Can a Roof Cargo Box be Legally Carried on a Trailer Hitch Mounted Cargo Carrier

Updated 11/16/2015 | Published 11/15/2015

Products Featured in This Question

19x47 Curt Cargo Carrier for 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Steel - 300 lbs

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Erickson Re-Tractable Ratchet Straps w/ Push Button Releases - 1" x 6' - 500 lbs - Qty 4

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$44.91

Cable Lock for Rightline Gear Cargo Bags - 35" Long

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Question:

Thinking of purchasing the Pro Series hitch carrier to supplement the cargo capacity of our 2012 Mazda 5. We have a spare roof box and Im wondering if its legal to mount it on a hitch carrier to allow lockable-weatherproof storage? I have not found anyone on the net that has done the same. Im pretty sure the carrier/box dimensions would not block the license plate or tail lights.

asked by: Jim P

Helpful Expert Reply:

When carried on a trailer hitch mounted cargo carrier such as # C18110 or any cargo carrier, your cargo box would be considered the load on it and not necessarily part of the cargo carrier assembly. As such it would be legal provided that the cargo box is properly secured to the cargo carrier.

If you do not want the box permanently mounted to the carrier you could use ratchet straps, such as # EM34420 to secure it to the carrier.

Another option is to us a cargo bag on the carrier, # e98990. To be able to keep it locked you could add Rightline lock # RL100640. I have linked videos of the bag and lock for you.

expert reply by: Michael H