Steel vs Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carriers: Which Is Better? (October 2026)

On this page (8 sections)

1. Steel vs aluminum hitch cargo carriers: what changes?
2. Which basket gives you more useful space?
3. Does the carrier's weight matter more than its material?
4. Which material handles weather and upkeep better?
5. What load can a steel or aluminum carrier hold?
6. Which steel and aluminum carriers stand out?
7. How do you choose between steel and aluminum?
8. FAQ about steel vs aluminum hitch cargo carriers

Choose steel for a compact basket with a steel build, or aluminum for a lighter basket that resists rust. For a steel vs aluminum hitch cargo carrier, compare the complete assembly, its dimensions and your vehicle's limits.

The steel MaxxHaul 70107 weighs 22.3 lb and has a 53 x 19 in outer basket. The aluminum MaxxHaul 70108 weighs 21.4 lb, with a 49-1/4 x 22-1/2 in basket and a steel support frame.

Those examples show why material alone doesn't settle the choice. The aluminum basket is wider, while the steel model is longer and narrower.

Steel vs aluminum hitch cargo carriers: what changes?

Steel gives you a steel-built basket; aluminum resists rust and can be easier to handle. Construction and dimensions matter as much as the headline material.

The 70107 is made from alloy steel with a powder-coated finish. The 70108 uses an extruded aluminum basket but has a heavy-duty steel under support frame, so it is a mixed-material carrier.

The CURT 18113 is a one-piece welded aluminum basket. Its description says it weighs 25 lb, while its specifications give an item weight of 31.3 lb, so confirm the current weight before deciding if lifting convenience is a priority.

Don't assume every steel carrier is heavier than every aluminum one. Compare the stated weight for the exact model, and check what parts are included in that figure.

Which basket gives you more useful space?

The MaxxHaul 70108 has the widest outer basket of these 3; the 70107 is the longest and narrowest. Choose by the shape of your cargo and the room behind your vehicle.

The 70107's outer basket is 53 x 19 x 5 in, with an inner space of 51 x 17-1/2 x 4-1/2 in. The 70108 measures 49-1/4 x 22-1/2 x 7-1/4 in outside and 47-1/4 x 20-1/4 x 6 in inside.

The CURT basket measures 49 x 22-1/2 in and has 4 in high walls. Its dimensions are close to the 70108 in length and width, but its wall height is lower than the 70108's outer height.

How do you match a basket to your cargo?

Measure the longest and widest items you plan to carry, then check the basket's inner dimensions. Include room for straps and avoid relying on the outside measurements as usable floor space.

Long, narrow gear may sit more naturally in the 70107. Coolers or several smaller bags may fit better across the wider 70108 or CURT basket, depending on their actual dimensions.

The high rails on the MaxxHaul carriers provide tie-down points, and the CURT's 4 in walls help contain items. Rails and walls do not replace secure straps or careful loading.

Does the carrier's weight matter more than its material?

A lighter carrier can be easier to install and remove, but check the exact model's stated weight. Here, the 70108 is 21.4 lb and the 70107 is 22.3 lb, a difference of less than 1 lb.

The CURT's description says 25 lb, but its specifications list 31.3 lb. That mismatch makes direct weight comparisons less certain; confirm the figure for the model and version you plan to buy.

Think about how often you'll mount or remove the carrier, and whether you can lift it safely. Also account for carrier weight when checking how much cargo your vehicle and hitch can support.

Our guide to hitch cargo carrier stabilizers covers another part of setup: reducing movement at the receiver. A stabilizer doesn't raise your hitch's load limit.

Which material handles weather and upkeep better?

Aluminum resists rust, while the steel 70107 has a powder-coated finish that still deserves regular inspection. Keep either carrier clean and check its joints and finish after exposure to road spray or rough conditions.

The 70108 combines its aluminum basket with a steel support frame. Inspect that frame and the connection points, especially after wet or salty trips.

The CURT adds a carbide black powder coat to its aluminum construction. That finish is described as resisting rain, dirt and UV damage, but routine care still matters.

Store the carrier dry when it's off the vehicle. For cleaning and care instructions, follow the model's manual rather than using an abrasive tool or cleaner by default.

What load can a steel or aluminum carrier hold?

A carrier's stated capacity is only one part of the safe load; your vehicle and hitch can impose lower limits. Both MaxxHaul models list a 500 lb capacity, and the CURT lists a 500 lb rating.

That number doesn't mean every vehicle can carry 500 lb on the receiver. Check the vehicle manual, hitch label and carrier instructions, and include the carrier's own weight in your calculations.

Cargo can shift if it isn't secured, even when the total load is within the stated carrier capacity. Distribute weight as directed by the carrier maker, keep the load within the basket and use suitable tie-downs.

If you're unsure what your hitch can support, read what tongue weight means on a hitch. For fit, first measure your hitch size and confirm the receiver dimensions.

Which steel and aluminum carriers stand out?

The 70107 suits a compact, steel-built basket, while the 70108 offers a wider aluminum basket with a steel support frame. The CURT is another aluminum option with a welded basket and integrated reflectors.

The MaxxHaul 70107 fits 2 x 2 in receivers and has a 500 lb maximum distributed capacity. Its 5 in outer wall height and powder-coated finish are useful details to weigh against the narrower basket.

The MaxxHaul 70108 adds high side rails, multiple tie-down points, reflectors and red corner accents. Confirm that its mixed steel and aluminum construction matches your upkeep and handling preferences.

The CURT 18113 fits standard 2 x 2 in receivers and has a stated 500 lb capacity. Check the model's weight with the seller before ordering, since its description and specifications differ.

How do you choose between steel and aluminum?

Pick the 70107 for its longer, narrower steel basket; choose the 70108 for a wider aluminum basket and tie-down rails. Consider the CURT if its one-piece basket and reflectors fit your needs.

For a wider range of aluminum hitch cargo carriers, compare basket dimensions and construction details before narrowing your pick. If the vehicle's rear access or overall fit is your main concern, see hitch cargo carriers for SUVs.

Before loading, verify the receiver fit, the vehicle and hitch limits, and the cargo's weight. For more options and setup advice, start with how to choose a hitch mounted cargo carrier.

FAQ about steel vs aluminum hitch cargo carriers

Is an aluminum basket always lighter than steel?

No. The 70108 aluminum basket weighs 21.4 lb and the 70107 steel carrier weighs 22.3 lb, but the CURT's description and specifications give different weights.

Compare exact models and confirm the current figure if you need to lift the carrier often.

Can I leave a steel hitch cargo carrier outside?

You can, but inspect its finish and metal parts regularly, especially after rain, road spray or salty conditions. The 70107 has a powder-coated finish.

Clean and dry it after use, and follow its care instructions to help protect the finish.

Is an aluminum cargo carrier strong enough?

The 70108 and CURT 18113 each state a 500 lb capacity or rating. That figure alone doesn't tell you what your vehicle and hitch can carry, so check all applicable limits and secure cargo according to the carrier instructions.

Do aluminum cargo carriers have steel parts?

Some do. The MaxxHaul 70108 pairs an aluminum basket with a steel under support frame.

Check the construction of the exact model if you want to limit steel parts or have a specific maintenance preference.

Which carrier should I pick for a small car?

Start with the car's hitch rating, receiver size, rear clearance and cargo weight. A carrier's capacity doesn't override the car's limits.

Our guide to using a hitch cargo carrier on a car covers fit and clearance questions.

Steel vs aluminum hitch cargo carriers come down to basket shape, construction and upkeep. Choose the 70107 for its long, narrow steel basket, or compare the wider aluminum 70108 and CURT if rust resistance and basket width matter more.

Frequently asked questions

Is a steel or aluminum hitch cargo carrier better?

Steel suits shoppers who want a steel-built basket and can manage its weight and upkeep. Aluminum suits people who want a rust-resistant basket that is easier to handle.

Compare the full carrier, since an aluminum basket can still have steel support parts, as the MaxxHaul 70108 does.

Are aluminum hitch cargo carriers lighter?

Not always. The MaxxHaul steel 70107 weighs 22.3 lb, while the aluminum MaxxHaul 70108 weighs 21.4 lb; the CURT aluminum carrier's description says 25 lb, while its specifications give 31.3 lb.

Check the exact model's current weight before buying.

Does a 500 lb cargo carrier let me carry 500 lb?

Not by itself. The 500 lb figures are carrier capacities or ratings, but the vehicle, hitch and receiver setup also have limits.

Follow the vehicle and hitch maker's instructions, and account for the carrier's own weight when checking the allowed load.

Will an aluminum hitch cargo carrier rust?

Aluminum resists rust, but parts made from other metals still need attention. The MaxxHaul 70108 has a steel under support frame, so inspect that area and its connections.

Keep the carrier clean and dry, and follow the care advice for the exact model.

What should I compare besides steel versus aluminum?

Compare the basket's usable dimensions, rail height, receiver size, carrier weight and tie-down points. Then check your vehicle and hitch limits.

A wider basket can fit bulky items better, but it can also affect rear access and clearance, so measure the cargo and vehicle first.