Let's admit it. Packing for a long trip can be frustrating, even with a car with a large storage room. As a result, space is always bound to run out even before you finish packing. So, to make sure you have all your necessary cargo while traveling, you can invest in a folding aluminum cargo carrier.
Subsequently, we have compiled an informative guide to help you wade through the tons of carrier options in the market. But first, let's understand the concept of a folding cargo carrier.
What is a Folding Cargo Carrier?
A folding cargo carrier is a car accessory with a shank that can be retracted when not in use. As such, this carrier will come with a level or mechanism of folding it to occupy minimal space. Therefore, the goal of such as carrier is to avoid unnecessary interference when not in use.
In this context, we aim to cover aluminum carriers with a folding shank. Primarily, this type of carrier is lightweight and sustainable in harsh conditions. Also, the aluminum version of folding carriers is easy to assemble, unlike the steel models. That said, read on for the top eight aluminum folding carriers.
Which is the best folding aluminum cargo carrier?
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1. MAXXHAUL 50149 Premium Folding Aluminum Cargo Carrier
MAXXHAUL 50149 Premium Folding Aluminum Cargo Carrier-50 x 22"
- Capacity: 500 pounds distributed weight
- Outer basket size: 50" x 22" x 5"
- Provides instant cargo space; fits class III and IV standard 2"...
- High side rails for cargo security and multiple tie down points...
- Lightweight extruded aluminum construction for rust and corrosion...
Our top pick for the best folding aluminum cargo carrier is the MAXXHAUL 50149 tray model. In particular, the MAXXHAUL 50149 is a tray-style cargo carrier meant for attachment to the rear receiver hitch. Extending its line of quality products, MAXXHAUL has ensured that this tray-style cargo carrier optimizes build quality and performance. Uniquely, this aluminum tray is foldable whenever it's not in use.
One of the outstanding qualities of this hitch-mounted carrier is its lightweight aluminum design which also boosts this frame's sturdiness. Taking the form of a rigid aluminum basket, it can handle cargo weights of up to 500 lbs. In addition, due to the high-quality aluminum frame composition, this carrier folding can resist rust and corrosion caused by harsh weather conditions.
As part of cargo management solutions, this aluminum tray-style cargo carrier features optimal security for your load-outs with higher side rails. In addition, this hitch-mounted design is particularly helpful in ensuring you free as much space inside the car. Accordingly, you can use bungee cords or a cargo net on several points to maximize the load carried on the tray carrier while ensuring it's secure.
Regarding its assembly, you can install this aluminum cargo carrier on your car's rear receiver hitch with less strain. Notably, the right receiver hitch for this model is either that of class 3 or 4, which is about 2 inches. Even more, its lightweight aluminum easily bolts together, ensuring you don't spend so much time on it. Nonetheless, ensure you are properly equipped with all the required hardware to make this particular model practical and effective.
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2. CURT 18100 60 x 20-Inch Aluminum Tray Hitch Cargo Carrier
CURT 18100 60 x 20-Inch Aluminum Tray Hitch Cargo Carrier, 500 lbs Capacity, 2-in Folding Shank
- LIGHTWEIGHT. This trailer hitch cargo carrier is constructed from...
- VERSATILE DESIGN. A tray-style hitch cargo rack is ideal for...
- INTEGRATED TIE-DOWNS. This hitch cargo carrier keeps your items...
- ADAPTABLE. This cargo hitch carrier is equipped with a folding...
- EASY TO CLEAN. This hitch mounted cargo carrier frees up cargo...
Another excellent choice of a tray-style cargo carrier is the CURT 18100. Among the range of CURT cargo carriers, this model is one of the best models for carrying that extra cargo. Constructed from premium aluminum, this tray-style cargo carrier is lightweight yet sturdy to withstand outdoor exposure and resist rust. Also, CURT introduces lightweight aluminum to put less strain on any car while still being able to carry a maximum weight of 500 lbs.
Notably, CURT introduces this carrier as a rear or front end hitch mounting option, as long as your vehicle has the right receiver hitch. As such, if your rear-mounted spare tires play the frustrating game of obstructing the mounting of a carrier, you can opt for the front. Signature to other CURT cargo carriers, this front mounting option creates room for a second carrier like a bike rack or towing a boat or a trailer.
In the spirit of providing a simple yet effective solution, this tray-style cargo carrier folding model is easy and quick to install. All you need to do is bolt-together its side rails and mesh, guided by a clear owner's guide custom to all CURT cargo carriers. Specific to the carrier-folding qualities, this model has a foldable shank with an adequate storage area. In addition, this tray-style cargo carrier has mounting holes for bungees of a cargo net to keep your items secure.
Overall, this hitch-mounted cargo carrier is one of CURT's effective cargo management solutions meant to allow maximum carriage for a long trip. While at it, you might require an extra hitch tightener to increase stability on this tray-style cargo carrier.
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3. CURT 18112 50 x 30-1/2-Inch Black Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier
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CURT 18112 50 x 30-1/2-Inch Black Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier with Ramp, 2-in Folding Shank
- THREE-POSITION RAMP. This hitch cargo carrier features an...
- LIGHTWEIGHT ALUMINUM. This trailer hitch cargo carrier with ramp...
- 500 POUND CAPACITY. For dependable transportation of your...
- ENHANCED SAFETY. The CURT aluminum cargo carrier with ramp comes...
- STANDARD FIT. This trailer hitch cargo carrier with ramp is...
This second carrier from the CURT cargo carriers line is worth purchasing whenever you want to haul that extra cargo. In addition, this tray-style cargo carrier comes with the convenience of seamless loading and unloading. This additional ramp feature makes this model a customer favorite since you can load bulky items such as lawnmowers or snowmobiles.
In line with its carrying capabilities, this carrier can hold up to 500 lbs while on transit. Topping its load capacity, you can easily secure your cargo on this tray carrier using its tie-down anchors and eye bolts. This means you can use bungees or a net to keep your load firm in position. The carrier folding of this model is also remarkable, with the flexibility of collapsing when not in use.
Taking note of its construction, this tray-style cargo carrier is made from aluminum, making it lightweight and tough for exterior applications. It is also shielded against corrosion using a coating of black carbide powder, which can withstand any weather conditions.
Moreover, with the help of its owner's manual, you can easily assemble this carrier. Its lightweight aluminum easily bolts with a guaranteed steadiness while on the move. Nonetheless, you should first ensure that this model is compatible with your vehicle. Also, rear-mounted spare tires might interfere with the folding feature inside dimensions.
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4. Guide Gear Extra-Large Folding Aluminum Cargo Carrier
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Guide Gear Vehicle Hitch Cargo Carrier, Pickup Truck Ramps Aluminum, Folding, 3-Position, Extra...
- CARGO CARRIER – The Guide Gear Cargo Carrier is great for all...
- LIGHTWEIGHT – The carrier and truck ramp is made from rugged,...
- DURABLE – The aluminum cargo carrier features a hitch, hitch...
- FOLDING – Featuring a 3-position folding ramp to make loading...
- COMPATIBILITY – The folding trailer is compatible with all...
Going back to the aluminum tray-style cargo carrier, you can purchase this simple yet effective solution to packing. Specifically, the Guide Gear carrier folding design comes with a rugged aluminum build that makes it resistant to rust and corrosion. Even more, its hitch plate and hitch apparatus are made of steel base, while its hardware is made from carbon steel. All these materials contribute to the structural integrity and reliability of this model.
As such, the folding shank of this aluminum tray can haul an additional weight of 500 lbs. Adding to its load handling convenience, this aluminum tray-style cargo carrier features a triple position fold-down ramp to facilitate easy loading and unloading. Similar to its wholesome foldable structure, you can stow away the ramp in the carrier.
Moreover, you can use this Guide Gear aluminum tray on different vehicles as long as they have a 2-inch hitch. As such, it is compatible with a majority of class 3 and 4 vehicles with reduced rattling and wobbling. However, you might need to attach bungee cords or a cargo net to the outer edge to keep your cargo in place. Ultimately, its aluminum easily bolts together for a quick assembly folding design that is properly equipped.
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5. Black Widow AMC-400L Aluminum Motorcycle Carrier
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Black Widow AMC-400L Aluminum Motorcycle Carrier with 6' Ramp
- Durable, hitch-mounted motorcycle carrier for use with dirt bikes...
- Track measures 6' 3.5" L x 5.5" W; ramp measures 6' 1.125" L x...
- Works with 2" Class III or IV hitch receivers; fits bike wheels...
- Ramp installs either side for bilateral roll-on, roll-off action;...
- High-strength, lightweight aluminum construction
Besides hauling cargo, you might also require to carry your motorcycle for your adventure trips. As such, we've got you covered with the Black Widow AMC-400L carrier. This particular model comes with a limited storage area that can only accommodate a motorcycle. Also, the foldable design in this model enables an easy attaching ramp that can be used during transport. Even more, you can choose to modify this hitch cargo carrier to be foldable.
The role of the foldable/extended ramp is to help with the easy loading of a Motorcycle. Accordingly, this entire system is built with sturdy aluminum, capable of withstanding outdoor exposure. What's more? This hitch-mounted carrier features a carrying capacity of 400 lbs.
To further keep your items secure, this carrier comes with an anti-tilt bracket for enabling steadiness while on the move. In the end, you should never ride your motorcycle onto this cargo carrier. However, using this hitch-mounted design on vehicles with rear-mounted spare tires might be a struggle.
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6. Codinter Kayak Roof Rack, Aluminum Kayak Carrier Folding Canoe Kayak
Codinter Kayak Roof Rack, Aluminum Kayak Carrier Folding Canoe Kayak J Racks for Roof Rack
- 💎【Heavy-Duty Loading】 The kayak racks are made of 25mm OD...
- 💎【Foldable and Portable】 Versatile 0-180 degree adjustable...
- 💎【Safely Attach】 Supply two lengths of carriage bolts with...
- 💎【Easy Assembly】 The kayak carrier fits various shapes of...
- 💎【Universal Use】 The vehicles as your small car, SUV,...
Next in line, we have the Codinter aluminum kayak roof rack option. This quick assembly folding design offers a unique carrying area for kayaks. Since such water sports equipment is heavy, this carrier doesn't disappoint with its sturdy aluminum tubing. Amid supporting your kayaks, this aluminum carrier also comes with soft form padding and integrated paddle holders.
Setting up this carrier is easy when you have 4-1/3 inch wide crossbars. Subsequently, tighten its bolts into the mounting holes with ease. After you bolt together this cargo carrier to the crossbars, you can then load your kayak, ready for that getaway.
The carrier folding of this model is another reason for inclusion on this list. Ideally, this carrier features flexible folding to accommodate any watercraft equipment on top of a car. As such, it can accommodate a capacity of 330 lbs. At all times, you should ensure this carrier is firmly installed for optimal safety on the road.
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7. Black Widow AMC-400-F-Folding Aluminum Hitch Carrier for Dirt Bikes
Black Widow AMC-400-F-Folding Aluminum Hitch Carrier for Dirt Bikes
- Durable, hitch-mounted folding motorcycle carrier for use with...
- Track measures 6' 3.5" L x 5.5" W; ramp measures 3'' 11" L x 5.5"...
- Works with 2" Class III or IV hitch receivers; fits bike wheels...
- Ramp installs either side for bilateral roll-on, roll-off action;...
- High-strength, lightweight aluminum construction
Are you looking for a carrier that is more of a bike rack? Then, here is an incredible option for use in transporting dirt bikes. The Black Widow AMC-400-F is a great alternative to a motorcycle trailer or a pickup truck bed to transport your bikes. This carrier comes with a ramp that folds down with two tie-down points to assist you in loading these bikes.
Even more, the heavy-duty loading of this carrier is enabled through its lightweight yet strong aluminum build. Nevertheless, it has some steel parts like the support frame and the hitch tube, boosting its sturdiness and stability. Moreover, with the help of a hitch receiver, this carrier can be mounted as a bilateral or side roll-on with optimal steadiness as enabled by the additional anti-tilt and anti-rattle reinforcements.
Regarding its carrier folding capacity, the AMC-400F features a heavy-duty hitch adapter for maximum folding whenever not in use. Accordingly, this carrier can carry a maximum of 400 lbs with versatile compatibility to different vehicle hitches.
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8. Elevate Outdoor Folding Aluminum Tray Premium Cargo Carrier
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ELEVATE OUTDOOR Folding Aluminum Tray Premium Cargo Carrier – 60"
- Manufactured from high-strength, lightweight aluminum; 500 lb....
- Outer basket measures 60" W x 22-1/2" D x 4-3/4" H; inner basket...
- Designed for Class III or IV 2" hitch receivers; anti-rattle...
- Slatted design allows moisture and debris to wash through the...
- Ample tie-down points; rear safety reflectors for better...
Our last recommendation is another aluminum tray carrier, Elevate Outdoor cargo carrier. This cargo holder is built from high-quality yet light aluminum. With an adequately wide basket, this heavy-duty cargo-constructed model can carry a weight of 500 lbs. As such, you can use this aluminum tray to store coolers, bags, camping gear and other small equipment.
You also easily reposition this carrier when empty without removing it. This feature coincides with its foldable design, which allows for convenient collapsing when not in use. Other features to obtain from this excellent hitch-mounted cargo carrier include a rattle reducing hitch bolt and pin as well as reflectors for better visibility to other road users.
Finally, this aluminum tray comes with a slatted design that allows debris and water through the space inside the carrier. As a result, you can easily use this accessory on any 2-inch vehicle hitch. Nonetheless, rear-mounted spare tires might interfere with the carrier folding feature inside dimensions.
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Types of Aluminum Folding Cargo Carriers
There are different types of aluminum folding cargo carriers. Primarily, differences in this category result from the diverse styles used to haul different types of cargo. You can either have a hitch-mounted carrier or a roof rack option as an alternative to hauling a trailer or a bed. Based on these distinguishing factors, here are the main types in this category.
1. Tray-Style Carrier
This type is the most common, with the ability to carry bulky items that might not fit inside your car. Characteristically, products of this type come as simple boxes, baskets or even platforms. In addition, most of them lack adequate security barriers, meaning you have to secure your cargo further with bungees or cargo nets. Nonetheless, this type offers flexibility to different applications and carriers under this type can carry between 300-500 lbs.
Tray carriers come in hitch mounting designs. Subsequently, you can find tray carriers for attaching on either the front or rear end to maximize carriage. Such make use of a hitch pin and a hitch bolt.
2. Dirt Bike Carrier
This type also includes motorcycle carriers which sound straightforward in how they work. Carriers in this category are alternatives to trailers and pickups. Accordingly, this type often comes with a ramp for easy loading and unloading. After use, most ramps are collapsible or detachable to avoid over-bearing accessory edges.
Normally, this type is built for rear hitch mounting. As a result, they come with related products such as a hitch pin and hitch bolt.
3. Kayak Carrier
It is also possible to find a carrier folding model for carrying kayaks. This type is mostly for mounting in the car roof rack. Consequently, they help carry large items that might not be practical to carry at the back or front, like kayaks.
Folding Cargo Carrier vs. Fixed Cargo Carrier
Fixed carrier/folding carrier models come in similar impressions and dimensions. Therefore, you might go for the lowest prices and end up obtaining the wrong purchase. Already you can tell the distinction between these two models, and it is important to carefully go through given product specs for a clear distinction.
Overall, the folding carrier option is better than the fixed cargo carrier due to the added flexibility of collapsing when not in use. If you end up with a fixed option, you can choose to detach it whenever you're not using it, but this is more strenuous, unlike folding.
Choosing the Best Aluminum Folding Cargo Carrier
1. Application
Prior to choosing the best folding aluminum cargo carrier, ensure you understand your cargo-hauling needs. Luckily, there are numerous cargo carriers in the market today, accommodating a wide range of cargo needs. This factor should be primarily anchored in your lifestyle to determine the type of cargo at your disposal.
Even so, we recommend getting the most versatile aluminum foldable carrier for flexibility in different situations. However, don't overdo with the expectations. Simply work with your lifestyle.
2. Weight Capacity
Alongside your cargo needs, you need to get a carrier folding model with a maximum load capacity of 400-500 lbs. This weight allowance is needed even when buying a carrier to haul a small load. For example, someday, you might need to haul your lawn mower or snowmobile.
3. Compatibility
Similar to any car part or accessory, it is important to purchase a carrier that will fit the dimensions of your car. For instance, you must check for hitch compatibility to the size of the receiver on your car. If you buy the wrong carriers, you will require additional adapters, which come at an extra cost.
Also, you must match the carrying capacity of your carrier to that maximum weight your car's hitch receiver can sustain. This consideration is important in ensuring you don't strain your car.
4. Load Security
The best carriers in this category should also come with adequate provisions to facilitate cargo security. Accordingly, a cargo carrier should have points of fastening bungees or nets on the outer edge. In turn, your load will remain steady throughout your trip, preventing accidents.
5. Weatherproofing
Finally, having a folding cargo carrier with adequate weatherproofing will help increase its longevity. Considerably, products in this category are used in the exterior and should come with that extra toughness. In this case, the aluminum build should be adjusted for external factors to resist corrosion and rust.
Conclusion
Choosing any of our recommended folding carriers will go a long way in making packing and transportation easier. Particularly, please take advantage of the aluminum build, which will reduce strain on your car since it's lightweight. Even more, having a folding design will enhance the convenience of not having to attach and detach your carrier amid a trip.
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