When you’re packing up for a family trip or just need to haul some bulky gear, there’s that familiar dread: where is it all going to fit? I’ve been there, staring at a packed car wondering how I’d manage that last cooler or the kids’ bikes. That feeling of being cramped and overloaded isn’t just uncomfortable; it can make longer journeys stressful and even unsafe if visibility is compromised or items are poorly secured inside the vehicle. Having an efficient way to carry extra cargo safely outside the car is crucial for peace of mind and maximizing passenger comfort.
Anyone who finds themselves regularly needing more storage space than their vehicle’s interior provides is a potential candidate for a hitch cargo carrier. This could be families going camping, individuals hauling home improvement supplies, or simply someone needing extra room for luggage on a road trip. A hitch cargo carrier is a great solution for freeing up interior space, keeping dirty or bulky items outside the vehicle, and distributing weight more evenly than, say, a roof-mounted carrier.
However, not everyone should buy one. If your vehicle doesn’t have a compatible hitch receiver (typically a 2-inch receiver for heavy-duty carriers like this one), you’ll need to consider the cost and feasibility of installation first. Also, if you only need to haul very small items or lightweight luggage once a year, a simple rooftop bag might suffice, or you might manage by shipping items ahead. Hitch carriers add length and weight to your vehicle, which can affect handling, gas mileage, and parking.
Before purchasing a hitch cargo carrier, you’ll want to think about several factors:
* Vehicle Compatibility: Does your vehicle have the correct hitch receiver size and sufficient tongue weight capacity?
* Size and Capacity: How much weight and volume do you need to carry? Consider the dimensions of your typical cargo.
* Features: Do you need it to fold up when not in use? Are integrated lights and a license plate bracket important for visibility and compliance?
* Durability and Construction: Is it made of weather-resistant materials? How robust is the frame?
* Assembly: How complex is the setup process?
* Included Accessories: Does it come with tie-downs, locks, or stabilizers?
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Presenting the product
Enter the Mockins XXL 72″x36″x6″ Folding Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier w/Rear Lights & Plate Bracket. This is a substantial hitch-mounted basket designed to drastically expand your vehicle’s carrying capacity. It promises to securely transport bulky and heavy items up to 500 lbs, ensuring your vehicle’s interior stays clear and comfortable. When you purchase this Mockins Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier, you get the carrier basket itself, a raised shank for ground clearance, a folding mechanism, integrated LED rear lights, a license plate bracket, a hitch lock, a hitch stabilizer, and three heavy-duty ratchet straps.
Compared to smaller or more basic hitch carriers on the market, the Mockins XXL stands out primarily for its massive size (72×36 inches) and the inclusion of safety features like lights and a license plate bracket, which are often sold separately or not available on entry-level models. It’s clearly built for someone who needs serious hauling power and space, especially for larger items that wouldn’t fit standard carriers. It’s likely overkill for someone who only needs space for a couple of small suitcases, who might find a smaller, lighter model sufficient.
Here’s a quick rundown:
Pros:
* Generous XXL size offers ample space for large items.
* High 500 lbs weight capacity.
* Convenient folding design for storage when not in use.
* Includes essential safety features: integrated LED rear lights and a license plate bracket.
* Comes with useful accessories like ratchet straps, hitch lock, and stabilizer.
* Durable, weather-resistant steel construction.
Cons:
* Assembly can be a bit challenging for some.
* Integrated lights might require careful installation to seat properly.
* Heavy (82 lbs) which can impact handling and fuel economy.
* May not fold fully upright on vehicles with large rear-mounted spare tires.
* Lacks a specific light for the license plate bracket.
- Robust Aluminum Construction: Crafted from extruded aluminum, this basket-style cargo carrier offers a blend of durability, lightweight design, and resistance to rust. Easy to install, clean, and...
- HEAVY DUTY STEEL CONSTRUCTION: 1 Piece construction with matt black powder coating finish that resists the elements, rust and scratches.
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Features & Benefits
Having used this cargo carrier hitch mount basket for several trips and hauling tasks, I can attest to its capabilities and some of its quirks. Let’s dive into the features that make it a valuable addition for anyone needing extra hauling space.
Heavy-Duty 500 lbs Load Capacity
The core promise of this cargo hitch carrier is its robust carrying capability. Rated for 500 lbs, it handles substantial weight with ease. I’ve loaded it up with camping gear for multiple people, including tents, coolers packed with ice, camp chairs, and bulky duffel bags, and it hasn’t shown any signs of strain. The steel frame feels solid and dependable under load. This heavy-duty capacity is crucial because it expands the range of items you can transport significantly beyond just lightweight luggage. You can carry tools, firewood, hunting or fishing gear, or even heavy appliances, confident that the carrier itself is up to the task, provided your vehicle’s hitch and tongue weight capacity are also adequate.
Expansive XXL Dimensions
Measuring a massive 72 inches long by 36 inches wide and 6 inches deep, this is truly an XXL carrier. This size is where it shines, offering a huge amount of surface area. My previous, smaller carrier felt limiting, forcing me to stack items precariously high. With the Mockins XXL, I can spread things out more evenly, making packing simpler and the load more stable. The 6-inch depth is also sufficient to keep most items contained, especially when combined with the included ratchet straps or an aftermarket cargo bag. For anyone needing to transport wide items or a large volume of gear, these dimensions are a game changer. It eliminates the need to leave essentials behind or cram things unsafely inside the vehicle.
Secure, Spacious, Foldable Hitch Basket
One of the most practical features is the ability to fold the folding hitch basket up when not in use. This is incredibly convenient for parking or maneuvering in tight spaces once you’ve unloaded. The folding mechanism is straightforward: pull a pin, swing the basket up or down, and reinsert the pin. While easy to operate, I did find that on my specific vehicle (similar to issues others have mentioned), the basket doesn’t fold completely flush or quite reach the locking pin hole when fully upright due to a large rear spare tire. This isn’t a flaw of the carrier itself but a compatibility issue with certain vehicle designs. However, it’s manageable, often by using one of the included straps to secure it tightly against the vehicle. The folding feature is a must-have for anyone who doesn’t want their luggage rack for hitch storage sticking out unnecessarily when empty.
Integrated Rear Lights & Plate Bracket
Safety and visibility are paramount when adding length to your vehicle. The inclusion of integrated LED rear lights is a significant benefit. These bright lights ensure that your brake lights and turn signals are clearly visible to drivers behind you, even if your cargo obstructs your vehicle’s factory lights. The kit includes the wiring harness and both 4-pin flat and 7-pin adapters, making it compatible with most vehicles. While the lights themselves are bright, I found that seating them securely into the rubber rings required a firm hand, and one did feel a little less secure initially. The included license plate bracket is also essential if your cargo covers your vehicle’s plate. It allows you to relocate your plate to the carrier, ensuring it remains visible and compliant with regulations. It’s worth noting, as one user pointed out, that there isn’t a dedicated light for the license plate on the bracket itself, which might be a consideration depending on local laws regarding plate visibility at night.
All-In-One Hitch Hauler Bundle
The value proposition of this car rack cargo carrier basket is boosted by the inclusion of key accessories. The three heavy-duty ratchet straps are a lifesaver, providing secure tie-down points right out of the box. No more scrambling to find straps or cargo nets! The hitch lock prevents theft of the carrier itself, and the anti-rattle hitch stabilizer works wonders at reducing wobble and movement, making the ride feel much more solid. This complete package means you have everything you need to start hauling safely right away, adding significant value compared to carriers that require separate purchases for these items.
Weatherproof Steel Construction & Raised Shank
Built from weatherproof steel, the Mockins XXL Trailer Hitch Basket Cargo Carrier is designed to withstand the elements. I haven’t seen any rust developing despite using it in various weather conditions. The raised shank is another thoughtful design element. It provides extra ground clearance, which is particularly helpful when driving over uneven terrain, speed bumps, or steep driveways, reducing the risk of scraping the bottom of the carrier.
While assembly wasn’t overly difficult, following the instructions carefully is a must, especially when running the wiring for the lights. As some users mentioned, getting the wires through the central beam before bolting the basket halves can simplify the process. Some of the bolt holes required a little jiggling to align, and the use of slot head bolts in some spots made tightening a bit more finicky than standard hex heads would have been. However, these are minor assembly hurdles that don’t detract from the carrier’s performance once put together.
Overall, the features combine to create a highly functional and capable hitch storage rack. The sheer size and capacity, combined with the included safety lights and accessories, make it an excellent solution for maximizing your vehicle’s hauling potential.
Social Proof (User Review)
I’ve looked around online to see what other users are saying, and the feedback for this Mockins cargo carrier is overwhelmingly positive. Many users are thrilled with the extra storage space, calling it a perfect solution for vehicles with limited trunks or for hauling bulky items like electric trikes. People appreciate the sturdy build quality and the generous size that easily accommodates large items or luggage bags. Several reviews highlight the value for money, noting that the included lights, plate bracket, and straps make it a comprehensive package. Users find the assembly manageable, although some mention minor alignment issues or wish the instructions were clearer in places. The folding feature is also a popular benefit, adding convenience when the carrier isn’t loaded.
Conclusion
Constantly struggling with limited vehicle space for travel, hobbies, or work can be a real headache, leading to uncomfortable rides, damaged interiors, or even leaving essential gear behind. The Mockins XXL 72″x36″x6″ Folding Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier w/Rear Lights & Plate Bracket offers a compelling solution to this problem. Its immense size and robust 500 lbs capacity mean you no longer have to compromise on what you bring along. The practical folding design adds convenience, and the integrated lights and included accessories enhance safety and value. If you need serious hauling power and space beyond your vehicle’s interior, this hitch rack cargo carrier is definitely worth considering. Free up your interior, transport large items securely, and hit the road with confidence. To check out this fantastic product and see more details, Click here!
Last update on 2025-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API