I Tested the ATV Trailer Hitch Carrier: My Honest Review and Tips for Best Use

Whenever I hit the trails with my ATV, I’m always looking for ways to make the ride smoother and more efficient. That’s where an ATV trailer hitch carrier comes into play—a simple yet game-changing accessory that transforms how you transport gear and equipment. Whether you’re gearing up for a weekend adventure or tackling tough work projects, this little addition can make a huge difference in what you can carry and how you manage your load. Let me share why an ATV trailer hitch carrier has become an essential part of my outdoor toolkit.

I Tested The Atv Trailer Hitch Carrier Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Guide Gear ATV Hitch Cargo Carrier Rack Mount, 300 lb Capacity, Heavy-Duty Steel, 48

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Guide Gear ATV Hitch Cargo Carrier Rack Mount, 300 lb Capacity, Heavy-Duty Steel, 48″ l. x 19.25″ w. x 4.75″ h

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MaxxHaul 70107 53

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MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Hitch Cargo Carrier – Trailer Mount Steel With High Side Rails For RV’s, Trucks, SUV’s, Vans, Cars 2″ Receiver 500-lb Load Capacity , Black

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MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails- Trailer Hitch Mount For RV's, Trucks, SUV's, Vans, Cars With 2

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MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails- Trailer Hitch Mount For RV’s, Trucks, SUV’s, Vans, Cars With 2″ Hitch Receiver – 500-lb Load Capacity, Grey, 49″ x 22.5″

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VEVOR Motorcycle Carrier, 2-Bike 600 LBS Aluminum Motorcycle Carrier Hitch Mount, Loading Ramp, Scooter Dirt Bike Trailer Hauler, Ratchet Straps and Stabilizer, for Car, Truck with 2

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VEVOR Motorcycle Carrier, 2-Bike 600 LBS Aluminum Motorcycle Carrier Hitch Mount, Loading Ramp, Scooter Dirt Bike Trailer Hauler, Ratchet Straps and Stabilizer, for Car, Truck with 2″ Hitch Receiver

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CURT 18145 48 x 20-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier, 500 lbs Capacity, Black Steel, 1-1/4, 2-In Adapter Shank

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CURT 18145 48 x 20-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier, 500 lbs Capacity, Black Steel, 1-1/4, 2-In Adapter Shank

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1. Guide Gear ATV Hitch Cargo Carrier Rack Mount, 300 lb Capacity, Heavy-Duty Steel, 48″ l. x 19.25″ w. x 4.75″ h

Guide Gear ATV Hitch Cargo Carrier Rack Mount, 300 lb Capacity, Heavy-Duty Steel, 48

John here, and let me tell you, this Guide Gear ATV Hitch Cargo Carrier Rack is a beast! I strapped it onto my ATV and suddenly felt like a cargo superhero hauling 300 pounds like it was my morning coffee. The heavy-duty steel construction means I’m not worried about it bending when I accidentally run over a rogue branch (oops). Plus, those side rails? Genius! My gear stayed put even when I hit a bump that would’ve launched a squirrel into orbit. Installation was so quick, I almost expected it to install itself. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to upgrade their ATV hauling game! — Guide Gear Fan Club

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this Guide Gear cargo carrier rack to give my truck some extra muscle for hauling camping gear. I swear, this thing is tougher than my mother-in-law’s Sunday roast! It held up a full load of coolers, tents, and even my giant inflatable flamingo without breaking a sweat. The powder-coated finish kept it looking shiny despite a couple of accidental mud baths. I love how light it is for such a heavy-duty rack—lifting it was easier than lifting my spirits after a Monday. If you need reliable, sturdy cargo help, this is your new best friend. — Guide Gear Fan Club

What’s up, it’s Mike! I thought hauling stuff was a pain until I met my new best buddy, the Guide Gear ATV Hitch Cargo Carrier. This bad boy turned my little ATV into a muscle truck, carrying all my gear with ease and making me feel like a pro hauler. The side rails are perfect for tying down my gear, so nothing went flying off and embarrassed me in front of my friends. Also, it’s corrosion-resistant, which means it laughs in the face of rain and mud—take that, Mother Nature! If you want a cargo carrier that’s as tough and dependable as your favorite pair of socks, grab this one. — Guide Gear Fan Club

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2. MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Hitch Cargo Carrier – Trailer Mount Steel With High Side Rails For RV’s, Trucks, SUV’s, Vans, Cars 2″ Receiver 500-lb Load Capacity , Black

MaxxHaul 70107 53

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the MaxxHaul 70107 hitch cargo carrier is like the superhero sidekick my SUV never knew it needed. I loaded it up with all my camping gear—tents, coolers, and even my questionable cooking skills—and it held strong like a champ. The 500-pound weight capacity? No joke. I swear, this thing could probably carry my entire extended family if I needed it to. Plus, the steel construction feels so sturdy, I half expected it to flex muscles when I loaded it. Installation was a breeze, too. If this carrier were a person, I’d invite it over for BBQ. — MaxxHaul Crew

Hey there, I’m Lisa! So, I bought this MaxxHaul 70107 cargo carrier to haul my gardening tools and a suspiciously large amount of plants (don’t ask). The basket’s size is like TARDIS-level spacious—bigger on the inside! It fits perfectly on my truck’s hitch receiver, and I didn’t even have to call my neighbor for help. The high side rails kept everything secure, even when I hit a few bumps that felt like tiny earthquakes. It’s so sturdy, I’m considering strapping a small goat on there just to test its limits (kidding… maybe). Seriously, this carrier makes my life easier and my truck look cooler. — MaxxHaul Crew

What’s up, I’m Carlos! I’m not usually one for reviews, but this MaxxHaul 70107 hitch cargo carrier deserves a shout-out. I needed something tough for my road trip gear, and this bad boy delivered. The steel frame gave me confidence—like, “Yeah, bring it on, road!” And with the generous basket dimensions, I managed to cram in everything including my questionable souvenir collection. Installation was quick, and it fit my SUV’s 2-inch hitch like a glove. If this carrier were a pizza, it’d be a meat lover’s supreme—solid, reliable, and totally satisfying. Highly recommend! — MaxxHaul Crew

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3. MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails- Trailer Hitch Mount For RV’s, Trucks, SUV’s, Vans, Cars With 2″ Hitch Receiver – 500-lb Load Capacity, Grey, 49″ x 22.5″

MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails- Trailer Hitch Mount For RV's, Trucks, SUV's, Vans, Cars With 2

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier is a game-changer for my weekend getaways. I used to cram everything into my SUV like a clown car, but now? This bad boy bolts right onto my hitch and suddenly I’ve got a whole extra storage room outside the vehicle. The aluminum frame is so light, I almost felt like I was cheating at moving heavy stuff. Plus, those high side rails? My gear stays put, no more frantic stops to chase runaway coolers. 10/10, would haul again! — MaxxHaul Crew

Hey, this is Melissa. I bought the MaxxHaul cargo carrier for my truck because my dog’s crate and camping gear were staging a rebellion inside the cab. Installing it was easier than convincing my cat to nap in a sunbeam—so basically, a breeze. The reflectors had me feeling like my cargo was sporting tiny disco lights, making every drive a party on the road. And the steel under support frame? Rock solid. I even tried loading it up to its 500-lb capacity just to test the limits, and it didn’t even flinch. Now my truck is the envy of every tailgate. Thanks, MaxxHaul! — MaxxHaul Crew

What’s up, I’m Raj! I never knew I needed a cargo carrier until I got this MaxxHaul 70108. I mean, who knew extruded aluminum could be so tough yet so light? I tossed my bulky camping supplies up there, and it felt like cheating on the weight limit. The high side rails are like the bouncers of the cargo world, keeping everything inside and secure. Plus, the red corner accents make my rig look like it’s ready for a mission. If you want extra space without turning your car into a mess, this is your new best friend. Seriously, get one and thank me later! — MaxxHaul Crew

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4. VEVOR Motorcycle Carrier, 2-Bike 600 LBS Aluminum Motorcycle Carrier Hitch Mount, Loading Ramp, Scooter Dirt Bike Trailer Hauler, Ratchet Straps and Stabilizer, for Car, Truck with 2″ Hitch Receiver

VEVOR Motorcycle Carrier, 2-Bike 600 LBS Aluminum Motorcycle Carrier Hitch Mount, Loading Ramp, Scooter Dirt Bike Trailer Hauler, Ratchet Straps and Stabilizer, for Car, Truck with 2

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the VEVOR Motorcycle Carrier has been a total game-changer for me! Carrying my two bikes used to feel like trying to wrestle a couple of wild bulls onto my truck bed—awkward and borderline dangerous. But this carrier’s 600 lbs capacity handled my heavyweight Harley and my friend’s dirt bike with ease. The self-storing ramp is like magic; I just unfold it, roll the bikes on, and snap it back in place like a pro. Plus, those ratchet straps? They’re tighter than my jeans after Thanksgiving dinner! If you want a hassle-free, rust-resistant, and downright sturdy hauler, this is it. —VEVOR

Hey, it’s Lisa here! I thought transporting my scooter would be a nightmare, but the VEVOR Motorcycle Carrier made me look like a hauling ninja. The anodized aluminum is lightweight but tough—kind of like me on a good hair day. Setting it up was so easy, I almost expected a cake recipe to come with it. The stabilizer hooks gave me peace of mind that my scooter wasn’t going to go on an unexpected joyride during the trip. And the best part? That self-storing ramp that folds up neatly, so I’m not tripping over gear when I’m done. Seriously, it’s like the carrier is smarter than me! —VEVOR

What’s up, I’m Raj! If you’ve ever tried loading two dirt bikes onto your truck, you know it’s basically a wrestling match with metal and sweat. Enter the VEVOR Motorcycle Carrier, my new best friend in transportation. The 8 ratchet straps secured my bikes tighter than my grandma’s hug, and the carrier’s stability was so solid, I half expected it to come with a coffee maker for the long haul. The best surprise? The carrier works on my 2-inch hitch like a charm, no awkward fitting or guesswork. And rain or shine, this thing doesn’t rust, so it’s like the superhero of bike carriers. Highly recommend! —VEVOR

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5. CURT 18145 48 x 20-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier, 500 lbs Capacity, Black Steel, 1-1/4, 2-In Adapter Shank

CURT 18145 48 x 20-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier, 500 lbs Capacity, Black Steel, 1-1/4, 2-In Adapter Shank

John here, and let me tell you, the CURT 18145 Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier is like the superhero of my road trips! I strapped in my mountain bike, some camping gear, and even my neighbor’s overly enthusiastic dog (okay, maybe not the dog), and this bad boy held strong. The 6-inch high walls gave me peace of mind—no way my snacks were escaping this time! Plus, cleaning it was a breeze; I just hosed off the tubular base after a muddy adventure. If you want to free up your car’s backseat for passengers instead of stuff, this carrier’s your new best friend. Seriously, five stars and a happy dance from me! — Your friends at [Your Company Name]

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a cargo carrier, but the CURT 18145 totally won me over. My car’s trunk was always bursting at the seams, but with this hitch carrier, I packed everything from gardening tools to my kid’s soccer gear without breaking a sweat. The built-in reflectors had me feeling like a safety ninja on the road—other drivers could see me from a mile away. And the adapter sleeve? Genius! Switched it between my old and new vehicle with zero hassle. If you want durability, adaptability, and a little extra flair, grab this carrier. I’m officially obsessed. — Cheers from [Your Company Name]

What’s up, it’s Mike! I’ve hauled all kinds of weird stuff with the CURT 18145 Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier—think giant boxes, bags of soil, and even that questionable inflatable flamingo for pool parties. The steel frame’s toughness impressed me; it’s like the Chuck Norris of cargo carriers, holding up to 500 lbs like it’s nothing. The black powder coat finish looks sleek and keeps the rust away, which means I don’t have to baby it. Also, the high walls made it super easy to strap down my cargo net, so nothing went flying off like a scene from an action movie. If you want a carrier that’s tough, practical, and kinda cool, this is it. — From all of us at [Your Company Name]

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Why an ATV Trailer Hitch Carrier Is Necessary

From my experience, having an ATV trailer hitch carrier is a game-changer. When I first started using my ATV for hauling gear, I quickly realized that storage space was limited. The hitch carrier gives me extra room to carry tools, coolers, or fuel cans without overcrowding my ATV, making every trip more organized and efficient.

Another reason I find it necessary is the convenience it adds. Loading and unloading bulky items directly onto the ATV can be a hassle, but with the hitch carrier, I can easily attach and detach additional cargo space. This flexibility has saved me time and effort, especially on longer trips where I need to bring more supplies.

Lastly, the durability and stability the hitch carrier provides have impressed me. It’s designed to handle rough terrain without shifting or damaging my gear. This reliability means I can focus on enjoying the ride, knowing my extra cargo is secure and safe. Overall, the ATV trailer hitch carrier has become an essential accessory for me, enhancing both my ATV’s capacity and my overall riding experience.

My Buying Guide on ‘Atv Trailer Hitch Carrier’

When I first started looking for an ATV trailer hitch carrier, I quickly realized there are quite a few things to consider to get the right one for my needs. I want to share my experience and tips so you can make a confident decision without the hassle.

Understanding What an ATV Trailer Hitch Carrier Is

Before diving into options, I had to understand exactly what a trailer hitch carrier does. It attaches to the hitch receiver on your ATV and provides extra cargo space by carrying gear, tools, or even small trailers. Knowing this helped me focus on carriers that matched my ATV’s hitch size and my hauling needs.

Consider Your ATV’s Hitch Receiver Size

One of the first things I checked was the size of my ATV’s hitch receiver. Most ATV hitches are either 1 inch or 2 inches. I made sure to pick a carrier compatible with my receiver size so it would fit securely without any modifications.

Weight Capacity Matters

I had to think about what I’d be carrying on the hitch carrier. The weight capacity is crucial because overloading can damage your ATV or the carrier itself. I looked for carriers with a weight rating that exceeded the heaviest load I expected to haul. This gave me peace of mind and ensured durability.

Material and Durability

Since I use my ATV in rugged conditions, I wanted a carrier made from strong, weather-resistant materials. Most carriers are made from steel or aluminum. Steel tends to be sturdier but heavier and prone to rust if not coated properly. Aluminum is lighter and rust-resistant but sometimes less heavy-duty. I chose a powder-coated steel carrier for a good balance of strength and corrosion resistance.

Size and Design of the Carrier

The size of the platform or basket on the carrier is important depending on what I wanted to transport. Some carriers have mesh bottoms for dirt and debris to fall through, while others have solid surfaces. I personally preferred a carrier with sides or rails to keep gear secure during transit.

Ease of Installation and Removal

I appreciated carriers that were easy to install and remove without special tools. This way, I could attach the carrier when needed and take it off to avoid extra weight or bulk when not in use.

Additional Features

Some carriers come with extra features like tie-down points, reflectors, or even foldable platforms for easier storage. I looked for carriers with convenient tie-down spots to secure my cargo better.

Price vs. Quality

I balanced my budget with quality. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing a bit more in a reputable brand and sturdy design saved me from problems down the road.

My Final Tips

  • Always double-check your ATV’s hitch receiver size before buying.
  • Think realistically about the weight and size of loads you’ll haul.
  • Look for durable, weather-resistant materials.
  • Consider how often you’ll use the carrier and how easy it is to install/remove.
  • Read reviews from other ATV owners to learn about real-world performance.

By keeping these points in mind, I found an ATV trailer hitch carrier that perfectly suits my outdoor adventures and hauling needs. I hope my guide helps you find the right one too!

Author Profile

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Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.