Aluminum or Steel Cargo Baskets? Compared by Specs
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Choosing between aluminum vs steel cargo basket options depends on your specific hauling needs. Both the MaxxHaul and WEIZE carriers offer 500 lb capacity and fit standard 2-inch receivers. The main difference lies in construction material. Aluminum provides a lightweight, rust-resistant option. Steel offers a rugged, heavy-duty build with included accessories. You must weigh weight against durability.
Key differences
| Aspect | MaxxHaul 49" x 22.5" Aluminum Cargo Carrier | WEIZE 60-inch Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum | Steel |
| Weight | 21.4 lbs | 66.5 lbs |
| Basket Dimensions | 49-1/4 x 22-1/2 x 7-1/4 in | 60 x 20 x 6 in |
| Side Rail Height | 7-1/4 in | 6 in |
| Folding Design | Not listed | Yes |
| Included Accessories | Not listed | Waterproof bag, net, straps |
Which one should you choose?
Choose MaxxHaul 49" x 22.5" Aluminum Cargo Carrier if
- You prioritize a lightweight carrier that is easy to handle and install.
- You need higher side rails to keep smaller items secure.
- You want a rust-resistant material that requires minimal maintenance.
Choose WEIZE 60-inch Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier if
- You need extra storage length with a 60-inch basket.
- You want a folding design for easier storage when not in use.
- You prefer a carrier that includes a waterproof bag and tie-down straps.
Verdict: Choose the aluminum carrier if you value lightweight handling and rust resistance. Pick the steel carrier if you need a longer, folding basket with included protective accessories. Both options safely support 500 lbs.
Aluminum vs Steel Cargo Basket Specs
Shell material
The MaxxHaul 70108 uses extruded aluminum for its basket. This material is naturally resistant to rust and keeps the overall weight low. The WEIZE carrier is built from heavy-duty steel. It features a powder coating to help protect against rust and corrosion, though the manufacturer suggests using additional truck bedliner paint for maximum protection. Aluminum offers inherent corrosion resistance without extra steps, while steel relies on its coating for similar protection.
Weight
Weight matters when you are installing or removing the carrier. The MaxxHaul aluminum model weighs 21.4 pounds. This light weight makes it easier to handle during installation. The WEIZE steel carrier weighs 66.5 pounds. The significant difference in mass comes from the denser steel construction. If you plan to fold the WEIZE unit up frequently, the heavier weight may require more effort. The aluminum option is much lighter to manage.
Load capacity
Both carriers support the same maximum load. The MaxxHaul aluminum basket has a weight capacity of 500 lb. The WEIZE steel basket also lists a 500 lb capacity. Despite the difference in material strength, both manufacturers rate them equally. You can haul up to 500 pounds of cargo on either unit. This spec is identical for both products, so material choice does not affect the maximum weight you can carry.
Basket dimensions
Storage space varies between the two models. The MaxxHaul outer basket measures 49-1/4 inches long by 22-1/2 inches wide. The WEIZE carrier is longer at 60 inches long but narrower at 20 inches wide. The MaxxHaul offers a wider footprint, which may help with stability for wider items. The WEIZE provides more linear length, which is useful for long items like lumber or pipes. The total volume differs based on your cargo shape.
Side rail height
Side rails keep cargo from sliding out. The MaxxHaul has high side rails that are 7-1/4 inches tall. The WEIZE carrier has side rails that are 6 inches tall. The extra height on the MaxxHaul provides better containment for smaller or looser items. This is helpful if you are carrying bags or boxes that might shift. The WEIZE rails are slightly lower, which may require more careful loading to prevent items from falling out during transit.
Which Cargo Basket Suits Your Needs
You want to minimize vehicle strain
The MaxxHaul weighs 21.4 pounds, significantly lighter than the steel WEIZE at 66.5 pounds. This aluminum construction reduces the tongue weight on your hitch receiver. The lighter mass improves fuel efficiency and handling. You benefit from a rust-resistant material that requires less maintenance over time. The extruded aluminum frame offers durability without the heavy cost of steel.
You need maximum storage length
The WEIZE carrier measures 60 inches long, providing more cargo length than the 49-inch MaxxHaul. This extra space accommodates longer items like kayaks or lumber. The steel construction supports the same 500 lb capacity as the aluminum option. The included waterproof bag and net add utility for protecting gear. The folding design allows for compact storage when not in use.
You prioritize included accessories
The WEIZE package includes a waterproof cargo bag, a cargo net, and tie-down straps. These items are essential for securing and protecting your load from road debris and weather. The MaxxHaul does not list these accessories in its specifications. Having these tools included saves you from purchasing them separately. The steel basket provides a sturdy base for these additional safety features.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MaxxHaul 49" x 22.5" Aluminum Cargo Carrier | Heavy loads on 2-inch hitches | Check price of MaxxHaul 49" x 22.5" Aluminum Cargo Carrier on Amazon |
| 2 | WEIZE 60-inch Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier | heavy loads and included accessories | Check price of WEIZE 60-inch Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier on Amazon |
The products compared
MaxxHaul 49" x 22.5" Aluminum Cargo Carrier
Best for: Heavy loads on 2-inch hitches
- Material
- Aluminum (what this guide is about)
- Mount Type
- Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver)
- Weight Capacity
- 500 lb
- Basket Dimensions
- 49-1/4 x 22-1/2 x 7-1/4 in
- Side Rail Height
- 7-1/4 in
- Receiver Size
- 2-inch
View on Amazon: MaxxHaul 49" x 22.5" Aluminum Cargo Carrier Affiliate link
This is a hitch-mount cargo carrier built from extruded aluminum with a steel under support frame. It offers a 500 lb weight capacity and fits standard 2-inch receivers. The basket measures 49-1/4 x 22-1/2 x 7-1/4 inches. It includes reflector lenses and high side rails for safety and cargo security. You get a lightweight, rust-resistant option for hauling gear on SUVs, trucks, or vans.
Pros
- 500 lb weight capacity
- Extruded aluminum construction
- High side rails with tie-down points
- Includes reflector lenses
Cons
- Aluminum material scratches more easily than steel
- Steel frame adds weight compared to all-aluminum designs
- Limited to 2-inch hitch receivers only
Good fit if
- You need a 500 lb capacity carrier
- You want rust-resistant aluminum material
- You have a 2-inch receiver hitch
Skip if
- You require a steel material build
- You need a 1.9-inch receiver fit
- You want a folding design for storage
Verdict: MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Hitch Carrier is a sturdy, high-capacity solution for users who prioritize rust resistance and heavy loads over the lowest possible weight. It fits drivers who need secure, visible hauling space on standard 2-inch hitches.
WEIZE 60-inch Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier
Best for: heavy loads and included accessories
- Material
- Steel (what this guide is about)
- Mount Type
- hitch-mount
- Weight Capacity
- 500 lbs
- Basket Dimensions
- 60x20x6 inches
- Side Rail Height
- 6 inches
- Receiver Size
- 2-inch
View on Amazon: WEIZE 60-inch Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier Affiliate link
This hitch-mounted basket is built from heavy-duty steel with a powder-coated finish. It measures 60 by 20 inches with 6-inch side rails. The unit supports a load capacity of 500 lbs and weighs 66.5 lbs. It folds for storage and includes a waterproof bag and net. It suits drivers needing high weight limits and durable materials.
Pros
- 500 lbs weight capacity
- Includes waterproof bag and net
- Folding design for storage
- 60-inch length
Cons
- 66.5 lbs weight
- Requires rust protection
- 6-inch side rails
Good fit if
- You need to haul up to 500 lbs
- You want included accessories
- You prefer steel durability
Skip if
- You need aluminum lightweight design
- You want higher side rails
- You dislike folding mechanisms
Verdict: WEIZE 60x20 Steel Cargo Carrier offers high capacity and included accessories. It fits those prioritizing weight limits over material weight.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MaxxHaul 49" x 22.5" Aluminum Cargo Carrier | WEIZE 60-inch Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Type | Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver) | hitch-mount |
| Weight Capacity | 500 lb | 500 lbs |
| Basket Dimensions | 49-1/4 x 22-1/2 x 7-1/4 in | 60x20x6 inches |
| Material | Aluminum | heavy-duty steel |
| Side Rail Height | 7-1/4 in | 6 inches |
| Receiver Size | 2-inch | 2-inch |
| Load Capacity | 500 lb | 500 lb |
| Vehicle Type | Car, SUV, Truck, Van | not stated |
| Includes Bag | not stated | With Bag |
| Includes Net | not stated | With Net |
| Dimensions | 50.5 × 24.1 × 6.1 inches | 60 × 20 × 6 inches |
| Weight | 21.4 pounds | 66.5 pounds |
| Size | 49" x 22.5" | 60" x 20" x 6" |
| Color | Grey | black |
| Model | 70108 | CCB-1037 |
Frequently asked questions
Which cargo basket is lighter, aluminum or steel?
Aluminum baskets are significantly lighter than steel options. The MaxxHaul aluminum carrier weighs 21.4 pounds. In contrast, the steel WEIZE model weighs 66.5 pounds. The lower mass of aluminum reduces tongue weight on your hitch receiver. This helps maintain better vehicle handling and fuel efficiency during transport.
Do aluminum and steel cargo baskets have the same weight limit?
Yes, both materials can support heavy loads. The MaxxHaul aluminum basket has a 500 lb load capacity. The steel WEIZE carrier also offers a 500 lb limit. You do not sacrifice capacity by choosing the lighter aluminum option. Both designs meet standard heavy-duty hauling requirements for cars, SUVs, and trucks.
Which material is better for rust resistance?
Aluminum is naturally resistant to rust. The MaxxHaul carrier uses extruded aluminum that does not require protective coatings for corrosion prevention. Steel baskets, like the WEIZE model, rely on powder coating to prevent rust. If you live in a humid climate or frequently drive on salted roads, aluminum requires less maintenance.
What size hitch receiver do these carriers fit?
Both carriers fit standard 2-inch hitch receivers. The MaxxHaul aluminum basket is designed for 2-inch receivers. The steel WEIZE carrier also specifies a 2-inch receiver size. Ensure your vehicle has a compatible 2-inch hitch before purchasing. This is the most common size for SUVs, trucks, and vans.
Does the steel cargo basket come with a cargo bag?
The steel WEIZE carrier includes a cargo bag. It also comes with a cargo net for additional security. The aluminum MaxxHaul model does not list a bag in its specifications. If you want built-in storage for loose items, the steel option provides these accessories directly with the carrier.
How much storage space does each basket offer?
The steel WEIZE basket is longer than the aluminum MaxxHaul. The WEIZE measures 60 inches in length and 20 inches in width. The MaxxHaul measures 49 inches in length and 22.5 inches in width. The steel model offers more linear space for long items. The aluminum model provides a wider surface area.