Everything You Wanted To Know About Hitch Cargo Carriers

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Looking for a way to transport extra cargo? A hitch cargo carrier might be the perfect solution for you! Available in a variety of sizes, these carriers can accommodate just about anything you need to bring with you on your next road trip. But before you run out and buy one, there are a few things you should know.

In this blog post, we will answer all your questions about hitch cargo carriers. We’ll cover everything from safety concerns to how far they can stick out from your car. So, whether you’re considering buying your first cargo carrier or want to learn more about them, keep reading!

Do Hitch Cargo Carriers Come in Different Sizes?

Yes, hitch cargo carriers are available in a range of sizes. The most common size is 60″ x 24″, but they can also be found in various other sizes including 48″ x 20″, 60 x 20” and 72″ x 24″. If you’re not sure which size is right for you, it’s best to measure the area you want to use for your carrier and choose the size that will fit best while being large enough to hold everything you need.

Are Hitch Cargo Carriers Legal?

Yes, hitch cargo carriers are perfectly legal to use on public roads. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Each state has different laws regarding the towing and use of cargo carriers.

If you are unsure about these laws, please check with the DMV of the state in question. If you can’t, keep the following tips in mind. First, make sure your license plate is still visible. In most states, it is required by law that your license plate be always visible. If your hitch cargo carrier covers your plate, you can attach a reflector or light to the back of the carrier so that your plate is still visible.

Second, keep in mind that your cargo carrier may affect your car’s turning radius. It is better to overcompensate than to hit something. When making turns, be sure to give yourself extra room to avoid hitting anything. This is especially true on narrow roads.

Is It Safe To Use A Hitch Cargo Carrier?

Yes, hitch cargo carriers are perfectly safe to use if they are properly secured. Be sure to follow the instructions that come with your carrier and use all the provided straps and tie-downs. This will help to keep your cargo secure and prevent it from shifting while you’re driving.

Tips for securing items in the carrier:

– Use multiple straps or tie-downs to secure the item.

– Place heavy items closer to the center of the carrier.

– Do not overload the carrier. Make sure your cargo does not exceed the weight limit for the carrier or your car’s hitch.

How Far Can A Cargo Carrier Stick Out?

Most hitch cargo carriers are designed to stick out 18-24 inches from the back of your car. However, there are some carriers that are designed to be closer to the ground and only stick out 12-14 inches. If you’re not sure how far your carrier will stick out, be sure to measure before you purchase it.

You don’t want to get one that is too long and sticks out too far, as this could be a safety hazard. Again, don’t forget to check with the laws of the state you are driving in, as they will differ from one state to the next.

Can You Put A Hitch Cargo Carrier On A Front Hitch?

Most hitch cargo carriers are designed for use on a rear hitch. However, there are some carriers that can be used on a front hitch. If you’re interested in using a carrier on your front hitch, be sure to check the specifications to make sure it is designed for that purpose. Front hitch carriers are not as common, so you may have to do some extra research to find one that meets your needs.

Also, you will want to make sure your front license plate isn’t obstructed if you do use a carrier on your front hitch. You might be able to find a creative way to still keep it visible- like with a reflective strap- but it’s always best to check with your local laws before attaching anything to your car.

Is There A Weight Limit To A Hitch Cargo Carrier?

The weight limit of the hitch cargo carrier depends on a few factors. First, you need to check the weight limit of your car’s hitch. This is the maximum weight that can safely be attached to your hitch.

Second, you need to check the weight limit of the carrier itself. This is the maximum weight that the carrier can hold without being damaged. Most will range between 125 lbs. and 250 lbs.

Finally, the type of vehicle you have will also affect the weight limit. If you have a smaller car, it’s best to avoid caution and choose a carrier with a lower weight limit. If you have a truck or SUV, you may be able to go with a higher weight limit. As always, it’s best to consult your owner’s manual or a professional to be sure.

Do They Make Hitch Cargo Carriers With Rod Holders?

Yes, some companies do make hitch cargo carriers with rod holders. If you already have a carrier and wish to add rod holders, there are many holders that will easily attach. Just be sure to check the weight limit of the holder before attaching it to your carrier. You don’t want to exceed the weight limit of either the holder or the carrier. These are great for fishing enthusiasts who want to bring their gear with them on vacation. 

My Hitch Cargo Carrier/Bike Rack Shakes, What Can I Do To Secure It?

There are a few things you can do to secure a shaking hitch cargo carrier or bike rack. First, make sure that the carrier or rack is properly secured to your car. Second, try adding some weight to the carrier or rack. This will help to keep it from shaking as much. Third, if you’re using a bike rack, make sure the bikes are properly secured to the rack. This will help to keep the whole unit from shaking

If everything is installed correctly and you still have vibrations, consider purchasing an Anti-Rattle Hitch Tightener. They are easy to install and keep the hitch more secured to the car.

Do They Make A Hitch Dual Cargo Carrier?

Yes, there are a few companies that make hitch dual cargo carriers. They can be found on Amazon and etrailer.com. These are great for carrying two bikes or one bike and a piece of luggage. Just be sure to check the weight limit before loading it up. Many dual cargo carriers will have a weight limit of around 350 lbs.

What Size Is The Receiver Of A Hitch Cargo Carrier?

Hitch-mounted cargo carrier receivers are available in two sizes, 1-1/4″ (Class I and II) and 2″ (Class III and up). Trailer hitches with a 2″ x 2″ opening allow for more weight to be carried than 1-1/4″ x 1-1/4″ trailer hitches, although they provide many amenities to help you transport your items safely and securely.

You should always consult your car’s owner manual to see what size trailer hitch receiver you have before purchasing a hitch cargo carrier.

Can You Tow With A Hitch Cargo Carrier Attached?

It is not recommended to tow with a hitch cargo carrier attached. If you need to tow and have a hitch cargo carrier installed simultaneously, you can purchase a Multi-Use Trailer Ball Mount, which will allow you to tow and still have access to your hitch cargo carrier. Many basic hitch cargo carriers are not designed for towing, and doing so could damage your carrier or your car.

How Much Does A Cargo Carrier Weigh?

Most hitch cargo carriers weigh between 30-70 pounds. For example, this OKLEAD Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier weighs 64 pounds. However, it can hold 400 pounds of cargo, making the carrier itself a very small percentage of the total weight.

Can You Put A Bike Rack On A Cargo Carrier?

Yes, you can put a bike rack on a cargo carrier. However, you will need to be mindful of the total weight limit of your carrier. For example, if your cargo carrier has a weight limit of 200 pounds and your bike rack holds two 50-pound bikes, you will only have 100 pounds left for other cargo.

The best way to use a bike rack with a cargo carrier is to purchase an all-in-one carrier with a bike rack attached like this one from Apex. This will give you the option to carry bikes and other cargo at the same time without exceeding the weight limit.

Can You Strap A Bike On A Hitch Cargo Carrier?

Yes, you can strap a bike on a hitch cargo carrier. However, it is not always the most secure way to transport your bike. If you choose to strap your bike to a hitch cargo carrier, we recommend using a Cargo Caddy Bike Rack like this one from Stromberg Carlson. This will help to keep your bike secure and prevent it from moving around while you are driving.

What Happens If You Exceed The Weight Of The Tongue On A Hitch Cargo Carrier?

If you exceed the weight limit of the tongue on your hitch cargo carrier, it can cause damage to your car. Towing a trailer with an incorrect tongue weight would be like driving on egg-shaped tires. The tongue is what connects the carrier to your vehicle, and it is not designed to support the full weight of the carrier. Additionally, exceeding the weight limit can cause the tongue to become detached from the carrier, leading to an accident.

You have little control over your car, let alone the trailer you are towing. It endangers everyone around you, which is why it is so important to know your tongue weight and ensure it is within 10-15% of your gross trailer weight (GTW).

To avoid this, be sure to check the weight limit of your hitch cargo carrier before you load it up. Additionally, evenly distribute the weight of your cargo so that the tongue is not carrying more weight than it is designed to.

How Do You Keep A Hitch Cargo Carrier/Bike Rack From Being Stolen?

You can do a few things to prevent your hitch cargo carrier or bike rack from being stolen. First, be sure to lock it in your car with a cable or chain. Second, invest in a cover for your carrier so that it is less visible to potential thieves. Finally, consider engraving your name or initials onto the carrier so that it can be identified if it is stolen.

You can also invest in a Bike Rack/Hitch Receiver Pin Lock like this one from CZC Auto. This will help prevent your carrier from being removed from your car without the key.

Can I Improve The Hitch Cargo Carrier/Bike Rack Ground Clearance?

Yes, there are a few ways to improve the ground clearance of your hitch cargo carrier or bike rack. First, you can try using taller tires on your car. Second, you can buy an adjustable carrier, allowing you to raise it to prevent it from scraping the ground.

Finally, you can use spacers to raise the carrier or rack up off the ground. However, we recommend you consult a professional before making any modifications to your car. Improperly increasing your hitch could cause damage to your vehicle or void your warranty.

What Are The Benefits Of Using A Hitch Cargo Carrier?

Hitch cargo carriers are a great way to transport extra gear, sports equipment, or luggage. They are easy to attach to your car and can be used with most vehicles. Additionally, they keep your belongings safe and secure while you’re driving. Finally, hitch cargo carriers are relatively inexpensive and can be found at most sporting goods stores.

Tips For Using A Hitch Cargo Carrier

It would be best to keep a few things in mind when using a hitch cargo carrier. First, make sure that the carrier is properly secured to your car. Second, try adding some weight to the front of the carrier so that it is more balanced. Finally, if you’re using a bike rack, secure your bikes properly, so they don’t shift while you’re driving.

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