For years, I struggled with vehicle space whenever I needed to transport anything beyond the usual groceries. Whether it was packing for a camping trip with the family or hauling bulky items for a home project, the trunk and even the back seats just never seemed like enough. This constant lack of space was more than just inconvenient; it meant having to make tough choices about what to bring, or worse, making multiple trips, adding unnecessary time and hassle to every outing. I knew I needed a solution to reclaim my vehicle’s interior space, and that’s what led me down the path of exploring hitch cargo carriers.
- ENHANCED SECURITY. This trailer hitch cargo carrier keeps your items secure during travel, featuring 6-inch high walls around the cargo basket. These walls can be used to fasten a cargo net or cargo...
- ADDED GROUND CLEARANCE. This cargo hitch carrier is equipped with an angled shank. This provides additional ground clearance for offroad vehicles or low-riding vehicles
- EASY TO CLEAN. This hitch mounted cargo carrier frees up cargo space inside your vehicle and keeps messy items outside your vehicle. It also features a mesh base to easily clean up messes
What to Think About Before Getting a Cargo Carrier
Before you dive into buying a cargo carrier, it’s worth considering why this type of product exists and who it’s best suited for. Cargo carriers are fantastic for solving the problem of limited interior vehicle space, especially when you need to transport awkward, bulky, or even messy items that you’d rather keep outside the cabin. They’re ideal for road trippers, campers, hunters, landscapers, DIY enthusiasts, or anyone who frequently needs extra hauling capacity beyond their vehicle’s internal limits.
However, a hitch-mounted carrier isn’t for everyone. If your vehicle doesn’t have a compatible trailer hitch receiver, this type of carrier simply won’t work for you. You’d need to consider roof-mounted carriers or internal storage solutions instead. Also, if you only occasionally transport small amounts of extra gear, a large hitch basket might be overkill.
Key things to consider before buying include:
* Your vehicle’s hitch receiver size: Most carriers come for either 1.25-inch or 2-inch receivers. Make sure the carrier matches your hitch.
* Your vehicle’s tongue weight capacity: This is crucial. The carrier’s weight plus the weight of your cargo must not exceed your vehicle’s maximum tongue weight. The carrier might be rated for 500 lbs, but your vehicle might have a lower limit.
* Exhaust pipe location: This is a *major* consideration, as heat from your exhaust can damage cargo on the carrier.
* Cargo type and security: Do you need a basket style with walls or a flat platform? Will you need a cargo bag or net?
* Storage: Do you have space to store the carrier when not in use? Some models fold up.
* Ground clearance: Will the carrier scrape on inclines or uneven terrain, especially if you have a low-riding vehicle?
- DURABLE BUILD - Tubular steel in black epoxy powder coating to promote high strength and a lightweight design. It is rated for 500 lbs.
- HEAVY DUTY STEEL CONSTRUCTION: 1 Piece construction with matt black powder coating finish that resists the elements, rust and scratches.
- HEAVY DUTY STEEL CONSTRUCTION: 1 Piece construction with matt black powder coating finish that resists the elements, rust and scratches.
Introducing the CURT 18152
The CURT 18152 60 x 24-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier is designed to tackle exactly the problem I mentioned – needing more space. This particular cargo carrier promises to add significant hauling capacity right off the back of your vehicle, freeing up valuable interior real estate. It’s a basket-style carrier, meaning it has walls around the edge, making it easier to contain items compared to a flat platform. When you purchase the CURT 18152, you get the steel basket pieces, the angled shank designed for a 2-inch receiver, and the necessary hardware for assembly.
This specific model is geared towards those with vehicles equipped with a 2-inch hitch receiver who need a substantial amount of extra space (60×24 inches) and can benefit from the added ground clearance provided by the angled shank. It’s particularly well-suited for hauling camping gear, luggage for a large family, or messy items like coolers or muddy equipment. It’s less suitable for smaller vehicles with only a 1.25-inch receiver (unless you use an adapter, which can affect stability) or those who need to frequently fold the carrier up when not in use, as this is a fixed-shank model.
Here are some pros and cons based on my experience:
Pros:
* Generous size (60″ x 24″) provides ample cargo space.
* 500 lbs capacity is substantial for most needs.
* 6-inch high walls help secure cargo and offer tie-down points.
* Angled shank increases ground clearance.
* Mesh base allows for easy drainage and cleanup.
* Durable steel construction with protective coatings.
* Integrated reflectors enhance visibility.
Cons:
* Fixed shank means it doesn’t fold up when not in use, adding to vehicle length.
* Included assembly hardware can be prone to stripping or snapping.
* Requires assembly, which, while generally easy, can sometimes be tricky to get perfectly aligned.
* Potential for exhaust heat damage to cargo depending on vehicle design.
* Can be heavy and bulky to handle and store.
Deep Dive into What the CURT 18152 Offers
After using the CURT 18152 for a good while, I’ve gotten a real feel for its performance and how its features translate into practical benefits on the road. Let’s break down the core components and what they mean for the user.
Generous Basket Size and Capacity
The 60 x 24-inch dimensions of this basket are genuinely impressive. It’s large enough to hold several large coolers, multiple camping totes, or even bulky items like firewood or a generator. This size directly addresses the primary problem: lack of space. By effectively extending your vehicle’s storage footprint, you can bring significantly more gear on your trips without cramming the interior. The 500 lbs load capacity is robust. While you always need to double-check your vehicle’s tongue weight limit (which is often the real constraint), knowing the carrier itself can handle this weight provides confidence. I’ve hauled everything from multiple suitcases for a family vacation to heavy construction materials, and the carrier has felt solid and stable, provided the load was distributed properly and within the vehicle’s limits.
6-Inch High Walls for Enhanced Security
One of the stand-out features of this basket-style carrier is the 6-inch high walls. These aren’t just flimsy rails; they are sturdy metal boundaries around the entire perimeter. This design provides a critical layer of security for your cargo, especially on bumpy roads or during sudden stops. Instead of just relying on straps to hold everything *onto* a flat surface, the walls help contain items and prevent them from shifting or sliding off the edges. More importantly, these walls offer numerous convenient points to attach cargo nets, bungee cords, or ratchet straps. This makes tying down your load much easier and more secure, minimizing the risk of losing items during transit.
Angled Shank for Added Ground Clearance
The CURT 18152 comes with an angled shank, specifically designed for vehicles with a 2-inch receiver. This angled design lifts the cargo platform slightly higher relative to the hitch receiver compared to a straight shank. The benefit here is increased ground clearance. If you drive a vehicle with a lower ride height or plan on traversing areas with dips, speed bumps, or uneven terrain (like campsite entrances), this extra clearance can be a lifesaver, preventing the bottom of the carrier from scraping the ground. While it won’t magically turn a sedan into an off-road vehicle, it significantly reduces the risk of damaging the carrier or its contents on typical varied road surfaces.
Mesh Base for Easy Cleaning
Let’s be real: when you’re hauling gear, especially for camping or outdoor activities, things can get messy. Muddy boots, leaky coolers, spilled liquids – it happens. The mesh base of the CURT 18152 is a simple but effective feature for dealing with this. Unlike a solid metal floor where dirt and spills collect, the mesh allows debris, water, and spilled liquids to pass through. This means less mess accumulating on the carrier itself, and cleanup is a breeze. A quick hose-down is usually all it takes to get it looking spick and span again. It’s a practical design choice that shows CURT thought about how these carriers are actually used.
Durable Steel Construction and Protective Finish
The CURT 18152 is constructed from tubular steel, which provides a good balance of strength and weight. Steel is inherently durable and capable of supporting heavy loads, which is essential for a 500 lbs capacity carrier. While it’s not feather-light, it’s manageable for one or two people to lift and install. The steel is protected by a dual-layer finish: an E-coat followed by a carbide black powder coat. This combination is designed to resist rust, corrosion, and the general wear and tear from road salt, weather, and impacts. Having used this carrier in various weather conditions, including rain, I can attest that the finish holds up well, showing minimal to no signs of rust on the frame components, which is a common issue with cheaper alternatives over time.
Integrated Safety Reflectors
Safety is paramount when adding anything to the back of your vehicle, especially something that extends its length. The CURT 18152 includes integrated reflectors built into the frame. These red reflectors increase the visibility of the cargo carrier to other drivers, particularly in low-light conditions or at night. While many users opt to add aftermarket lighting (which is highly recommended, especially if the carrier obscures your vehicle’s taillights), having the basic reflectors integrated is a good starting point for enhancing safety awareness.
Assembly and Potential Downsides
Assembly is required for the CURT 18152, typically involving bolting the basket sections together and attaching the shank. Most users find this process straightforward, often taking only 15-30 minutes with basic tools (you’ll need a 19mm socket/wrench for the main bolts, which isn’t always in standard kits). However, a notable disadvantage mentioned by some users, and something to be cautious about, is the quality of the included hardware. The larger lag bolts that connect the basket halves can be prone to stripping or even snapping if overtightened. It’s wise to be gentle or consider picking up higher-quality bolts from a hardware store as a preventative measure. Another potential issue reported is occasional manufacturing inconsistencies, such as poorly welded sections, although this seems less common with this specific CURT model compared to some cheaper carriers.
Perhaps the most significant potential disadvantage, highlighted by user experiences, is the issue of vehicle exhaust heat. Even with the angled shank providing clearance, some vehicle exhaust systems (especially those pointing directly rearward or with “hidden” hitches close to the bumper) can direct hot gases directly onto the carrier or its contents. This can lead to surprisingly serious damage, from melting plastic containers to igniting certain flammable items like aerosols. It is absolutely essential to check the path of your exhaust relative to where the carrier will sit and consider fabricating or purchasing a heat shield if there’s a risk. This isn’t a flaw of the carrier itself, but a vehicle compatibility issue that potential buyers *must* investigate beforehand.
What Other Users Are Saying
Looking around online, many users have shared their positive experiences with the CURT 18152. People consistently praise its solid build quality and how sturdy it feels once assembled and installed. Many find the assembly process simple and quick, appreciating the clear instructions. The large size and 500-pound capacity are frequently mentioned as major benefits, allowing them to haul camping gear, luggage, and bulky items with ease. Users have noted that it doesn’t wobble excessively when properly installed, feeling secure even with heavier loads, provided the vehicle’s tongue weight limit isn’t exceeded. The convenience of keeping messy items outside the vehicle is also a popular highlight. While some mention the potential exhaust issue or suggest upgrading the included hardware, the overall sentiment is that this carrier is a reliable and valuable addition for anyone needing extra storage space.
Final Thoughts: Is This Carrier Right For You?
If you’ve ever found yourself playing Tetris with luggage inside your car or leaving essential gear behind because you simply ran out of space, you know the frustration of limited vehicle storage. This lack of space isn’t just annoying; it can impact what trips you take, what projects you tackle, and the overall enjoyment of your journeys. The CURT 18152 60 x 24-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier is designed precisely to solve this problem. Its large size and robust capacity mean you no longer have to compromise on what you bring. The high walls provide excellent containment and tie-down flexibility, giving you peace of mind that your cargo is secure. Finally, the durable construction means this isn’t a one-season wonder; it’s built to last through many adventures. If you have a 2-inch hitch receiver and need a reliable way to expand your hauling capabilities, investigate your vehicle’s exhaust path, verify your tongue weight, and Click here to check the product out.
Last update on 2025-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API