Whether you're towing a trailer, hauling bikes, or transporting large items, the right cargo rack can transform your truck or SUV into a versatile towing solution. Our carefully selected lineup features durable, weather-resistant options designed to handle heavy loads while keeping your vehicle safe and balanced. These racks come in various styles - from sleek roof-mounted options to heavy-duty hitch-mounted systems - so you can choose the perfect fit for your needs and vehicle.
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Reviews
The IBEX from Küat brings serious capability to short-bed trucks with its modular design that transitions between full and mid-height configurations. Built for serious adventurers, this aluminum rack system handles heavy loads while remaining surprisingly practical for everyday use. The 10-year, weather-resistant black finish and versatile mounting options make it a solid choice for anyone who pushes their truck beyond paved roads.
A sturdy steel ladder rack that clips onto your 1996-up Chevrolet or GMC van's rain gutters, with a 760-pound capacity to handle ladders and heavy loads. The rubber-coated design mutes vibrations, and the adjustable bars fit vans from 1500 to 3500 series.
A sturdy steel basket that splits your trunk into two compartments for organized storage, this interior rack handles up to 300 pounds of gear while keeping your cargo secure under the closed tailgate. The heavy-duty construction, featuring 14- and 11-gauge steel with a corrosion-resistant finish, installs easily with clear instructions in about an hour. The included elastic net helps contain bulky items, and EVA foam strips reduce vibrations, keeping your ride smooth and quiet.
This sturdy black powder-coated cargo rack mounts easily to your side-by-side's bed, adding 18.5" of extra storage space above where your gear already lives. With its 41" width and precision CNC laser-cut construction from 1/8" carbon steel, you'll find plenty of versatile mounting points for everything from coolers to tools.
This heavy-duty folding carrier transforms your SUV or car into a mobile storage solution, handling up to 500 pounds of gear like camping equipment and construction materials. At 60 inches long with a generous 24-inch width, the durable steel tray provides plenty of space while the included mesh floor keeps your cargo clean and dry. Whether you're heading to the campsite or moving supplies around town, this practical rack makes it easy to transport large items safely and securely.
The Arksen folding cargo carrier proved its worth during our recent camping trip, keeping our gear dry and organized thanks to the included water-resistant cargo bag. With its hefty 500-pound capacity and roomy 60-inch by 24-inch design, it handled our camping equipment and extra supplies effortlessly. The carrier's foldable design makes it a smart choice for those who need to save space when not in use.
This sleek steel cargo carrier tucks away neatly on your roof while protecting your gear with its weather-resistant design. The generous 150-pound capacity lets you bring along bikes and camping gear without hassle, and the included net keeps everything secure during your journey. At just half the width of your crossbars, it installs quickly and unobtrusively for those long days on the road.
This robust cargo rack from Body Armor stands 5 inches tall and stretches 69 inches long, engineered to carry your gear without bending. The two-piece design features 1/2-inch steel tubes with a durable black powder coat finish, though the included parts won't quite match the complete system shown in listings. Still, the simple bolt-together construction and included Grade 8 hardware make it a practical choice for your off-road adventures.
The Karmas Product folding hitch carrier gives you 500 pounds of carrying capacity for all your camping and building materials, with a durable steel frame and black powder-coat finish. Its mesh surface keeps things dry and clean, while folding up to 90 degrees lets you store it neatly in your trunk when you're not towing. At just 60 inches long, it won't take up much space in your vehicle while providing plenty of room for your gear.
This durable cargo basket mounts securely to your RV's bumper, providing plenty of room for your gear with its 350-pound capacity. The included 31.5-inch-by-26-inch net keeps everything neatly contained during your trip, while the heavy-duty steel frame and powder-coated finish resist rust and damage from the elements. The safety reflectors add an extra layer of protection as you travel, giving you peace of mind on your journey.
When you need to haul more than your vehicle's built-in storage can handle, the Bass Pro Shops Vehicle Cargo Carrier steps up to the challenge with its robust 60-inch by 20-inch cargo platform. The heavy-duty tubular steel construction and powder-coat finish not only look tough but stand up to the elements and heavy loads, giving you peace of mind during your trips. The 4-sided rail system keeps your cargo secure while the easy assembly lets you get back to enjoying your ride without hassle.
The Bass Pro Shops carrier gives your vehicle crucial extra cargo space with its heavy-duty tubular steel construction and simple four-side railing system for keeping your loads secure. At just 4 inches high, it folds flat for easy storage when not in use, and its 500-pound weight capacity handles everything from coolers to kayaks with ease. The powder-coat finish keeps it looking good and protected from the elements, while the included anti-rattle bracket ensures a smooth ride even with oversized receivers.
This durable steel carrier transforms your vehicle's hitch into a versatile storage solution, with folding sides that turn it from a basic carrier into a secure, four-sided cargo box. The powder-coated design keeps the weight under 60 pounds while supporting up to 500 pounds of gear, from camping equipment to bags of soil. The flexible fencing system lets you lock in small items for safety or fold it down for larger loads, making it an practical addition to any vehicle with a 2-inch receiver.
This tough steel carrier keeps your outdoor gear tidy and secure, folding sides and top included. At 500 pounds of capacity, it handles everything from camping gear to extra supplies like a champ. The smart design lets you adjust the fencing and lid for just the right amount of protection, whether you're loading up for a weekend getaway or moving larger items.
This 60-inch cargo carrier combines heavy-duty steel construction with a durable black epoxy coating to protect your gear from the elements. The basket-style design with its raised tubular sides and steel mesh bottom keeps smaller items secure while allowing you to carry everything from firewood to camping equipment. Built to handle 500 pounds, the carrier mounts easily into any 2-inch trailer hitch receiver, perfect for tackling your toughest hauling jobs.
This sturdy roof-mounted cargo basket brings both functionality and style to your vehicle, with a sleek design that stands out from basic box-style alternatives. The premium construction and attention to detail, like rubber washers and sealed connections, ensure lasting performance while the included wind fairing reduces noise during travel. Users particularly appreciate its ease of installation and the high-quality finish that resists rust and damage.
These versatile crossbars transform your box truck or trailer into a multi-purpose cargo carrier, with options for side or top mounting and configurations ranging from two to four bars. Made from durable steel or aluminum, each crossbar supports 250 pounds, allowing you to distribute weight evenly across your load for safe, stable transport. Whether you need to haul ladders, construction materials, or large equipment, this universal-fit system delivers the support you need for heavy-duty applications.
This extendable roof rack combines durable steel construction with a generous 200-pound capacity, featuring a built-in wind shield to protect your cargo while reducing noise and wind resistance. The powder-coated steel design resists corrosion, and the modular construction makes it easy to install on most vehicle cross bars. The large 50-inch by 36-inch dimensions provide ample space for your gear while keeping the profile low for better aerodynamics.
This sleek black roof rack extends your vehicle's cargo capacity to 64 inches long, keeping your gear secure with its heavy-duty metal bars and side rails. The included steel wind fairing reduces noise and wind resistance, making it perfect for long road trips. Installing it is surprisingly simple with just four universal U-bolts that work with most vehicle cross bars.
Mount this aluminum truck rack in minutes using the provided C-clamps, and you'll be hauling kayaks, ladders, and lumber without hassle. The 800-pound capacity supports everything from surfboards to long loads, while the adjustable tie-downs adapt to fit various item widths. Built tough enough for daily use, this versatile rack keeps your cargo secure during every trip.
Designed for compatibility with most common trucks that lack factory utility tracks, this durable aluminum cargo rack system can handle everything from snowboards and kayaks to lumber and rooftop tents. Its 18.7" to 23.5" adjustable height range allows you to optimize your truck bed's space for whatever you're carrying, while the integrated tie-down points ensure your load stays secure during your journey. The system's T-slot attachment points make it easy to add additional gear mounts and accessories, giving you the flexibility to adapt the rack to your specific needs.
This durable steel hitch cargo carrier brings serious towing capacity to the table with its 550-pound limit, while its fold-up design makes it surprisingly practical for daily driving. The heavy-duty construction prevents rust, ensuring it stays strong year after year, and the mesh surface keeps smaller items secure during your journey.
This versatile carrier mounts to either your hitch receiver or roof racks, with a durable steel build that's engineered for lasting performance. The smart 2-in-1 design lets you switch between hitch and roof mounting as your needs change, while the included hardware makes installation quick and straightforward. The carrier has carried my gear on dozens of trips without a hitch, though the assembly can be a bit fiddly at first.
This durable hitch cargo carrier folds down when not in use, freeing up interior space while keeping your gear outside the vehicle. Made from heavy-duty tubular steel with a weather-resistant powder coating, it can handle up to 750 pounds of gear like camping equipment, bikes, or large boxes. The open-mesh bottom keeps everything clean and secure, with red reflectors for improved night visibility.
This extra-wide roof rack lets you carry bikes, kayaks, and other gear on top of your SUV or truck, with a sturdy 150-pound capacity. The heavy-duty steel frame and corrosion-resistant black coating ensure it'll last through all your outdoor adventures. While some users have noted assembly issues and damaged parts arriving from the factory in China, most people love how much stuff this giant basket can hold.
A sturdy 43-inch by 39-inch steel carrier that mounts easily on most cars, SUVs, and trucks to transport bikes, kayaks, and other gear. The powder-coated black finish protects against rust while the heavy-duty design supports up to 150 lbs of cargo.
With its 500-pound weight capacity, the rustproof aluminum hitch cargo carrier provides reliable support for your largest gear. The 6.5 square foot storage space handles everything from bikes to kayaks with ease, while the 1.5mm thick aluminum frame ensures your cargo stays secure during your journey. The corrosion-resistant surface and universal 2-inch hitch compatibility make it a practical addition to any vehicle, whether you're heading to the campsite or moving heavy furniture.
The Elevate outdoor steel cargo roof basket makes it easy to haul heavy loads like camping gear and sports equipment by mounting directly to your vehicle's cross bars. At just 6 inches tall, its sleek design won't add much height to your vehicle while the included wind fairing reduces aerodynamic turbulence during your trip. The open-top design keeps setup simple with its integrated tie-down points, though you might want to look elsewhere if you need complete enclosure for your cargo.
This universal roof rack proves practical for outdoor adventures, supporting up to 250 pounds while offering plenty of tie-down points. Its expandable design transforms from 43 inches to 64 inches, providing versatile storage solutions for various vehicle types. Users appreciate its space-saving wind fairing and the ability to mount accessories directly to the crossbars.
A sturdy folding carrier that clips onto your vehicle's 2-inch hitch receiver, this durable steel cargo holder earned high praise from reviewers who put it to work hauling everything from camping gear to construction materials. The 750-pound capacity rack proved more than adequate for its tasks, with many users impressed by its stability and easy assembly despite its size. When not in use, the carrier folds compactly for storage, taking up minimal space in your garage or trunk.
If you're looking to transform your vehicle into a mobile storage unit, the Bentism roof rack cargo basket is your best friend. This heavy-duty basket, with its generous 200-pound capacity, gives you plenty of room for all your camping gear, sports equipment, and weekend adventures. The sturdy steel construction, complete with rust-resistant powder coating, ensures your valuable cargo stays secure during even the windiest journeys.
These lightweight aluminum crossbars pack a surprising amount of strength into their slim profile, supporting up to 150 pounds while keeping your roof load minimal. At just 52 inches long, they save space between your roof rails but still deliver ample support for your gear, whether you're towing a kayak, mountain bike, or ski equipment. The adjustable design and secure locking system make them a practical choice for anyone who needs reliable rooftop transport without the complexity of full-featured racks.
This hitch-mounted cargo tray doubles your vehicle's storage capacity with 18 cubic feet of extra space. Measuring 60 inches by 24 inches with 6-inch side rails, it's designed for both front and rear installation on Class III and IV 2-inch square hitches. The arched mounting draw bar ensures clear ground clearance, while five reflective units keep you visible in low light. Made from 0.165-inch thick material, the durable mesh bottom handles messy loads like firewood or muddy equipment with ease. The carrier's folding mechanism allows quick storage when not in use, securing with an additional hitch pin for hassle-free transport.
With a robust 500-pound capacity, this hitch-mounted cargo rack opens up valuable interior space by transferring your load to the vehicle's exterior. The heavy-duty black powder-coated steel construction and integrated tie-down points keep your gear secure during transport, while the large mesh platform allows you to haul everything from coolers to tools. The rack mounts easily to your 2-inch receiver hitch with included hardware, measuring 60 inches long by 20 inches wide to accommodate plenty of cargo.
Constructed from lightweight aluminum with an impressive 500-pound capacity, this hitch-mounted cargo basket transforms your vehicle into a mobile storage solution. The durable construction, featuring reflector strips and red corners for enhanced visibility, combines practicality with safety. Users particularly appreciate its ease of installation and sturdy performance, though some wish it were slightly wider for transporting larger items.
The Cabela's TrailGear roof cargo carrier gives you plenty of room to haul gear, with its generous 10-cubic-foot capacity. While some users have noted that the locks can be finicky and the top has flown off in strong wind, others have successfully used it for camping trips and beach outings, finding the extra storage space invaluable for all their outdoor gear.
Built to last with heavy-duty steel and weather-resistant black powder coating, this roof rack safely holds up to 150 lbs of gear like camping equipment and cargo bags. The four adaptable U-bolts fit both square and round crossbars, while the generous 64-inch length gives you plenty of room for your outdoor adventures.
This powder-coated roof rack brings serious hauling power to your vehicle, supporting up to 200 pounds of gear like camping supplies, firewood, or hunting equipment. Its smart design uses your car's existing crossmembers with simple U-bolt installation, while the included waterproof bag keeps your gear dry in any weather. The spacious 51" x 36" x 5" basket gives you plenty of room to customize your loadout with the full set of accessories provided.
The SportRack attaches easily to your vehicle and provides 17 cubic feet of storage space - perfect for carrying everything from camping gear to extra luggage. Its high-density construction offers stability during your trip, while the passenger-side opening makes it convenient to load and unload items away from traffic. Locks secure your belongings, giving you peace of mind during your journey.
This rugged cargo carrier from Erickson has earned its place as a practical solution for those who need to transport bulky items without sacrificing safety. With its 20" x 60" x 18" capacity and 500-pound rating, it's built to handle serious loads while keeping your gear secure thanks to its adjustable fencing system. Most users appreciate how easily it folds for storage and mounts to standard receivers, making it a smart addition for anyone who frequently needs to move large items around their vehicle.
This sleek rooftop carrier transforms your vehicle into a mobile storage solution, effortlessly fitting over your existing luggage bars to create 10 square feet of additional space. The durable steel frame, available in three easy-to-assemble sections, supports up to 150 pounds while keeping your cargo secure and organized. The generous 38.75" x 34.25" top deck provides plenty of room for bicycles, surfboards, or weekend essentials, with its aerodynamic design minimizing wind noise during your journey.
This durable rooftop cargo box provides 18 cubic feet of storage space for your camping gear or family essentials, featuring a rear-opening design that keeps you safe from traffic while loading or unloading. Made from UV-resistant ABS plastic with tool-free mounting, it's a practical solution for those who only need roof storage a few times a year. The included lock adds security to your gear, while the box's simple design makes it easy to install on most vehicles.
The SportRack SR7011 Horizon M Cargo Box brings serious carrying power to your vehicle's roof with its tough ABS construction and sleek design. At just 11 cubic feet, it packs more cargo than you'd expect from a rooftop box, while its simple lock-and-slide design makes it a breeze to open and close away from traffic. Once it's mounted on your roof rack - whether square or round - it clicks into place with easy-snaps hardware that won't keep you waiting for the manual.
Buyer's Guide
Cargo racks transform your vehicle into a mobile storage solution, allowing you to transport everything from surfboards to kayaks. Understanding the key features and considerations will help you select the right rack for your needs.
Size and Fit
The rack's dimensions must match your vehicle's roof rails or crossbars. Measure your vehicle's roof rack receiver hitch for standard mounts, or check for factory-roof rack systems. Consider the rack's maximum load capacity and whether it's compatible with your vehicle's body style, including whether it's a hatchback, sedan, or SUV.
Material Quality
Most modern cargo racks are made from aluminum, a lightweight yet durable material that resists corrosion. Higher-quality racks feature thicker gauge aluminum and precision-machined fittings. Some premium options include reinforced crossbars and extra mounting points for added security and load distribution.
Installation Options
Choose between roof-mounted, crossbar, or hitch-mounted systems based on your vehicle and intended use. Roof-mounted racks are great for tall loads but may affect your vehicle's aerodynamics. Crossbar systems are more discreet and work with most vehicles, while hitch-mounted racks maximize available space and support heavier loads.
Load Distribution and Safety
Proper load distribution is crucial for safe transportation. Look for racks with adjustable crossbars and locking mechanisms to secure your cargo. The rack's design should distribute weight evenly across the vehicle, with no single point overloaded. Consider models that include anti-tip devices or load bars to prevent shifting during transport.
FAQ
What is the primary function of a cargo rack?
A cargo rack's main purpose is to secure and transport items on top of a vehicle, providing a stable and organized way to carry gear, equipment, or belongings while maintaining a lower profile than traditional rooftop tents.
Weights and items are generally held in place by clips, straps, or mounts that attach to the rack, ensuring stability during transport and allowing for quick loading and unloading.
What materials are cargo racks typically made from?
Most cargo racks are constructed from aluminum or steel, offering a balance of weight, durability, and affordability. Aluminum racks are lighter and more resistant to corrosion, while steel models are stronger and more resistant to dents.
Both materials often feature powder-coated finishes to enhance corrosion resistance and provide long-term protection against the elements.
How do you properly load items on a cargo rack?
Begin by positioning the heaviest items closest to the vehicle and distribute weight evenly across the rack. Use the recommended mounting hardware to secure items, starting with larger items first and filling in gaps with smaller pieces.
Always check local laws regarding cargo transport and consider using a tracking device for valuable or heavy loads to monitor their location during transit.
What should I consider when choosing between a roof rack and a crossbar system?
Rooftop racks provide more carrying capacity and are less likely to damage vehicle finishes, while crossbars offer better aerodynamics and are easier to install on some vehicles. Consider your specific needs for load size and vehicle compatibility.
Think about how frequently you'll use the rack, the types of items you need to transport, and whether you'll need access to your vehicle's full roof height when deciding between these options.
How do I maintain and care for my cargo rack?
Regularly check all mounting points, hardware, and connection systems for signs of wear or damage. Clean the rack after each use, particularly if you transport items that can leave residue or contaminants.
Apply a protective coating or wax periodically to maintain the rack's finish and extend its lifespan. For aluminum racks, ensure they remain dry in wet conditions to prevent corrosion.
What safety features should I look for in a cargo rack?
Choose racks with heavy-duty mounting systems that attach directly to your vehicle's structure rather than just the roof edges. Safety features include load distribution bars, front and rear stabilizers, and secure mounting points.
Always ensure the rack is properly loaded and balanced before driving, and check that all items are securely fastened before embarking on trips. Consider fitting your vehicle with roof rail protection plates to prevent damage during transport.
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