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Best Wheelchair Carriers

For someone who need to use a wheelchair, mobility scooter or other heavy duty equipment frequently, a wheelchair carrier is a necessary equipment to consider.  It is very helpful especially when you want to go for a long journey.

best wheelchair carrier

We have reviewed the best wheelchair carriers in the market and will guide you on how to find a suitable one for yourself.

Best Overall
Titan Ramps Hitch-Mounted Wheelchair and Scooter...
Best Budget Option
TMS® Folding Strong Electric Wheelchair Hitch Carrier...
Best For Manual Wheelchair
Silver Spring Manual Wheelchair Carrier with Tilting...
Titan Ramps Hitch-Mounted Wheelchair and Scooter...
TMS® Folding Strong Electric Wheelchair Hitch Carrier...
Silver Spring Manual Wheelchair Carrier with Tilting...
Weight Capacity: 500 lbs, easy to use, durable
Affordable, weight capacity: 400 lbs, easy to use
Space-saving design, weight capacity: 100 lbs, easy to assemble
Best Overall
Titan Ramps Hitch-Mounted Wheelchair and Scooter...
Titan Ramps Hitch-Mounted Wheelchair and Scooter...
Weight Capacity: 500 lbs, easy to use, durable
Best Budget Option
TMS® Folding Strong Electric Wheelchair Hitch Carrier...
TMS® Folding Strong Electric Wheelchair Hitch Carrier...
Affordable, weight capacity: 400 lbs, easy to use
Best For Manual Wheelchair
Silver Spring Manual Wheelchair Carrier with Tilting...
Silver Spring Manual Wheelchair Carrier with Tilting...
Space-saving design, weight capacity: 100 lbs, easy to assemble

#Affiliate links.Last update on 2024-03-18 at 10:01


What is a Wheelchair Carrier?

A wheelchair carrier is a platform that allows any disabled person and seniors to travel with their mobility vehicles such as wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

These folding wheelchair carriers can be easily mounted on a hitch of the car and be transported along with the disabled person. This is a must-have, especially when you don’t have a good foldable wheelchair.


What Type of Wheelchair Carrier for Car is Right for You?

The wheelchair racks come in many types. Each of these types has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Bumper Mounted Carrier:

The bumper-mounted wheelchair carrier is a special type where the wheelchair is to be manually folded down and lifted to the carrier.

However, lifting wheelchairs might require the assistance of an extra individual if the wheelchair is particularly heavy.

For the bumper-mounted carrier, you might need to drill holes into the bumper to fix the carrier. However, it might block your car’s trunk, making it harder to access.

Hitch Mounted Carrier:

Hitch mounted wheelchair carriers are an affordable option for many users. They can be simply mounted on the back of a vehicle using a hitch.

They usually have a ramp that helps in loading and unloading the wheelchair. They give you full access to your trunk as well. Some are automatically and some are manually lifted.

Electric Wheelchair Carrier:

The electric motor or a battery operates with these wheelchairs. They are usually operated with a switch or remote control.

They are easier to use, as they do not require you to manually push the wheelchair onto the carrier. These are better for disabled people as they require minimal effort. However, they can be expensive and require the car to be turned on to operate!

Manual Wheelchair Carrier:

A manual wheelchair carrier is popular as it is more affordable than the electric one. These do not use power and you can still use them when the car is turned off.

You need to push the wheelchair up the ramp manually to carry it. However, this requires more effort on your part and heavier wheelchairs might require two persons to lift up.

So, when choosing the right wheelchair carrier, you need to consider the size of the wheelchair as well. If your wheelchair is relatively smaller then bumper mounted carrier will suffice.

However, if it weighs up to 300 lbs. or more, then a hitch-mounted carrier will probably be better. Further, a manual wheelchair carrier can fit most situations. However, if the wheelchair is too heavy then, you should go for an electric one.

Best Wheelchair Carriers: Reviews

1. Titan Ramps Hitch Mounted Wheelchair Carrier Rack – Best Wheelchair Carrier Overall

#Affiliate links.Last update on 2024-03-18 at 10:01

The Titan Ramps is a hitch-mounted wheelchair carrier specifically designed for electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters which are known to be heavy.

It can be easily hitched at the back or front of your car but only fit 2 inches class III or IV trailer hitches.

Made of strong steel, this carrier can support up to 500 lbs. This is enough for the heaviest wheelchairs or mobility scooters. Plus, this rack is built to last and you can rest assured that it will not break during the journey.

This carrier can be easily folded up for efficient storage. Spring pull pins are a nice touch, allowing you to use the ramp effortlessly.

The Titan manual wheelchair carrier should be your go-to choice if you desire durability and strength.

Pros:

  1. Weight capacity up to 500 lbs.
  2. Durable steel construction.
  3. Easier storage.
  4. The ramp can be folded out easily.

Cons:

  1. Too bulky and too heavy.
  2. Harder to assemble.

2. TMS® Folding Strong Electric Wheelchair Hitch Carrier – Best Budget Option

#Affiliate links.Last update on 2024-03-18 at 10:01

When it comes to the affordable electric wheelchair carrier lift, it cannot get better than the TM Folding Electric Wheelchair!

This folding wheelchair carrier is specifically designed to support your wheelchair at the back of your car, being compatible with class III and IV hitches.

Out of these, the ramp comes with 3 different positions to ensure the mobility devices can be transferred smoothly.

Also included is an ergonomic handle that allows the ramp to be easily folded and unfolded.

While the weight capacity is about 400 lbs. This lift is strong enough for most of the devices.

Its lightweight, easy to assemble construction ensures it is one of the best folding wheelchair carriers for a car.

Pros:

  1. Support up to 400 lbs.
  2. Includes a 3-inch safety rail.
  3. Heavy-duty durable steel construction.
  4. The ramp can be easily folded out into three different positions.
  5. Easy to hitch up.
  6. Includes an anti-wobble device.
  7. Easy storage and portability.

Cons:

  1. Requires assembly
  2. Easy to rust.

3. Silver Spring Manual Wheelchair Carrier with Tilting Platform – Best For Lightweight Folding Wheelchair

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If you have a lightweight manual wheelchair and want a carrier that is strong, easy to use, and space-saving, this is the right one for you.

This bumper-mounted wheelchair carrier can be easily hitched on an existing vehicle hitch ball.

The tilted platform steals the spotlight. It can be easily tilted to help you load and unload your wheelchair or scooter.

Also featured is a height-adjustable stability arm that secures your devices in place.  No more looking back to ensure your wheelchair does not go flying off!

Further, it can be folded upright which lends to easier storage and portability. The heavy-duty steel construction is durable and sturdy but weighs only about 33 lbs.

However, this rack only supports 100 lbs, making it only fit lightweight and foldable chairs. Its cons aside, it can still securely and safely carry your wheelchair!

You will love this manual wheelchair carrier as long as you don’t anything too heavy to carry.

Pros:

  1. Tilted platform for easier loading and unloading.
  2. Easy to assemble.
  3. Durable and sturdy construction.
  4. Secures your wheelchair properly.

Cons:

  1. Can only hold one lightweight manual wheelchair.
  2. Weight capacity not sufficient for other heavier mobility vehicles.

4. Silver Spring SC500-V3 Folding Steel Scooter and Wheelchair Carrier with Ramp – Best For Power Wheelchair

#Affiliate links.Last update on 2024-03-18 at 10:01

Another folding wheelchair carrier from Silver Spring, this carrier rack is perfect for those who want an easier carrying solution for their electric wheelchair.

It easily hitches onto a 2 inch Class 3 or 4 trailer hitch. Nothing below that will be able to support the rack sufficiently.

A loading ramp is included with spring pull pins, which help to lock the ramp in a position ensuring a safe and secure position.

The loading ramp is integrated onto the rack and has a size of about 59 x 27.5 inches. The ramp can be easily folded into three positions that make storage and the whole loading/ unloading process a breeze.

The total platform size is about 46.5 x 28 inches and includes 4.25 inches high side rails. These prevent the devices from wobbling or turning over.

Also included in the manual wheelchair carrier is a swing away accessory that provides you with accessibility to the hood or trunk of your car.

The black powder-coated steel is durable and long-lasting and supported with 1-inch square tubes from underneath. These ensure the surface won’t bend due to excessive weight.

what’s more, this high-quality carrier can support up to 500 lbs, allowing your heavy duty equipment to be safetly transported.

Pros:

  1. Weight Capacity of 500 lbs.
  2. Easy portability and storage.
  3. Swing away accessory provides accessibility to the trunk.
  4. Durable steel mesh construction.
  5. The ramp can be folded out to 3 positions.
  6. Lots of tie down points.

Cons:

  1. Very bulky and heavy to use.
  2. Difficult to hitch up.

5. Silver Spring Electric Universal Powerchair Scooter Lift and Carrier – Best Electric Carrier

#Affiliate links.Last update on 2024-03-18 at 10:01

If you are looking for a high-end mobility scooter carrier for cars that will make your life much easier, we will recommend this one.

As an electric rack, you can save a lot of energy as the carrier will be lifted automatically while turning the key.

Compared to the manual models, the carrier can be placed on the ground so that you can ride the scooter to the plate, simplifying the transport process.

It comes with 4 traps to ensure the mobility devices stay safe while transporting. This product is compatible with Class II, III, or IV hitch receivers and the weight limit is 350 lbs.

Yes, this one is much more expensive, but it brings a lot of convenience for you especially when you like to go outside frequently.

Pros:

  1. Lift the device automatically.
  2. Easy to store and transport.
  3. Durable steel and aluminum construction.
  4. Includes anti-wobble straps for added security.

Cons:

  1. Expensive.
  2. Weight Capacity of 350 lbs.

6. Goplus Aluminum Cargo Carrier – Best Lightweight Model

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For those who are looking for a lightweight wheelchair carrier for SUV or trucks, this is one of the best.

Featuring aluminum frame, this carrier only weighs 40 lbs but can bear up to 500 lbs. This is great for seniors with weak muscles as the installing process would be much easier.

For safety, this product comes with 9″ safety rails and reflectors, allowing your scooter or chair stay safely even at night.

This item works with a Class III or IV 2″ hitch receiver.

Pros

  • Lightweight, easy to move.
  • 500 lbs weight capacity.
  • 9″ safety rails.

Cons

  • It is not suitable to use on highway.

7. ALEKO MC400 Carrier Rack with Foldable Ramp

#Affiliate links.Last update on 2024-03-18 at 12:33

The Aleko carrier is another good one due to its strong and sturdy design. You can easily rely on this carrier rack to help you carry all your mobility vehicles safely and securely.

Like other hitch-mounted carriers we mentioned above, it includes a foldable ramp that helps in loading and unloading the mobility vehicles. The ramp can also be folded up for easier storage. This one will fit 2 inch class III or IV trailer hitches.

The loading ramp has the dimensions 60 x 27.5 inches. This is enough to load the largest of wheelchairs.

An anti-tilt locking device ensures your vehicles do not wobble or fall off. The 4-inch side rails add more security.

It weighs only about 67.8 lbs, however, the weight capacity is still a decent 400 lbs.

Pros:

  1. Weight capacity of 400 lbs.
  2. Easy to store and transport.
  3. Includes anti-tilt locks and 11 tie points for added security.
  4. Foldable ramp for easier loading and unloading.
  5. Durable steel construction.

Cons:

  1. The paint job is not durable.
  2. The mesh tends to be slippery.

8. EGO BIKE Carrier for Medical Mobility Scooter with Ramp

#Affiliate links.Last update on 2024-03-18 at 10:01

If you are still on the fence about which mobility scooter carrier to go, this another good one to check out.

Made with sturdy steel, this product can hold up to 400 lbs. Compatible with class III or IV trailer hitch, your scooter will be transported smoothly. But noted that hitch tightener is not included in the package.

The installing process is pretty straightforward even though the instruction is poorly written.

This is a carrier that last for years and the price is acceptable.

Pros

  • 400 lbs weight capacity.
  • Cost-effective.
  • Made of heavy duty steel.

Cons

  • Poor instruction.

What to Consider When Buying a Wheelchair Carrier for the Back of a Vehicle?

When buying a wheelchair or scooter carrier for the back of a vehicle, there are a few factors that need to be taken into account. These features are:

Type of Carrier:

First and foremost you need to consider what type of wheelchair carrier you might need. If you are looking for minimal effort then perhaps an electric carrier will suit you best.

However, the manual one beats it by being more affordable. We recommend going for the manual hitch-mounted carriers for a car if you are on a budget or only use it occasionally.

Weight capacity:

Next, you need to consider how much weight your carrier can carry. First, consider the weight of your mobile devices and then see if your carrier is sufficed to handle that.

Some hitch-mounted carriers can handle weights of up to 500 lbs, however, bumper-mounted carriers usually bear much less weight.

Weight:

The next thing to consider is the weight of the carrier itself. If the carrier is too heavy you might have trouble mounting or dismounting it.

Furthermore, if your car is too small compared to a heavyweight carrier, it might affect how fast you can drive.

Vehicle Type:

The type of vehicle you have is important as well. Most carriers require a 2-inch class II or IV hitch.

Anything smaller than this and the hitch might not be able to bear the weight of the carrier. Always use the recommended hitch class with your carrier.

Safety Features:

Most carriers are equipped with an anti-wobble device that prevents their wheelchairs from wobbling and toppling over. Other features include safety rails on the side and locking bars to help secure the wheelchair. Reflectors are another useful feature.

Durability:

When it is mounted on the back, there are chances it might become damaged. So, it is better to choose a carrier that is durable. Most are made from a very sturdy steel, which provides ample durability. A warranty is an added bonus!

Ramp:

The last feature to consider is the ramp. Ensure it is foldable and allows for easy storage. Most ramps can fold out vertically as well as horizontally.

(You may also want to know portable wheelchair ramps for stairs )


Bottom Line:

So, when it comes to the best wheelchair carriers, our top 8 picks will likely to your transporting needs. However, if we had to pick one as the winner, we would undoubtedly choose the .

Its 500lbs weight capacity and heavy-duty steel construction ensure reliable performance throughout the years. Don’t believe us? Check it out yourself!

Cherry is the editor-in-chief of Mobility With Love. She obtained a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology and a master's degree in Adapted Physical Activity. Her expertise includes biomechanics, biochemistry, nutrition, disability studies, and so on.

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