When moving two vehicles or coordinating heavy gear, the right trailer accessories matter. This guide highlights top picks that help you secure, haul, and protect cars using a 2-car setup. The best fits vary by cargo type, vehicle size, and user needs—ranging from heavy-duty hitch cargo carriers to reliable tie-down strap kits. The following selections are chosen for stability, durability, and practical use on typical American highways.
| Product | Type | Best For | Why Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| MaxxHaul 70107 | Hitch Cargo Carrier | Base hauling platform for small to mid-sized cars | High weight capacity and generous basket size for versatile cargo |
| MaxxHaul 70108 | Aluminum Cargo Carrier | Lightweight, rust-resistant option with high sides | Sturdy underframe and safety features for better visibility and security |
| KJE Heavy Duty Car Trailer Tie Down Straps | 4 Pack 2″ x 8′ Ratchet Straps | Secure vehicle stability during transport | 10,000 lbs break strength and corrosion-protected hardware |
| Trekassy 2″ x 144″ Tie Downs | Tire and axle straps | Direct vehicle restraint for trailers | High break strength (10,000 lbs) and wheel-sparing design |
| Autofonder Car Hauler Tie Down Straps | 4-Pack 2″ x 114″ Straps | General purpose, multiple-vehicle use | Non-abrasive, abrasion-protective design for wheel rims |
MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Hitch Cargo Carrier
Best for: Small to mid-sized car transport on a hitch-equipped vehicle. This 53 x 19.5-inch basket with 5-inch high sides provides ample space while maintaining a manageable footprint on the hitch rack. The 500-pound load capacity supports common car-hauling scenarios without overloading the hitch.
- Weight capacity: Up to 500 pounds (distributed)
- Basket size: Outer 53 x 19 x 5 inches; Inner 51 x 17.5 x 4.5 inches
- Construction: Heavy-duty steel for durability
Caution: Ensure the hitch receiver is rated for the total vehicle and cargo weight and follow local regulations on hitch-mounted carriers. Not ideal for high-center or oversized loads beyond the stated capacity.
MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails
Best for: Those who need a durable, rust-resistant carrier with easier handling and high visibility. The light aluminum basket lowers overall weight, aiding fuel economy and handling, while the steel underframe adds robust attachment.
- Material: Extruded aluminum with steel underframe
- Weight capacity: 500 pounds
- Safety features: Reflector lenses and red corner accents for visibility
Caution: Aluminum construction is strong yet may not match the sheer weight tolerance of steel carriers in extreme loads. Check hitch compatibility and ensure secure tie-downs.
KJE Heavy Duty Car Trailer Tie Down Straps 4 Pack
Best for: Securing a car on a trailer or carrier with reliable ratchet straps. These 2″ x 8′ straps provide a 10,000-lb break strength, with corrosion-protected hardware and safety features like anti-slip J-hooks and clips.
- Material: Polyester webbing with metal hardware
- Strength: 10,000 lbs break strength
- Extras: Zinc-plated components for corrosion resistance
Limitation: Straps should be used with appropriate anchor points; verify fit for your specific trailer rails and wheel contact points to prevent wheel damage or slippage.
Trekassy 2″ x 144″ Car Tie Down Straps Set
Best for: Vehicles on a trailer or hauler that require careful wheel protection alongside strong restraint. Includes four axle straps and four tire straps for comprehensive securing. The straps are rated with a 10,000-pound break strength and have protective sleeves to prevent wheel damage.
- Includes: 4 axle straps and 4 tire straps
- Rating: 10,000 lbs break strength
- Wheel protection: Non-abrasive design and protective sleeves
Choose this if you want a complete tie-down kit that minimizes wheel wear during transport. Avoid if you need shorter strap lengths for tight trailer spaces.
Autofonder Car Hauler Tie Down Straps 4-Pack
Best for: General car-hauling use with emphasis on wheel protection and ease of operation. The straps feature non-abrasive contact points and a ratchet end that comfortably tensions for secure fit. The pack includes four straps with snap-hook hardware for versatile attachment.
- Non-abrasive wheel contact pads
- Snap hooks for quick, secure anchoring
- 2″ width with ample length for various trailer layouts
Limitation: While versatile, ensure the strap length and ratchet torque fit your trailer’s deck and anchor points to avoid insufficient tension or strap slack.
Buying Guide
What should I consider when choosing a 2-car hauler setup?
Try to balance payload capacity, hitch compatibility, and overall weight. If you regularly haul two cars, a combination of a sturdy carrier plus robust tie-down straps is essential. Consider the weight of the carrier itself, as steel units add mass, while aluminum options save weight but may differ in durability for extreme loads.
What kind of carrier is best for two vehicles?
For two cars, a wide, stable platform with high-side rails helps secure items and limits shifting. A 53″ x ~20″ basket is a practical standard for light to mid-size cars. If weight and corrosion resistance matter, an aluminum carrier paired with reinforced straps provides a balanced solution.
How important are tie-downs and ratchets?
Critical for preventing cargo movement during transit. Choose straps with high break strength (10,000 lbs or more) and corrosion-protected hardware. Ensure the strap length and attachment points fit your trailer layout and wheel design to avoid rub or damage to rims.
What safety features improve visibility and usage?
Reflector lenses, red corner accents, and bright or contrasting materials improve visibility for road users. High side rails on carriers help contain cargo, while underframes and secure hitch shafts ensure attachment reliability.
How do I prevent wheel damage during transport?
Use non-abrasive wheel contact materials and protective sleeves on straps. Wheel-safe tie-downs minimize rim scratching and tire wear. Confirm that all straps are snug but not overtightened to avoid tire deformation or heat buildup.
Maintenance and care tips
- Inspect straps for fraying, cuts, or corrosion before each use.
- Clean metal hardware to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation of ratchets.
- Store straps in a dry place away from direct sunlight to extend life.
FAQ
- Can I haul two cars with a single hitch cargo carrier? Yes, but only if the carrier design supports load distribution required by two vehicles and the total weight is within hitch and vehicle limits.
- Are aluminum carriers worth it for two-car setups? Aluminum carriers save weight and resist corrosion, which can improve efficiency and longevity, but verify weight ratings for heavy loads.
- What’s the best way to secure a vehicle on a trailer? Use a combination of axle and tire straps with snug, even tension, and ensure all hooks are firmly anchored at solid points.
- How often should straps be replaced? Replace straps if you notice fraying, cuts, or significant wear to avoid failure during transport.
- Do I need reflective safety features on hauler devices? Safety features improve visibility and reduce risk on busy roads, especially during dawn or dusk hauls.
- Is it okay to mix products from different brands? Yes, provided you verify compatibility (weight capacities, hitch size, strap lengths) and ensure all components securely integrate.