Do Cargo Carriers Need To Be Registered Like a Trailer

Published 11/21/2015

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Question:

Do you need a Register cargo carriers as a trailer?

asked by: Brian

Expert Reply:

The Flint Hill Goods # FHG69ZR Cargo Carrier isn't a trailer. Rather than being towed behind the vehicle, the carrier attaches to the 2-inch trailer hitch. The carrier doesn't have wheels or a VIN number, so it doesn't meet the legal definition of a trailer.

However, there are two possible legal ramifications of using a cargo carrier.

1) If the carrier or the items placed on it blocks the taillights, you'll want to install a light kit on the carrier. We offer an LED lamp kit as part # 98174LED. You'd also need to add two lamp brackets, part # BK70BB.

2) If the carrier or its cargo blocks the license plate, you might consider adding a license plate lamp/plate holder like # LPL55CB to the carrier.

You'll need a 4-pole trailer connector installed on the vehicle in order to power the lamp kit and/or the license plate lamp/holder. If you'd care to reply with the year/make/model of your vehicle, I'd be happy to make a specific wiring recommendation.