Hitch Cargo Carriers + Racks
Hitch Cargo Carriers and Racks
Why use a hitch carrier or rack for your gear? Easy loading and accessibility to your gear are the main advantages of a hitch carrier over a roof carrier. Lower overall cost can be another factor if you already have a hitch receiver on your vehicle.
Hitch carriers come in two forms, as an enclosed lockable box or as an open rack. Click below to go right to our product selection or scroll down to learn more about your choices.
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| Cargo Carriers |
Enclosed locking boxes from StowAway, Rola and Thule. Ideal if you want to protect your gear in a more secure unit.
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| Cargo Racks |
Hitch cargo racks offer great value for transporting gear. Many styles available for both 2" and 1.25" hitch receivers. |
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Hitch Cargo Carriers and Racks - More Info
Why choose a hitch carrier for your gear? Easy loading and accessibility to your gear are the main advantages of a hitch carrier over a roof carrier.
What's the difference between a hitch cargo carrier and a cargo rack?
Cargo Carrier
Enclosed, lockable box mounted to a metal frame
Keeps gear protected from the elements
Some models swing or tilt away for clear access to the rear of your vehicle
Prices ranging from $349 to $659
Cargo Rack
Open metal rack or plastic tray mounted to a metal frame
Ideal for bulky or unusual shapes
Gear not as protected from the weather. Can be mitigated by using a cargo bag.
Racks are easier to store when not in use
Prices range from $85 to $349
Will a hitch carrier work on my vehicle?
A hitch carrier slides into your trailer hitch, so you must have a hitch installed or have a vehicle that can accomodate a trailer hitch.
Many smaller vehicles and sedans are not designed for a hitch. You can refer to your owner's manual to determine if your vehicle is rated for a trailer hitch.
Hitches come in two sizes, 2" and 1.25", which have different tongue weight capacities. Tongue weight capacity is the amount of weight that the hitch can support. 2" hitches typically have a higher tongue weight capacity.
Vehicles are also rated for tongue weight capacity and gross vehicle weight maximums. Be sure that any hitch carrier you select does not exceed either the vehicle's or the hitch's specified capacities.
Some vehicles have a rear mounted spare tire or ladder. StowAway offers hitch carriers designed to fit around these. Call or email us at 1-866-403-8505 to check which carriers will fit around your spare tire.
Make sure you select a hitch carrier that will fit your hitch size.
Will a hitch carrier allow me to access the back of my vehicle?
Hitch carriers come with three frame styles, rigid frame, tilt-down and swingaway. Some rigid frame carriers provide room to open the rear window of an SUV or the trunk of a car. Tilt down and swingaway models generally allow you to open an SUV liftgate or a trunk. Swingaway models are a little easier to handle when loaded because no lifting is required.
What is more economical, a hitch carrier or a roof carrier?
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