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If you drive a Ram 3500 and need more cargo space, a hitch cargo carrier lets you haul bulky gear without cramming the cab. The right carrier keeps items secure, preserves bed or cabin space, and matches your truck's towing and payload limits. This guide covers the top shortlisted options for Ram 3500 owners, focusing on load capacity, construction, mounting method, and practical features that matter on the road. Read on to see why these models made the list and what to check before you buy.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Hitch-Mount Cargo Carrier with High Side Rails |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Mockins 6" Raised Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier with Waterproof Bag |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | REESE Explore Rambler Hitch-Mount Cargo Carrier (60 x 24), 2" Receiver, 500 lb Capacity |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | FORWODE 60 x 20 Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier, 2" Receiver, 500 lb Capacity |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | VEVOR 60 x 24 x 6 Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier with Waterproof Bag |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier with Waterproof Bag and Accessories |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | CURT Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier with Folding Angled Shank |  |
1. MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Hitch-Mount Cargo Carrier with High Side Rails
| Load Capacity | 500 Pounds |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | Hitch Mount |
| Automotive Fit Type | Universal Fit |
| Is Foldable | No |
The MaxxHaul 70108 is a hitch-mounted cargo basket that bolts to a 2-inch receiver to create extra cargo space behind your truck. For a Ram 3500 it provides a convenient, low-drag alternative to rooftop storage when you need to carry coolers, camping gear, or bulky items that you prefer outside the cab. Construction pairs an extruded aluminum basket with a heavy steel under-frame and a 2" x 2" hitch shaft for a secure fit into Class III/IV receivers. High side rails and corner reflectors help contain loads and improve visibility while multiple tie-down points make strapping gear straightforward. Assembly is straightforward and the carrier is noticeably lighter than all-steel units, which makes mounting and removal easier. The aluminum floor rails and plastic corner pieces limit how much concentrated weight you should carry on the rails themselves, so heavy or unbalanced loads should be supported over the center frame or transferred to the truck with straps. This is best suited to routine hauling and recreational trips rather than moving frequently loaded heavy appliances.
Best for: Reliability-focused owners who prioritize a durable, low-maintenance way to add external cargo capacity for camping, hauling gear, and occasional bulky items without modifying the truck.
Less Ideal for: Users who regularly move very heavy, unbalanced loads or need a folding carrier for compact storage should consider a heavier steel unit or a foldable alternative.
- Lightweight extruded aluminum construction makes assembly, mounting, and removal easier
- Heavy-duty steel under support frame and 2" x 2" hitch shaft fit Class III/IV receivers for a secure connection
- High side rails and multiple tie-down points keep gear contained and allow flexible load securing
- Reflector lenses and red corner accents improve rear visibility for added safety on the road
- Aluminum floor rails and plastic corner connectors limit support for very heavy or concentrated loads
- Not foldable, so it requires storage space when not in use
Verdict A light, easy-to-install hitch basket that adds practical extra cargo space for a Ram 3500 but is best for recreational and light-to-moderate loads rather than heavy-duty moving.
2. Mockins 6" Raised Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier with Waterproof Bag
| Load Capacity | 500 lbs |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | Hitch |
| Waterproof Bag Volume | 15 Cubic Ft |
| Shank Rise | 6 inches |
| Foldable | Yes |
This Mockins hitch cargo carrier is a heavy-duty, folding trailer-hitch basket designed to attach to a Ram 3500 and add significant exterior cargo space. It mounts using the included adapter for 1.25" receivers and provides a raised 6" shank to improve departure angle on a tall truck, so it clears steep driveways and off-road obstacles more easily. The set arrives with a 15 cu ft waterproof bag with reinforced seams and waterproof zippers, plus straps, a cargo net, a stabilizer and a locking hitch pin to keep loads secure. Assembly is straightforward and the steel construction feels sturdy for hauling coolers, luggage or camping gear, and the fold-up design stows away when not in use. Limits to consider: the carrier relies on the truck hitch for stability so heavier lateral loads may require an upgraded stabilizer, and some small hardware pieces can be a weak point if not checked and replaced with heavier washers or bolts for sustained heavy use.
Best for: Convenience-driven Ram 3500 owners who want an easy, ready-to-use way to carry extra gear for weekend trips and work runs without modifying the truck.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who routinely tow at or above the truck's towing limits or need a permanently rigid cargo solution should consider a hard-mounted trailer or bed-mounted storage instead.
- Raised 6-inch shank improves ground clearance and departure angle on tall trucks.
- Includes a weatherproof 15 cu ft cargo bag with reinforced seams and waterproof zippers.
- Comes with useful accessories: stabilizer, locking hitch pin, ratchet straps, buckle straps and cargo net.
- Foldable design lets you collapse the carrier when not in use for easier storage.
- Steel construction provides a solid platform for hauling bulky items.
- Some included hardware and stabilizer washers have failed for users under heavy stress and may need aftermarket upgrades.
- At full advertised capacity the carrier transfers significant load to the hitch which can amplify sway if not properly stabilized.
Verdict A convenient, trail-ready hitch basket bundle that gives Ram 3500 owners quick extra cargo space with a raised shank and weatherproof bag, but inspect and upgrade hardware if you plan heavy, long-term use.
3. REESE Explore Rambler Hitch-Mount Cargo Carrier (60 x 24), 2" Receiver, 500 lb Capacity
| Receiver size fit | 2 Inch |
|---|---|
| Load capacity | 500 Pounds |
| Platform dimensions | 60 x 24 inches |
| Mounting type | Hitch Mount |
The REESE Explore Rambler is a full-size hitch cargo carrier built for heavy loads and frequent use behind a truck like a Ram 3500. It mounts into a 2-inch receiver and uses a rise shank that lifts the basket away from the bumper and exhaust, improving ground clearance and keeping hot exhaust from contacting cargo. The mesh floor drains and makes cleanup simple after hauling muddy boots, coolers, or camping gear, and the black powder-coat finish helps resist corrosion for long-term outdoor exposure. With a 60 x 24 platform and a 500 lb rated capacity this carrier handles large, heavy loads that would overwhelm roof racks. Assembly is straightforward but the unit is heavy and can be awkward to install alone; it also extends noticeably behind the vehicle so you need to mark it or use a flag and consider lighting and plate relocation for legal nighttime or highway use. For performance-focused Ram 3500 owners the carrier gives a durable, high-capacity solution with practical features for real-world towing and hauling.
Best for: Performance-oriented buyers who need a high-capacity, durable external cargo solution for frequent heavy hauling with a Ram 3500 and prioritize load capability and ground clearance.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a low-profile solution for short urban trips or who cannot accommodate the added rear overhang and occasional need to relocate license lighting should consider different storage options.
- 500 lb rated load capacity for carrying heavy or bulky gear
- Rise shank design increases ground clearance and reduces exposure to exhaust heat
- Mesh floor drips and cleans easily after wet or muddy loads
- Durable black powder-coat finish resists corrosion and scratches
- Large 60 x 24 platform accommodates multiple bags, coolers, or equipment
- Heavy assembly and installation can require two people to mount comfortably
- Extends well behind the truck and can obstruct rear visibility without a flag or marker
Verdict A robust, high-capacity hitch basket built for serious hauling behind a Ram 3500, best when you need durable, raised cargo space rather than a low-profile option.
4. FORWODE 60 x 20 Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier, 2" Receiver, 500 lb Capacity
| Load Capacity | 500 Pounds |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | Hitch |
| Special Features | Power Folding |
| Automotive Fit Type | Universal Fit |
This FORWODE hitch cargo carrier is a straightforward, budget-friendly way to add external cargo capacity to a Ram 3500 with a 2-inch receiver. The 60 x 20 folding basket mounts to a standard hitch and uses 11-gauge steel construction to support up to 500 pounds, so it handles coolers, storage bins, and camping gear without needing roof racks. The fold-flat feature makes it simple to fold up when not in use so it is less intrusive when towing or parking, and the mesh floor helps contain small debris and makes cleanup easier. Reflective strips improve night visibility and the carrier arrives as a mostly assembled unit that bolts on quickly. Be aware that the listed capacity is a hitch tongue weight limit and heavy loads will affect vehicle handling and trailer towing limits on a Ram 3500, so you should confirm your truck's hitch and suspension ratings before loading to the maximum. The carrier is functional and well priced, but it is a basic steel design without integrated tie-down rails or a full anti-rattle locking system.
Best for: Budget-conscious Ram 3500 owners who want a simple, low-cost way to carry extra gear for work, camping, or hauling supplies without using roof space.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need weatherproof, lockable cargo storage or a carrier with advanced anti-rattle and load-securing features should consider boxes or premium carriers instead.
- 500 lb rated capacity suitable for heavy coolers and multiple storage bins
- Folding design saves space and improves rear access when not carrying cargo
- Mesh base is easy to hose off and helps prevent water buildup
- Reflective strips increase visibility during night driving
- No integrated tie-down rails or channels for securing odd-shaped loads
- Does not include an anti-rattle hitch lock or vibration isolation hardware
Verdict A practical, low-cost folding hitch basket that adds big external cargo capacity to a Ram 3500 but skips premium tie-down and anti-rattle features.
5. VEVOR 60 x 24 x 6 Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier with Waterproof Bag
| Load Capacity | 500 Pounds |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | Hitch Receiver |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Fits Hitch Receiver | 2" |
This VEVOR hitch cargo carrier is a practical add-on for Ram 3500 owners who need extra towing-mounted cargo space. It mounts into a standard 2" hitch receiver, folds up when not in use, and includes a waterproof cargo bag, cargo net and ratchet straps so you can secure luggage and gear for long trips. The carrier uses reinforced 5mm support tubes and a hook stabilizer intended to reduce wobble on rough roads, and the black powder coat helps resist corrosion from road salt. Assembly takes some time but the parts align and the stabilizer and straps are useful accessories that save buying extras. Limitations to note are that the bottom is an open basket so small items can shift or fall unless you add a liner, and some users report the stabilizer hardware and lock nuts need occasional tightening or upgrading for heavy use. The carrier projects behind the truck and may require a hitch extender if you have a spare tire or tailgate clearance issue on specific Ram 3500 configurations.
Best for: Risk-averse mainstream buyers who prioritize reliable, proven accessories that free up truck bed space and come with useful included accessories and a simple design.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking a permanent heavy-duty platform or a fully enclosed rooftop-style cargo box should look at welded non-folding carriers or enclosed boxes instead.
- 500 lb rated load capacity for hauling large amounts of gear
- Folding design allows the carrier to be stowed upright when not in use
- Includes waterproof cargo bag, cargo net and ratchet straps for immediate use
- Powder-coated steel and reinforced support tubes improve corrosion resistance and rigidity
- Open-mesh bottom can allow small items to fall through without an added liner
- Some assembly required and periodic retightening of stabilizer hardware may be necessary
Verdict A budget-friendly, 500 lb folding hitch carrier with useful accessories that suits Ram 3500 owners who want dependable extra cargo space but not a permanently fixed or fully enclosed solution.
6. WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier with Waterproof Bag and Accessories
| Receiver size | 2 inch |
|---|---|
| Load capacity | 500 lb |
| Construction | Square tube steel with powder coat |
| Includes | Waterproof bag, cargo net, ratchet straps, hitch stabilizer |
This WEIZE hitch-mount cargo carrier is a practical solution for adding external storage to a Ram 3500 when you need extra cargo space for trips and work gear. It mounts into a 2" receiver and provides a shallow basket with 500 lb listed capacity; the steel square-tube frame and black powder coat give a durable, weather-resistant platform. WEIZE includes a waterproof cargo bag, cargo net, ratchet straps and an anti-wobble stabilizer so you can secure luggage and smaller items without buying extras. Installation is straightforward for a single person though some bolt alignment patience is required during assembly. Real-world use reports show good highway stability when loads are secured, but watch exhaust routing on some trucks since heat can damage soft-sided cargo if the carrier sits directly in the exhaust plume. The carrier does not have a curved shank for extra ground clearance or a folding hinge to tuck up against the bumper, so it stays exposed when installed. For owners who want a low-cost, ready-to-use rear rack that carries suitcases, coolers and gear, this is an effective value choice.
Best for: A practical optimizer who wants the most usable rear cargo space for a Ram 3500 without buying many add-ons, prioritizing upfront value and ready-to-use accessories.
Less Ideal for: Not a good choice for owners who need folding/tucked storage, extra ground clearance, or a heavy-equipment grade rack for constantly hauling oversized, concentrated loads.
- Includes waterproof bag, cargo net and ratchet straps so you can load and secure cargo immediately.
- 500 lb rated capacity for carrying luggage, coolers and bulkier items for trips or job sites.
- Heavy-duty square-tube steel frame with powder coat improves corrosion resistance and durability.
- Anti-wobble hitch stabilizer and locking pin reduce play and improve road stability.
- No drop or curved shank for extra ground or exhaust clearance on low or unusually routed trucks.
- Carrier basket is relatively shallow compared with some deeper models which limits stacking taller items.
- Assembly requires some patience to align crossbars and fasteners correctly.
Verdict A budget-friendly, fully equipped hitch carrier that adds reliable extra cargo space to a Ram 3500 but lacks a curved shank or folding feature for special clearance needs.
7. CURT Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier with Folding Angled Shank
| Load Capacity | 500 Pounds |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | Hitch |
| Basket Height | 6 inches |
| Shank | 2 x 2 inch folding angled shank |
This CURT basket-style hitch carrier is a practical solution for carrying bulky or dirty cargo behind a Ram 3500 when bed space or cab room is limited. It mounts to a standard receiver and uses a bent, folding 2 x 2-inch shank so the basket gains extra ground clearance and can be folded up against the rear when not in use. The mesh floor and 6-inch-high sides make it easy to strap, tarp, or net irregular items and to rinse off mud or sand. Tubular steel construction and a carbide black powder coat provide strength and corrosion resistance for long highway trips. The carrier is rated to 500 pounds, so it can handle heavy loads but its 70-pound assembly means installation and removal are easier with two people. Buyers should plan for a locking hitch pin or anti-rattle stabilizer for the tightest fit and be mindful of the added overall vehicle length when backing or parking. It is best used for long trips, hauling gear, and carrying items you do not want inside the cab or bed.
Best for: Balanced buyers who want a durable, all-purpose hitch carrier to expand cargo capacity on a Ram 3500 for family trips, hauling gear, or messy loads while keeping the truck bed and cab free.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a lightweight, quickly removable solution or frequent tight-quarters parking should consider roof boxes or lighter folding carriers instead.
- Folding angled shank increases ground clearance and folds up for storage on the truck.
- Sturdy tubular steel basket with 6-inch sides secures odd-shaped or loose cargo.
- Mesh floor drains and is easy to clean after transporting dirty items.
- 500-pound load rating covers heavy gear and multiple suitcases.
- Durable e-coat and carbide black powder coat resists rust and road wear.
- Heavy unit weight makes solo installation difficult.
- Extends vehicle length significantly when deployed which affects parking and clearance.
- No hitch pin or anti-rattle hardware included.
Verdict A robust, folding basket carrier that expands a Ram 3500's cargo capacity with strong construction and practical features, but it is heavy and increases vehicle length.
Choosing the Right Ram 3500 Hitch Cargo Carrier: Key Factors to Consider
Load Capacity and Tongue Weight
Capacity determines what you can safely carry and how the carrier affects your truck's handling. Check both the carrier's maximum cargo rating and the tongue weight it adds to the receiver. Tongue weight affects rear suspension and steering feel and must be compatible with your vehicle's hitch rating and rear axle load.
Underestimating these values can overload components or trigger handling issues. Aim for a carrier whose ratings leave margin under your truck's limits, especially when planning to haul dense or heavy items. Also consider how cargo distribution across the platform affects balance and tongue weight placement.
Build Material and Corrosion Resistance
Materials and finish impact long-term durability, especially with exposure to road salt, mud, and weather. Heavy-gauge steel with a quality powder-coat finish offers strength and resistance to chipping, while aluminum alloys reduce weight and resist rust but may have different strength tradeoffs.
Look for weld quality, reinforced seams, and drainage or mesh design that prevents water pooling. Protective finishes and galvanized components increase lifespan and reduce maintenance for owners who drive in harsh conditions or store carriers outdoors.
Mounting System and Fitment
How the carrier attaches to the Ram 3500 receiver affects stability, ease of use, and safety. A solid hitch pin and anti-rattle hardware help minimize movement and wear at the receiver. Some carriers include stabilizing brackets or compression fittings to reduce wobble under load.
Consider whether the unit needs additional adapters, how it aligns with your truck's receiver height, and whether it allows easy clearance for tail lamps or swing-away accessories. Ease of installation and quick-connect options save time for owners who swap carriers frequently.
Platform Size and Load Containment
Platform dimensions determine what gear you can carry and how it sits on the carrier. A wider, longer platform accommodates coolers, fuel cans, and bulky equipment, while raised lips or rails help keep cargo from shifting during transit.
Think about how you secure items using straps or built-in tie-down anchors and whether the mesh or solid base suits your cargo type. Fold-flat designs can reduce storage footprint when not in use but may trade off some structural rigidity.
Folding and Storage Convenience
Folding carriers save space when the unit is not in use and make garage storage simpler. The folding mechanism should lock securely both in the deployed and folded positions to prevent accidental collapse while driving or during handling.
Check how much clearance is required to fold the carrier and whether it stays within legal overhang limits when folded. Ease of folding with minimal tools is valuable for drivers who frequently switch between hauling and normal driving.
Compatibility With Accessories and Truck Use
Think about how the carrier will work with commonly paired items, such as cargo nets, spare fuel containers, or ramps. Compatibility with accessories can expand functionality, but added attachments change load dynamics and weight distribution.
Also consider interplay with truck features like tailgate operation, rear cameras, and lighting. A carrier that interferes with sensors or restricts access to the bed may require alternate mounting strategies or accessory integration.
FAQ
Will a hitch cargo carrier affect my Ram 3500 towing capacity?
A carrier adds tongue weight that applies load to the hitch and rear axle, which can influence towing dynamics. It does not automatically change the vehicle's published towing capacity, but you must ensure combined tongue weight and cargo do not exceed the hitch or axle limits. Check your truck's owner manual and the carrier ratings before loading heavy items.
How do I determine the correct hitch size for a Ram 3500 carrier?
Most heavy-duty trucks use a 2.5-inch or larger receiver, but you should confirm the receiver size on your Ram 3500. Choose a carrier designed to fit that receiver and rated for high tongue weight. Avoid using carriers that require reducer sleeves unless the adapter is rated for equivalent loads.
Are folding hitch carriers as strong as fixed platforms?
Folding carriers can be very sturdy when designed with reinforced hinges and locking mechanisms, but some fixed platforms offer greater rigidity for consistently heavy loads. If you plan frequent heavy hauling, prioritize build quality and locking stability in the folding system and verify the deployed load rating.
How should I secure cargo on an open hitch basket?
Use rated straps, ropes, or cargo nets anchored to the carrier's tie-down points to prevent shifting. Distribute weight evenly and keep heavier items toward the receiver to reduce tongue weight issues. Check tie-down hardware for corrosion and replace worn straps before long trips.
Will a carrier block my rear camera or sensors?
A carrier can obstruct visibility if it sits above or in front of the camera or sensors. Verify clearance and consider carrier height and placement relative to your truck's camera and sensor locations. In some cases, repositioning the camera or using a camera extention may be necessary for unobstructed views.
How We Chose the Best Ram 3500 Hitch Cargo Carrier
We selected carriers based on several truck-specific and real-world performance factors. Primary filters included rated tongue and gross load capacity that align with heavy-duty truck ratings, robust construction materials and corrosion resistance suited for frequent outdoor use, and hitch size and receiver compatibility with heavy-duty receivers on Ram 3500 trucks. We also evaluated mounting stability and attachment features that reduce sway and protect paint and finish during highway driving. Additional criteria covered usable platform size and design for common cargo types, ease of installation and removal for owners who switch configurations, and useful extras such as folding mechanisms, integrated ramps, or raised edges for containment. We excluded lightweight or economy-grade carriers whose materials and rating did not match typical heavy-duty hauling needs. Products that required proprietary adapters not commonly found on heavy-duty trucks were also filtered out. The resulting shortlist focuses on durability, practical capacity, and secure mounting for Ram 3500 use cases.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
Choose a carrier that matches your Ram 3500's hitch and payload ratings while providing the platform size and durability you need. Prioritize rated load capacity, secure mounting hardware, and corrosion-resistant construction to ensure safe, long-term use. Balance folding convenience and accessory compatibility against the types of loads you haul most often. With the right carrier, you can expand carrying capacity without compromising vehicle handling or safety.
