Best Cargo Baskets for Van in 2026: 11 Picks Ranked by Specs
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Finding the best cargo baskets for van requires matching your load needs to carrier specs. We compared 11 models ranked by published data. The MaxxHaul 49" x 22.5" Aluminum Cargo Carrier leads with a 500 lb load capacity and 21.4 lb weight, offering high durability without excessive bulk. These picks rely strictly on manufacturer specifications, not personal testing or user reviews. You will use this guide to decide between hitch-mounted or roof-mounted options based on capacity, material, and dimensions that fit your van's setup.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You need high side rails for secure cargo MaxxHaul 49" x 22.5" Aluminum Cargo Carrier The 6.1 inch height provides secure containment for loose items.
- You need a ramp to load heavy gear MaxxHaul 50945 Aluminum Hitch Carrier The included ramp allows easy rolling of heavy items onto the carrier.
- You want a wide basket for bulky items TUFFIOM 64x39x6 in Extendable Roof Basket The 39 inch width offers ample space for wide, bulky cargo.
- You need a folding basket for easy storage OUTPRIZE 60 x 24 x 14 in Hitch Cargo Carrier The tall folding side rails allow for compact storage when not in use.
Our 11 picks
MaxxHaul 49" x 22.5" Aluminum Cargo Carrier
Best for: van owners needing a heavy-duty hitch carrier with high side rails
- Vehicle Type
- Car, SUV, Truck, Van (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
- Material
- Aluminum
- Side Rail Height
- 7-1/4 in
This hitch-mount cargo carrier from MaxxHaul is built with an aluminum basket and a steel under-support frame. It offers a 500 lb load capacity and high 7.25-inch side rails with multiple tie-down points. The 2-inch receiver fits Class III and IV hitches. It suits van owners who need a durable, rust-resistant carrier for extra gear on road trips.
Pros
- 500 lb weight capacity handles heavy loads
- Aluminum construction resists rust and is lightweight at 21.4 lb
- High side rails (7.25 in) provide secure cargo containment
- Reflector lenses and red corner accents improve visibility
- Multiple tie-down points for securing gear
Cons
- Basket dimensions (49.25 x 22.5 x 7.25 in) may be too small for bulky items
- Steel under-support frame adds weight compared to all-aluminum designs
- No folding feature for compact storage when not in use
Good fit if
- You need a hitch-mounted carrier with a high weight capacity for heavy gear
- You prefer a rust-resistant aluminum basket for outdoor use
- You want enhanced visibility with reflector lenses on the carrier
Skip if
- You need a larger cargo platform for oversize items like coolers or furniture
- You require a folding carrier for easy storage when not mounted
- You want a carrier that mounts to a 1.25-inch receiver without an adapter
Verdict: MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier is a solid choice for van owners seeking a durable, high-capacity hitch carrier with secure side rails and good visibility features.
MaxxHaul 50945 Aluminum Hitch Carrier
Best for: van owners needing a heavy-duty hitch carrier with ramp
- Vehicle Type
- Car, SUV, Truck, Van (what this guide is about)
- Mount Type
- Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver)
- Weight Capacity
- 500 lb
- Material
- Aluminum
- Receiver Size
- 2 in
- Weight
- 48 pounds
This MaxxHaul cargo carrier is built for heavy-duty van use with a 500 lb weight capacity and a built-in 47-inch ramp. Its 50" x 29.5" aluminum platform resists rust, and the steel support frame adds strength. The hitch-mount design fits 2-inch receivers, making it a practical choice for loading mobility equipment or bulky gear onto your van.
Pros
- 500 lb weight capacity handles heavy loads
- Built-in 47-inch ramp for easy loading
- Rust-proof aluminum platform with steel support frame
- Reflectors improve visibility on the road
Cons
- No folding design for storage when not in use
- Heavier than some all-aluminum carriers at 48 pounds
- Ramp adds length, which may reduce departure angle
Good fit if
- You need to load heavy or wheeled items like a mobility scooter onto your van
- You want a hitch carrier with a ramp for easier loading
- You prefer rust-proof aluminum over steel
Skip if
- You need a folding carrier for compact storage
- You want a lighter carrier for frequent mounting and removal
- You prefer a roof-mounted basket to save hitch access
Verdict: MaxxHaul 50" x 29.5" Aluminum Mobility Carrier with Ramp is a durable, high-capacity hitch carrier for van owners who need to load heavy items with a ramp, though it lacks a folding design and is heavier than some alternatives.
MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum Cargo Carrier
Best for: Budget-conscious van owners with flat, bulky cargo
- Vehicle Type
- Car, SUV, Truck, Van (what this guide is about)
- Mount Type
- Hitch-mount
- Weight Capacity
- 500 lb
- Basket Dimensions
- 60 x 22 x 3.25 inches
- Material
- Aluminum
- Dimensions
- 60 × 22 × 3.25 inches
This hitch-mount cargo carrier from MaxxHaul gives you a 60 by 22 inch aluminum basket with a 500 lb load capacity. Its shallow 3.25-inch sides are designed for bulky but flat items like coolers or luggage. The aluminum basket resists rust and keeps weight down to 25.6 lb. Assembly is required before first use.
Pros
- 500 lb maximum distributed load capacity
- Aluminum basket resists rust and is easy to clean
- Includes reflector strips and red corners for extra visibility
- Lightweight at 25.6 lb for easier handling
Cons
- Shallow 3.25-inch sides limit how much loose gear you can stack
- Assembly required before you can mount it
- No folding option in this specific model (50138)
Good fit if
- You need a budget-friendly hitch basket for a van
- You carry large, flat items like totes or camping gear
- You want a rust-resistant aluminum basket that is easy to lift
Skip if
- You need a folding carrier for compact storage
- You want deeper sides to contain loose or small items
- You prefer a no-assembly, ready-to-use rack
Verdict: MaxxHaul 60x22 Aluminum Cargo Carrier offers a solid 500 lb capacity in a lightweight, rust-free aluminum basket at a budget-friendly price, but its shallow sides and required assembly are trade-offs to consider.
OUTPRIZE 60 x 24 x 14 in Hitch Cargo Carrier
Best for: van owners needing a large, folding steel cargo basket
- Vehicle Type
- SUV, Truck, Van (what this guide is about)
- Mount Type
- Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver)
- Weight Capacity
- 500 lb
- Basket Dimensions
- 60 x 24 x 14 in
- Material
- Steel
- Side Rail Height
- 14 in
View on Amazon: OUTPRIZE 60 x 24 x 14 in Hitch Cargo Carrier
The OUTPRIZE hitch cargo carrier adds about 10 square feet of storage to your van. It measures 60 by 24 by 14 inches, with high side rails that fold away for storage. Made from heavy-duty steel with a 500 lb capacity, it fits a 2-inch receiver. Three red reflectors improve visibility at night. It suits van owners who need a large, secure cargo basket.
Pros
- 500 lb weight capacity handles heavy gear
- 14-inch high side rails keep cargo secure
- Folding side rails for compact storage when not in use
- Includes hitch tightener to reduce wobble
- Three red reflectors for nighttime safety
Cons
- Steel construction adds weight (74 lb) compared to aluminum models
- Powder coating is not fully rustproof; manufacturer recommends indoor storage and treating joints
- No ramp or extension listed for loading heavy items
Good fit if
- You need a large cargo basket with high side rails for bulky or tall items
- You want a folding design for easier storage when the rack is off your van
- You prefer a steel rack for maximum durability and load capacity
Skip if
- You want a lightweight aluminum cargo carrier to save on hitch tongue weight
- You need a cargo basket with a built-in ramp for loading motorcycles or heavy equipment
- You prefer a roof-mounted basket to keep the rear of your van clear
Verdict: OUTPRIZE 60x24x14 in Hitch Cargo Carrier offers a large, 500 lb capacity steel basket with tall folding side rails and safety reflectors, making it a solid choice for van owners who prioritize secure cargo transport and easy storage.
Goplus 50x29.5 Aluminum Hitch Carrier with Ramp
Best for: van owners who need a ramp for loading heavy gear
- Vehicle Type
- Car, SUV, Truck, Van (what this guide is about)
- Mount Type
- hitch-mount
- Weight Capacity
- 500 lb
- Basket Dimensions
- 50x29.5x? in
- Material
- aluminum
- Side Rail Height
- 9 in
View on Amazon: Goplus 50x29.5 Aluminum Hitch Carrier with Ramp
This is a 500 lb capacity hitch-mount cargo carrier made of lightweight aluminum. It comes with a 41.5-inch loading ramp and 9-inch side rails. The basket measures 50 by 29.5 inches. It is designed for vans with a 2-inch receiver. The built-in ramp makes loading heavy items like wheelchairs or scooters much easier than lifting them.
Pros
- 500 lb weight capacity with a lightweight 40 lb aluminum frame
- Includes a 41.5-inch loading ramp for easy loading of heavy items
- 9-inch side rails and four red reflectors for safety and visibility
- Tie-down points help secure your cargo during transport
Cons
- Ramp and basket require assembly of three main sections
- No listed locking mechanism or anti-rattle device for the hitch
- Basket depth is not specified beyond the side rail height
Good fit if
- You need to load heavy or bulky items like a wheelchair or scooter without lifting them
- You want a lightweight aluminum carrier that still holds 500 lb
- Your van has a Class III or IV 2-inch hitch receiver
Skip if
- You prefer a carrier that folds up when not in use
- You need a basket deeper than 9 inches for tall cargo
- You want a carrier that comes fully assembled out of the box
Verdict: Goplus 50x29.5 Aluminum Hitch Carrier with Ramp is a practical choice for van owners who need to haul heavy, wheeled items without lifting. The included ramp and lightweight aluminum build set it apart from other hitch carriers on this list.
TUFFIOM 64x39x6 in Extendable Roof Basket
Best for: van owners wanting an adjustable steel roof basket
- Vehicle Type
- Car, SUV, Truck, Van (what this guide is about)
- Mount Type
- roof-mount
- Weight Capacity
- 250 lb
- Basket Dimensions
- 64x39x6 in
- Material
- steel
- Recommended Use
- Travel, Camping
This steel roof basket from TUFFIOM is designed for vans with crossbars. It measures 64 by 39 by 6 inches and holds up to 250 pounds. A removable extension lets you shrink the basket to 43 inches long for smaller vehicles. It includes a cargo net, storage bag, and straps. The basket weighs 32.6 pounds and works with crossbars up to 3.25 inches wide.
Pros
- 250 lb weight capacity handles heavy gear
- Removable extension gives two size options (64 in or 43 in length)
- Includes cargo net, storage bag, and ratchet straps
- Heavy-duty steel with E-coat and powder coat for corrosion resistance
Cons
- Assembly required (several sections to bolt together)
- No built-in lights or fairing for wind noise reduction
Good fit if
- You want a roof basket that can be extended or shortened to fit different loads
- You need a steel basket with a 250 lb capacity for camping or road trips
- Your van has crossbars up to 3.25 inches wide or round bars up to 1.8 inches in diameter
Skip if
- You prefer a hitch-mounted cargo carrier instead of a roof basket
- You want a basket that comes fully assembled out of the box
- You need a basket with integrated lights for rear visibility
Verdict: TUFFIOM 64x39x6 Extendable Roof Basket offers a solid 250 lb steel build with a useful extension design, making it a versatile choice for van owners who need adjustable cargo space on the roof.
MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier
Best for: van owners needing a high-capacity steel cargo carrier
- Vehicle Type
- Car, SUV, Truck, Van (what this guide is about)
- Mount Type
- Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver)
- Weight Capacity
- 500 lb
- Basket Dimensions
- 60 x 21 x 6.5 in
- Material
- Steel
- Side Rail Height
- 6-1/2 in
The MaxxHaul 70103 is a steel hitch-mount cargo carrier built for vans with a 2-inch receiver. It offers a 500-pound weight capacity and a 60 x 21 x 6.5-inch basket with 6.5-inch side rails. The mesh-style basket includes reflectors for road safety. This carrier suits van owners who need a durable, folding cargo platform for travel or camping.
Pros
- 500-pound weight capacity handles heavy loads
- Steel construction with black powder coating resists rust
- 6.5-inch side rails help secure cargo
- Includes reflectors for increased visibility
- Fits 2-inch hitch receivers on vans
Cons
- Steel material is heavier than aluminum alternatives
- No folding feature listed in specs
- Basket depth of 6.5 inches limits tall items
Good fit if
- You need a high 500-pound weight capacity for heavy gear
- You prefer steel durability over lighter materials
- You want integrated reflectors for extra safety
Skip if
- You need a lightweight carrier for easy handling
- You require a folding design for compact storage
- You want a basket deeper than 6.5 inches
Verdict: MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier is a solid steel option for van owners who prioritize high load capacity and durability, though it lacks folding convenience and is heavier than aluminum models.
YLWSHRNT 50" Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier with Ramp
Best for: loading heavy gear with a built-in ramp
- Vehicle Type
- SUV, Truck, Van (what this guide is about)
- Mount Type
- Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver)
- Weight Capacity
- 500 lbs
- Basket Dimensions
- 50" x 29.53" x 8.66"
- Material
- aluminum and powder-coated steel
- Side Rail Height
- 8.66"
View on Amazon: YLWSHRNT 50" Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier with Ramp
This hitch-mount cargo carrier from YLWSHRNT gives you a 50" x 29.5" basket with 8.66" side rails and a 500-lb capacity. It includes a foldable ramp for loading wheelchairs, scooters, or heavy gear. The aluminum basket with a steel under-frame keeps weight to 38 lbs. It fits 2-inch receivers on vans, SUVs, and trucks.
Pros
- 500-lb weight capacity
- Includes a 41.5" x 27.99" foldable ramp for easy loading
- 8.66" deep side rails and 4 tie-down hooks secure cargo
- Reflector strips and red corner accents improve visibility
- Weighs only 38 lbs for a 500-lb carrier
Cons
- Ramp adds assembly steps and must be secured upright when not in use
- No locking mechanism included for the hitch pin or ramp latch
- Only one size option with 8.66" side rails (no taller rail variant listed)
Good fit if
- You need to load heavy items like a wheelchair, scooter, or lawnmower onto a hitch carrier
- You want a lightweight aluminum basket with a 500-lb capacity for your van
- You prefer a carrier with reflector strips for added road visibility
Skip if
- You want a roof-mounted cargo basket rather than a hitch-mount carrier
- You need a carrier with a locking hitch pin or integrated lock
- You prefer a carrier with taller side rails (over 8.66") for loose gear
Verdict: YLWSHRNT 50" x 29.5" Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier with Ramp is a practical choice for van owners who need to haul heavy or bulky items and want the convenience of a built-in ramp.
TUFFIOM 60x20x6 Steel Hitch Carrier
Best for: heavy loads with included storage
- Vehicle Type
- Car, SUV, Truck, Van (what this guide is about)
- Mount Type
- hitch-mount
- Weight Capacity
- 500 lb
- Basket Dimensions
- 60x20x6 in
- Material
- steel
- Receiver Size
- 2 in
This is a steel hitch-mount cargo basket measuring 60 by 20 by 6 inches. It supports a 500-pound load and includes a waterproof storage bag, a net, and straps. The folded design saves space in your garage. It fits vans and trucks with a 2-inch receiver. You get reflective strips and a stabilizer for safety. This carrier offers high capacity and included storage accessories for your van trips.
Pros
- 500 lb weight capacity
- Includes waterproof storage bag
- Folding design with angled shank
- Reflective strips for visibility
Cons
- Narrow 20-inch width
- Low 6-inch basket height
- Steel construction adds weight
Good fit if
- You need to carry heavy loads up to 500 lbs
- You want a waterproof bag included for gear
- You have a 2-inch hitch receiver on your van
Skip if
- You need a wider platform for large items
- You prefer lightweight aluminum over steel
- You require a deep basket for bulky cargo
Verdict: TUFFIOM 60x20 Steel Hitch Carrier provides strong 500 lb capacity and includes a storage bag. It suits van owners who prioritize load strength and included accessories over width.
Leader Accessories 64x39x4 in Roof Cargo Basket
Best for: van owners needing a wide, low roof basket for bulky gear
- Vehicle Type
- Car, SUV, Truck, Van (what this guide is about)
- Mount Type
- Roof-mount (crossbars)
- Weight Capacity
- 150 lb
- Basket Dimensions
- 64 x 39 x 4 in
- Material
- Steel
- Dimensions
- 64 × 39 × 4 inches
View on Amazon: Leader Accessories 64x39x4 in Roof Cargo Basket
This steel roof-mount cargo basket from Leader Accessories measures 64 by 39 by 4 inches and holds up to 150 pounds. It mounts to your van's crossbars with universal U-bolts and includes a steel wind fairing to reduce noise. It suits van owners who need a large, low-profile basket for extra gear on top.
Pros
- Extra-large 64 x 39 in footprint for bulky loads
- Steel wind fairing included to cut wind resistance and noise
- Universal U-bolts fit square bars up to 4.6 in wide or round bars up to 1.35 in diameter
- Durable black powder coating resists rust and scratches
Cons
- Only 4 in tall, limiting how much you can stack above the basket sides
- 150 lb capacity is lower than many hitch-mount cargo carriers on this list
- Crossbar spacing must be greater than 29.7 in to use the extension
Good fit if
- You want a roof-mount basket for your van that frees up interior space
- You need a wide, low-profile basket for long or flat items like tents and boards
Skip if
- You prefer a hitch-mount carrier for easier loading and unloading
- You need to carry heavy loads over 150 lb on the roof
- Your van's crossbars are fixed at a spacing less than 29.7 in
Verdict: Leader Accessories 64x39x4 in Roof Cargo Basket is a solid choice for van owners who want a large, low-profile roof basket with a wind fairing, but its 150 lb limit and 4-inch height mean it is best for lighter, bulkier gear rather than heavy cargo.
MaxxHaul 50" x 29.5" Aluminum Hitch Cargo Basket
Best for: heavy-duty hitch cargo on vans
- Vehicle Type
- SUV, Truck, Van (what this guide is about)
- Mount Type
- Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver)
- Weight Capacity
- 500 lb
- Basket Dimensions
- 50 x 29.5 x 8.75 in
- Material
- Aluminum (steel under frame)
- Side Rail Height
- High
View on Amazon: MaxxHaul 50" x 29.5" Aluminum Hitch Cargo Basket
This MaxxHaul hitch basket is built for vans that need to carry heavy or bulky gear without taking up interior space. It measures 50 by 29.5 by 8.75 inches and supports up to 500 pounds. The aluminum basket resists rust, and the high side rails help keep loads secure. It suits van owners who want a rugged, high-capacity carrier for large items like mobility equipment or camping gear.
Pros
- 500 lb weight capacity handles heavy loads
- Aluminum basket with powder-coated steel under frame resists rust
- High side rails add security for tall or stacked cargo
- Reflectors improve visibility for safer road use
Cons
- Ramp does not fold down, limiting loading convenience
- Heavier than some all-aluminum baskets at 53 pounds
- No locking mechanism or anti-rattle device included
Good fit if
- You need a hitch basket that can carry up to 500 pounds on your van
- You want rust-resistant aluminum construction with high side rails
- You prefer a fixed ramp design and don't need a folding ramp
Skip if
- You need a folding ramp for easier loading and unloading
- You want a lighter basket under 40 pounds for easier handling
- You require a locking hitch pin or anti-rattle system
Verdict: MaxxHaul 50" Aluminum Hitch Basket with High Side Rails is a solid choice for van owners who prioritize high weight capacity and durable construction, though the non-folding ramp and heavier weight are trade-offs to consider.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MaxxHaul 49" x 22.5" Aluminum Cargo Carrier | MaxxHaul 50945 Aluminum Hitch Carrier | MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum Cargo Carrier | OUTPRIZE 60 x 24 x 14 in Hitch Cargo Carrier | Goplus 50x29.5 Aluminum Hitch Carrier with Ramp | TUFFIOM 64x39x6 in Extendable Roof Basket | MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier | YLWSHRNT 50" Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier with Ramp | TUFFIOM 60x20x6 Steel Hitch Carrier | Leader Accessories 64x39x4 in Roof Cargo Basket | MaxxHaul 50" x 29.5" Aluminum Hitch Cargo Basket |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Type | Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver) | Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver) | Hitch-mount | Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver) | hitch-mount | roof-mount | Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver) | Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver) | hitch-mount | Roof-mount (crossbars) | Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver) |
| Weight Capacity | 500 lb | 500 lb | 500 lb | 500 lb | 500 lb | 250 lb | 500 lb | 500 lbs | 500 lb | 150 lb | 500 lb |
| Basket Dimensions | 49-1/4 x 22-1/2 x 7-1/4 in | not specified | 60 x 22 x 3.25 inches | 60 x 24 x 14 in | 50x29.5x? in | 64x39x6 in | 60 x 21 x 6.5 in | 50" x 29.53" x 8.66" | 60x20x6 in | 64 x 39 x 4 in | 50 x 29.5 x 8.75 in |
| Material | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Steel | aluminum | steel | Steel | aluminum and powder-coated steel | steel | Steel | Aluminum (steel under frame) |
| Side Rail Height | 7-1/4 in | not specified | not specified | 14 in | 9 in | not specified | 6-1/2 in | 8.66" | not specified | not specified | High |
| Receiver Size | 2-inch | 2 in | not specified | 2 in | 2 in | not specified | 2-inch | 2" | 2 in | not specified | 2-inch |
| Load Capacity | 500 lb | 500 lb | 500 lb | 500 lb | 500 lb | 250 lb | 500 lb | 500 lb | 500 lb | not specified | 500 lb |
| Vehicle Type | Car, SUV, Truck, Van | Car, SUV, Truck, Van | Car, SUV, Truck, Van | SUV, Truck, Van | Car, SUV, Truck, Van | Car, SUV, Truck, Van | Car, SUV, Truck, Van | SUV, Truck, Van | Car, SUV, Truck, Van | Car, SUV, Truck, Van | SUV, Truck, Van |
| Recommended Use | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Travel, Camping | Travel, Camping | Camping | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Includes Bag | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | With Bag | not specified | not specified |
| Includes Net | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | With Net | not specified | not specified | With Net | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 50.5 × 24.1 × 6.1 inches | not specified | 60 × 22 × 3.25 inches | 60 × 24 × 14 inches | not specified | 64 × 39 × 6 inches | 59 × 20 × 5.5 inches | 50 × 29.5 × 8.65 inches | 60 × 20 × 6 inches | 64 × 39 × 4 inches | 50 × 29.5 × 8.75 inches |
| Weight | 21.4 pounds | 48 pounds | 25.6 pounds | 74 pounds | 40 pounds | 32.6 pounds | not specified | 38 pounds | not specified | 32.5 pounds | 53 pounds |
| Size | 49" x 22.5" | 50" x 29.5" | 60" x 22" | 60in | not specified | 64"x39"x6"(w/Net+Bag+Footrest+Straps) | not specified | 50" x 29.5" x 8.7" | 60"x20"x6"(w/Cargo Bag+Net+4 Straps+Stabilizer) | 0-roof rack | 47 Inch |
| Color | Grey | Grey | silver | Black | Silver | Dark grey | black | black | Black | Black | Grey |
| Model | 70108 | 50945 | 50138 | CC-Carrier-G60-E | not specified | TF-rcb | 70103 | cargo carrier hitch mount | TF56cc2 | 101100 | 80779 |
For urban hauling without your van, you can evaluate payload ratings across the best cargo electric bikes.
How to choose the right cargo basket
-
Check hitch receiver size
Most carriers in this list require a 2-inch hitch receiver. The MaxxHaul 49-inch model and the OUTPRIZE 60-inch carrier both use this standard size. You must verify your van’s hitch opening before purchasing. A mismatched receiver size prevents installation entirely. If your van has a smaller 1.25-inch receiver, these specific models will not fit. Always measure your receiver tube diameter to ensure compatibility with the carrier’s shank size.
-
Compare load capacities
Load capacity determines how much weight you can safely transport. Most aluminum and steel carriers in this guide offer a 500 lb limit. The TUFFIOM roof basket is an exception with a 250 lb capacity. You should never exceed the lower of the carrier’s limit or your vehicle’s roof or hitch rating. Check the specific Load Capacity spec for each model. Heavy items like tools or equipment require the higher 500 lb rating found in most hitch carriers.
-
Select material for weight
Material choice affects the carrier’s total weight and durability. Aluminum models like the MaxxHaul 49-inch carrier weigh around 21.4 pounds. Steel options, such as the OUTPRIZE 60-inch carrier, are significantly heavier at 74 pounds. Aluminum resists rust and keeps the overall load lighter. Steel provides robust durability but adds more weight to your van. Choose aluminum if you prioritize lighter weight and corrosion resistance for long-term use.
-
Consider ramp features
A built-in ramp simplifies loading heavy or wheeled items. The MaxxHaul 50945 and Goplus 50x29.5 models include ramps. This feature allows you to roll gear onto the carrier without lifting. You do not need a ramp for flat, bulky cargo like boxes. However, for heavy machinery or bicycles, a ramp is essential. Check the product description for ramp inclusion. It changes the loading process from lifting to rolling, reducing physical strain.
-
Evaluate basket dimensions
Basket size determines what fits on the carrier. The MaxxHaul 60x22 model offers a long, narrow surface. The OUTPRIZE 60x24 model provides a wider footprint. You need to measure your cargo to ensure it fits within the length and width limits. Height matters for securing items. The TUFFIOM roof basket has a 6-inch height. Ensure your van’s clearance allows for the carrier’s total height when loaded.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a cargo basket on my van?
Yes. Several models in this list explicitly support vans. The MaxxHaul 49-inch carrier and the 60-inch aluminum option both list vans as compatible vehicle types. You can also choose roof-mounted baskets like the TUFFIOM 64-inch steel basket, which is rated for cars, SUVs, trucks, and vans. Verify your roof rack or hitch fits the specific carrier.
What is the load capacity of these carriers?
Most hitch-mounted carriers listed here support 500 pounds. This includes the MaxxHaul 49-inch model, the 60-inch budget pick, and the steel OUTPRIZE carrier. Roof baskets have lower limits. The TUFFIOM steel roof basket holds 250 pounds, while the Leader Accessories low-profile roof basket is rated for only 150 pounds. Always stay within these limits.
Do I need a ramp to load heavy items?
A ramp is helpful if you haul wheeled gear or heavy boxes. The MaxxHaul 50945, Goplus 50x29.5, and YLWSHRNT 50-inch carriers all include built-in ramps. These models allow you to roll items up instead of lifting them. Standard flat baskets like the MaxxHaul 60x22 require you to lift cargo over the side rails.
Which cargo basket is the lightest to install?
The MaxxHaul 49-inch Aluminum Cargo Carrier is the lightest option at 21.4 pounds. It is easy to handle during installation. The next lightest is the Goplus 50x29.5 model at 40 pounds. Heavier steel carriers, like the 74-pound OUTPRIZE basket, require more effort to lift and secure onto your van’s hitch or roof rack.
Are there folding cargo baskets for easier storage?
Yes, the OUTPRIZE 60x24x14 in Hitch Cargo Carrier features tall folding side rails. This design allows you to collapse the basket for compact storage when not in use. Most aluminum models on this list, including the MaxxHaul picks, are rigid and do not fold. Choose the OUTPRIZE model if storage space is a priority.
What hitch receiver size do these carriers need?
Most hitch carriers in this list require a 2-inch receiver. This applies to the MaxxHaul 49-inch model, the OUTPRIZE 60-inch carrier, and the TUFFIOM 60-inch steel hitch carrier. You must verify your van’s hitch size before purchasing. These carriers will not fit a 1.25-inch receiver opening without an adapter.
Can I find a cargo basket with a storage bag?
Yes, the TUFFIOM 60x20x6 Steel Hitch Carrier includes a storage bag. This accessory helps protect your cargo from weather and theft. It also comes with a net and straps. The Goplus and MaxxHaul roof baskets include nets as well. Most hitch carriers do not include bags, so check the included accessories list carefully.