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Rust-free aluminum cargo carrier with 500 lb capacity
Last reviewed: March 2026
At a glance
Why this product
The CURT 18131 delivers 500 lb capacity in aluminum at just 25 lbs — rust-free and lightweight with a 2" shank. Here's the thing: for the price, this is one of the most practical hitch carriers available. The downside? No folding mechanism, no anti-wobble hardware included, and the open platform means everything needs straps and a cargo net.
Detailed specs
| Receiver Size | 5.1 cm |
| Platform Length | 124 cm |
| Platform Width | 56 cm |
| Foldable | Yes |
| Ramp Included | No |
| Side Rails | No |
| Anti-Wobble Included | No |
| Tailgate Clearance | Yes |
| Carrier Weight | 11 kg |
| Reflector Included | Yes |
| License Plate Holder | No |
Best prices
| Retailer | Price | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon US | Check price | Check availability | Check Price |
Disclosure: MyCargoRacks.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Disclosure: MyCargoRacks.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Lightweight aluminum cargo carrier, 500 lbs capacity, 2" shank.
Price may vary. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Performance analysis
vs. average in cargo_carrier
Price vs. score for all cargo_carrier
Fitment
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equinox(4th Gen (EV)) | 2024+ | good | |
| Tahoe(5th Gen) | 2021+ | good | |
What the experts say
Michael Rollins· Chief Editor
Hands-on testedCommunity feedback
Based on 2345 reviews
Alternatives
Most relevant alternatives to CURT 18131 Aluminum Cargo Carrier
| Silverado 1500(4th Gen (T1)) |
| 2019+ |
| good |
| Colorado(3rd Gen) | 2023+ | good |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bronco(6th Gen) | 2021+ | good | |
| Explorer(6th Gen) | 2020+ | good | |
| Escape(4th Gen) | 2020+ | workable | |
| Maverick(1st Gen) | 2022+ | workable | |
| F-150(14th Gen) | 2021+ | good |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| HR-V(3rd Gen) | 2023+ | workable | |
| Pilot(4th Gen) | 2023+ | good | |
| CR-V(6th Gen) | 2023+ | good | |
| CR-V(5th Gen) | 2017–2022 | good |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tucson(4th Gen (NX4)) | 2022+ | good | |
| Santa Fe(5th Gen) | 2024+ | good |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Cherokee(WL) | 2022+ | good | |
| Wrangler(JL) | 2018+ | good |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sportage(5th Gen) | 2023+ | good | |
| Telluride(1st Gen) | 2020+ | good |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rogue(3rd Gen (T33)) | 2021+ | good |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1500(5th Gen (DT)) | 2019+ | good |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forester(5th Gen (SK)) | 2019–2024 | good | |
| Forester(6th Gen) | 2025+ | good | |
| Outback(6th Gen) | 2020+ | good | |
| Crosstrek(3rd Gen) | 2024+ | workable |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model Y(1st Gen) | 2020+ | workable |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4Runner(5th Gen (N280)) | 2010–2024 | good | |
| Corolla Cross(1st Gen) | 2022+ | workable | |
| Tacoma(4th Gen) | 2024+ | good | |
| 4Runner(6th Gen) | 2025+ | good | |
| Tacoma(3rd Gen) | 2016–2023 | good | |
| RAV4(6th Gen) | 2025+ | good | |
| Tundra(3rd Gen) | 2022+ | good | |
| Highlander(4th Gen) | 2020+ | good | |
| RAV4(5th Gen (XA50)) | 2019–2024 | good |
The CURT 18131 aluminum cargo carrier solves the number one complaint about hitch carriers: rust. Aluminum construction means it will never rust, even without treatment. At 500 lbs capacity, it matches steel carriers. The trade-off is a slightly thinner feel underfoot, but the weight rating holds.
Buyers in rainy or salty climates who are tired of rusty steel carriers
Those who want the cheapest possible carrier — steel options cost less upfront
Pay a small premium for aluminum and never think about rust again. The 18131 is the smart long-term choice.
Tested on: 2024 Ford F-150, 2023 Chevrolet Silverado · 8 months
Based on 89 reviews