform and more specialized setup.
How to Choose a Folding Aluminum Hitch Carrier
Platform dimensions and usable space
Look at the basket’s stated dimensions and, when provided, its usable inner area. The Elevate measures 60 by 22.5 inches outside, with an inner basket of 55 3/8 by 21 1/8 inches; the MaxxHaul is 50 by 22 inches, and the CURT is 60 by 19 inches. Ramp-oriented options are wider, with listed loading areas around 28 to 29.5 inches across.
A longer tray favours bulky luggage or several containers, while a wider ramp platform better suits wheeled equipment. Measure your cargo and vehicle before deciding: outside dimensions are not the same as clear loading space, and many listings do not supply both measurements.
Capacity and the vehicle's limit
Choose a carrier capacity that covers your intended load, then check the hitch and vehicle limits separately. Most standard baskets here list 500 pounds, including the Elevate, MaxxHaul, and CURT; the Generic 800-Lb Ramp Carrier states 800 pounds. These figures describe the carrier listing and do not establish that a particular vehicle can carry that much at the hitch.
A buyer hauling typical camping gear can compare the 500-pound options by fit and features, while someone considering heavier equipment should verify every component’s rating before loading. Do not treat the largest advertised number as permission to exceed the vehicle’s or receiver’s own limits.
Receiver fit and folding details
Confirm the receiver size and folding method before choosing, because these details differ in how explicitly the listings describe them. The Elevate is specified for Class III or IV 2-inch receivers and includes an anti-rattle hitch bolt and hitch pin; the MaxxHaul and Guide Gear Folding Carrier also identify 2-inch receiver compatibility. The Elevate uses a pull handle to reposition the empty carrier upright, while the CURT listing says its tray can tilt up when unused.
Buyers with a stated 2-inch receiver can start with those explicit fits; anyone with another receiver size or unusual hitch setup should verify compatibility rather than assume an adapter is suitable. Check whether folding is possible with the cargo removed.
Which Folding Aluminum Carrier Should You Choose?
For general-purpose hauling from a stated 2-inch receiver, choose the Elevate 60-Inch Carrier: it combines a 500-pound rating, a broad basket, and a pull-handle folding design. If lower listed carrier weight and high side rails matter more, the MaxxHaul 50149 Carrier weighs 32.7 pounds and has tie-down points. Choose the CURT 18100 Carrier for a 60-inch tray with a mesh base and folding storage design.
For loading wheeled equipment, consider the Loezora Ramp Carrier or YOEXTO Ramp Carrier, both listed with folding ramps and 500-pound capacities. The Generic 800-Lb Ramp Carrier states the highest capacity, but its supplied material details conflict, so verify the product specifications carefully.
Skip the Northbound XL Carrier if folding is essential; its listing does not confirm that feature.
Related Buying Guides
- Best Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Best Car Cargo Carriers
- Best Rear Cargo Carrier
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- Best Soft Cargo Carrier
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check whether a hitch cargo carrier will clear my vehicle's exhaust and tailgate?
Check the carrier’s dimensions and position against your vehicle before loading it. With the carrier installed, verify that the exhaust does not direct heat toward the basket or cargo and that the tailgate can open without hitting the carrier. If clearance is uncertain, consult your vehicle and carrier instructions.
How should I secure cargo so it does not shift or block lights and the license plate?
Distribute cargo securely across the platform and fasten it with suitable tie-downs at the carrier’s attachment points. Keep the load stable and within the carrier and vehicle limits. Before driving, check that cargo does not cover lights or the license plate, and recheck the load after stopping.
Does my vehicle's hitch rating limit the load even when the carrier lists a higher capacity?
Yes. The vehicle and hitch ratings still apply, even if the carrier lists a higher capacity. Do not exceed the lowest applicable limit, and account for the carrier’s own weight when determining the load.
Check the vehicle and hitch documentation as well as the carrier instructions before hauling.
What should I check before choosing a ramp carrier for wheeled equipment?
Confirm that the ramp design suits the equipment you intend to load and that the carrier’s stated capacity is appropriate for the combined load. Check the receiver fit, loading approach, and storage requirements too. The Loezora and YOEXTO listings specify folding ramps and 500-pound capacities; verify details for any model you consider.
What should I verify when a carrier listing has conflicting details?
Verify the exact product specifications with the seller or manufacturer before relying on them. Compare the stated capacity, dimensions, receiver fit, and folding features, and resolve any inconsistencies before purchase or use. This is particularly important for the Generic 800-Lb Ramp Carrier, whose supplied material contains conflicting details.
Final Words
For general-purpose hauling from a 2-inch receiver, the Elevate 60-Inch Carrier is the leading choice if its 47-pound weight and basket dimensions suit your vehicle and storage needs. Choose the MaxxHaul if its lower listed carrier weight and high rails fit your priorities, or a ramp model for wheeled equipment. Verify vehicle and hitch limits, clearances, and product details before loading; skip the Northbound if folding is essential.


