MAXXHAUL 60" x 22" Aluminum or MAXXHAUL 70103 500 lb. Capacity? Which MAXXHAUL Model to Buy
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This comparison examines the maxxhaul 60 x 22 aluminum vs 70103 500 lb capacity models. Both carriers offer a 500-pound weight limit and fit standard 2-inch hitch receivers. They share similar vehicle compatibility for cars, SUVs, trucks, and vans. The main difference lies in construction and design. One uses a solid aluminum shell with a steel frame, while the other is a fully steel mesh basket. These material choices affect weight, durability, and how you load your gear.
Key differences
| Aspect | MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum Cargo Carrier | MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum basket with steel under frame | All-steel construction |
| Basket Style | Solid flat floor | Mesh basket |
| Side Rail Height | 3.25 inches | 6.5 inches |
| Weight | 25.6 pounds | Not listed |
| Finish | Silver aluminum | Black powder coating |
Which one should you choose?
Choose MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum Cargo Carrier if
- You want a lighter carrier that is easier to handle during installation.
- You need a solid surface to prevent small items from falling through.
- You prefer a silver finish that resists rust naturally.
Choose MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier if
- You need higher side rails to secure bulky or shifting cargo.
- You prefer a black finish that blends with dark vehicle hitches.
- You want a durable steel mesh design for heavy-duty use.
Verdict: Choose the aluminum model if you prioritize a lighter weight and a solid base for smaller items. The steel mesh model is better if you need taller sides to keep larger gear contained. Both offer the same 500-pound capacity and hitch compatibility.
Aluminum vs Steel Carrier Specs
Build Material
The MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum Cargo Carrier uses extruded aluminum for the basket, supported by a heavy-duty steel underframe. This combination keeps the unit lightweight at 25.6 pounds while resisting rust and corrosion. In contrast, the MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier is constructed entirely from all-steel material. It features a black powder coating to protect against rust and corrosion. Steel is generally heavier and more rigid than aluminum. You get a durable steel mesh basket with the 70103, whereas the aluminum model offers a solid floor. Both materials are designed for long-term outdoor use without significant maintenance.
Weight Capacity
Both carriers share an identical maximum distributed load capacity of 500 pounds. This limit applies to the MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum Cargo Carrier and the MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier equally. You can safely transport heavy gear, such as camping equipment or luggage, on either model without exceeding the manufacturer's stated limit. The 500-pound rating ensures that both units can handle substantial loads for typical road trips or daily hauling needs. Since the capacity is the same, your choice will not depend on how much weight you intend to carry, but rather on how you prefer to distribute that load across the basket surface.
Basket Dimensions
The MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum Cargo Carrier offers an outer basket size of 60 inches wide by 22 inches long, with a height of 3.25 inches. This provides a wide, low-profile surface area. The MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier has an inner basket size of 59 inches by 20 inches, with an outer size of 60 inches by 21 inches. Its side rails rise 6.5 inches high, creating deeper walls. The aluminum model is wider by two inches, while the steel model is taller. You might prefer the aluminum carrier for wider items or the steel carrier for taller, contained loads that benefit from higher side rails.
Hitch Compatibility
Both units are designed to fit standard 2-inch hitch receivers. The MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum Cargo Carrier includes a 2-inch by 2-inch hitch shaft compatible with Class III and IV receivers. The MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier also fits 2-inch receivers and is rated for Class II and IV hitches. This means you can use either carrier on a wide range of vehicles, including cars, SUVs, trucks, and vans, provided they have a 2-inch receiver. The compatibility is nearly identical, though the aluminum model explicitly lists Class III support, while the steel model includes Class II. Both ensure secure mounting in standard receivers.
Visibility Features
Safety visibility is a key factor for hitch-mounted carriers. The MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum Cargo Carrier includes reflector strips and red-colored corners to enhance visibility from the side and rear. The MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier includes reflectors for increased road safety. Both models provide essential visual cues to other drivers. The aluminum model specifies red corners, which may offer distinct visual contrast. The steel model relies on attached reflectors. You should ensure both reflectors remain clean and unobstructed by cargo. These features help you stay compliant with road safety standards and improve awareness during night driving or low-visibility conditions.
Which MaxxHaul Carrier Fits Your Needs
You want a lightweight, rust-proof option
The aluminum basket weighs only 25.6 pounds, making installation easier. Extruded aluminum resists rust and corrosion, requiring less maintenance than steel. The silver finish stays clean with simple washing. You get a durable, light carrier that does not add excessive weight to your vehicle’s hitch system during transport.
You need deeper sides for tall items
This steel carrier features 6.5-inch side rails, providing more vertical space than the aluminum model. The mesh design allows for secure stacking of bulky gear. The black powder coating offers rust resistance. You gain extra height to accommodate taller loads without worrying about items shifting or falling out during travel.
You prefer a folding design for storage
The 70103 model folds flat for compact storage when not in use. This steel carrier fits 2-inch receivers and supports up to 500 pounds. The folding mechanism saves garage space. You benefit from a versatile carrier that is easy to store and remove, while still offering a large mesh basket for cargo.
The products compared
MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum Cargo Carrier
Best for: Hauling luggage and bulky gear on road trips
- Mount Type
- Hitch-mount
- Weight Capacity
- 500 lb
- Basket Dimensions
- 60 x 22 x 3.25 inches
- Material
- Aluminum
- Vehicle Type
- Car, SUV, Truck, Van
- Dimensions
- 60 × 22 × 3.25 inches
View on Amazon: MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum Cargo Carrier Affiliate link
This hitch mount basket offers 500 lbs of distributed load capacity. It features an extruded aluminum basket that resists rust and weighs 25.6 lbs. The steel underframe provides structural support with a powder coat finish. You get 60 inches of width and 22 inches of depth for cargo. Reflectors and red corners add visibility. It fits standard 2-inch receivers.
Pros
- 500 lbs maximum distributed load capacity
- Lightweight 25.6 lb aluminum construction
- 60" x 22" wide cargo area
- Rust-resistant extruded aluminum material
Cons
- Non-folding design requires more storage space
- Assembly is required before use
- Flat basket offers no weather protection
Good fit if
- You need extra space for luggage or gear
- You want a rust-resistant carrier for outdoor use
- You have a standard 2-inch hitch receiver
Skip if
- You need a folding carrier for easy storage
- You require a basket with high sides for containment
- You want a pre-assembled unit ready to use
Verdict: MaxxHaul 60" x 22" Aluminum Cargo Carrier provides ample space and durability for hauling gear without adding excessive weight to your vehicle.
MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier
Best for: Heavy cargo on 2-inch hitches
- 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
- Receiver Size
- 2-inch
View on Amazon: MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier Affiliate link
This MaxxHaul model is a 500 lb capacity steel cargo carrier designed for 2-inch hitch receivers. It features a mesh basket measuring 60 by 21 inches with 6.5-inch side rails. The black powder coating resists rust and corrosion. It includes reflectors for road safety. This carrier suits travelers needing heavy-duty transport for camping gear or luggage.
Pros
- 500 lb distributed weight capacity
- Durable all-steel construction
- 6.5-inch side rails secure cargo
- Includes safety reflectors
- Rust-resistant black powder coating
Cons
- Steel material adds significant weight
- Mesh design exposes cargo to weather
- Folding mechanism not specified in data
Good fit if
- You need to transport heavy loads up to 500 lb
- You have a 2-inch hitch receiver
- You want durable steel construction for long-term use
Skip if
- You require a covered carrier to protect items from rain
- You prefer lightweight aluminum materials
- You need a carrier for a 1.25-inch hitch receiver
Verdict: MaxxHaul 500 lb Steel Hitch Carrier offers high capacity and durability for those hauling heavy gear. It fits buyers who prioritize strength over weather protection.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum Cargo Carrier | MaxxHaul 70103 Steel Hitch Cargo Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Type | Hitch-mount | Hitch-mount (2-inch receiver) |
| Weight Capacity | 500 lb | 500 lb |
| Basket Dimensions | 60 x 22 x 3.25 inches | 60 x 21 x 6.5 in |
| Material | Aluminum | Steel |
| Side Rail Height | not stated | 6-1/2 in |
| Receiver Size | not stated | 2-inch |
| Load Capacity | 500 lb | 500 lb |
| Vehicle Type | Car, SUV, Truck, Van | Car, SUV, Truck, Van |
| Recommended Use | not stated | Travel, Camping |
| Dimensions | 60 × 22 × 3.25 inches | 59 × 20 × 5.5 inches |
| Weight | 25.6 pounds | not stated |
| Size | 60" x 22" | not stated |
| Color | silver | black |
| Model | 50138 | 70103 |
Frequently asked questions
Which hitch receiver size do both MaxxHaul carriers fit?
Both the MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum and the 70103 Steel models are designed for standard 2-inch hitch receivers. This common mounting requirement means you can use either carrier if your vehicle is equipped with a 2-inch receiver tube. You do not need an adapter for either option, as they both plug directly into this standard size.
What is the difference in width between the two carriers?
The MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum carrier is 22 inches wide. The MaxxHaul 70103 Steel carrier is slightly narrower at 20 inches wide. This two-inch difference may affect how much lateral space the cargo occupies on your hitch. If you need maximum width for larger items, the aluminum model provides the extra space.
Which carrier is lighter to install and remove?
The MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum carrier weighs 25.6 pounds. The steel 70103 model is significantly heavier due to its all-steel construction. If you plan to frequently remove the carrier for storage or theft prevention, the aluminum version is much easier to handle. The lighter weight reduces strain during installation.
How tall is the basket on each carrier?
The aluminum carrier has a basket height of 3.25 inches. The steel 70103 carrier features a taller basket at 5.5 inches. The increased height on the steel model allows for stacking taller items or securing larger loads. The lower profile of the aluminum unit keeps the center of gravity slightly lower.
Can I use these carriers on a truck?
Yes, both carriers are compatible with trucks. The product data lists trucks as a supported vehicle type for both the aluminum and steel models. You can mount either carrier on a truck with a 2-inch hitch receiver. They are also suitable for cars, SUVs, and vans.
What is the length of each cargo carrier?
The MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum carrier is 60 inches long. The MaxxHaul 70103 Steel carrier is 59 inches long. Both lengths provide ample space for luggage and gear. The one-inch difference in length is minor, but the aluminum model offers slightly more linear space for long items.
Does the aluminum carrier have a steel frame?
Yes, the MaxxHaul 60 x 22 Aluminum carrier uses an extruded aluminum basket supported by a heavy-duty steel underframe. This hybrid construction combines the rust resistance of aluminum with the structural strength of steel. The steel frame provides durability while the aluminum top keeps the overall weight manageable.