CURT Hitch Cargo Carriers: Tray vs Basket, Folding & Ramp Models

Need more room for camping gear, coolers or outdoor equipment? CURT hitch carriers come in low-sided mesh trays, higher-sided steel baskets, and an aluminum basket with a folding loading ramp. The best choice depends on the cargo footprint, receiver opening, loaded height, whether the carrier needs to fold up and the vehicle's available hitch load capacity.

Three practical carrier choices

Low-sided folding traysCURT 18100 and 18109 both measure 60 × 20 inches and have folding 2-inch shanks. The 18100 uses a silver aluminum tray and steel shank; 18109 is a black steel tray.
Higher-sided cargo baskets18145 is a compact 48 × 20-inch basket that accepts 1¼- or 2-inch receivers using its adapter. 18150–18153 are 60-inch steel baskets with fixed or folding 2-inch shanks in 20- or 24-inch widths.
Loading ramp included18112 provides a 50 × 30½-inch aluminum platform with a double-folding ramp for loading compatible wheeled equipment. Its 2-inch shank also folds when the carrier is unloaded.

CURT hitch carrier specifications by exact MPN

MPN Style Size (L × W × H) Receiver Construction Shank Ramp
18100 Tray 60 × 20 × 2¾ in 2 in Aluminum tray; steel shank Folding No
18109 Tray 60 × 20 × 2¾ in 2 in Powder-coated steel Folding No
18112 Basket 50 × 30½ × 4 in 2 in Powder-coated aluminum Folding Yes
18145 Basket 48 × 20 × 6 in 1¼ or 2 in Powder-coated steel Fixed No
18150 Basket 60 × 20 × 6 in 2 in Powder-coated steel Fixed No
18151 Basket 60 × 20 × 6 in 2 in Powder-coated steel Folding No
18152 Basket 60 × 24 × 6 in 2 in Powder-coated steel Fixed No
18153 Basket 60 × 24 × 6 in 2 in Powder-coated steel Folding No

The nominal dimensions describe the overall tray or basket rather than a guarantee of the exact usable interior area. Higher basket walls, ramps and folding hardware can affect the size and positioning of a load. Confirm the full installation drawing for any tight fit.

Check available hitch capacity, not just the carrier's label. All eight models listed have a CURT-rated maximum cargo load of 500 lb. The carrier itself also weighs something, so its weight plus the cargo counts against the vehicle's allowable hitch tongue weight and the receiver's accessory load limit. A 1¼-inch-to-2-inch adapter does not increase the vehicle's capacity. Verify the loaded carrier clears exhaust outlets, lights, the license plate and any spare tire.

Before choosing a hitch carrier

  1. Check receiver size. Most models here use a 2-inch shank. The 18145 has a 1¼-inch shank with a 2-inch sleeve adapter; confirm your hitch's correct accessory limit before using either arrangement.
  2. Measure the cargo itself. Compare length and width of the load with the platform and ensure it can be restrained safely. A 60 × 24-inch basket is not identical to a 60 × 20-inch basket.
  3. Choose a tray, basket or ramp. A low tray suits gear secured by straps or nets; a basket provides higher perimeter walls; 18112 has a ramp for suitable wheeled equipment.
  4. Check folding clearance. 18100, 18109, 18112, 18151 and 18153 fold toward the vehicle when unloaded. Spare tires, tailgates and rear doors may interfere with folding or access.
  5. Check safe loading. Add the carrier's own weight to the cargo, distribute the load evenly, secure it with appropriate tie-downs, and check visibility of lights and plate. Do not carry people, fuel or other flammable cargo.
  6. Follow CURT's instructions. Check the receiver pin, carrier assembly and ramp or folding locks. Inspect fasteners and tie-downs before travel and periodically afterward.

Shop exact CURT hitch carriers

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Other cargo-carrying references

If you are comparing alternative rear-mounted accessories, see our Reese Rambler hitch cargo carriers and Stromberg Carlson Cargo Caddy parts. Their mounting hardware and load ratings should be checked separately.

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