10 Best Cargo Carriers 2025 in the United States

The MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket is a solid option for those needing to transport additional cargo. It boasts a high hauling capacity of 500 lbs, making it suitable for heavy loads. The basket itself measures a spacious 60 x 20 x 6 inches, providing ample room for various items. Its tubular steel construction with a black epoxy powder coating ensures durability and a lightweight design, which is a plus for ease of handling and longevity.

The added ground clearance, thanks to the angled shank, makes it versatile for both offroad and low-riding vehicles. This feature is particularly useful for avoiding damage on uneven terrains. For nighttime safety, the reflectors enhance visibility, which is an important safety measure. The included accessories, such as the 16 cubic feet waterproof cargo bag, hitch stabilizer, cargo net, and ratchet straps, add significant value by enhancing security and convenience. Installation appears straightforward with the U-Bolt mounting type, and the hitch stabilizer helps reduce noise and movement during travel.

On the downside, the carrier’s dimensions might be challenging for smaller vehicles, and the folded size (45 x 6 x 18 inches) may still require considerable storage space. The mesh base is a practical feature for cleaning but might not support very small items securely. This cargo carrier basket is best suited for users with larger vehicles who often need to transport bulky or heavy items, ensuring both convenience and safety during travel.

The SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box offers a substantial internal cargo capacity of 18 cubic feet (510 liters), making it a great option for families or individuals needing extra storage space for trips. Made from durable, UV-resistant ABS plastic, it promises longevity and withstands harsh weather conditions, adding to its reliability. The rear opening design is a thoughtful feature as it allows easy access to your belongings without having to stand in traffic, enhancing safety.

Additionally, its tool-free mounting system simplifies installation and removal, which is a significant plus for those who prefer hassle-free setups. It also includes a key and lock system, ensuring your items are secure both in the box and on your vehicle's rack. The cargo box is versatile in terms of compatibility, fitting SportRack systems, square bars, round bars, and most factory racks, though checking the fit guide is recommended.

With dimensions of 63 x 38 x 19 inches and a maximum weight capacity of 100 pounds (45 kg), it provides ample space while maintaining a manageable weight of 28 pounds. However, while it is water-resistant, it may not be entirely waterproof, which could be a concern in heavy rain conditions. Also, the bulky size might slightly affect the aerodynamics of your vehicle, potentially impacting fuel efficiency. This cargo box is ideal for those looking for a durable, easy-to-install, and spacious storage solution for their vehicle.

The Thule 614 Pulse Rack offers a generous 14 cubic feet of rooftop cargo space, making it suitable for families or individuals needing extra packing room. Its rugged plastic construction ensures durability, while the central locking system provides excellent security, ensuring that contents remain safe. The FastGrip quick-mount system simplifies installation, allowing it to be assembled in minutes. The design includes a passenger-side opening for convenient loading and unloading.

It can accommodate 3-5 snowboards up to 155 cm in length, which is perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. The cargo box has a load capacity of 110 lbs and weighs 34 lbs itself, making it robust yet manageable. However, the height off the crossbar is 16 inches, which might impact aerodynamics slightly and possibly affect fuel efficiency.

Despite being water-resistant, it may not be fully waterproof, so some caution is advised in heavy rain conditions. This cargo carrier is ideal for users seeking a reliable and spacious option for additional storage on their vehicles.