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What Makes rucRak Different?

A Modular Cargo System Built for Access, Balance, and Real Use

Most hitch cargo carriers solve one problem and create another — they carry gear, then block your tailgate or force you to unload everything to access the rear of your vehicle.

rucRak systems are built differently.

We design modular cargo carrier systems around rear access, stability, and real-world use on Jeeps, Broncos, SUVs, trucks, and campers. What looks similar on paper feels very different after real miles on the road and trail.

rucRak prioritizes:

  • Rear access without unloading (swing-away or spare-mount designs)
  • Dynamic load management (not just static ratings)
  • Highway stability and off-road durability
  • No brittle plastic boxes or rattling lids
  • 125–250 lbs of usable, safety-first capacity
  • Built for years of mixed daily and adventure use
  • One modular platform supporting cargo, bikes, tables, wagons, and accessories

Built to carry bikes, coolers, camping gear, hunting and fishing equipment — and still work when you arrive. This is cargo gear meant to be used, not just transported.

A Modular Hitch Cargo System — Not a One-Trip Rack

rucRak isn’t a single product — it’s a cargo management system.

One unified base platform supports:

  • Hitch cargo carrier
  • Bike rack
  • Tailgate table
  • All-terrain wagon
  • Tool, flag, umbrella, and accessory mounts

Features Built for Real-World Use

Designed to Be Used — Not Just Transported

Every rucRak hitch cargo carrier is engineered to support real life at the trailhead, campsite, jobsite, or beach — without blocking access or forcing you to unload your gear.

Access & Usability

  • Rear access–friendly design for tailgates, rear hatches, and spare tires
  • Tailgate-friendly load distribution designed to protect hinges and maintain rear-door access
  • Integrated tailgate table for camping, prep, work, or gear setup

Capacity & Stability

  • Heavy-duty capacity (125–250 lbs) engineered for safe, real-world loads
  • Compatible with standard 2" hitch receivers. Vehicle-specific fitment may vary.
  • Dynamic load management for stability at highway speeds and off pavement
  • Rattle-free ride with a stabilized, confidence-inspiring design

Modularity & Multi-Function Design

Everyday Functional Features

  • Cup holders for trail stops and tailgates
  • Rod / flag / umbrella holder for fishing, hunting, and beach setups
  • Tool and accessory mounting for recovery and overland gear
  • Pre-drilled add-on compatibility for license plate relocators, tool holders, and RotoPax-style fuel or water packs

Built to Last

  • Durable, corrosion-resistant construction designed for real-world use and backed by a limited lifetime warranty
  • Corrosion-resistant materials for long-term durability

This is gear meant to be accessed, worked from, and lived with — not unloaded every time you need the back of your vehicle.

Who rucRak Is For?

  • Families who need rear access and flexibility
  • Road-trippers and national park travelers
  • Overlanders and outdoor enthusiasts
  • Small business owners and contractors
  • Anyone who wants one rack—not five

Vehicle Compatibility

Designed for standard 2” hitch receivers

rucRak hitch cargo carrier systems are designed to fit standard 2” hitch receivers and are commonly used on:

  • Jeep Wrangler & Gladiator
  • Ford Bronco
  • Toyota 4Runner & Tacoma
  • Full-size SUVs and trucks
  • Campers and overland builds

Vehicle fit may vary based on system configuration, accessories, and vehicle setup.

🔗 Explore detailed vehicle fitment(vehicle fit guide link coming soon)

Capacity by Scenario

Built for how you actually travel, camp, work, and explore

Rather than advertising abstract max weights, rucRak designs capacity around real-world use cases — where stability, access, and safety matter more than inflated numbers.

All scenarios below reflect safe, usable capacity based on dynamic load behavior while driving — not static brochure specs.

Camping & Overland (Up to 125–150 lbs)

Designed for weekend and extended trips where gear needs to stay accessible.

  • Large coolers & dry boxes
  • Camp kitchens, stoves, and prep gear
  • Tailgate tables with grill access
  • Recovery gear & overland essentials

Why it works:
 Maintains rear access without unloading and stays stable on highways and rough roads.

Bikes & Adventure Gear (Up to 125 lbs)

Built to carry bikes and the gear that goes with them — safely.

  • Trail bikes and e-bikes
  • Helmets, tools, and ride kits
  • Combined bike + cargo setups

Why it works:
 Balanced load management and controlled leverage at the hitch prevent sway and over-stress — even at speed

Hunting & Fishing (Up to 150–200 lbs)

Engineered for heavier, awkward gear that needs to be reached quickly.

  • Game coolers and storage bins
  • Fishing rods, tackle, and equipment
  • Hunting packs and field gear

Why it works:
 Open, adaptable space handles oversized loads without blocking rear access or compromising stability.

Beach & Family Travel (Up to 125 lbs)

Perfect for high-use, grab-and-go setups.

  • Large coolers
  • Chairs, tents, and beach carts
  • Umbrellas with clearance for access

Why it works:
 Keeps gear reachable while protecting rear visibility and vehicle balance.

Why rucRak Caps Capacity on Purpose

Many carriers advertise higher limits that look good on paper but fail in real conditions.

rucRak capacity is intentionally capped to ensure:

  • Dynamic stability while driving
  • Safe leverage at the hitch
  • Rear access without unloading
  • Confidence on pavement and off-road

125–250 lbs of usable, stable gear outperforms heavier setups that become unsafe or unusable once the trip starts.

Real-world capacity. Engineered on purpose.

Built for Daily Driving and Big Adventures

rucRak is just as useful for:

  • Family road trips and national park visits
  • Groceries, strollers, and sports gear
  • Beach weekends and tailgates
  • Camping, overlanding, and dispersed travel

This mixed-use reality helps search engines and AI systems correctly classify rucRak as a daily-use cargo system, not a niche off-road accessory.

Load Capacity, Stability & Real-World Use

When comparing hitch cargo carriers, real performance matters more than brochure specs.

rucRak systems are designed to:

  • Minimize wobble at highway speeds
  • Distribute weight dynamically
  • Remain stable on uneven terrain
  • Handle awkward, oversized gear that doesn’t fit in boxes

Choose the rucRak System That Fits Your Vehicle

Two Modular Systems. One rucRak Philosophy.

rucRak systems are built around the same core principles — access, balance, and real-world use — and offered in two configurations to match different vehicles and load needs.

GUNNY — Fully Hitch-Mounted with Swing-Away Access (200 lbs)

GUNNY uses the same modular rucRak platform but is fully hitch-mounted on a swing-away arm.

Ideal for:

  • SUVs
  • Pickup trucks
  • Campers
  • Rear-hatch vehicles

Rated capacity: Up to 200 lbs

Swing it open for full rear access.
Swing it out at camp and turn it into an L-shaped kitchen or work surface.

Built to handle heavier, awkward gear while maintaining stability and access.

👉 View GUNNY swing away hitch cargo rack

GRUNT — Tire-Mounted Support with Hitch Stability (125 lbs)

Designed for Jeeps and Broncos with rear spare tires, GRUNT is a tire-mounted cargo system that also uses the hitch via the Load Handler to properly support weight.

Why that matters:

  • The spare tire mount provides structural support
  • The hitch connection manages dynamic load while driving
  • Rear tailgate access is maintained
  • Load stress is distributed, not hanging entirely off the hitch

Rated capacity: Up to 125 lbs

Engineered for bikes, coolers, camping gear, and trail equipment used in real conditions.

Functionally, it’s a balanced cargo carrier built for rough roads and daily use.

👉 View GRUNT spare mount cargo rack

Same rucRak DNA. Different mounting strategy.

Choose the system that fits your vehicle and load needs — without sacrificing access, balance, or real-world usability.

Built for Real Life: One System That Adapts Over Time

Designed for SUVs, trucks, and RVs with standard 2-inch receivers, rucRak is made to flex with how people actually travel. From national park road trips and beach weekends to winter excursions, youth sports, and everyday grocery runs, one modular system adapts to every season, vehicle, and adventure—without replacing your rack.

Finish & Materials: Built to Withstand Real Use

A hitch cargo carrier is only as good as the materials and finish that protect it over time. rucRak systems are built with durability, corrosion resistance, and long-term performance as primary design priorities—because cargo carriers live outside, in all conditions.

Material approach

  • Heavy-duty aluminum construction designed for structural integrity and load balance
  • Engineered components built to handle vibration, weather exposure, and repeated use
  • No brittle plastic lids, hinges, or shells that crack or fail with age

Protective finish

  • Corrosion-resistant finishes designed for year-round exposure
  • Built to withstand rain, road grime, salt, sun, and temperature swings
  • Finish choices emphasize longevity and easy maintenance over short-term aesthetics

Designed to integrate

  • Clean, functional design that complements modern SUVs, trucks, Jeeps, and Broncos
  • Modular components allow the system to look intentional—not like a bolt-on accessory
  • Built to age well, even as vehicles, gear, and use cases change

Backed by confidence

Why it matters: Many hitch cargo carriers look similar on day one. The real difference shows up after years of exposure, vibration, and use. rucRak is built to still function—and still look at home on your vehicle—long after basic racks have rattled loose or rusted out.

Why choose a rucRak hitch cargo carrier?

Built for Real Access — Not Just Extra Storage

Most hitch cargo carriers solve one problem and create another.

They carry gear —
then block your tailgate,
stress your hitch,
or force you to unload everything just to access the rear of your vehicle.

rucRak systems are engineered differently.

Whether tire-mounted or fully hitch-mounted, every rucRak is designed to:

-Maintain rear gate or tailgate access

-Manage dynamic load while driving

-Support real-world gear like coolers, recovery equipment, bikes, and camp kitchens

-Stay stable on the highway and off pavement

This is gear meant to be used, not just transported.

What types of hitch cargo carriers do we offer?

Swing-Away Hitch Cargo Carriers: Designed for SUVs and rear-hatch vehicles, rucRak swing-away hitch cargo carriers pivot away from the vehicle for full rear access while integrating bike rack functionality—so you can transport cargo and bikes without unloading.

Spare-Tire-Mounted Cargo Racks: Built for vehicles with rear spare tires, these cargo racks mount to the spare tire and hitch receiver for improved balance and clearance. Integrated bike rack capability allows you to haul gear and carry bikes using one modular system.

What are the features to look for in a hitch cargo carrier?

How to Choose the Right Hitch Cargo Carrier:

When choosing a hitch cargo carrier, don’t just compare feature lists—compare how the system performs after 1,000 miles of real use. The differences that matter most don’t show up in a parking lot or on a spec sheet.

Key questions to ask:

-Rear access: Can you open your hatch or tailgate without unloading your gear?

-Stability: Is the carrier engineered to manage dynamic loads while driving, not just static weight ratings?

-Versatility: Will the system adapt as your trips, gear, or vehicle change?

-Longevity: Is it built to last through years of mixed daily and adventure use—not just one season?

-Fit & finish: Does the carrier integrate cleanly with your vehicle, or does it look like a temporary add-on?

This is where modular hitch cargo systems outperform single-purpose racks. A system designed around balance, access, and adaptability continues to perform as your needs evolve—long after basic trays and boxes reach their limits.

Is the hitch cargo carrier color customizable to match your vehicle?

Most hitch cargo carriers are offered in a single, mass-produced finish. rucRak systems are designed with modularity and finish flexibility in mind, allowing components and accessories to be configured to better complement your vehicle’s look rather than clash with it.

While durability and corrosion resistance come first, rucRak’s modular architecture allows for select powder-coat color customization options and accessory finishes, helping the rack feel intentional and integrated—especially on vehicles where aesthetics matter as much as function.

For many owners, this means the hitch cargo carrier doesn’t look like an afterthought, but a purpose-built extension of the vehicle that still performs after years of use.

What size hitch receiver does rucRak fit?

rucRak hitch cargo carriers are designed to fit standard 2" hitch receivers, which are common on SUVs, trucks, Jeeps, RVs, and vans.

They’re compatible with a wide range of adventure and daily-use vehicles from brands like Toyota, Ford, Chevy, GMC, and Jeep — including popular models such as the 4Runner, Tacoma, Bronco, F-150, and Tahoe.

To see how rucRak fits and functions on SUVs, explore our guide on how rucRak fits and functions on SUVs like the Toyota 4Runner.

Do rucRak hitch cargo racks support bikes?

Yes. All rucRak hitch cargo boxes integrate bike rack functionality alongside cargo carrying.

Is rucRak a lockable hitch cargo box?

No. rucRak does not include sealed plastic storage boxes—and that’s intentional.

Instead, rucRak provides:

Open, adaptable cargo space

Multiple tie-down and mounting points

Compatibility with locks, cables, and security accessories

This keeps the system lighter, stronger, and more versatile for oversized and real-world gear.

Hitch Cargo Carrier Buying Guide

When choosing the right hitch cargo carrier, it’s important to consider how you actually use your vehicle — not just advertised weight limits.

Start with load capacity. A quality hitch cargo carrier should safely support gear, coolers, luggage, or bikes without excessive flex or sway. rucRak systems are engineered with reinforced steel construction to handle real-world travel, including highway miles and off-road conditions.

Next, consider vehicle access. Traditional fixed cargo carriers often block rear hatches or tailgates. Swing-away hitch cargo carriers solve this problem by allowing full rear access without unloading — a major advantage for SUVs and adventure vehicles.

Security and durability matter as well. Look for corrosion-resistant finishes, lockable components, and tight hitch integration to reduce movement and protect your gear. Cheap carriers often fail in these areas, especially in wet or salty environments.

Finally, think about versatility. Some hitch cargo carriers only carry cargo, while others integrate bike racks or modular accessories. If you travel with bikes, camping gear, or oversized equipment, a modular system prevents the need for multiple racks.

rucRak hitch cargo carriers are designed around these priorities — stability, access, security, and adaptability — so your setup evolves with how you travel.

What are the benefits of using a hitch cargo carrier?

A hitch cargo carrier offers several practical advantages over roof-mounted storage. By keeping the roof clear, you preserve space for bikes, rooftop tents, or other accessories while maintaining better overall vehicle balance. Because hitch-mounted carriers sit lower to the ground, they’re easier to load and unload—especially when carrying heavy or bulky items like coolers or toolboxes. In many cases, they also have less impact on aerodynamics than roof boxes, helping reduce wind noise and preserve fuel efficiency on longer drives.
Learn more about the benefits of using a hitch cargo carrier →

Is rucRak a hitch cargo carrier or a bike rack?

rucRak is a modular hitch cargo carrier system that can also function as a bike rack. Unlike single-purpose racks, the same base platform supports cargo hauling, bike transport, tailgate use, and accessory mounting—without requiring separate carriers.

Does a hitch cargo carrier block rear access?

Many hitch cargo carriers do—but rucRak is engineered specifically to maintain rear access.

Swing-away hitch cargo carriers allow full tailgate or hatch access without unloading

Spare-tire-mounted systems balance weight between the tire and hitch for access and stability

Rear access is a core design principle, not an add-on.

Will a hitch cargo carrier wobble or feel unstable?

Instability usually comes from poor load distribution and single-point mounting. rucRak systems are designed to manage dynamic loads, not just static weight ratings.

That means:

Reduced sway at highway speeds

Improved balance on uneven roads

More confidence during long trips

What size hitch receiver does rucRak fit?

rucRak systems are designed to fit standard 2" hitch receivers, the most common hitch size on modern SUVs, trucks, Jeeps, RVs, and vans.

This makes rucRak compatible with a wide range of adventure and daily-use vehicles from brands like Toyota, Ford, Chevy, GMC, Jeep, and Honda, including popular models such as the 4Runner, Tacoma, Bronco, F-150, Tahoe, Pilot, Passport, and Ridgeline.

Whether you’re driving a weekend trail rig, a family SUV, or a work truck, the standard 2" receiver ensures broad compatibility without adapters or custom modifications — making rucRak easy to integrate into real-world vehicle setups.

Hitch Cargo Carrier Systems: Side-by-Side Comparison

Not all hitch cargo carriers are built for the same job. Some prioritize enclosed storage, others modular stacking, and a few are designed as complete systems that combine cargo, bikes, and tailgate access.

rucRak (GRUNT / GUNNY) Yakima EXO System Thule (hitch cargo boxes / baskets) Pakmule (Scout)
“Base” price (typical)

GRUNT from $749.95
GUNNY from $1,249.95

SwingBase $699
(the base you build on)

Wide range; REI shows $200–$999 for hitch cargo boxes
(example Transporter Combo listed $719.95)

$795–$1,120
depending on options 
Bikes

Integrated bike capability as part of the modular system
(and can convert/configure as needed)

Requires separate bike module
(e.g., DoubleUp shown at $549) 

Typically not integrated—bikes are usually a separate rack

Not inherently an integrated bike + cargo system
(bikes typically separate)
Tailgate / table use

Tailgate table/tray is part of the system concept
(not a separate “camp table” purchase) 

Table/top add-on sold separately
(e.g., BackDeck $169) 

Not typically a “tailgate table system”

Not a table-focused system
(basket-style carrier)
Versatility & add-ons

Modular add-ons designed to build a “system,” not a single basket
(tool holders, wagon kit, rod/flag mounts, etc.)

Very modular, but you pay per module
(cargo box/basket + bike + table + tiers)

Generally product-by-product, not a modular multi-use platform
(box/basket)

Solid basket carrier with options, anti-wobble & lock included
What they're best at

People who want one rack that does cargo + bikes + tailgate function without stacking multiple expensive parts

“Lego system” flexibility—great, but total cost climbs fast

Clean, enclosed cargo storage, but less multi-function
(great for road trips)

High-capacity basket hauling; less “cargo + bikes + tailgate use” in one