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Review Cole Harrison

Best Hitch Mount Cargo Carriers for Trucks

Running out of cargo space in your truck bed is frustrating — especially when you're packing for a camping trip, hauling supplies, or moving gear that you don't want rattling around inside the cab. A hitch mount cargo carrier gives you an instant 500 lb platform behind your vehicle without sacrificing bed space.

We compared seven popular hitch cargo carriers across construction quality, basket size, included accessories, and real-world usability. This guide breaks down exactly which carrier fits your truck and your hauling needs.

7 Products Reviewed
40+ Hours of Research
Updated: April 2026
Independent & Unbiased
Editor's Choice
WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60" x 20" x 6" (B09W9MWN5R)
WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60" x 20" x 6" (B09W9MWN5R)
Premium Pick
Wildroad 500 Lbs Hitch Cargo Carrier Set 60" x 24" x 14"
Wildroad 500 Lbs Hitch Cargo Carrier Set 60" x 24" x 14"
Budget Pick
MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier 49" x 22.5"
MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier 49" x 22.5"

Top 7 Best Best Hitch Mount Cargo Carriers for Trucks

Finding the right best hitch mount cargo carriers for trucks isn't always straightforward. To simplify the process, we compared leading products and shortlisted the ones that truly stand out.

1. WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60" x 20" x 6" (B09W9MWN5R)

Best All-Inclusive Kit for Road Trips
WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60" x 20" x 6" (B09W9MWN5R)
9.6

The best all-around hitch cargo carrier if you want a large basket, folding convenience, and every accessory included out of the box.

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The WEIZE 60" Folding Cargo Carrier hits the sweet spot between size, durability, and value. The 60" x 20" x 6" basket gives you enough room for two large coolers, a tent, and a stack of firewood — all at once.

  • Folding shank: folds up against the vehicle when empty, so you don't lose ground clearance in parking lots
  • Weight capacity: rated for 500 lbs of evenly distributed cargo
  • Accessory bundle: includes a waterproof cargo bag, 36" x 60" cargo net, and two 12 ft tie-down straps rated at 2,200 lbs each
  • Powder coating: black finish resists corrosion, though WEIZE recommends truck bedliner paint for extended outdoor exposure

The included accessories are a genuine differentiator. Most competitors sell the bag, net, and straps separately — here you get everything in one box. If you're comparing a hitch carrier vs a rooftop cargo box, the WEIZE's folding design and lower loading height make it far easier to use day-to-day.

Assembly is straightforward with standard hardware, and the 2" receiver fitment works with Class III and IV hitches. Just confirm your vehicle's hitch weight rating before loading up.

Strength
  • 60" x 20" basket offers the most usable space among folding models
  • Complete accessory kit includes waterproof bag, cargo net, and 2x 2,200 lb tie-down straps
  • Folding shank tucks carrier against the vehicle when not in use
  • Powder-coated steel resists rust and corrosion
Weakness
  • Steel construction adds weight — heavier to install solo than aluminum options
  • Manufacturer recommends additional bedliner paint for long-term rust prevention

2. Wildroad 500 Lbs Hitch Cargo Carrier Set 60" x 24" x 14"

Best for Tall/Bulky Loads
Wildroad 500 Lbs Hitch Cargo Carrier Set 60" x 24" x 14"
9.3

The go-to pick if you haul tall, bulky items like firewood, moving boxes, or stacked camping gear that needs high side containment.

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The Wildroad Cargo Carrier stands out with its 13.8-inch tall fence rails — nearly triple the height of standard 5-inch rails. If you've ever worried about gear shifting or falling off a low-rail carrier, this solves that problem entirely.

  • Fence height: 13.8" tall rails keep firewood, coolers, and stacked boxes fully contained
  • Ground clearance: 5-degree upward angle prevents scraping on speed bumps and steep driveways
  • Cargo bag: 500D PVC waterproof material with welded seams — rated for rain, snow, and sand
  • Platform size: 60" x 24" — the widest basket in this roundup

The multi-hole spindle design is a smart engineering choice. Rather than a single pin position, you get multiple attachment points for a tighter, rattle-free connection to your hitch receiver. The carrier folds flat when not in use, which is essential for daily driving.

One thing to verify: the 24" width plus the tall fence may partially obstruct your taillights or backup camera on narrower trucks. Measure your bumper width before ordering. Also ensure your hitch can handle the tongue weight — check our towing capacity guide for reference.

Strength
  • 13.8" tall fence rails — the highest in this roundup — keep gear contained
  • 5-degree upward angle provides extra ground clearance over speed bumps
  • 500D PVC waterproof bag with welded seams for genuine weather protection
  • Foldable design with multi-hole spindle for secure hitch connection
Weakness
  • Taller fence adds weight and may partially block taillights — check visibility
  • 24" width is generous but may extend beyond the vehicle body on smaller trucks

3. MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier 49" x 22.5"

Best Lightweight Aluminum Option
MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier 49" x 22.5"
9.0

The smartest choice if rust resistance and low weight matter most. Easy to install, clean, and maintain season after season.

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The MaxxHaul 70108 is the only aluminum-bodied carrier in this roundup, and that material choice matters more than you might think. Aluminum doesn't rust — period. If you live in a wet climate or near the coast, steel carriers will eventually corrode even with powder coating.

  • Material: extruded aluminum basket with steel under-support frame
  • Side rails: 7.25" tall — taller than most steel carriers in this price range
  • Safety features: built-in reflector lenses and red corner accents for nighttime visibility
  • Basket dimensions: 49.25" x 22.5" outer (47.25" x 20.25" inner)
  • Tie-down points: multiple attachment points along the high side rails

The trade-off is length. At 49.25", it's about 10 inches shorter than the 60" carriers from WEIZE and Wildroad. You can still fit a large cooler, camping chairs, and a duffel bag, but long items like skis or lumber won't fit. The 22.5" width partially compensates by giving you a wider loading surface.

The steel under-support frame is the one weak point — it's powder-coated but can rust if scratched. Inspect it periodically and touch up any chips with rust-resistant paint.

Strength
  • Extruded aluminum body won't rust — ideal for wet climates and year-round use
  • Built-in reflector lenses and red corner accents improve visibility at night
  • 7.25" side rails are taller than most steel carriers
  • 22.5" width provides a wider loading surface
Weakness
  • 49.25" length is shorter than 60" competitors — less room for long items
  • Steel under-support frame can still rust if coating is damaged

4. WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60" x 20" x 6" (B0DSVVPD54)

Best Folding Carrier with Hitch Stabilizer
WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60" x 20" x 6" (B0DSVVPD54)
8.7

A solid choice if hitch wobble bothers you. The included stabilizer makes highway driving noticeably smoother.

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The WEIZE B0DSVVPD54 is an updated version of the popular B09W9MWN5R, and the key upgrade is the included hitch stabilizer. If you've ever driven with a loaded cargo carrier and heard constant rattling, you know how annoying hitch wobble can be — especially on rough roads.

  • Hitch stabilizer: included to reduce lateral movement and rattling
  • Construction: heavy-duty square tube steel with black powder coating
  • Rail height: 6" tube rails for vertical cargo containment
  • Accessories: waterproof bag, cargo net, and ratchet straps included
  • Capacity: 500 lbs distributed weight

The square tube construction feels rigid and well-built. The 60" x 20" platform matches the older WEIZE model, so you're getting the same generous cargo space with better stability hardware. The powder coating resists weather well, though like all steel carriers, periodic inspection for chips and scratches is smart maintenance.

The accessory bundle mirrors the B09W9MWN5R — waterproof bag, cargo net, and straps. If you already own a stabilizer, the older model may be a better value. But if you're starting fresh, this version saves you buying one separately.

Strength
  • Includes hitch stabilizer to reduce wobble and rattling at highway speeds
  • Heavy-duty square tube steel construction with powder coating
  • 6" tube rails provide solid vertical containment
  • Folds flat when not in use for compact storage
Weakness
  • Very similar to the older WEIZE B09W9MWN5R — differences are subtle
  • No folding shank mentioned — may require removal when not in use

5. WEIZE 53" x 19" Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier with Stabilizer

Best Compact Carrier with Full Accessory Kit
WEIZE 53" x 19" Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier with Stabilizer
8.4

The right pick for mid-size trucks and SUVs where a 60" carrier would stick out past the bumper.

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The WEIZE 53" x 19" is the compact option in WEIZE's lineup, and compact isn't a compromise here — it's a deliberate fit for mid-size trucks and SUVs. A 60" carrier on a Tacoma or Colorado can extend well past the bumper, creating visibility and parking issues.

  • Platform size: 53" x 19" — fits neatly within most mid-size truck bumpers
  • Hitch stabilizer: included to reduce wobble and noise
  • Accessories: waterproof bag, 36" x 60" cargo net, and 2x 12 ft tie-down straps (2,200 lb rated)
  • Construction: heavy-duty steel with powder coating

The included accessory bundle is identical to the larger WEIZE models — you're not sacrificing gear quality for a smaller platform. The stabilizer is especially valuable on lighter vehicles where hitch wobble is more pronounced.

The main limitation is volume. You'll fit a cooler, a couple of bags, and some gear — but not the full camping setup that a 60" carrier handles. If you need to haul larger items, consider whether a rooftop box might supplement your cargo space. For weekend trips and moderate loads, this compact carrier is perfectly sized.

Strength
  • Compact 53" x 19" size fits mid-size trucks without extending past the bumper
  • Includes hitch stabilizer, waterproof bag, cargo net, and tie-down straps
  • Powder-coated steel construction with 500 lb capacity
  • Lower profile reduces wind drag compared to larger carriers
Weakness
  • Smaller basket limits what you can carry — not ideal for large camping trips
  • Non-folding design means you must remove it when not in use

6. MaxxHaul 70107 Steel Cargo Carrier 53" x 19.5"

Best Budget Pick for Occasional Use
MaxxHaul 70107 Steel Cargo Carrier 53" x 19.5"
8.1

A reliable budget carrier for occasional use. No accessories included, so factor in the cost of straps and a cargo bag.

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The MaxxHaul 70107 is the no-frills option that's been a bestseller for years. If you just need a steel platform to haul gear a few times a year, this does the job without breaking the bank.

  • Basket size: 53" x 19.5" outer (51" x 17.5" inner)
  • Side rails: 5" high — enough to contain flat items but not tall loads
  • Construction: heavy-duty steel with standard coating
  • Capacity: 500 lbs distributed weight
  • Fitment: standard 2" x 2" hitch receiver

What you're not getting: no cargo bag, no net, no straps, no stabilizer. For occasional use, that's fine — most truck owners already have ratchet straps. But if you're buying everything from scratch, the total cost with accessories approaches the WEIZE carriers that include them.

The steel construction is solid but will need maintenance. If you park outdoors or use this in rain, expect surface rust within a season or two. A coat of truck bedliner spray adds years of life. For buyers who want something more durable long-term, the aluminum MaxxHaul 70108 is worth the upgrade. But for a basic, affordable cargo platform, this gets the job done.

Strength
  • Most affordable option in this roundup
  • Heavy-duty steel construction with 500 lb capacity
  • Simple, proven design with thousands of positive reviews
  • 5" side rails keep cargo contained
Weakness
  • No included accessories — bag, net, and straps must be purchased separately
  • Steel will rust over time without maintenance, especially in wet climates

7. TUFFIOM 54" x 19" x 5.5" Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier

Best for Buyers Who Want Built-In Reflective Safety
TUFFIOM 54" x 19" x 5.5" Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier
8.0

A functional steel carrier with nice safety touches, but the limited accessory bundle and unproven track record hold it back.

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The TUFFIOM 54" x 19" is a newer entrant that tries to differentiate with safety features and a mesh bottom design. The reflective strips are a smart addition — if you drive at night with a loaded carrier, visibility to other drivers matters.

  • Reflective strips: built-in reflective material visible from behind
  • Mesh bottom: prevents small items from slipping through rail gaps
  • Straps included: 2 ratchet straps and 2 hook straps for securing cargo
  • Finish: black/grey epoxy powder coating for rust resistance
  • Stabilizer: included for reduced hitch wobble

The mesh bottom is genuinely useful. Standard carriers have open gaps between rails where small items — water bottles, tools, loose gear — can fall through onto the road. The mesh prevents that while still allowing water to drain.

The downside is track record. TUFFIOM doesn't have the years of real-world feedback that WEIZE and MaxxHaul have accumulated. The accessory bundle is also thinner — straps only, no waterproof bag or cargo net. For a carrier you'll use heavily, the proven options rank higher. But if nighttime safety is a priority, the reflective strips and stabilizer combination here is hard to beat.

Strength
  • Built-in reflective strips enhance nighttime visibility and safety
  • Includes ratchet straps and hook straps for securing cargo
  • Mesh bottom design prevents small items from falling through gaps
  • Epoxy powder-coated finish for weather protection
Weakness
  • Newer product with less real-world user feedback compared to established brands
  • No waterproof bag or cargo net included — only straps

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Hitch Mount Cargo Carriers for Trucks

What Material Should You Choose: Steel or Aluminum?

Steel carriers are stronger and cheaper, but they rust. Aluminum carriers are lighter and corrosion-proof, but cost more. For most truck owners who park outdoors and use their carrier year-round, aluminum is the smarter long-term investment — though steel with powder coating works fine for occasional use.

  • Steel (powder-coated): heavier, lower cost, 500 lb capacity standard. Will rust eventually if coating is scratched. Most carriers in the $60-$120 range are steel
  • Aluminum (extruded): lighter by 10-15 lbs, naturally rust-proof, easier to install solo. Higher price point but virtually maintenance-free
  • Hybrid construction: some carriers like the MaxxHaul 70108 use an aluminum basket on a steel frame — you get rust resistance on the cargo surface but should still inspect the frame

If you live in a coastal area, use road salt in winter, or plan to leave the carrier mounted between trips, aluminum pays for itself. For occasional weekend use with indoor storage, steel is perfectly adequate. Apply truck bedliner paint to any steel carrier for an extra layer of protection — several manufacturers recommend this.

What Basket Size Do You Actually Need?

Hitch cargo carriers typically range from 49" to 60" long and 19" to 24" wide. The right size depends on your vehicle width and what you're hauling. A carrier that extends past your bumper creates visibility issues and potential parking problems — measure your bumper width before buying.

  • Compact (49"-53" long): fits mid-size trucks like Tacoma, Colorado, Ranger. Holds 1-2 large coolers plus bags. Best when you don't want overhang past the bumper
  • Full-size (60" long): fits full-size trucks like F-150, Silverado, Ram 1500. Holds camping gear for a family of four. Provides the most versatile cargo space
  • Width considerations: 19" is standard and fits most vehicles. 22-24" gives more surface area but may extend beyond narrow bumpers
  • Rail height: ranges from 5" to 13.8" in this roundup. Taller rails keep bulky items contained but add weight. Standard 5-6" rails work for flat items like coolers and bins

For full-size trucks, a 60" carrier is the sweet spot. For mid-size trucks, stick to 53" or shorter. The Wildroad's 24" width and 13.8" tall fence is ideal for stacked, irregular loads — but verify it doesn't block your taillights.

How Much Weight Can a Hitch Cargo Carrier Actually Hold?

Every carrier in this roundup is rated for 500 lbs of distributed weight, but that number only tells half the story. Your hitch receiver has its own tongue weight rating, and the lower number is your actual limit. Most Class III hitches handle 350-500 lbs of tongue weight — check your specific rating here.

  • Class III hitch: typically 350-500 lbs tongue weight capacity
  • Class IV hitch: typically 500-750 lbs tongue weight capacity
  • Class V hitch: 1,000+ lbs tongue weight — more than any carrier needs
  • Distributed vs. concentrated: 500 lbs spread evenly across the platform is fine. 500 lbs stacked in one corner is dangerous and can bend rails

Always place heavier items toward the vehicle (closest to the hitch) and lighter items toward the back. This reduces leverage on the receiver and improves vehicle handling. If your loaded carrier makes the front end feel light or steering feels loose, you've exceeded your safe tongue weight — reduce the load immediately.

Do You Need a Folding Carrier or Fixed Carrier?

Folding carriers are worth the small price premium for most truck owners. A fixed carrier sticks straight out behind your vehicle when empty, blocking your tailgate, reducing ground clearance, and making parking difficult. A folding carrier swings up against the vehicle or folds the shank flat.

  • Folding shank: the entire carrier tilts up toward the vehicle when empty. Best option — keeps ground clearance and allows tailgate access
  • Folding basket: the platform folds flat but the shank stays in the receiver. Reduces length but doesn't fully clear the tailgate area
  • Fixed (non-folding): must be physically removed from the hitch when not in use. Lighter and simpler, but inconvenient for daily drivers

If you plan to keep the carrier mounted between trips, a folding shank design like the WEIZE B09W9MWN5R is essential. If you only mount the carrier for specific trips and remove it afterward, a fixed model like the MaxxHaul 70107 saves money. Consider how often you'll need tailgate access — a folded carrier still blocks some tailgate swing on trucks.

What Accessories Should Come Included?

A cargo carrier without straps is like a truck bed without tie-downs — your gear isn't going anywhere safely. The best carriers include a waterproof cargo bag, cargo net, and ratchet straps in the box. Buying these separately adds $40-$80 to a budget carrier's real cost.

  • Waterproof cargo bag: essential for rain, road grit, and dust protection. Look for 500D PVC or heavier material with welded seams — not just "water-resistant" fabric
  • Cargo net: holds irregular items in place. A 36" x 60" net covers most standard-size carriers
  • Tie-down straps: ratchet straps rated at 1,500+ lbs are ideal. Hook-style straps work but ratchets provide more tension
  • Hitch stabilizer: reduces wobble and rattling. Some carriers include one; for others, it's a $15-$20 add-on. Highly recommended for highway driving

The WEIZE and Wildroad carriers include all four accessories. The MaxxHaul 70107 includes none. When comparing prices, always calculate the total equipped cost — a $70 carrier plus $60 in accessories costs more than a $110 carrier with everything included.

How Do You Prevent Hitch Wobble and Noise?

Hitch wobble is the most common complaint among cargo carrier owners. A loaded carrier that rocks side-to-side at highway speeds is annoying at best and dangerous at worst. A hitch stabilizer or tightener eliminates 90% of wobble and should be considered mandatory for regular use.

  • Hitch stabilizer bolt: a threaded bolt that presses against the receiver opening, eliminating the gap that causes lateral movement. Included with WEIZE (B0DSVVPD54 and B0CX1X2WXF) and TUFFIOM carriers
  • Anti-rattle clamp: wraps around the shank inside the receiver for a tighter fit. Available as a $10-$15 aftermarket add-on
  • Hitch pin quality: replace the basic clip pin with a locking hitch pin for both security and reduced play

Beyond the stabilizer, loading technique matters. Center your weight on the platform and keep the heaviest items closest to the vehicle. An unbalanced load amplifies wobble. If you're also running a hitch-mounted bike rack on a secondary receiver, ensure the total tongue weight stays within your hitch's rating. For trucks with a trailer hitch already installed, the carrier simply slides into the same receiver — see our trailer hitch installation guide if you need to add one.

Final Verdict

Every carrier in this roundup handles 500 lbs and fits a standard 2" hitch receiver, so the real decision comes down to size, material, and accessories. For most truck owners, the WEIZE 60" Folding Carrier (B09W9MWN5R) delivers the best combination of cargo space, folding convenience, and included accessories. If you haul tall, bulky items regularly, the Wildroad's 13.8" fence rails are unmatched. And if long-term rust resistance is your priority, the MaxxHaul 70108 aluminum is the only carrier here that won't corrode. Don't overlook hitch stabilizers — wobble at highway speed is the number one complaint, and carriers that include one save you the hassle.

Best Overall

WEIZE 60" Folding Carrier (B09W9MWN5R) — Best for truck owners who want a large, folding platform with every accessory included. The 60" x 20" basket, waterproof bag, cargo net, and heavy-duty straps make it ready to use out of the box.

Best Value

Wildroad 60" x 24" x 14" Carrier — Best for hauling tall, bulky loads. The 13.8" fence height and 5-degree angle design solve real-world problems that flat-rail carriers can't match, and the waterproof bag quality is excellent.

Best Premium

MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum — Best for long-term durability in any climate. The extruded aluminum body eliminates rust concerns entirely, and the built-in reflectors add a safety margin you won't find on steel carriers.

WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60" x 20" x 6" (B09W9MWN5R)

Best All-Inclusive Kit for Road Trips
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Our #1 pick: WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60" x 20" x 6" (B09W9MWN5R)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a hitch cargo carrier with a trailer hitch ball mount?
Not simultaneously. A hitch cargo carrier and a ball mount both occupy the same 2" receiver opening. You'll need to remove one to use the other. Some truck owners install a dual-receiver adapter, but this adds length behind the vehicle and reduces weight capacity. If you tow frequently, consider a swing-away carrier that uses a secondary receiver tube.
Do hitch cargo carriers affect gas mileage?
Yes, but less than rooftop carriers. A loaded hitch carrier adds aerodynamic drag behind the vehicle, typically reducing fuel economy by 1-3 MPG depending on speed and load size. An empty folding carrier adds almost no drag. A waterproof cargo bag with a streamlined shape reduces wind resistance compared to loose items stacked on an open platform.
Will a hitch cargo carrier block my backup camera or taillights?
Most standard-height carriers (5-6" rails) won't block backup cameras or taillights. However, taller carriers like the Wildroad with 13.8" fence rails may partially obstruct the view on narrower vehicles. Always test visibility before your first loaded trip. Carriers with built-in reflectors, like the MaxxHaul 70108 and TUFFIOM, help compensate by adding visibility from behind.
How do I keep my cargo carrier from rusting?
Three strategies: choose aluminum (rust-proof by nature), maintain the powder coating on steel carriers by touching up scratches immediately, and apply truck bedliner spray for extra protection. Remove steel carriers after each trip and store them in a dry location. Never leave a steel carrier mounted in rain for extended periods — water pools in joints and accelerates corrosion.
What's the difference between a hitch cargo carrier and a rooftop cargo box?
Hitch carriers mount behind the vehicle at bumper height, making loading and unloading much easier — no lifting heavy items overhead. They also don't affect vehicle height clearance. Rooftop boxes protect cargo from weather better but reduce fuel economy more and require roof rails. For a detailed comparison, see our hitch carrier vs rooftop box guide.
Can I open my truck tailgate with a hitch cargo carrier installed?
It depends on the carrier's shank length and your truck's tailgate size. Most carriers position the basket 6-8 inches behind the bumper, which is enough clearance for a tailgate to drop. Folding carriers that tilt up provide full tailgate access when empty. Measure the distance from your receiver to the tailgate's lowest point before buying — you need at least 4 inches of clearance.
Do I need a special hitch to use a cargo carrier?
You need a Class III or higher hitch receiver with a 2" x 2" opening — the standard size on most trucks and SUVs. If your vehicle doesn't have one, aftermarket hitches are available for most models and cost $150-$300 installed. Check our trailer hitch installation guide for step-by-step instructions. Class I and II hitches (1.25" receivers) are too small for these carriers.
How do I reduce wobble and rattling on my hitch cargo carrier?
Install a hitch stabilizer — a bolt or clamp that fills the gap between the carrier's shank and the receiver tube. Several carriers in this roundup include one. Also use a locking hitch pin instead of the basic clip pin, center your cargo weight on the platform, and place heavier items closest to the vehicle. These steps eliminate most rattling at highway speeds.

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