For years, I faced the perennial challenge of vehicle Tetris every time I planned a family road trip or a camping adventure. The car would be crammed to the ceiling with luggage, camping gear, and all the “just in case” items that inevitably accompany any extended travel. This constant struggle wasn’t just uncomfortable; it posed a safety risk by obstructing visibility and made long drives incredibly stressful. I knew I needed a dedicated solution to free up interior space and make our journeys more enjoyable. Without it, every trip felt like a logistical nightmare, leaving less room for passengers and more for anxiety.
Considering Your Next Cargo Solution
When contemplating a solution for expanding your vehicle’s cargo capacity, you’re essentially looking to solve the problem of limited interior space. This is crucial for anyone who frequently travels with family, embarks on outdoor adventures, or simply needs to transport bulky items that won’t fit inside their car, SUV, van, or truck. The ideal customer for a Mockins 60x20x6 Folding Cargo Carrier Hitch Mount is someone with a vehicle equipped with a 2-inch hitch receiver who prioritizes convenience, fuel efficiency (compared to roof racks), and secure, external storage. They likely value ease of access to their gear and appreciate a system that can be stored compactly when not in use.
On the other hand, this particular hitch cargo carrier is not suitable for vehicles with a spare tire mounted on the rear, as it would obstruct the side swing door and prevent proper usage. Additionally, if your vehicle has extremely low ground clearance or you frequently traverse very steep driveways or rough terrain, a hitch-mounted carrier might not be the best fit without careful consideration, as scraping can become an issue. For such scenarios, a roof-mounted solution or a smaller, specialized carrier might be more appropriate, though they come with their own trade-offs. Before buying, always consider your vehicle’s hitch type, rear clearance, and the typical terrain you’ll encounter. Think about the size and weight of the items you plan to carry, and whether you need waterproof protection.
Introducing the Mockins Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier System
The Mockins 60x20x6 Folding Cargo Carrier Hitch Mount is a robust and versatile external storage solution designed to dramatically increase your vehicle’s hauling capacity. It promises to transform cramped road trips into spacious, comfortable journeys by taking your bulky gear out of the car. When you purchase this system, you get a heavy-duty steel cargo basket (measuring 60″ L x 20″ W x 6″ H), a 16 cubic foot waterproof cargo bag, two ratchet straps, six buckle straps, a safety bag lock, a bonus hitch stabilizer to reduce rattling, and a hitch lock for security.
Compared to some market leaders, the Mockins cargo carrier often stands out for its comprehensive bundle, including the waterproof bag and anti-rattle features right out of the box, which are often separate purchases with competitors. Its folding design is a significant upgrade over older, rigid models, offering much better storage convenience. This specific product is ideal for families, campers, tailgaters, and anyone needing serious extra space for luggage, sports equipment, or construction materials, especially those with SUVs, vans, or trucks with a 2-inch receiver. It’s less suited for sedans or smaller vehicles with lower ground clearance or no hitch.
Pros:
* High Capacity & Robust Build: Capable of holding up to 500 lbs of gear, thanks to its heavy-duty steel construction.
* Excellent Weather Protection: The included 16 cu ft waterproof cargo bag keeps contents dry in all weather conditions.
* Space-Saving Foldable Design: Folds up when not in use, making storage and maneuvering easier.
* Enhanced Ground Clearance: Features a 2-inch rise from the hitch, minimizing scraping on inclines.
* Comprehensive Accessory Kit: Comes with a cargo bag, multiple straps, a hitch stabilizer, and a security lock, offering great value.
Cons:
* Potential for Rust: Like most steel carriers, it can be prone to rust over time, especially in harsh weather, if not regularly maintained.
* Ground Clearance Limitations: While improved, extremely steep driveways or unpaved roads can still lead to scraping.
* Access to Rear Hatch: May obstruct vehicle’s rear hatch when in the upright (folded) position.
* Accessory Quality: Some users find the included tie-down straps and the cargo bag’s Velcro could be more durable over extended use.
* Installation Can Be Tricky Alone: Its weight makes solo installation challenging, often requiring two people or a clever setup.
In-Depth Look: Features and Practical Benefits
Heavy-Duty Steel Construction and 500 lb Load Capacity
One of the most reassuring aspects of the Mockins 60x20x6 Folding Cargo Carrier Hitch Mount is its undeniable sturdiness. Constructed from heavy-duty steel, this hitch basket feels incredibly solid, capable of handling a hefty 500 lbs of cargo. Over countless miles and numerous trips – from cross-country hauls through varied terrain to local camping excursions – this carrier has never once given me cause for concern regarding its structural integrity. I’ve loaded it with everything from bulky camping tents and coolers to multiple hockey bags and even construction materials for a home project, and it has consistently performed flawlessly. The benefit here is clear: peace of mind. Knowing that your valuable gear is securely supported, even when fully loaded, allows you to focus on the journey rather than constantly worrying about your cargo. This robust build directly solves the problem of unreliable external storage, ensuring your items arrive safely and intact.
Spacious 16 CuFt Waterproof Cargo Bag
The included 16 cubic foot waterproof cargo bag is a true game-changer and, in my opinion, one of the standout features of this Mockins cargo carrier. Measuring approximately 58″ L x 20″ W x 24″ H, it offers an immense amount of space, easily accommodating several large duffle bags, a pack-n-play, and even my large hockey bag, with room to spare. What’s more, its heavy-duty vinyl material and robust zippers have proven to be genuinely waterproof. I’ve driven through torrential downpours and even encountered snow during winter trips, and every single time, the contents of the bag have remained completely dry. This feature is incredibly important because it means you don’t have to worry about your clothes, sleeping bags, or electronics getting ruined by unexpected weather. It transforms the open cargo basket into a protected, all-weather storage unit, solving the common problem of exposing your belongings to the elements when using an open rack. While the Velcro on the bag has shown some signs of detaching in places after extensive use, it hasn’t compromised the bag’s overall functionality or its waterproof capabilities, as the zipper and buckle straps provide the primary seal.
Smart Folding Design and Ground Clearance
The design of this trailer hitch carrier cleverly addresses two common frustrations with hitch-mounted accessories: storage and ground clearance. It features a 2-inch rise from the hitch, which provides improved ground clearance, significantly reducing the chances of scraping the carrier on dips or inclines. While it’s still wise to take steep driveways at an angle, this added clearance makes a noticeable difference, especially with a minivan that naturally sits lower. Furthermore, the foldable basket is incredibly convenient. When not in use, it can be folded up closer to your vehicle, saving space in your garage or driveway. This is a huge benefit for those with limited storage. However, one minor downside is that when the rack is folded up, it often obstructs the rear liftgate of many vehicles, preventing it from opening fully. This means you’ll need to lower it if you need trunk access, which is easy enough to do. This folding mechanism truly tackles the problem of awkward storage and allows for better maneuverability when the carrier is empty.
Comprehensive Accessory Kit for Security and Stability
Beyond the basket and bag, Mockins has thoughtfully included a suite of accessories that enhance the user experience. The package comes with not just two ratchet straps but also six buckle straps, a safety bag lock, and a specialized storage bag for the cargo carrier bag and its accessories. This comprehensive set ensures your load is securely fastened, whether you’re using the waterproof bag or hauling irregular items. Crucially, the inclusion of a bonus hitch stabilizer and a dedicated hitch lock sets this product apart. The hitch stabilizer effectively minimizes noise and rattling during transit, providing a surprisingly smooth and quiet ride – so quiet, in fact, that you might occasionally wonder if your luggage is still there! The hitch lock adds a layer of security, deterring theft of the carrier itself. These accessories address critical concerns: load security, noise reduction, and theft prevention, making the entire system much more practical and user-friendly from day one. While the quality of the included straps might not be “heavy-duty” enough for everyone’s preference (I ended up upgrading some of my tie-downs for extra peace of mind), they are perfectly functional for securing the cargo bag.
Ease of Assembly and User-Friendliness
Assembling the Mockins 60x20x6 Folding Cargo Carrier Hitch Mount is straightforward. It’s a matter of nuts and bolts, and I was able to put it together with my daughter in no time. The instructions might not be the most detailed, but with a bit of intuitive play, it comes together easily. Once assembled, attaching it to your vehicle’s 2-inch receiver is manageable. While it is quite heavy (around 52 pounds), making it easier for two people to lift and align for the initial pin insertion, it’s not impossible alone if you use a prop like a crate. The mesh floor of the basket is also a practical touch, making it simple to clean after hauling dirty gear. Compared to wrestling with a roof rack, which can be difficult to load, access, and impacts gas mileage, this Mockins hitch mount cargo carrier is far more accessible. You don’t need to climb on your car, and loading at waist height is a breeze. This accessibility significantly improves the overall convenience, especially during quick stops or when retrieving items. The only consistent minor snag I’ve encountered is aligning the locking bolt when the carrier is empty and in the upright position; it sometimes requires a bit of jiggling and lifting.
Versatility for All Adventures
The versatility of this Mockins cargo carrier is another strong point. Whether it’s a long road trip, a weekend camping getaway, a tailgating party, or simply moving bulky items, this system adapts. I’ve used it for winter trips with bulky clothing, summer adventures with coolers and beach gear, and even for hauling renovation debris. Its capacity and weather protection make it suitable for a wide range of uses, effectively solving the problem of needing different storage solutions for different activities. It seamlessly integrates with any car, SUV, van, or truck that has a 2-inch receiver, making it a universal helper for expanding cargo capacity. The fact that it doesn’t obstruct license plates or rear lights, and even allows a rearview camera to see through its grating when stowed, further speaks to its thoughtful design and broad appeal.
What Other Users Are Saying: Real-World Experiences
After extensively using the Mockins 60x20x6 Folding Cargo Carrier Hitch Mount myself, I decided to scour online reviews to see if my positive experiences were echoed by others, and indeed, they largely were. Many users highlighted how this carrier transformed their road trips, providing ample space and making long drives comfortable, much like it did for me. Several people praised its performance through various weather conditions, from intense heat to snow and heavy rain, consistently noting the effectiveness of the waterproof bag.
The robust build and stability, even on rough roads and at highway speeds, were frequently mentioned. A number of users appreciated the ease of assembly, often completing it with a family member, and the invaluable addition of the anti-rattle stabilizer. The significant space saving inside the vehicle was a recurring theme, allowing for more passenger comfort. While some shared my minor frustrations with the occasional difficulty in aligning pins or the longevity of the included straps and Velcro, the overwhelming sentiment was one of satisfaction, with many enthusiastically recommending it for its sturdiness, capacity, and overall value.
Final Thoughts and Your Next Adventure
The age-old problem of running out of space in your vehicle during travels or when transporting bulky items is a genuine source of stress and inconvenience. Without an effective solution, you’re left with cramped interiors, compromised visibility, and the potential for damaged belongings due to exposure. The Mockins 60x20x6 Folding Cargo Carrier Hitch Mount stands out as an exceptional fit to solve this problem, offering a blend of capacity, protection, and user-friendly design.
Firstly, its heavy-duty construction and impressive 500 lb load capacity mean you can confidently carry all your essential gear, from luggage to camping equipment, freeing up your vehicle’s interior. Secondly, the included 16 cubic foot waterproof cargo bag provides unparalleled protection against the elements, ensuring your belongings stay dry and secure regardless of the weather. Finally, features like the folding design for easy storage and the anti-rattle hitch stabilizer make it a practical and quiet companion for any journey. If you’re tired of playing cargo Tetris and want to embark on your next adventure with ample space and peace of mind, this Mockins cargo carrier is a superb investment. Click here to check the Mockins cargo carrier out and transform your travel experience.