MAXXHAUL 60″ Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack Review: The Lightweight Hauler with Heavyweight Potential

We’ve all been there. The car is packed to the brim for a family vacation, a big camping trip, or a move-in day. Suitcases are wedged into every conceivable nook, coolers are playing a dangerous game of Tetris, and there’s that one last pile of “essential” gear sitting on the driveway. It’s that moment of realization: you’ve officially run out of space. This was precisely my predicament last fall during our annual trip to the mountains. The SUV was loaded, but the bulky camping stove, firewood, and an extra-large cooler had no home. We faced the dreaded choice: leave crucial gear behind or sacrifice passenger comfort by cramming things around our feet. It’s a frustrating compromise that can put a damper on any adventure before it even begins. This is exactly why an external cargo solution isn’t just a luxury; for many, it’s an absolute necessity.

What to Consider Before Expanding Your Hauling Horizons with a Cargo Carrier

A vehicle cargo basket is more than just an accessory; it’s a key solution for reclaiming your vehicle’s interior and expanding its utility. It transforms your SUV, truck, or van into a more capable hauler, allowing you to transport items that are too dirty, bulky, or oddly shaped for the cabin—think muddy coolers, firewood, landscaping supplies, or hunting gear. The primary benefit is the immediate addition of significant, accessible storage space without needing to upgrade your entire vehicle. It provides peace of mind, knowing you can bring everything you need without compromising safety or comfort inside.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who frequently finds themselves short on space. This includes adventurous families, campers, outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and even small business owners who need to transport tools and equipment. It’s a game-changer for anyone who wants to keep their vehicle’s interior clean and damage-free. However, it might not be suitable for those who primarily drive in tight urban environments where the extra length could be a parking nuisance, or for those who need fully weatherproof, lockable security for high-value items, where a rooftop box might be a better alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: The overall footprint of the carrier is critical. A 60″ x 22″ platform, like that on the MAXXHAUL 60″ Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack, offers substantial room. You must also consider how the carrier’s position will affect your vehicle’s functionality. Will you still be able to open your rear hatch or tailgate? For some vehicles, like the Bronco as one user noted, this model fits perfectly under the spare tire, allowing full door access—a huge plus.
• Capacity/Performance: Look beyond the number. A 500-pound capacity is standard and robust, but it must be *distributed* load. Consider the strength of the basket floor and the underframe that supports the weight. The performance is also defined by its on-road stability; many carriers will exhibit some wobble, which can often be eliminated with an accessory like a hitch stabilizer.
• Materials & Durability: The two main options are steel and aluminum. Steel is incredibly strong and durable but heavy and susceptible to rust if the powder coat is compromised. Aluminum, the primary material of the MaxxHaul, is significantly lighter—making it easier for one person to install and remove—and naturally rust-proof. The trade-off is that aluminum is a softer metal and can be more prone to dents or bending under stress.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the assembly process and the day-to-day logistics. A lightweight carrier is far easier to handle. Since this model is not foldable, you’ll need a place to store it when not in use. Maintenance for an aluminum carrier is minimal; a simple rinse is usually all that’s needed to keep it clean.

While the MAXXHAUL 60″ Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack is an excellent choice for its specific strengths, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, especially if you think a folding design might better suit your needs, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing and Assembling the MAXXHAUL 60″ Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack

Upon arrival, the first thing we noticed about the MAXXHAUL 60″ Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack was its weight, or rather, the lack of it. The box was surprisingly manageable. At just over 25 pounds (11.59 kg), it immediately lived up to its lightweight promise. This is a stark contrast to all-steel carriers that can easily weigh double that, often requiring two people to wrestle them into the hitch receiver. The packaging itself was minimal, and echoing the feedback from several users, our unit had a few minor scuffs and one of the extruded aluminum rails was slightly bent on the end. It was nothing a pair of pliers couldn’t gently correct, but it’s clear that shipping can be rough on these units. Inside, the parts were laid out, though as some users warned, a printed instruction manual was nowhere to be found. Thankfully, the design is intuitive enough that assembly can be figured out by looking at a picture of the finished product. The aluminum basket pieces slot together and are secured to the rugged, powder-coated steel underframe. The overall impression is one of functionality over finesse; it feels like a purpose-built tool designed to do a job without unnecessary frills. You can see its straightforward design and feature set right from the product images.

Deep Dive: Putting the MAXXHAUL Carrier to the Test

A spec sheet can only tell you so much. To truly understand a product like the MAXXHAUL 60″ Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack, you have to assemble it, load it up, and hit the road. We used this carrier for everything from hauling camping gear for a weekend getaway to transporting landscaping materials for a garden project. Our in-depth testing revealed a carrier that shines in some areas and presents clear trade-offs in others, painting a picture of a product with a very specific and compelling value proposition.

Assembly and Installation: A Test of Patience

The assembly process for the MAXXHAUL 60″ Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack is, frankly, a mixed bag. The absence of a detailed instruction manual in our box, a complaint we saw echoed by other users, was the first hurdle. We relied on product photos to guide the way, which was mostly successful. The design consists of several extruded aluminum slats and rails that form the basket, which then bolts onto the central steel support frame. The biggest challenge arose from slight shipping damage. As one user noted, we had to use needle-nose pliers to gently straighten the end of a crossbar so it would slot into the plastic corner piece. This is where the nature of aluminum becomes apparent; it’s lightweight but malleable. Too much force, and you risk cracking the metal.

Another point of contention we verified from user feedback is the hardware fitment. One reviewer astutely suggested adding fender washers between the steel support brace and the aluminum frame. We tried this, and it absolutely makes a difference. Without the washers, tightening the bolts causes the steel brace to dig into and bend the softer aluminum frame. It’s a simple, inexpensive modification that dramatically improves the structural integrity at the connection points. Once assembled, however, the lightweight nature is a massive benefit. Lifting the 25-pound rack and sliding it into our SUV’s 2-inch receiver was a simple, one-person job. This cannot be overstated. Anyone who has struggled with a 50-70 pound steel carrier will immediately appreciate how easy this makes storing and deploying the rack.

On-the-Road Performance and Load Capacity

Once mounted, we immediately focused on stability. Like virtually any hitch-mounted accessory, there was some play between the carrier’s shank and the vehicle’s receiver. We strongly recommend what many other owners do: invest in a hitch tightener or anti-rattle clamp. This small device locks the carrier’s shank firmly in place, eliminating almost all sway and wobble. With a tightener installed, the MAXXHAUL 60″ Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack felt like a solid extension of the vehicle.

We tested its 500-pound capacity by loading it with five large bags of mulch, a heavy cooler, and some tools, totaling around 350 pounds. The carrier handled the weight without any visible strain. The steel underframe does its job, distributing the load effectively across the hitch. One user’s report of regularly hauling six full 5-gallon gas cans—weighing nearly 300 pounds—for months on end speaks volumes about its real-world strength. The 3.25-inch raised side rails are perfectly adequate for keeping items contained and provide countless points to hook bungee cords or ratchet straps. We found securing our cargo to be simple and effective. The included reflector strips are a nice touch for visibility, though we’d still recommend adding some extra reflective tape for nighttime driving. After several hundred miles of mixed highway and bumpy rural roads, the carrier remained secure, and our cargo didn’t shift. The impressive capacity-to-weight ratio is a key selling point.

Material, Durability, and Long-Term Outlook

The hybrid construction of the MAXXHAUL 60″ Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack is its defining feature. The aluminum basket is fantastic for its corrosion resistance. We left it out in the rain and took it through a car wash with no signs of rust, which is a major advantage over powder-coated steel that can begin to corrode as soon as it’s scratched. It’s also incredibly easy to clean; a quick spray with a hose is all it takes to remove mud and grime.

However, durability requires a nuanced discussion. One long-term user, who transports 100-120 pounds of tools for hundreds of miles multiple times a week, noted that over six months, the single-bolt connection point showed signs of flex and the metal began to bend slightly. This is a crucial piece of feedback. For the average user on occasional camping trips or family vacations, this level of wear is unlikely to ever be an issue. But for those planning heavy, constant, commercial-style use, a heavier-duty all-steel carrier from a brand like CURT might be a more durable long-term investment. For its intended purpose—providing convenient, occasional-to-moderate hauling capacity for personal use—the materials are perfectly suited. The combination of a strong steel spine with a lightweight, weather-resistant aluminum basket strikes an excellent balance, making it a practical choice for most drivers.

What Other Users Are Saying

Scouring feedback from dozens of owners confirms our own findings. The sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding the value and weight. One user summed it up perfectly in Spanish, stating it’s “Perfect for carrying items that don’t fit inside the vehicle or could damage the interior. Being aluminum, it only weighs about 25 pounds, allowing it to be easily attached to the vehicle by a single person.” This is the core appeal that resonates with most buyers. Many, like one who uses it to haul an Otter flip-over for ice fishing, praise its utility for specific hobbies.

On the critical side, the themes are consistent. Shipping damage and the finicky assembly are the most common complaints. “Mine arrived damaged… I had to straighten with needle nose pliers, only to have the cheap aluminum crack and tear,” one user lamented, highlighting the potential pitfalls of the assembly. Another common issue mentioned is the included hitch pin. As one owner stated, “5 stars if it had the correct hitch pin. The one they sent is nice but about 1/2” too short for any receiver I own.” This seems to be an inconsistent issue but is worth noting; it’s wise to have a standard 5/8″ hitch pin on hand just in case.

How Does the MAXXHAUL 60″ Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack Compare to the Competition?

The MAXXHAUL 60″ Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack exists in a crowded market, but its unique combination of aluminum construction and a non-folding design sets it apart. It carves out a niche for users who prioritize low weight and simplicity over other features. Here’s how it stacks up against some popular alternatives.

1. Last Boks Full Size Truck Bed Cargo Box with Slide-Out

This isn’t a direct competitor but rather a different approach to the same problem, specifically for truck owners. The Last Boks is an in-bed storage system that slides out onto the tailgate. Its primary advantages are security and weather protection, as your cargo is contained within a durable box and can be covered by a tonneau. It’s an ideal solution for someone who wants to keep their hitch free for towing and needs to protect valuable tools or gear from the elements and theft. You’d choose the Last Boks over the MaxxHaul if you own a pickup and your main priority is secure, organized, in-bed storage rather than simply adding external capacity.

2. Mockins 60″x20″x6″ Heavy Duty Cargo Carrier w/Waterproof Bag

The Mockins carrier is a feature-packed, all-in-one steel alternative. For a comparable price, it includes a folding shank, a waterproof cargo bag, ratchet straps, and a hitch stabilizer. Its main advantages are the convenience of the included accessories and the space-saving folding feature. The trade-off is weight; being all-steel, it’s significantly heavier than the MaxxHaul. A user would choose the Mockins carrier if they value the folding function for easier storage on the vehicle and want a complete kit out of the box, and they don’t mind handling the extra weight during installation.

3. CURT 60×24-Inch Hitch Cargo Carrier 500 lbs

CURT is a heavyweight brand in the towing and hauling world, and this carrier reflects that. Made of tubular steel with a mesh bottom, it’s built for heavy-duty use. It offers a slightly larger platform (24 inches deep vs. MaxxHaul’s 22) and features a folding shank. This is the carrier for someone who prioritizes maximum durability and brand reputation. It will be heavier and more expensive than the MaxxHaul, but for those who plan on frequent, heavy use, the robust all-steel construction from a trusted brand like CURT provides extra peace of mind. It’s a step up in build quality and weight.

The Final Verdict: Is the MAXXHAUL 60″ Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack Right for You?

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the MAXXHAUL 60″ Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack is clear: it offers outstanding value for a specific type of user. If your top priorities are a lightweight design for easy, one-person installation and a rust-proof platform that can handle occasional to moderate use, this carrier is one of the best options available. The ease of handling cannot be overstated—it’s a genuine game-changer compared to heavy steel competitors. It successfully provides a stable, 500-pound platform to free up critical space inside your vehicle for road trips, camping, and home projects.

However, this value comes with compromises. You must be prepared for a potentially frustrating assembly that may require minor DIY fixes and the purchase of a separate hitch stabilizer to eliminate wobble. It’s not a folding model, so you’ll need garage space to store it. For those who need maximum durability for daily commercial use or the convenience of a folding design, a heavier steel model from CURT or Mockins might be a better fit. But for the family adventurer or weekend warrior who wants a simple, effective, and incredibly lightweight solution to their cargo problems, the MAXXHAUL carrier is a fantastic choice. If you’re ready to expand your vehicle’s hauling capacity without breaking your back or your budget, you can check the latest price and get yours here.