If you want a heavy-duty, all-weather cargo solution with massive storage capacity for van life adventures, choose Mockins 60"x36"x6; if you need a specific factory-replacement hitch component for a Lincoln Mark LT to restore original towing performance, choose AUTOVIP Trailer Hitch Carrier.
These two products occupy entirely different corners of the automotive accessory market. One is a universal hauling platform designed to expand your vehicle's carrying power, while the other is a precision-fit mechanical part intended to fix or maintain an existing system on a specific truck model. Trying to compare them directly is like comparing a pickup truck bed liner to a transmission gasket; they serve fundamentally different purposes. The Mockins unit is a complete ecosystem for transporting gear, featuring a steel rack and a waterproof bag. The AUTOVIP part is a singular component focused on alignment and load distribution for a 2006–2008 Lincoln Mark LT. Understanding this distinction is the only way to make a decision that actually works for your vehicle and your needs.
• This pick is for anyone needing to transport camping gear, construction supplies, or daily essentials over long distances.
• AUTOVIP Trailer Hitch Carrier: Its biggest strength is its direct OE fitment specifically engineered for the Lincoln Mark LT 2006-2008 to ensure proper coupler-hub alignment; its trade-off is that it offers no extra storage and is useless on any vehicle outside that narrow year and model range. This pick is strictly for owners of that specific truck who need to restore factory towing function without modifying unrelated components.
The Mockins 60"x36"x6" XL Heavy Duty Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier is built for people who have outgrown their trunk space and need a reliable extension for their vehicle's rear. That is a significant amount of mass to support, meaning it is suitable for hauling heavy loads like kayaks, bicycles, luggage, or even construction materials. The dimensions of 60 inches by 36 inches provide a wide footprint, ensuring that large items can be secured flat rather than awkwardly stacked.
What sets this bundle apart from standard racks is the inclusion of the 35 cubic foot soft-shell vinyl waterproof cargo bag. This isn't just a metal basket; it is a fully enclosed storage solution measuring 58"x35"x30". The bag is constructed from durable, abrasion-resistant vinyl with reinforced seams and waterproof zippers hidden under Velcro-secured flaps. For someone living in a climate with frequent rain or snow, this feature transforms a simple metal rack into a secure, dry storage compartment. You can pack your gear inside and lock it down with the included combination lock, keeping your valuables safe from the elements and opportunistic thieves.
We compare products from their published specs and features; the verdicts below are our independent editorial opinions.
Updated: 2026-11-06 · 6 min read · Independent comparison
This product is ideal for van life enthusiasts, road trippers, and contractors who need to maximize every inch of available space. The design includes a license plate bracket with reflectors to ensure road compliance when the carrier extends past the bumper. A 2-inch shank rise improves ground clearance, which is critical when driving on uneven terrain or steep driveways. The foldable nature of the rack means you aren't stuck with a permanent obstruction when you aren't hauling anything. However, you must verify that your vehicle has a 2-inch receiver hitch capable of supporting Class III or IV loads. If your vehicle only has a smaller hitch or cannot support the 500-pound dynamic weight, this powerful carrier will not work for you.
In stark contrast, the AUTOVIP Trailer Hitch Carrier is not a storage solution or an expansion kit. It is a specialized replacement part designed exclusively for the Lincoln Mark LT models from 2006 through 2008. If you own one of these trucks and are experiencing issues with your towing setup, such as uneven operation or inconsistent performance during ordinary use, this component is the targeted fix. The core function of this part is to help restore the listed vehicle function that may have degraded due to wear. It focuses on Towing-Load Distribution and Coupler-Hub Alignment, ensuring that the connection between your vehicle and the trailer remains stable and true.
This product is for the DIY mechanic or the owner looking for a direct OE-style replacement. It does not add capacity, nor does it provide a new surface area for cargo. Instead, it provides a "focused replacement path" for the towing system. By matching the exact attachment points required by the manufacturer, it allows you to place the vehicle function back at the correct location without extending the repair work to unrelated components. The VioFitment data specifications suggest that simply entering your vehicle details confirms the exact fitment, removing the guesswork often associated with aftermarket parts.
You should skip this product entirely if you do not own a 2006-2008 Lincoln Mark LT. It has zero utility on a Ford F-150, a Chevy Silverado, or any van used for living or recreation. There is no mention of a cargo bag, a steel frame, or a high weight capacity because those features are irrelevant to its purpose. Its value lies purely in mechanical integrity and restoring the factory towing geometry. If your goal is to carry more stuff, this part will not help you. If your goal is to ensure your current tow hitch aligns correctly and distributes load evenly to prevent wear on your truck's frame, this is the specific tool for the job.
• Best for maximum cargo volume → Mockins 60"x36"x6, offering 35 cubic feet of protected space versus zero storage on the AUTOVIP part.
• Best for weather protection → Mockins 60"x36"x6, featuring a waterproof vinyl bag with sealed zippers; the AUTOVIP part is a bare mechanical component.
• Best for specific vehicle repair → AUTOVIP Trailer Hitch Carrier, but only if you drive a 2006-2008 Lincoln Mark LT.
• Best for versatility → Mockins 60"x36"x6, as it fits any vehicle with a standard 2-inch Class III/IV receiver, whereas AUTOVIP is locked to one make and model.
• Best for ground clearance → Mockins 60"x36"x6, which includes a 2-inch shank rise to prevent scraping on rough roads.
• Best for road compliance → Mockins 60"x36"x6, as it integrates a license plate bracket and reflectors; the AUTOVIP part requires you to manage lighting separately.
• Best for simplicity of installation → AUTOVIP Trailer Hitch Carrier, designed for direct fitment with matching attachment points, assuming the rest of the system is intact.
For the vast majority of buyers looking to expand their vehicle's capabilities, I would buy the Mockins 60"x36"x6. The inclusion of straps, locks, and a license plate bracket makes it a complete package ready for the road. While the AUTOVIP part serves a valid niche for Lincoln owners, it is too restrictive to be a general recommendation. If you are planning a van life trip or a weekend camping getaway, the Mockins system provides the freedom and security you need to travel light yet carry everything essential.
Yes, provided your SUV has a 2-inch receiver hitch rated for Class III or IV loads. The carrier is designed to fit most vehicles including trucks, SUVs, and vans that meet these specifications.
No, the AUTOVIP Trailer Hitch Carrier is explicitly designed for the 2006-2008 Lincoln Mark LT models only. It is a direct fit replacement for those specific years and will not fit newer or older versions.
Yes, the 35 cubic foot waterproof hitch cargo bag included in the bundle comes with a combination lock to secure your gear against theft.
The product description indicates it uses matching attachment points for practical replacement, suggesting a straightforward installation process for those familiar with basic automotive repairs, though specific tools may be required depending on the condition of the existing hardware.
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