10 Best Cargo Carriers 2025 in the United States

The MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket is a solid option for those needing to transport additional cargo. It boasts a high hauling capacity of 500 lbs, making it suitable for heavy loads. The basket itself measures a spacious 60 x 20 x 6 inches, providing ample room for various items. Its tubular steel construction with a black epoxy powder coating ensures durability and a lightweight design, which is a plus for ease of handling and longevity.

The added ground clearance, thanks to the angled shank, makes it versatile for both offroad and low-riding vehicles. This feature is particularly useful for avoiding damage on uneven terrains. For nighttime safety, the reflectors enhance visibility, which is an important safety measure. The included accessories, such as the 16 cubic feet waterproof cargo bag, hitch stabilizer, cargo net, and ratchet straps, add significant value by enhancing security and convenience. Installation appears straightforward with the U-Bolt mounting type, and the hitch stabilizer helps reduce noise and movement during travel.

On the downside, the carrier’s dimensions might be challenging for smaller vehicles, and the folded size (45 x 6 x 18 inches) may still require considerable storage space. The mesh base is a practical feature for cleaning but might not support very small items securely. This cargo carrier basket is best suited for users with larger vehicles who often need to transport bulky or heavy items, ensuring both convenience and safety during travel.

The Thule 614 Pulse Rack offers a generous 14 cubic feet of rooftop cargo space, making it suitable for families or individuals needing extra packing room. Its rugged plastic construction ensures durability, while the central locking system provides excellent security, ensuring that contents remain safe. The FastGrip quick-mount system simplifies installation, allowing it to be assembled in minutes. The design includes a passenger-side opening for convenient loading and unloading.

It can accommodate 3-5 snowboards up to 155 cm in length, which is perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. The cargo box has a load capacity of 110 lbs and weighs 34 lbs itself, making it robust yet manageable. However, the height off the crossbar is 16 inches, which might impact aerodynamics slightly and possibly affect fuel efficiency.

Despite being water-resistant, it may not be fully waterproof, so some caution is advised in heavy rain conditions. This cargo carrier is ideal for users seeking a reliable and spacious option for additional storage on their vehicles.

The Thule 613 Pulse Cargo Box Alpine offers a solid 11 cubic feet of extra storage space, which is suitable for carrying 4-6 skis or 3-4 snowboards, making it a good choice for winter sports enthusiasts or anyone needing extra room on their vehicle roof. Its hard plastic shell is rugged and water resistant, helping keep your gear safe and dry during trips. The box weighs 30 pounds and supports up to 110 pounds of load, so it should handle most family or outdoor gear without issue.

Installation is straightforward thanks to the FastGrip quick-mount system, allowing you to set it up quickly, and the passenger-side opening makes loading and unloading easier, especially on tighter parking spots. Security is well addressed with a central locking system that only releases the key when all locks are fully closed, providing peace of mind that your belongings are secure.

Although its aerodynamic design helps reduce wind drag, the box’s height of 11.3 inches off the crossbar may slightly affect fuel efficiency compared to lower-profile models. Also, while plastic is durable and lightweight, it may not be as impact-resistant as some metal alternatives. This cargo box serves as a practical, easy-to-use option for those who want reliable extra storage space for skis, snowboards, or general cargo, especially if you prioritize security and ease of use.