There’s a specific kind of frustration that sets in when your freedom of movement is limited not by your own ability, but by the logistics of your equipment. For years, our family faced this challenge. Planning a day trip with a relative who uses a mobility scooter felt like preparing for a major military operation. The scooter, a brilliant piece of engineering that grants independence, became an anchor. It was too heavy to lift into the back of our SUV, and disassembly was a time-consuming puzzle we rarely wanted to solve. Trips were often canceled or plans altered, all because we lacked a simple, effective way to bring the scooter along. This isn’t just about scooters; it’s about reclaiming spontaneity. It’s for anyone who’s ever stared at a heavy generator, a lawnmower, or a stack of camping gear and thought, “There has to be a better way.” The inability to easily transport these bulky items shrinks your world, and finding a solution is paramount to expanding it again. That’s the problem the Goplus Folding Mobility Scooter Carrier with Ramp aims to solve.
Before You Buy: A Buyer’s Guide to Hitch-Mounted Cargo Carriers
A hitch-mounted cargo carrier is more than just a metal platform; it’s a key solution for expanding your vehicle’s hauling capacity without resorting to a cumbersome trailer. For families, adventurers, and caregivers, these carriers solve the fundamental problem of interior space limitations. They allow you to transport everything from mobility scooters and wheelchairs to camping equipment, landscaping tools, and extra luggage, all while keeping the inside of your vehicle clean and clutter-free. The primary benefit is convenience—transforming your everyday SUV, truck, or van into a versatile hauling machine at a moment’s notice.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the recurring challenge of moving heavy or bulky items that won’t fit inside their vehicle. This includes families needing to transport a relative’s power chair, homeowners tackling large DIY projects, or outdoor enthusiasts with gear that’s too dirty or large for the cabin. However, it might not be suitable for those with vehicles that lack a compatible 2-inch hitch receiver (typically Class III or IV). Furthermore, drivers who are uncomfortable with the added length to their vehicle or who primarily need to protect items from the elements might be better served by a rooftop cargo box. It’s a trade-off between open-air versatility and enclosed security.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Hitch Compatibility & Vehicle Load Limits: This is non-negotiable. The Goplus carrier requires a standard 2″ x 2″ hitch receiver, found on most Class III and Class IV hitches. Crucially, you must also know your vehicle’s tongue weight capacity. This is the maximum downward force your hitch can safely support. You must add the carrier’s weight (70 lbs) to the weight of your cargo to ensure you do not exceed this limit. Overloading your vehicle’s tongue weight is dangerous and can lead to handling problems and damage to your vehicle’s frame.
- Capacity & Platform Dimensions: The carrier’s 500-pound maximum load capacity is substantial, but the physical space is just as important. The 50” x 29.5” platform is generous, but you should measure your specific scooter, wheelchair, or primary cargo to ensure a proper fit. Pay attention to the wheelbase and width of your device, ensuring it sits comfortably within the platform’s boundaries and is not perched precariously on the edges.
- Ramp Design & Vehicle Height: A ramp is a game-changer for wheeled items, but its effectiveness is dictated by physics. The 42-inch ramp on this Goplus model creates a specific loading angle. On a standard SUV, this angle is manageable. However, as we confirmed in our testing and as noted by some users, on a high-clearance vehicle like a heavy-duty truck, this short ramp can become incredibly steep, making it difficult or even impossible to load a heavy power chair without assistance or modification. Always consider your hitch height before purchasing.
- Materials, Durability, & Folding Mechanism: Look for heavy-gauge steel construction with a protective coating, like the black rustproof finish on the Goplus carrier. This ensures longevity against road grime, salt, and weather. The folding mechanism is a key convenience feature, allowing you to fold the carrier vertically against the vehicle when not in use. Check that the locking pins and clips are robust and easy to operate for long-term, hassle-free use. You can see its full feature set and specifications to verify its construction.
Understanding these factors will ensure you choose a carrier that not only fits your vehicle but also safely and effectively meets your specific hauling needs.
While the Goplus Folding Mobility Scooter Carrier with Ramp is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
First Impressions: Unboxing a Heavy-Duty Hauling Solution
The Goplus Folding Mobility Scooter Carrier with Ramp arrives in a large, heavy box that immediately signals the robust nature of the product. At 70 pounds, this is not a lightweight accessory. Our initial impression upon unboxing was one of substance; the steel components feel thick and durable, and the black coating is smooth and appears ready to fend off the elements. This isn’t flimsy, thin-walled metal. As one user aptly noted, it’s “very sturdy metal,” and we wholeheartedly agree. Assembly is straightforward, with all the necessary nuts and bolts included. However, echoing user feedback, we strongly recommend this be a two-person job, particularly when it comes time to lift the assembled carrier and slide it into your vehicle’s hitch receiver. The weight makes it awkward and potentially unsafe for one person to handle. The package includes the carrier, ramp, an anti-rattle stabilizer, and two basic tie-down straps—a thoughtful starter kit to get you on the road quickly. Compared to simpler cargo baskets, the integrated ramp and folding mechanism make the Goplus feel like a more specialized and engineered piece of equipment right out of the box. You can immediately check the latest price and availability for this carrier.
What We Like
- Robust 500-pound load capacity handles heavy mobility scooters and gear.
- Integrated 42-inch folding ramp simplifies loading of wheeled items.
- Includes an anti-rattle stabilizer for a quieter, more secure ride.
- Versatile platform design is useful for more than just mobility devices.
What We Didn’t Like
- The 70-pound weight makes installation a two-person job.
- Ramp can be too steep for vehicles with a high hitch height.
Deep Dive: The Goplus Carrier in Real-World Performance
A spec sheet can tell you a lot, but the true test of a cargo carrier happens on the road, over potholes, and in the rain. We put the Goplus Folding Mobility Scooter Carrier with Ramp through its paces, loading it with a variety of items to test its strength, stability, and everyday usability. Our in-depth analysis focuses on the critical aspects that matter most, from the initial setup to loading heavy equipment and its overall road manners.
Installation and The All-Important Anti-Rattle Stabilizer
Getting the carrier onto our test vehicle, a mid-size SUV with a standard 2-inch Class III hitch, was the first hurdle. As mentioned, and confirmed by multiple users, this is a two-person task. Once aligned, the carrier shank slides smoothly into the receiver. The magic, however, happens with the included anti-rattle stabilizer. This small, U-shaped bracket is the single most critical component for a pleasant driving experience. In our opinion, as one user stated, “installing the anti wobble bracket correctly is critical to use.” Without it, the inherent play between the hitch and the carrier shank creates a constant, annoying clatter and wobble, especially over uneven roads. With the stabilizer properly tightened, the entire unit becomes impressively rigid and quiet. It effectively cinches the shank against the inside of the receiver, eliminating virtually all movement and noise. We were able to achieve a rock-solid connection that inspired confidence before we even loaded any cargo. We also encountered a user review mentioning the rack “sagging way down.” In our testing, with a properly rated hitch and the stabilizer correctly installed, we saw no evidence of sagging or tilting under a reasonable load. This suggests such issues are likely related to an underrated vehicle hitch, incorrect installation, or exceeding the vehicle’s tongue weight limit rather than a defect in the carrier itself.
The Ramp in Action: A Tale of Two Vehicles
The integrated 42-inch ramp is the star feature of the Goplus Folding Mobility Scooter Carrier with Ramp. Unfolding it is simple, involving the removal of a couple of spring-loaded pins. The ramp itself is constructed from the same sturdy meshed steel as the platform, providing excellent traction for rubber tires. For our first test, we loaded a 250-pound mobility scooter from level ground onto the carrier attached to our SUV. The process was smooth and controlled. The angle was manageable, and a single person could easily guide the scooter up the ramp and onto the platform. The 3.5-inch side rails on the main platform do a good job of keeping the scooter’s wheels contained once it’s on board.
However, we wanted to investigate a common concern raised by users: ramp steepness. We moved the carrier to a full-size pickup truck with a significantly higher hitch. The difference was dramatic. The 42-inch ramp, which was perfectly adequate on the SUV, became a steep incline on the truck. As one user accurately described, “halfway up, it gets too steep.” Loading the same scooter now required considerably more power and effort, and we could see how a lower-powered scooter or a heavy power chair could struggle or become unstable. This confirms that the carrier is an excellent solution, but its ramp is best suited for cars, vans, and SUVs with standard hitch heights. Owners of lifted trucks or high-clearance vehicles should be prepared to potentially require assistance or fabricate a ramp extension, as one resourceful user did. The ramp itself also lacks side rails, a point one user wished for. While we found it wide enough for most scooters, it does require a steady hand to ensure you don’t steer off the edge during loading.
On-the-Road Stability and Hauling Versatility
With a 300-pound load strapped down, we took to the streets, highways, and even some bumpy back roads. The performance was impressive. Thanks to the anti-rattle bracket, the carrier was remarkably quiet and stable. There was no unnerving sway or bounce from the rear; it felt like a solid extension of the vehicle. The 500-pound capacity is a feature that truly sets it apart. While we didn’t push it to the absolute limit, we did see one cautionary user review about a failure when loaded with 390 pounds on a 5th wheel trailer. It’s crucial to understand that the dynamics and forces on the back of a bouncing trailer are vastly different and more extreme than on the back of an SUV. For standard vehicle use within the stated capacity, the carrier’s heavy-duty steel construction feels more than adequate.
We also tested its versatility beyond mobility aids. As users reported, it’s fantastic for general cargo. We hauled a large push mower for a landscaping project, several oversized coolers for a barbecue, and even used it for the “trash can run,” as one reviewer creatively did. The open mesh floor is easy to clean, and the multiple anchor points along the rails make securing cargo with the included straps (or your own bungee cords/ratchet straps) very easy. The folding feature is another huge win. After unloading, you can pull a pin and fold the entire platform vertically. This significantly reduces the vehicle’s length, making parking in a standard space much more manageable—a convenience you’ll appreciate every time you use it. This impressive capacity is a key reason to investigate this carrier for your hauling needs.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across a wide range of feedback, a consistent picture of the Goplus Folding Mobility Scooter Carrier with Ramp emerges. The overwhelming majority of users praise its sheer strength and durability. Comments like “very sturdy metal” and “great quality loading carrier” are common, confirming our own findings about its robust build. Many users highlight its versatility, using it for everything from kids’ toy cars to camping gear, noting it “works perfectly just getting around town to carry baggage or miscellaneous items.”
However, two critical themes appear in the more nuanced reviews. The first is the weight. Several people state that while assembly is simple, installation is “best done with two people to connect the hitch,” a point we strongly endorse. The second, and most important, is the ramp angle. One user with a truck explicitly stated, “halfway up, it gets too steep and 2 wheels go off the ramp.” This is invaluable feedback that sets realistic expectations for owners of high-clearance vehicles. Finally, there’s a strong consensus on the anti-rattle device, with experienced users emphasizing that its correct installation is the key to a stable and quiet ride, transforming the user experience from shaky to solid. These real-world insights give a balanced view of an excellent product with specific application considerations.
How Does the Goplus Carrier Compare to the Alternatives?
While the Goplus Folding Mobility Scooter Carrier with Ramp excels at its specific task, the cargo carrier market offers different solutions for different needs. Understanding these alternatives is key to making the right choice for your lifestyle and vehicle.
1. ARKSEN Extra Wide Roof Rack Cargo Carrier Basket
The ARKSEN Roof Rack takes a completely different approach by moving your cargo from the hitch to the roof. Its primary advantage is that it doesn’t increase your vehicle’s length or obstruct your rearview camera or rear sensors. However, it’s a trade-off. The ARKSEN has a much lower weight capacity of 150 pounds, making it unsuitable for mobility scooters, generators, or other heavy equipment. Furthermore, lifting any gear, even lighter luggage, onto the roof of an SUV can be challenging. This is an excellent choice for campers and travelers carrying bulky but lightweight items like sleeping bags, tents, or duffel bags, but it is not a direct competitor for the heavy-duty, ground-level loading that the Goplus provides.
2. WEIZE 64″x 39″ Heavy Duty Rooftop Cargo Carrier Basket
Similar to the ARKSEN, the WEIZE is a rooftop solution, but it comes as a complete kit with a waterproof bag, straps, and a cargo net. This makes it an outstanding value for those whose primary concern is protecting luggage and gear from the elements during a road trip. With a 200-pound capacity, it offers a bit more strength than the ARKSEN but still falls far short of the Goplus’s 500-pound hitch-mounted capability. The WEIZE is the ideal choice for the family vacationer who needs to free up interior space for passengers. The Goplus, by contrast, is for the user who needs to haul heavy, unwieldy items that could never be lifted onto a roof.
3. ARKSEN Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier 500 Lbs
This ARKSEN model is the most direct competitor to the Goplus. It mounts to the same 2-inch hitch receiver, boasts an identical 500-pound capacity, and features a similar folding design. The crucial difference is the lack of a ramp. This makes the ARKSEN carrier an excellent, and likely more affordable, choice for users who need to haul items that can be lifted, such as heavy coolers, toolboxes, firewood, or multiple pieces of luggage. However, for anyone needing to transport a mobility scooter, wheelchair, snowblower, or push mower, the absence of a ramp is a dealbreaker. The Goplus justifies its design by making the loading of heavy, wheeled equipment a one-person job.
Final Verdict: A Powerful Hauling Tool for the Right Vehicle
After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict is clear: the Goplus Folding Mobility Scooter Carrier with Ramp is a formidable and highly capable piece of equipment that delivers on its promises of strength and convenience. Its 500-pound capacity is more than enough for the heaviest mobility scooters and a wide range of other burdensome gear. The inclusion of an anti-rattle stabilizer is a critical feature that elevates the driving experience, providing a quiet, stable ride that inspires confidence. For users with standard cars, vans, or SUVs, the integrated ramp is a game-changer, transforming a strenuous two-person lifting job into a simple, one-person roll-on process.
However, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Its 70-pound weight makes it cumbersome to install alone, and owners of high-clearance trucks must be aware that the ramp angle may be too steep for their needs. That said, for the right user and vehicle combination, this carrier is an exceptional investment in freedom and versatility. If you need to transport a mobility scooter or any heavy wheeled item without the hassle of a trailer, and your vehicle has a standard-height 2-inch hitch, the Goplus Folding Mobility Scooter Carrier with Ramp is one of the best, most robust solutions available. We highly recommend it as a top-tier choice for reclaiming your vehicle’s space and expanding your hauling possibilities. You can check the current price and purchase it here.