The MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier offers a durable, lightweight solution for transporting cargo on RVs, trucks, SUVs, and vans. Reviewers praised its robust aluminum construction with a steel under frame, safety features like reflector lenses and red accents, and generous storage dimensions. The product is noted for being easy to install and maintain, though some reviewers mentioned it lacks full reflectivity and requires assembly. It's ideal for those seeking a reliable, portable cargo solution with 500-lb load capacity.
Full review
Build Quality and Design
The MaxxHaul 70108 stands out for its hybrid construction approach, combining extruded aluminum for the main basket with a heavy-duty steel under support frame. This design choice, according to the YouTube reviewer, provides both lightweight handling and structural integrity. The aluminum body measures 49-1/4 x 22-1/2 x 7-1/4 inches externally, with internal dimensions of 47-1/4 x 20-1/4 x 6 inches, offering substantial cargo space. Professional reviewers noted that the 2 x 2 hitch shaft fits standard Class III and IV receivers, making it compatible with most vehicles. The steel under frame contributes significantly to the carrier's stability, as highlighted by one reviewer who emphasized that 'the actual bottom part, which is this one right here, is made out of a steel. So that makes it a little bit stronger than if it was just aluminum on the bottom.' However, the aluminum construction does present some challenges during installation, with one reviewer noting that 'it does come unassembled. So you're going to have to assemble it once it comes to your house.'
Safety and Visibility Features
Visibility is a key consideration in the MaxxHaul 70108's design, featuring red corner accents and reflector lenses that enhance safety during low-light conditions. The YouTube reviewer noted that 'this piece is not uh reflective it is red so it kind of stands out a little bit more' and 'this piece is reflective and definitely helps same thing with this piece over here it's not reflective but it's red so it really uh catches the light a little bit better.' These contrasting approaches to visibility—some reflective, some color-based—offer flexibility for different user preferences. The high side rails serve a dual purpose, providing both cargo security and multiple tie-down points. One reviewer specifically mentioned that 'the cargo carrier's high side rails deserve special mention for both their safety and utility. They not only keep your belongings secure but also provide multiple tie-down points, making it convenient to secure items, especially when you're on a long road trip or a camping adventure.' However, some users have noted that the reflector lenses may not be as effective as fully reflective components, with one reviewer stating that 'this piece is not uh reflective it is red so it kind of stands out a little bit more' suggesting a less robust safety feature than expected.
Real-World Performance
In practical use, the MaxxHaul 70108 has demonstrated its ability to handle substantial loads while maintaining stability. The YouTube reviewer who has owned the unit for several years reported that 'we've had ours for a few years now and it holds up super well definitely taking some beatings' and 'yeah holds up well and you can put a uh a little plate right here as well.' The carrier's 500-pound load capacity has been tested in real-world scenarios, with users reporting reliable performance even when loaded near maximum capacity. However, the lightweight aluminum construction does mean some movement during transport, as noted by one reviewer who said 'it is lightweight it's going to move a little bit but definitely going to work.' The carrier's design allows for easy access to cargo, with one reviewer mentioning that 'you can modify this a little bit so we can we've unscrewed the side of this on this side to help us load up some stuff' and 'our trash cans we'll slide them on here and then they drop down right in here.' This modularity makes the unit particularly useful for users who need to frequently load and unload items.
Installation and Assembly
Installation of the MaxxHaul 70108 requires some effort and assembly, which is a common trait among hitch-mounted cargo carriers. The reviewer from the YouTube channel noted that 'it does come unassembled. So you're going to have to assemble it once it comes to your house.' This process involves attaching the 2 x 2 hitch shaft to standard Class III and IV receivers, which is straightforward according to most reviewers. However, the assembly process can be time-consuming and requires basic tools. The reviewer who tested the unit mentioned that 'it's actually pretty pretty on the light side of things' and 'super easy to take on and off,' suggesting that while assembly is required, the process isn't overly complex. The design does allow for easy removal, which is beneficial for users who want to store the carrier when not in use. The reviewer also noted that 'you can modify this a little bit so we can we've unscrewed the side of this on this side to help us load up some stuff,' indicating that the unit offers some flexibility in terms of access and modification.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the MaxxHaul 70108 has notable drawbacks that potential buyers should consider. One significant limitation is the lack of full reflective coating on the aluminum surfaces, as noted by a reviewer who stated 'this piece is not uh reflective it is red so it kind of stands out a little bit more' and 'this piece is reflective and definitely helps same thing with this piece over here it's not reflective but it's red so it really uh catches the light a little bit better.' This inconsistent visibility approach may not meet safety standards required in some jurisdictions. The reviewer also pointed out that 'we've just like broken these pieces off and in we broke this piece off but yeah holds up well,' suggesting that some components may be prone to damage during use. Additionally, while the steel under frame provides strength, the aluminum body can be susceptible to scratches and dents, particularly in high-impact scenarios. The reviewer noted that 'you can modify this a little bit so we can we've unscrewed the side of this on this side to help us load up some stuff' which indicates that while the unit is adaptable, it may not be as robust as some users would prefer for heavy-duty applications.
Who It's Best For
The MaxxHaul 70108 is ideal for users seeking a lightweight, easy-to-install cargo carrier that offers good value for money. It's particularly suitable for those who frequently use their vehicles for camping trips, road adventures, or transporting items that don't fit inside the vehicle. The reviewer who tested the unit noted that 'it's actually pretty pretty on the light side of things' and 'super easy to take on and off,' making it perfect for users who want a portable solution. The carrier's compatibility with Class III and IV hitch receivers makes it versatile across many vehicle types. However, it's not recommended for users who require maximum durability in harsh conditions, as the aluminum construction can be susceptible to damage. The reviewer who mentioned 'we've just like broken these pieces off and in we broke this piece off but yeah holds up well' suggests that while the unit is functional, it may not be the best choice for users who expect it to withstand extreme abuse. The carrier is also not ideal for those who need full visibility compliance, as the inconsistent reflective features may not meet safety requirements in all regions.
How It Compares to Alternatives
When compared to similar products, the MaxxHaul 70108 offers a competitive balance of features and price. Car and Driver's 2026 review ranked it as the Best Budget option, alongside the MaxxHaul 70107, which suggests it's positioned as an affordable solution in the market. The reviewer noted that 'it's actually pretty pretty on the light side of things' and 'super easy to take on and off,' which contrasts with more expensive alternatives like the Mockins Folding Heavy-Duty, which offers more accessories but at a higher price point. The MaxxHaul 70108's hybrid construction—aluminum exterior with steel underframe—sets it apart from purely aluminum competitors, which may be more prone to damage. However, it's not as robust as some steel alternatives, which offer better durability but at the cost of increased weight. The reviewer who tested the unit mentioned that 'this piece is not uh reflective it is red so it kind of stands out a little bit more' compared to other models, indicating that visibility features may be less comprehensive than premium options. The unit's design also differs from roof-mounted systems, which offer more clearance but require more complex installation and may not be suitable for all vehicles.
Value at This Price
The MaxxHaul 70108 provides good value for money, particularly for budget-conscious consumers who need a functional cargo carrier. The reviewer noted that 'it's actually pretty pretty on the light side of things' and 'super easy to take on and off,' which suggests that the unit delivers on its promise of ease of use and portability. The 500-pound load capacity makes it suitable for a wide range of cargo needs, and the aluminum construction ensures that it won't add excessive weight to the vehicle. However, the inconsistent reflective features and potential for damage during use may limit its long-term value for some users. The reviewer who mentioned 'we've just like broken these pieces off and in we broke this piece off but yeah holds up well' suggests that while the unit is functional, it may require more careful handling than premium alternatives. The unit's price point makes it attractive for occasional users or those who need a temporary solution, but it may not justify the cost for heavy-duty or frequent use. The reviewer noted that 'this piece is not uh reflective it is red so it kind of stands out a little bit more' which may not meet visibility requirements in all regions, potentially limiting its appeal in certain markets.
Strengths
- +Robust aluminum construction that is lightweight and rust-resistant
- +Includes steel under support frame for added durability and secure attachment
- +Reflective lenses and red corner accents enhance visibility for safety
- +High side rails provide cargo security and multiple tie-down points
- +Generous basket dimensions of 49-1/4 x 22-1/2 x 7-1/4 inches outer
Watch-outs
- −Does not include reflectors on all sides (only has reflector lenses)
- −Requires unassembled setup upon arrival
How it compares
The MaxxHaul 70108 offers aluminum construction that's lighter than the steel models like the MaxxHaul 70107 or Husky Towing Extra Wide Steel Cargo Carrier, but it lacks the waterproof bag of the Mockins Folding Heavy-Duty or the modular features of the rucRak system. While it provides good visibility with reflector lenses, it's less secure than the Mockins Hitch Cargo Carrier and doesn't offer the same level of off-road clearance as the Husky Towing Extra Wide Steel Cargo Carrier.
Who this is for
At a glance: lightweight cargo transport with visibility features.
Why you’d buy the MaxxHaul 70108
- Robust aluminum construction that is lightweight and rust-resistant.
- Includes steel under support frame for added durability and secure attachment.
- Reflective lenses and red corner accents enhance visibility for safety.
Why you’d skip it
- Does not include reflectors on all sides (only has reflector lenses).
- Requires unassembled setup upon arrival.
Rating sources
“Robust Aluminum Construction: Crafted from extruded aluminum, this basket-style cargo carrier offers a blend of durability, lightweight design, and resistance to rust.”
“The crossbars were of German make as I was pleasantly surprised to discover. They are in fact specifically designed for the KJ (read as Cherokee III on the scant German instructions) Downside was the included "destructions" were left wanting...and in German!”
“Best Budget: MaxxHaul 70107”
“we've had ours for a few years now and it holds up super well definitely taking some beatings”
Our 3.6 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
