We’ve all been there. The car is packed to the roof for the annual family camping trip. Every nook and cranny is filled with sleeping bags, tents, and bags of clothes. The kids are wedged between pillows in the back seat, and visibility out the rearview mirror is a distant memory. Then comes the final, soul-crushing moment: you realize the large cooler, the firewood, and the beach chairs are still sitting on the garage floor. It’s a game of vehicular Tetris you’re destined to lose. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s the bottleneck that can limit your adventures, force you to leave essential gear behind, or create an unsafe, overloaded driving environment. The dream of a spontaneous, well-equipped road trip quickly turns into a logistical nightmare.
- Robust Aluminum Construction: Crafted from extruded aluminum, this basket-style cargo carrier offers a blend of durability, lightweight design, and resistance to rust. Easy to install, clean, and...
- Sturdy Under Support Frame: Boasting a heavy-duty steel under support frame, this carrier includes a 2" x 2" hitch shaft compatible with standard Class III and IV hitch receivers, ensuring secure...
- Enhanced Safety Features: Equipped with reflector lenses and red corner accents, this carrier enhances visibility for safer journeys. The high side rails not only keep your cargo secure but also...
What to Consider Before Buying a Hitch-Mounted Cargo Carrier
A hitch-mounted cargo carrier is more than just an accessory; it’s a key solution for reclaiming your vehicle’s interior and expanding your hauling potential. By moving bulky, dirty, or oversized items outside the car, you create a safer, more comfortable space for passengers while keeping your vehicle’s interior clean. Whether you’re transporting camping gear, luggage for a cross-country move, tools for a job site, or even just a particularly messy load from the garden center, these carriers provide an instant, accessible storage extension that roof racks simply can’t match for ease of loading and unloading.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who frequently finds their vehicle’s cargo capacity lacking. This includes families heading on vacation, outdoor enthusiasts with bulky gear like coolers and tents, small business owners moving equipment, or anyone with a vehicle equipped with a 2-inch hitch receiver who values their interior space. However, it might not be the best solution for those without a compatible hitch, those who need to transport extremely heavy, concentrated loads that exceed tongue weight limits, or individuals who require frequent access to their vehicle’s rear hatch or trunk, as a loaded carrier can block it. For them, a rooftop cargo box might be a more suitable, albeit less accessible, alternative.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Measure the gear you intend to carry. The inner dimensions of the basket (47-1/4″ x 20-1/4″ x 6″ for this model) are what matter. Also, consider how far the carrier will extend from your vehicle. Will it obstruct your backup camera or license plate? Will you need a hitch extender to clear a rear-mounted spare tire, as many Jeep owners do?
- Capacity/Performance: A 500-pound capacity is standard and robust, but this is always limited by your vehicle’s hitch tongue weight rating, which is often lower. Always check your vehicle’s manual. The performance also depends on the stability; look for features that minimize wobble and sway, or be prepared to purchase a separate hitch stabilizer for a rock-solid connection.
- Materials & Durability: The primary debate is steel versus aluminum. Steel is typically cheaper and very strong but is also incredibly heavy and prone to rust if the powder coating is compromised. Aluminum, like that used in the MAXXHAUL 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier 2″ Hitch, is significantly lighter—making it easier to install and remove—and naturally rust-proof, which is a massive advantage for longevity in wet or salty climates.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the assembly process. Many carriers, including this one, require full assembly, which can be time-consuming. Also, think about storage. Non-folding models are rigid and strong but require more space to store when not in use. Maintenance for an aluminum carrier is minimal, usually just occasional cleaning, whereas steel models may require touch-up paint to prevent rust.
Keeping these factors in mind, the MAXXHAUL 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier 2″ Hitch stands out in several areas, particularly its material and weight. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the MAXXHAUL 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier 2″ Hitch is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- HEAVY DUTY STEEL CONSTRUCTION: 1 Piece construction with matt black powder coating finish that resists the elements, rust and scratches.
- DURABLE BUILD - Tubular steel in black epoxy powder coating to promote high strength and a lightweight design. and covered in a rust free coating. It is rated for 200 lbs
- 【LARGE STORAGE CAPACITY】Free up space in your vehicle with this roof rack cargo basket that can hold up to 200 Lbs. Overall dimensions include: 46"(L) x 36"(W) x 5"(H)
First Impressions: Unboxing a Sea of Screws and Potential
Upon its arrival, the first thing we noticed about the MAXXHAUL 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier 2″ Hitch was the manageable weight of the box. Having previously handled all-steel carriers that feel like they weigh a ton, this was an immediate and welcome relief. Inside, the components were neatly packed, consisting of extruded aluminum side rails, floor panels, a heavy-duty steel underframe, and several bags of hardware. A lot of hardware. The sheer number of nuts, bolts, and washers can look intimidating, and it’s clear from the outset that this isn’t a snap-together affair. The aluminum pieces felt sturdy yet surprisingly light, with a clean, functional finish. The steel hitch mount and support frame, by contrast, felt substantial and heavy, inspiring confidence in its ability to handle the rated 500-pound load. The included instructions are functional but sparse, relying more on diagrams than detailed text, a point echoed by many users who recommend laying everything out and taking your time.
Key Benefits
- Significantly lighter than steel counterparts, making it easy for one person to install.
- Aluminum construction is naturally rust and corrosion-resistant.
- Sturdy steel underframe provides a solid and secure connection to the hitch.
- Generous 500-pound load capacity (vehicle permitting).
Limitations
- Assembly is tedious and time-consuming due to a large number of screws and nuts.
- Instructions are basic and can be confusing regarding the orientation of some parts.
Deep Dive: Performance, Durability, and Real-World Use
A cargo carrier’s true worth is only revealed on the open road, loaded with gear and subjected to hundreds of miles of bumps, crosswinds, and vibrations. We put the MAXXHAUL 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier 2″ Hitch through its paces on everything from smooth interstates to winding country roads to see how it truly performs beyond the spec sheet.
Assembly and Installation: A Test of Patience for a Sturdy Reward
Let’s be upfront: the assembly process is the single biggest hurdle you’ll face. As many users have noted, it’s not complex, but it is tedious. With dozens of screws, nuts, and washers, this is a project that demands patience. We highly recommend using a power drill with a Phillips bit and a set of 8mm and 10mm socket wrenches or open-end wrenches; doing this entirely by hand would be an exercise in frustration. Assembly times reported by users range from a swift 30 minutes for the mechanically adept with power tools to over two hours for those taking a more methodical, manual approach. We landed squarely in the middle, finishing in just under an hour.
The instructions are a common point of contention. They consist of a single exploded diagram that lacks detail on critical steps. A key piece of advice we followed, and strongly recommend, is to mount the vertical support braces on the *inside* of the main basket sections, contrary to some product photos. This creates a much more rigid and stronger structure. Another pro-tip gleaned from savvy owners is to assemble the carrier with the bolt heads on the inside floor of the basket and the nuts on the outside. This creates a smooth interior surface that won’t snag or tear cargo bags, coolers, or boxes. While the exposed screw ends on the outside are a minor aesthetic issue, a dab of silicone or some plastic caps can easily remedy any sharp edges.
On-the-Road Performance: Stability, Capacity, and Real-World Durability
Once assembled and mounted, the carrier feels impressively solid. The hybrid design is clever: the lightweight aluminum basket keeps the overall weight down, while the heavy-duty steel spine does the real work of connecting to the hitch and supporting the load. We loaded it with approximately 350 pounds of gear, including heavy coolers, camping equipment, and firewood, keeping well within its 500-pound limit and our test vehicle’s tongue weight rating.
On the highway, the carrier was stable and, when paired with a separate hitch tightener (a highly recommended accessory), completely silent. There was no unnerving rattling or swaying, a testament to the rigid, bolted-together design. One of the biggest concerns for SUV and crossover owners is exhaust heat. We were particularly impressed by feedback from one user who drove a 2021 RAV4 over 1,130 miles with plastic and cardboard boxes loaded on the carrier. They reported absolutely no melting, warping, or fire risk, confirming that the carrier provides sufficient clearance and airflow for most modern vehicle exhausts. During our own testing on an SUV, we found no issues with heat transfer to our cargo. The integrated reflectors are a thoughtful safety touch for visibility, though some users suggest adding more high-quality reflective tape for enhanced nighttime safety.
Design and Materials: The Lightweight Advantage of Aluminum
The defining feature of the MAXXHAUL 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier 2″ Hitch is its material. The extruded aluminum construction is the star of the show. Weighing in at around 30 pounds, it is dramatically lighter than all-steel competitors, which can easily top 60-70 pounds. This isn’t a minor detail; it’s a massive quality-of-life improvement. One person can easily lift, carry, and slide this carrier into the hitch receiver. This was perfectly captured by a 70-year-old user who praised their ability to handle it alone, a task that would be difficult or impossible with a heavier steel unit. This ease of handling means you’re more likely to use it, rather than leaving it in the garage because installation is a two-person chore.
The other major benefit of aluminum is its inherent resistance to rust. For anyone living in regions with rain, snow, or salted winter roads, this is a non-negotiable feature. Steel carriers, no matter how well powder-coated, will inevitably get scratched or chipped, opening the door for rust that can compromise both the look and structural integrity over time. The MaxxHaul 70108 will look good and remain structurally sound for years with minimal maintenance. The 6-inch inner wall height is adequate for securing most loads with straps, providing numerous tie-down points along the top rail. While some users have modified their carriers to add even higher walls for specific cargo like e-bikes, we found the stock height to be a good balance of security and accessibility. If you’re tired of heavy, rusting steel and want a carrier that’s easy to manage solo, the design of this model is hard to beat. Find out if this lightweight hauler is the right fit for your vehicle.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, the user consensus on the MAXXHAUL 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier 2″ Hitch is overwhelmingly positive, with a few consistent caveats. The most frequently praised feature is its lightweight aluminum construction. One user summed it up perfectly after returning a heavy steel model: “This aluminum basket is easy to lift and handle the insertion process because it’s not super heavy.” This sentiment is echoed by many who appreciate the ease of installation and removal.
On the other hand, the most common critique is the “tedious” and “painful” assembly process due to the sheer number of fasteners and the less-than-detailed instructions. As one owner noted, “LOTS of nuts and screws which are a pain to put together. I took 2 1/2 hours to finish putting this together!” However, most agree that this one-time effort is worth the final result. A few users have noted the need for minor modifications or additional accessories for a perfect setup, such as buying a hitch riser for cars with low ground clearance, adding a hitch stabilizer to eliminate any potential wobble, or even re-drilling the pin hole slightly due to thick powder coating.
How Does the MAXXHAUL 70108 Compare to the Alternatives?
While the MAXXHAUL 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier 2″ Hitch excels in its niche, it’s important to see how it stacks up against other popular options that might better suit different needs.
1. MAXXHAUL 70107 53″ Hitch Cargo Carrier
This is the all-steel sibling to the 70108. The primary difference is the material. The 70107 is constructed entirely of heavy-duty steel, which makes it exceptionally tough but also significantly heavier. This weight can make it a two-person job to install and remove. While its powder-coat finish offers good protection, it’s susceptible to scratches and eventual rust, unlike the aluminum 70108. The 70107 is a great choice for users who prioritize maximum brute strength and a potentially lower initial cost over weight savings and long-term corrosion resistance. It’s for the user who will likely install it and leave it on for extended periods.
2. ARKSEN Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier 500 Lbs
The ARKSEN carrier introduces a killer feature: the ability to fold up against the back of the vehicle when not in use. This is a massive advantage for daily drivers, making parking easier and reducing the vehicle’s overall length. The tradeoff for this convenience is often a more complex hinge mechanism and potentially more points of flex or rattle. Like the MaxxHaul 70107, it’s typically made of steel, so it carries the same weight and rust penalties. This carrier is the perfect choice for someone who needs to keep their carrier on their vehicle frequently but doesn’t want it sticking out all the time, and for whom storage space in the garage is at a premium.
3. Mockins 60″ Folding Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier w/ Cargo Bag
The Mockins model is an all-in-one solution. It not only features a folding design like the ARKSEN but also comes bundled with a comprehensive accessory package, including a waterproof cargo bag, a hitch stabilizer, ratchet straps, a cargo net, and locks. This represents incredible value for someone starting from scratch, as purchasing these items separately for the MaxxHaul 70108 would add significant cost. While it’s also a heavier steel unit, the convenience and value of the complete kit are undeniable. This is the ideal option for the user who wants a one-click purchase that includes everything needed for their first trip, prioritizing convenience and a full feature set.
Our Final Verdict: Is the MAXXHAUL 70108 Worth It?
After extensive testing and analysis, our conclusion is clear: the MAXXHAUL 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier 2″ Hitch is a fantastic piece of equipment for the right user. Its standout features are its lightweight, rust-proof aluminum construction and sturdy steel underpinnings. This combination offers the best of both worlds: durability and capacity without the back-breaking weight and inevitable corrosion of all-steel models. It’s the perfect solution for family road-trippers, campers, and outdoor adventurers who need to frequently install and remove their carrier and want a product that will last for years without rusting away.
While the initial assembly is undeniably tedious, it’s a one-time investment of time that results in a secure, stable, and incredibly useful hauling platform. If you value ease of handling and long-term durability over folding features or all-in-one kits, this carrier is one of the best values on the market. It confidently solves the “not enough space” problem for good.
If you’ve decided the MAXXHAUL 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier 2″ Hitch is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API