Cargo Carriers

Behind Your Vehicle

TRAILER HITCH

HITCH CARGO CARRIERS

CURT cargo carrier with etrailer enclosed cage.

ENCLOSED HITCH CARGO CARRIERS

etrailer cargo bag with mounting straps.

HITCH CARGO CARRIER BAGS

rucRak Cargo Carrier with Tailgate Table.

SPARE TIRE MOUNTED CARRIERS

Yakima EXO swing away storage system with enclosed cargo carrier and open cargo carrier.

On Your Roof

New Cargo Solutions for Your Next Adventure

ROOF RACK LIFT ASSIST

Articles & Guides

"How to Choose the Best Rooftop Cargo Carrier" article.

"How to Attach a Cargo Carrier to a Roof Rack" article.

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Cargo Carriers

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Help Articles

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Expert Answers

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At etrailer.com, We Have a Cargo Carrier for Every Vehicle and Every Adventure.

Free up room in your car, SUV, truck, or minivan with a cargo solution for your hitch or roof (or both!). Whether you’re hauling your cooler and tent to the campsite, carrying your kayak to the water, or loading up luggage for a weekend getaway, a cargo carrier means no more cramming it all into your trunk or backseat. Weatherproof, lockable cargo bags and boxes are also a great way to keep your gear safe from Mother Nature and would-be thieves.

With over 75 years of assisting our neighbors and customers, over 1 million photos and videos taken to make sure you’re getting exactly what you need, and over 35 thousand installations completed, we’ve got the product know-how and experience to help you make the right choices for the job at hand.

What kinds of cargo carriers can I get for my vehicle?

There are two main options: hitch mounted and roof-mounted carriers. Hitch-mounted carriers attach to your vehicle’s trailer hitch and are great for heavier or bulkier items. Roof-mounted carriers, like boxes or baskets, attach to roof racks and are perfect for lighter gear or extra storage when you’re on the go.

How can I tell if a hitch-mounted cargo carrier will fit my vehicle?

First, check if your vehicle has a trailer hitch. Then, find out the size of your hitch receiver—it’ll be either 1-1/4" or 2". Most carriers are designed for one of these sizes, so pick one that matches. Don’t forget to check the weight capacity of your hitch to make sure it can handle the load. If you’re unsure where to start, take a look at our FAQ on Hitch-Mount Cargo Carriers for tips on choosing the right one.

Can I use a cargo carrier if I have a spare tire on the back?

Yep, you just need to make sure the carrier has enough clearance to fit around the spare tire. Measure the distance from the center of your hitch pin hole to the edge of the tire, then check the carrier’s clearance specs. This way, you know it’ll fit before you buy. If you’re looking for detailed tips, check out our FAQ for a full guide.

What’s the difference between steel, aluminum, and plastic cargo carriers?

Steel carriers are super strong and usually coated to resist rust, but they’re a bit heavier. Aluminum is lightweight and rust-proof, so it’s easier to handle. Plastic carriers are light and won’t corrode, but they usually have a lower weight limit. It just depends on what you’re hauling and how often you’ll use it.

Are there any must-have accessories for cargo carriers?

Tie-down straps or bungee cords are great for keeping your stuff secure. A hitch lock is a smart idea to prevent theft, and if you’re worried about weather, a cargo bag or cover will protect your gear from rain or snow. These little extras make a big difference!