This comprehensive MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Hitch Cargo Carrier review dives deep into my long-term experience with this essential accessory, highlighting its performance and practical benefits. For years, I struggled with the perennial problem of limited cargo space in my SUV, particularly when planning family road trips or hauling gear for outdoor adventures. It often meant leaving behind essential items or cramming the cabin to an uncomfortable, and frankly, unsafe degree, obstructing rear visibility and creating a disorganized mess. Solving this space crunch wasn’t just about convenience; it was about ensuring safer, more enjoyable journeys for everyone, avoiding the frustrations and compromises that come with an overloaded vehicle.
Before delving into the specifics of my chosen solution, it’s worth considering why one might seek a product like a hitch cargo carrier. These invaluable accessories are designed to liberate your vehicle’s interior, providing additional external storage for anything from camping gear, luggage, and sports equipment to dirty items like firewood or muddy coolers that you’d prefer to keep out of your car. They address the common dilemma faced by growing families, avid campers, DIY enthusiasts, or anyone who frequently finds their vehicle bursting at the seams.
The ideal customer for a hitch cargo carrier is someone with a vehicle equipped with a 2-inch receiver hitch, who frequently transports bulky or numerous items, and prioritizes fuel efficiency over roof-mounted solutions. If you find yourself constantly playing Tetris with your luggage, or if you regularly transport items too large or messy for your vehicle’s trunk, a cargo carrier is likely a perfect fit. However, if your vehicle lacks a hitch receiver, this product category isn’t for you; you’d need to consider roof racks or potentially installing a hitch. Likewise, if you need constant access to your rear cargo area or require weather-sealed, theft-proof storage for highly valuable items, a more specialized enclosed trailer or a swing-away cargo box might be a better (though more expensive) alternative. Before committing, consider your vehicle’s hitch class and capacity, the carrier’s dimensions, its material, and critically, how it might affect your vehicle’s exhaust path.
Introducing the MaxxHaul 70107: A Reliable Cargo Companion
The MaxxHaul 70107 is a robust, black, trailer-mounted steel cargo carrier, specifically designed for vehicles with a 2-inch receiver hitch. Its core promise is simple: to instantly expand your vehicle’s cargo capacity, making it easier to transport excess loads that wouldn’t otherwise fit comfortably inside. When you unbox the MaxxHaul 70107, you’ll find the heavy-duty steel basket components, the main hitch bar, and all necessary hardware for assembly, including a pair of reflectors for added safety. Compared to some market leaders, which often come with a significantly higher price tag and sometimes features like folding shanks or swing-away designs, the MaxxHaul 70107 positions itself as an exceptionally strong, no-frills alternative. It’s built for those who value rugged durability and generous capacity over advanced conveniences, making it ideal for budget-conscious adventurers, homeowners with regular hauling needs, or anyone seeking a straightforward, reliable solution to their cargo dilemmas. It might not be for someone looking for a compact, foldable unit for easy storage, or one that swings away for immediate trunk access without unloading.
Here’s a quick rundown of its main advantages and disadvantages:
Pros:
* High Load Capacity: Impressive 500-pound distributed weight capacity.
* Robust Construction: Made from heavy-duty alloy steel for exceptional durability.
* Secure Design: Features high side rails to effectively contain various loads.
* Excellent Value: Offers substantial utility at a highly competitive price point.
* Universal Fit: Compatible with common Class III and IV 2-inch receiver hitches.
Cons:
* Assembly Quirks: Can be challenging to assemble due to initial hole alignment issues if not done correctly.
* Cosmetic Imperfections: Some units may arrive with minor paint chips or inconsistencies in the powder coat finish.
* No Anti-Rattle Device: Does not include a built-in anti-rattle mechanism, requiring aftermarket solutions if needed.
* Non-Foldable Design: Does not fold up against the vehicle for more compact storage when not in use.
Unpacking the Benefits: Features That Make a Difference
Having used the MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Hitch Cargo Carrier extensively over the past couple of years, I can confidently attest to its practical utility and robust performance. It has become an indispensable part of my travel and errand routine, consistently proving its worth.
Heavy-Duty Build and Impressive Load Capacity
One of the first things you notice about the MaxxHaul 70107 is its sheer solidity. Constructed from heavy-duty alloy steel, this carrier feels incredibly robust in hand. Despite its sturdy build, it’s surprisingly manageable to lift and install, weighing in at around 27 pounds, which is a significant plus when you’re wrestling it onto a hitch. The stated load capacity of 500 pounds (distributed weight) is not just a number on paper; in real-world application, it holds up exceptionally well. I’ve packed it with everything from large camping coolers, multiple bulky duffel bags, a full load of firewood, to even construction materials for DIY projects. The peace of mind that comes from knowing the carrier can effortlessly handle substantial weight is immense. I recall one instance early on where I, a fairly good-sized individual, stepped onto the carrier and jumped a couple of times to test its resilience. It barely flexed, feeling far more secure than I anticipated, which speaks volumes about its durable engineering. This robust capacity directly solves the core problem of having to leave behind essential, or heavy, items due to lack of space, making otherwise impossible trips or tasks perfectly feasible.
Generous Dimensions and Secure High Side Rails
The dimensions of the MaxxHaul 70107 are intelligently designed for practical use. With an outer basket size of 53″ x 19″ x 5″ and an inner basket size of 51 1/2″ x 17 1/2″ x 4 1/4″, it provides ample usable space. I’ve found it perfectly accommodates a full-sized Igloo cooler alongside a large suitcase, with room to spare for smaller items. This flexibility allows for efficient packing of various shapes and sizes. A standout feature for me is the presence of the high side rails. Unlike flat platforms, these rails provide a crucial physical barrier, preventing items from sliding off, especially during turns, sudden brakes, or when driving over uneven terrain. This significantly enhances the security of your load. I’ve experienced firsthand how even with minor jostling, secured items remain firmly within the carrier’s confines thanks to these elevated sides, drastically reducing the risk of losing valuable gear on the road. This feature directly addresses safety concerns related to shifting cargo and makes securing your load with straps much more effective.
Universal Compatibility and Straightforward Mounting
The MaxxHaul 70107 is engineered for universal fit, connecting seamlessly to any standard Class III & IV 2″ x 2″ receiver hitch. This broad compatibility means it’s a viable solution for a wide range of vehicles, including RVs, trucks, SUVs, vans, and even some cars, provided they have the correct hitch. Its rear-mounted design is a significant advantage over roof racks, primarily concerning aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. I noticed a marked improvement in my gas mileage compared to when I used a roof-mounted cargo solution; my average MPG went from a typical 30 MPG to around 29 MPG with the MaxxHaul attached, which is a negligible drop for the amount of extra carrying capacity it provides. This difference translates to real savings on long journeys. Mounting the carrier itself is a simple process once assembled: slide the main shaft into your vehicle’s receiver hitch and secure it with the hitch pin and cotter. While the included pin and cotter can be a bit snug or require a slight wiggle to align, it’s a minor inconvenience that doesn’t detract from the overall ease of use.
The Aesthetics and Durability of the Powder Coat Finish
The durable black powder coat finish on the MaxxHaul 70107 gives it a sleek, professional appearance that complements most vehicle exteriors. Beyond aesthetics, this finish is crucial for protecting the steel construction from the elements, including rain, road grime, and salt, thus preventing rust and extending the carrier’s lifespan. In my experience, the finish generally holds up well against minor abrasions and exposure. However, it’s important to note a recurring issue that some users, including myself, have encountered: occasional imperfections in the powder coat directly out of the box. I discovered a couple of spots, particularly in inside corners, where the coating was thin or chipped, exposing bare metal. While this is a minor disadvantage requiring a quick touch-up with rust-inhibiting spray paint, it’s a manageable fix for a product at this price point. It doesn’t compromise the carrier’s structural integrity but is something to be aware of upon initial inspection.
Navigating the Assembly Process
The assembly of the MaxxHaul 70107 comes in a few main pieces, and while the instructions provided are quite basic, the process is intuitive enough once you grasp a key principle: *do not tighten any bolts fully until all components are loosely assembled and aligned.* Many initial frustrations, including my own, stemmed from trying to fully tighten each bolt as it was inserted, leading to misaligned holes. The trick, as several users (and a bit of ingenuity) revealed, is to loosely fit all bolts, allowing for flexibility. For example, when connecting the two main basket halves, slightly folding or pushing down on the support brackets can help align the holes perfectly. Once all hardware is in place and everything is loosely connected, then you can proceed to tighten all nuts and bolts thoroughly, which locks the carrier into a remarkably sturdy single unit. It took me about 20-30 minutes for the initial assembly, including a minor correction (I initially mounted the reflector brackets backward!). While it might seem daunting at first, it’s a one-time process that yields a very solid end product.
Minimizing Road Noise: The Anti-Rattle Solution
A common concern with hitch-mounted accessories is the potential for rattling or wobbling in the receiver hitch, especially without any load. When the MaxxHaul 70107 is first installed without any weight, it does have a slight bit of play, which can cause a subtle rattle over bumps. I initially worried this would be a constant source of road noise on long trips. However, my experience, and that of many others, has shown that simply adding even a moderate load—like a single fully packed suitcase—puts enough downward pressure on the hitch connection to eliminate virtually all noise and movement. For those who transport lighter loads or prefer absolute silence, inexpensive aftermarket anti-rattle devices (often called hitch tighteners or stabilizers) are readily available. I found that I rarely needed one for my typical use, as the weight of my cargo effectively stabilized the carrier, proving that this minor issue is easily overcome.
Safety Considerations for Your Journey
Safety is paramount when hauling anything on your vehicle. The MaxxHaul 70107 comes with reflectors, which are a simple but effective safety feature, improving visibility, especially at night. It’s also crucial to remember the advice about load distribution and securing your items. Always use appropriate cargo straps or netting to tightly secure everything to the carrier. A critical safety point highlighted by the manufacturer and worth reiterating from my own vigilance is ensuring the carrier and its contents are completely clear of your vehicle’s exhaust path. Depending on your vehicle’s exhaust location, hot gases can potentially damage or even ignite items on the carrier. In some cases, a hitch riser (not included) may be necessary to elevate the carrier to a safe height. This foresight, while requiring an extra step for some users, ensures safe operation and prevents potential hazards.
What Other Users Are Saying
Having scoured countless online reviews and forums, I’ve found that my positive experience with the MaxxHaul 70107 is widely echoed by other users. Many commend its surprising sturdiness and durability, often remarking on its ability to withstand demanding trips and heavy loads, with one user confidently traveling cross-country with a full carrier. The general consensus highlights its remarkable value for the price, frequently contrasting it with more expensive alternatives. While some users did experience initial assembly challenges or minor cosmetic flaws upon delivery, these issues were typically resolved with a bit of patience or simple touch-ups, reinforcing the perception that these are minor trade-offs for such an affordable and robust piece of equipment.
Final Thoughts: Why the MaxxHaul 70107 Is a Smart Investment
Running out of vehicle cargo space is a frustrating and often problematic issue, leading to cramped interiors, impaired visibility, and the difficult choice of leaving essential items behind. The MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Hitch Cargo Carrier provides a straightforward, robust, and highly effective solution to this common dilemma. Its heavy-duty steel construction ensures durability for years of use, while its generous 500-pound capacity and high side rails offer secure and versatile transport for almost any load. Considering its exceptional value, the MaxxHaul 70107 is an outstanding investment for anyone seeking to expand their vehicle’s hauling capabilities without breaking the bank. If you’re ready to expand your vehicle’s hauling capabilities and make your travels more organized and stress-free, I highly recommend this unit. Click here to check it out and take the first step towards a more spacious journey.