Looking Beyond the CURT 18109 Tray-Style Trailer Hitch? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How the Alternatives Compare

CURT Compact 46-1/2 in Hitch Cargo Basket

The CURT 18145 offers a compact 46-1/2-inch steel basket with high sides, providing 500 pounds of secure load capacity. Unlike the folding 18109 tray, this carrier is fixed and lacks a tilting shank, meaning it remains in the down position when not in use. You gain a more enclosed space for heavy or bulky items that might shift on an open mesh deck. However, you lose the convenience of folding the carrier up against the bumper for clearance. This model suits drivers who prioritize secure, high-sided storage over foldable convenience and do not need to tilt the carrier for access.

CURT 18100 Tray-Style Aluminum Carrier

The CURT 18100 is an aluminum tray-style carrier with a 500-pound capacity, similar to the original in its tilting design and mesh base for easy cleanup. It features a slightly shorter deck at 31 inches long, which reduces overall footprint but maintains a wide 21-inch platform. You get the benefit of a lightweight aluminum construction that resists rust, making it ideal for outdoor storage. However, the shorter length limits the size of flat items you can haul comfortably. This option is best for users who want the tilting convenience of the 18109 but prefer a lighter, rust-resistant material and do not need the full 60-inch length.

CURT 18150 59.5" Hitch Cargo Carrier

The CURT 18150 is a steel cargo carrier with a 500-pound capacity and high sides measuring 10.3 inches tall. Unlike the low-profile 18109 tray, this model provides a more enclosed basket design that prevents items from sliding off during transit. It lacks a folding shank, so it stays in the down position, which may reduce ground clearance when empty. The platform is slightly shorter at 31.5 inches but offers greater width and height for bulky gear. This carrier is ideal for drivers who prioritize durability and secure, high-sided storage over the folding convenience and low profile of the 18109.

WEIZE 60-inch Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier

The WEIZE 60-inch folding hitch carrier offers a 500-pound steel platform with a mesh base, matching the 18109 in length and tilting functionality. It includes a protective bag and cargo net, adding convenience for storage and securing loads. The carrier is heavier at 66.5 pounds, which may make one-person assembly more difficult compared to the lighter 18109. You gain included accessories and a sturdy steel build, but you may sacrifice some ease of handling. This option suits buyers who want a robust, accessory-rich solution with folding convenience and do not mind the extra weight for added durability and included protection.

KAIRAY 60"x24"x14.4" Hitch Cargo Carrier

The KAIRAY 60x24x14.4-inch hitch carrier provides a 500-pound steel platform with high sides and a generous 24-inch width. Unlike the 18109, it features a fixed design without a tilting shank, meaning it stays down when not in use. It includes a cargo bag and net for secure transport and storage. The larger platform and higher sides offer more space for heavy camping gear or luggage, but you lose the ability to tilt the carrier for bumper clearance. This model is best for travelers who need maximum platform space and included storage solutions, prioritizing capacity and security over folding convenience.

MaxxHaul 49" x 22.5" Aluminum Cargo Carrier

The MaxxHaul 49-inch aluminum cargo carrier offers a 500-pound capacity in a lightweight design weighing just 21.4 pounds. Unlike the 18109, it is a fixed basket without a folding shank, so it remains in the down position. The platform is shorter at 50.5 inches but provides a wide 24.1-inch surface area. You gain a rust-resistant aluminum build that is easy for one person to mount, but you lose the tilting feature and the 60-inch length. This carrier is ideal for truck owners who need a durable, lightweight option and do not require the folding convenience or extended deck length of the 18109.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

CURT 18109 Tray-Style Cargo Carrier, 60 x 19-1/4 in

Best for: hauling bulky gear on 2-inch receivers

Mount Type

Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver)

Weight Capacity

500 lb

Basket Dimensions

60 x 19-1/4 in

Receiver Size

2 in

Size

500 lbs. Capacity,

Dimensions

32 × 21 × 4 inches

View on Amazon: CURT 18109 Tray-Style Cargo Carrier, 60 x 19-1/4 in Affiliate link

This hitch carrier mounts directly into your vehicle's 2-inch receiver, providing a 60-inch by 19-1/4-inch tray platform. It handles up to 500 pounds of gear across an integrated mesh base. The folding shank lets you tilt the carrier up when empty, making it suitable if you want quick exterior cargo capacity without blocking parking clearances.

Pros

• 500-pound load capacity for heavy cargo
• Folding shank tilts vertical when not in use
• Integrated holes for hooking cargo nets or bungee cords
• Mesh base allows easy cleanup and debris drainage

Cons

• Shallow 4-inch tray depth provides less side containment than basket models
• Platform width of 19-1/4 inches is narrower than 24-inch alternatives
• Fits 2-inch hitch receivers only

Good fit if

• You have a vehicle equipped with a standard 2-inch receiver hitch.
• You need a folding shank so the carrier remains compact when parked.
• You carry flat luggage or coolers up to 500 pounds.

Skip if

• You have a 1-1/4-inch hitch receiver.
• You require deep side rails taller than 4 inches to secure loose items.
• You need a platform wider than 19-1/4 inches for bulky equipment.

Verdict: CURT 60-Inch Folding Tray Hitch Cargo Carrier suits drivers with a 2-inch receiver who need a folding 500-pound deck for flat gear. It gives you extra exterior storage while tilting up against the bumper when empty.

2 Best budget

CURT Compact 46-1/2 in Hitch Cargo Basket

Best for: secure transport of bulky, heavy cargo

Mount Type

Hitch-mount (1-1/4 or 2-inch receiver)

Weight Capacity

500 lb

Basket Dimensions

46-1/2 x 17-1/2 x 5-1/2 in

Material

Steel

Side Rail Height

6 in

Receiver Size

1-1/4 or 2-inch

View on Amazon: CURT Compact 46-1/2 in Hitch Cargo Basket Affiliate link

This CURT 18145 basket offers 500 lbs capacity with 6-inch tall sides to secure items during travel. It mounts to 1-1/4-inch or 2-inch receivers via an adapter sleeve. The steel construction includes built-in reflectors for visibility. It frees up interior space for passengers. The 46.5-inch length provides ample room for bulkier loads compared to narrower carriers.

Pros

• 500 lb weight capacity
• 6-inch tall side rails
• Adapter sleeve for 1-1/4 or 2-inch receivers
• Built-in safety reflectors
• Heavy-duty tubular steel construction

Cons

• 27.8 lb weight adds bulk
• 17.5-inch width limits wide items
• Steel material may rust over time

Good fit if

• You need a secure basket for bulky gear
• You have a 1-1/4 or 2-inch receiver
• You want high sides to prevent shifting

Skip if

• You need a folding design for storage
• You require an aluminum rust-proof build
• You need extra-wide capacity for bikes

Verdict: CURT 18145 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier fits drivers who prioritize secure, high-sided storage for heavy loads on standard receivers. It is ideal for families needing to move bulky items without folding compromises.

3 Also great

CURT 18100 Tray-Style Aluminum Carrier

Best for: Hauling large, flat items with easy cleanup

Mount Type

Hitch-mount

Weight Capacity

500 lbs.

Basket Dimensions

60-Inch x 19-Inch

Material

Aluminum

Receiver Size

2-Inch

Load Capacity

500 lb

View on Amazon: CURT 18100 Tray-Style Aluminum Carrier Affiliate link

The CURT 18100 is a 60-inch by 19-inch tray-style hitch carrier built from lightweight aluminum. It supports up to 500 pounds and fits standard 2-inch receivers. The mesh base allows debris to fall through, simplifying cleanup. Its folding design lets you tilt the unit up to clear rear doors. This model weighs 28.9 pounds, making it manageable for most users.

Pros

• 60-inch length provides ample cargo space
• 500-pound weight capacity handles heavy loads
• Lightweight aluminum construction resists corrosion
• Folding design tilts up to clear rear doors
• Mesh base allows dirt and debris to fall through

Cons

• 19-inch width is narrower than many competitors
• No included locking mechanism for security
• Assembly requires bolting parts together

Good fit if

• You need a wide, flat surface for bulky items
• You want a carrier that tilts up for door access
• You prefer low-maintenance aluminum over steel

Skip if

• You require a locking feature for security
• You need a wider base for stability
• You want a pre-assembled unit

Verdict: CURT 18100 Aluminum Hitch Carrier offers a spacious, tilting platform for users who prioritize load capacity and easy cleanup over width. It fits those who need to haul large, flat items without worrying about debris accumulation.

4 Also great

CURT 18150 59.5" Hitch Cargo Carrier

Best for: Secure transport of bulky items

Mount Type

Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver)

Weight Capacity

500 lb

Basket Dimensions

59-1/2 x 20-1/4 x 5-1/2 in

Material

Steel

Side Rail Height

6 in

Receiver Size

2 in

View on Amazon: CURT 18150 59.5" Hitch Cargo Carrier Affiliate link

This CURT 18150 hitch carrier offers 500 lbs of capacity in a 59.5-inch tray. It features 6-inch tall sides to keep items secure and a mesh base for easy cleanup. The heavy-duty tubular steel construction includes an angled shank for better ground clearance. You get a durable, high-sided option that frees up interior space for passengers and gear.

Pros

• 500 lb weight capacity
• 6-inch tall side rails
• Angled shank for ground clearance
• Mesh base for drainage
• Heavy-duty tubular steel build

Cons

• Steel material adds weight
• 59.5-inch length limits wide loads
• Fixed design cannot fold flat

Good fit if

• You need extra height for bulky items
• You want a sturdy steel build
• You require 500 lbs of capacity

Skip if

• You need to fold the carrier for storage
• You prefer lightweight aluminum construction
• You have a 1.25-inch receiver hitch

Verdict: CURT 18150 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier provides high sides and a 500 lb capacity for secure transport. It fits drivers who prioritize durability and clearance over foldable convenience.

5 Best steel

WEIZE 60-inch Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier

Best for: heavy loads with included protection

Mount Type

hitch-mount

Weight Capacity

500 lbs

Basket Dimensions

60x20x6 inches

Material

heavy-duty steel

Side Rail Height

6 inches

Receiver Size

2-inch

View on Amazon: WEIZE 60-inch Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier Affiliate link

This hitch-mounted cargo carrier offers 60 inches of length and 20 inches of width. It is built from heavy-duty steel with a 500 lb weight capacity. The 6-inch side rails help contain smaller items. It includes a waterproof bag and net for added protection. The folding design allows for easy storage when not in use. It fits standard 2-inch receivers.

Pros

• Heavy-duty steel construction resists rust and corrosion
• Includes waterproof bag and cargo net for security
• Folding design saves space when not in use
• 500 lbs weight capacity handles heavy loads

Cons

• Narrow 20-inch width limits wide item transport
• 6-inch side rails are lower than some competitors
• Steel frame adds 66.5 lbs to vehicle weight

Good fit if

• You need a durable steel carrier for heavy gear
• You want included accessories like a bag and net
• You require a folding design for compact storage

Skip if

• You need a wider platform for large items
• You prefer lightweight aluminum construction
• You want high side rails for small objects

Verdict: WEIZE 60x20 Steel Hitch Carrier provides a sturdy, accessory-rich option for hauling heavy loads. It suits buyers who prioritize durability and included protection over width and height.

6 Best premium

KAIRAY 60"x24"x14.4" Hitch Cargo Carrier

Best for: hauling heavy camping gear

Mount Type

hitch-mount

Weight Capacity

500 lb

Basket Dimensions

60" x 24" x 14.4"

Material

steel

Side Rail Height

14.4"

Receiver Size

2"

View on Amazon: KAIRAY 60"x24"x14.4" Hitch Cargo Carrier Affiliate link

This KAIRAY carrier offers 500 pounds of distributed weight capacity for travel and camping gear. The 60 by 24 inch steel platform features 14.4 inch side rails to prevent cargo from sliding. It includes a storage bag and safety net. The powder-coated finish resists rust and scratches. You get red reflectors for night visibility. It fits standard 2 inch receivers.

Pros

• 500 lb distributed weight capacity
• 60 x 24 inch steel platform
• 14.4 inch raised side rails
• Includes storage bag and safety net
• Red reflectors for night safety

Cons

• Heavy duty steel construction weighs 68 pounds
• Side rails are only 3.2 inches when folded
• No integrated locking mechanism mentioned

Good fit if

• You need a large 60 inch platform for bulky items
• You want a carrier with included storage accessories
• You prioritize rust-resistant steel construction

Skip if

• You require a lightweight aluminum build
• You need a fully folding design with low profile
• You want a carrier with built-in locks

Verdict: KAIRAY 60" Steel Hitch Carrier is a robust option for hauling heavy camping gear or luggage. It suits buyers who need maximum platform space and included storage solutions for their travel needs.

7 Best truck

MaxxHaul 49" x 22.5" Aluminum Cargo Carrier

Best for: Truck owners wanting a lightweight aluminum basket

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

Receiver Size

2-inch

View on Amazon: MaxxHaul 49" x 22.5" Aluminum Cargo Carrier Affiliate link

This hitch basket gives you a 500-pound load capacity on an extruded aluminum platform with a steel support frame. Weighing 21.4 pounds, it fits standard 2-inch receivers on trucks and SUVs. The 6-inch inner side rails keep gear contained. It suits you if you want a lightweight carrier with tall side walls instead of a flat tray.

Pros

• Weighs 21.4 pounds for manageable mounting and handling
• Supports up to 500 pounds of cargo
• High 6-inch interior side rails feature integrated tie-down points
• Includes rear reflector lenses and red corner visibility accents

Cons

• Inner platform length of 47-1/4 inches offers less area than 60-inch carriers
• Straight shank does not fold upright when unladen

Good fit if

• You have a vehicle with a 2-inch Class III or IV receiver hitch.
• You want a rust-resistant aluminum carrier that weighs under 25 pounds.
• You need 6-inch side rails to prevent gear from sliding off.

Skip if

• You need to transport items exceeding 47-1/4 inches in length.
• You want a carrier shank that folds flat against your tailgate.

Verdict: MaxxHaul 49-Inch Aluminum Cargo Carrier suits truck owners who need a rust-resistant, 500-pound basket that is light enough for one person to mount.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• de longhi dedica style alternatives
• redragon wireless typewriter style mechanical alternatives