Are you considering the MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60″ X 20″ X 6″+Waterproof Cargo Bag 16 Cubic Feet(58″ 19″ 24″),Hauling Weight Capacity of 500 Lbs and A Folding Arm.with Hitch Stabilizer,Net and Straps for your next trip or weekend haul?
Product Overview
You’re looking at a tubular-steel hitch-mounted cargo carrier that pairs a generous platform with a full set of accessories to help you carry more without crowding your vehicle. The MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket (60″ x 20″ x 6″) is rated to haul up to 500 lbs, comes with a waterproof cargo bag (16 cubic feet), and includes a hitch stabilizer, cargo net, and straps to get you road-ready from the start.
Key Features
This carrier offers a black epoxy powder-coated tubular steel frame, a mesh base for drainage and easy cleanup, an angled shank for added ground clearance, and reflective markers for nighttime visibility. It’s built to fold up when not in use, and the included accessories (waterproof bag, net, straps, stabilizer) add value and convenience for most hauling tasks.
What’s in the Box
When you unpack the package, you should find the carrier basket with its folding arm and angled shank, the waterproof cargo bag sized around 58″ x 19″ x 24″, a hitch stabilizer to reduce rattle, a cargo net with hooks, and ratchet straps to secure loads. The hardware kit and basic instructions are usually included, so you’ll have what you need to assemble and mount the carrier to a compatible hitch receiver.
Specifications
Below you’ll find a clear breakdown of the main specs so you can quickly confirm fit and capability before you commit to buying or installing.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60″ X 20″ X 6″+Waterproof Cargo Bag 16 Cubic Feet (58″ x 19″ x 24″) |
| Platform Dimensions | 60″ (L) x 20″ (W) x 6″ (H) |
| Mesh Base | Yes, mesh steel base for drainage and easy cleaning |
| Material | Tubular steel with black epoxy powder coating |
| Hauling Weight Capacity | 500 lbs (maximum recommended) |
| Shank Type | Angled shank for additional ground clearance |
| Folding | Folding arm for upright storage when not in use |
| Accessories Included | Waterproof cargo bag (16 cu ft), hitch stabilizer, cargo net, ratchet straps |
| Reflectors | Yes, added for night visibility |
| Intended Hitch Size | Fits standard hitch receiver (confirm your receiver size prior to purchase) |
| Best Use | Road trips, moving gear, camping, tailgating, overflow cargo |
You’ll want to verify the hitch receiver size on your vehicle before purchase because fitting issues are the most common snag with hitch carriers.
Build Quality and Materials
You’ll notice the carrier feels sturdy thanks to the tubular steel construction and the epoxy powder coating that resists chips and surface rust. The design balances strength and weight so the carrier can hold heavy loads while not being excessively heavy to install or fold away.
Frame and Coating
The black epoxy powder coating gives the frame a clean finish and helps protect the steel against moisture and road salt, which matters if you live in an area with winter weather or coastal exposure. You’ll still want to inspect welds and joints during assembly to make sure everything was manufactured and shipped without damage.
Mesh Base and Drainage
The mesh base is a smart choice because it prevents water from pooling and makes cleanup simple—mud and debris can fall through or be rinsed away easily. Additionally, the mesh provides extra tie-down points and reduces wind resistance compared with a solid-panel floor.
Capacity and Load Performance
With a 500 lb hauling capacity, this carrier is suitable for bulky gear like coolers, coolers plus camping supplies, small furniture pieces, or multiple pieces of luggage when your trunk or roof is full. You should plan load distribution carefully: heavy items near the vehicle, lighter items outward, and use straps to prevent shifting.
Weight Rating and Real-World Use
The 500 lb rating is a guideline that should include the combined weight of the cargo and any accessories on the carrier; you should not exceed your vehicle manufacturer’s hitch tongue weight rating, which can be lower than the carrier’s maximum. In practice, you’ll likely carry far less than the maximum on road trips; a full bagged load of camping gear or several dry bags will be well within safe limits.
Distribution and Balance Tips
You’ll want to place heavier items closest to the hitch and centered across the platform to keep the load stable and reduce stress on the carrier and receiver. If you carry long loads or items that extend beyond the carrier, secure them with additional straps and consider adding a red flag for visibility.
Installation and Setup
Installing the carrier is straightforward for most people who are comfortable with basic hand tools and following instructions; two people make the job easier because the carrier is bulky. You’ll slide the shank into your vehicle’s receiver, secure with hitch pin hardware, and attach the stabilizer to reduce movement.
Hitch Compatibility and Fit
Confirm your vehicle’s hitch receiver size (most commonly 2″ on SUVs and trucks) and check the length of the shank to ensure the carrier clears bumpers and exhaust systems. The angled shank provides extra ground clearance but also alters the final height profile—double-check clearance behind your vehicle to avoid contact with rear sensors or bumper skirting.
Assembly Steps
Typical assembly involves attaching the folding arm, securing the mesh floor, installing reflectors, and ensuring the assembly bolts are tightened to spec. You’ll then mount the carrier into the hitch receiver, insert the hitch pin or bolt, and fasten the hitch stabilizer per the instructions to minimize play.
Using the Hitch Stabilizer
The hitch stabilizer reduces rattle and lateral movement between the carrier shank and the receiver, improving handling and reducing wear. You should install the stabilizer after the carrier is seated and tightened, and retighten periodically if you notice movement after a few trips.
Folding Mechanism and Storage
You’ll appreciate that the carrier folds up for storage when not in use; the folding arm allows the basket to sit upright against the vehicle or be removed and stored in a garage. Folding reduces drag and improves clearance in tight parking areas when you aren’t hauling cargo.
Folding Arm Operation
The folding arm mechanism typically uses a locking pin or latch; you’ll fold the basket up, insert the pin, and confirm it locks securely before driving. Keep the locking hardware clean and lightly lubricated to prevent seizing—this makes folding and unfolding smoother.
Storing When Not in Use
When stored upright on the hitch or detached, the carrier takes up less space and minimizes exposure to the elements. If you can, keep the carrier indoors or under cover and consider removing the hitch-mounted carrier during long periods of non-use to prevent theft and to preserve finish.
Accessories Included and Their Use
MeeFar includes several practical accessories that you’ll use regularly: a large waterproof cargo bag (16 cu ft), a cargo net, ratchet straps, and a hitch stabilizer. These items save you an extra shopping trip and give you a jumpstart on safely securing loads.
Waterproof Cargo Bag: 16 Cubic Feet
The waterproof cargo bag (approx. 58″ x 19″ x 24″) is sized to fit the carrier and protect your gear from rain and dust, making it ideal for camping gear, soft luggage, and items sensitive to the elements. You’ll still want to double-check the bag’s seams and zipper closures and use the cargo net or straps over the bag for added security.
Cargo Net, Straps, and Reflectors
The included cargo net and ratchet straps help you secure irregular or soft loads that could shift in transit, and the reflectors on the carrier frame boost visibility at night. Use multiple points of attachment for heavy or bulky items, and periodically inspect straps for frays or damage—replace them when wear is visible.
On the Road: Noise, Stability, and Handling
Expect some additional wind noise and possible light vibration depending on load, mounting tightness, and vehicle design, but the hitch stabilizer should reduce annoying rattles. You may feel a small change in handling with a heavy or poorly distributed load, so adjust driving style—slower cornering and longer stopping distances—for safety.
How to Reduce Rattle and Movement
You can minimize rattle by tightening all mounting hardware, using the hitch stabilizer correctly, and adding an anti-rattle wedge or additional stabilizing device if needed. Load distribution also reduces movement—center heavier items and tie them down with the included straps and net.
Impact on Fuel Economy
Adding a hitch carrier will increase aerodynamic drag and weight, which can lower fuel economy, especially at highway speeds. Packing low and keeping the load as compact as possible helps reduce drag and the resulting fuel penalty.
Safety and Visibility
The carrier’s reflectors are a thoughtful safety addition, and you should add a visible marker or auxiliary lighting if your load obscures the vehicle’s taillights or license plate. Always check local regulations regarding visibility and lighting when hauling loads that extend behind your vehicle.
Nighttime Use and Reflectors
Reflectors increase visibility at night and in low-light conditions, but they aren’t a replacement for taillight visibility if the cargo obscures them. If your cargo blocks brake lights or turn signals, add an auxiliary light board to the carrier or secure lights to the rear-most edge of the cargo.
Offroad and Ground Clearance
The angled shank gives you more ground clearance than a straight shank, which helps when you’re tackling uneven terrain or steep driveways. Nonetheless, you should be cautious with large bumps or aggressive off-road trails since the carrier and cargo will increase vulnerability to impacts and bottoming out.
Maintenance and Longevity
Routine maintenance will keep the carrier functioning well and extend its service life, and you should inspect it after initial installation and periodically each season. Tighten fasteners, check for rust or chipped coating, and address any finish damage to prevent corrosion.
Cleaning and Rust Prevention
You should rinse the carrier with fresh water after exposure to road salt or muddy conditions and dry it to limit corrosion risks. Touch up paint chips with a rust-inhibiting product and consider light lubrication on folding hinges to maintain smooth operation.
Inspecting for Wear and Tear
Periodically inspect welds, bolts, and the shank for fatigue and any signs of metal fatigue or cracking, especially if you frequently haul heavy loads. Replace any compromised hardware immediately and avoid overloading the carrier if you detect structural issues.
Pros and Cons
You’ll find that the MeeFar carrier packs a lot of value into a single product: a large platform, foldability, and several useful accessories. There are trade-offs—size and weight will affect handling and fuel economy, and you should verify hitch compatibility and check tongue weight limits on your vehicle before loading to capacity.
Pros:
- Sturdy tubular steel construction with protective powder coating.
- Large 60″ x 20″ platform rated for 500 lbs.
- Includes waterproof cargo bag (16 cu ft), stabilizer, net, and straps.
- Angled shank provides added ground clearance for many vehicles.
- Folding design for convenient storage when not in use.
Cons:
- Heavy and bulky to handle solo during installation or storage.
- Additional drag and minor fuel economy impact at highway speeds.
- Requires attention to hitch/tongue weight limits (vehicle limits may be lower than carrier rating).
- Depending on your vehicle’s hitch and bumper design, fit may require careful checking.
Comparison with Similar Products
Compared with basic platform carriers that come without accessories, MeeFar’s package gives you more immediate utility thanks to the waterproof bag, straps, and stabilizer. Against premium carriers built with higher-grade steel or welded baskets, this carrier offers solid value but may not have the same finish or lifetime warranty.
When to Choose This Carrier
You should pick this carrier if you want a roomy platform, included accessories, and the convenience of a foldable design without buying a lot of add-ons separately. It’s particularly suited to families who take weekend trips, campers with bulky soft gear, and anyone needing temporary extra cargo space.
When to Consider Alternatives
Consider a different model if you need a lighter aluminum carrier for better fuel economy, a carrier with a higher tongue weight rating than your vehicle can handle, or a custom-fit bumper-mounted tray for specialized equipment. Also, if you want the absolute lowest possible wind drag, roof-mounted solutions or inside-vehicle cargo systems may be preferable based on your use case.
Practical Use Cases and Scenarios
You’ll find many practical uses for this carrier: extra luggage for a road trip, coolers and chairs for tailgating, camping gear that’s bulky or dirty, small furniture during a move, or overflow grocery and home improvement items. The waterproof bag keeps contents protected from weather, making it easier for you to transport soft goods that you’d rather not have exposed.
- Camping: Store sleeping bags, tents, and bulky soft goods in the waterproof bag and secure it with the net.
- Moving small items: Use ratchet straps to secure boxed items and keep weight close to the hitch for stability.
- Tailgating and outdoor events: Carry grills, chairs, and coolers without cramming inside the vehicle.
- Weekend road trips: Keep muddy hiking boots, wet clothes, or firewood outside the vehicle to keep interiors clean.
Tips for Best Results
You should always check the vehicle manufacturer’s hitch and tongue weight limits before loading, as the carrier’s 500 lb capacity may exceed your car’s maximum. Additionally, distribute weight closer to the hitch, double-check tie-downs, and test-drive at low speed to confirm stability before heading onto highways.
Practical tips:
- Weigh heavy items when possible and keep heavy weight near the vehicle.
- Use multiple tie-down points and the included cargo net for extra security.
- Check tire pressure and vehicle suspension condition when regularly carrying heavy loads.
- Attach a light board if your cargo obscures brake lights or license plate visibility.
- Periodically check hardware tightness after a few hundred miles.
FAQs
You’ll likely have some questions before buying; here are common ones answered succinctly to help you decide.
Q: Will this carrier fit my vehicle? A: The carrier is designed for standard hitch receivers (commonly 2″), but you must confirm your hitch receiver size and any bumper obstructions before purchase.
Q: Can you exceed the 500 lb rating? A: No—do not exceed the 500 lb rating for the carrier, and always ensure that your vehicle’s hitch tongue weight rating is not exceeded, which is often lower than the accessory’s rated capacity.
Q: Is the cargo bag truly waterproof? A: The bag is marketed as waterproof for general weather protection; you should still secure it and use additional protection for long exposure to heavy rain or deep puddles.
Q: Can you fold the carrier with cargo inside? A: You should not fold the carrier with cargo inside; folding is intended for storage when unloaded to prevent strain on the locking mechanisms and hinge points.
Q: Is the hitch stabilizer necessary? A: The hitch stabilizer is highly recommended because it reduces movement and rattle, improving safety and reducing wear on the hitch and carrier.
Q: How do I handle long loads? A: For loads extending beyond the carrier, secure items with additional straps, add a flag or rear marker for visibility, and check local laws for maximum permissible overhang.
Final Verdict
If you need a roomy, sturdy, and feature-packed hitch-mounted cargo carrier with accessories included, the MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier offers strong value and practical functionality for weekend warriors and frequent haulers alike. You’ll want to verify vehicle hitch specs and practice proper loading techniques, but once you do, this carrier will reliably expand your cargo options while folding away when not in use.
If you want, I can walk you through measuring your hitch receiver and confirming exact fit, or provide a checklist for installing and testing the carrier on your vehicle.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
