Transporting a wheelchair can be a challenge, but the right hauler makes it simple and safe. We researched and compared the top models available on Amazon, evaluating manufacturer specifications, safety certifications, and aggregated owner feedback. Our guide covers carriers for manual and power wheelchairs, with a focus on ease of use, durability, and vehicle compatibility. Whether you need a trunk-mounted, hitch-mounted, or inside vehicle solution, we have you covered.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Hitch-Mounted Wheelchair Carrier by Solax Best Overall Fits 2-inch hitch, 600 lb capacity, anti-wobble pin |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Trunk-Mounted Wheelchair Carrier by Amylior Best for Sedans Fits most trunks, 300 lb capacity, adjustable straps |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Inside Vehicle Wheelchair Ramp by EZ-ACCESS Best for Minivans Fits minivans, 800 lb capacity, 2-piece folding ramp |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Wheelchair Carrier by Ramps 4 U Best Budget Pick 1.25-inch or 2-inch hitch, 300 lb capacity, single arm design |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Hitch-Mounted Wheelchair Carrier by Drive Medical Runner Up Fits 2-inch hitch, 500 lb capacity, folding ramp |
8.9 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Trunk-Mounted Wheelchair Carrier by Pride Mobility Compact Design Fits most trunks, 250 lb capacity, foldable |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Wheelchair Carrier by Bruno Premium Build Fits 2-inch hitch, 400 lb capacity, powder-coated steel |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Hitch-Mounted Wheelchair Carrier by Solax: Best Overall
After researching owner feedback and the spec sheets, the Solax Hitch-Mounted Carrier stands out for its robust build and high capacity. It fits a 2-inch receiver and includes an anti-wobble pin to reduce sway. The folding ramp is a thoughtful touch, making loading a power chair manageable. Owners consistently praise its stability on the road.
However, the carrier itself is heavy, which could be an issue for those who need to frequently remove it. It also requires a 2-inch hitch, so owners with a 1.25-inch receiver will need an adapter. If you have a lighter manual chair and want something more portable, consider a smaller option. This is best for those with a power wheelchair and a vehicle with a class III hitch.
- Heavy-duty steel construction with a 600 lb weight capacity accommodates most power wheelchairs.
- Anti-wobble hitch system minimizes movement during transit for added stability.
- Folding ramp design allows easy loading without heavy lifting.
Pros: Very sturdy and secure once installed.; Ramp folds up for compact storage.
Cons: Heavier than some competitors, around 60 lbs.
2. Trunk-Mounted Wheelchair Carrier by Amylior: Best for Sedans
Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, the Amylior Trunk-Mounted Carrier is a solid choice for sedans. It uses padded straps to secure to the trunk lid and can hold up to 300 lbs. Owners report that installation is straightforward, though it requires careful adjustment to avoid paint damage. The carrier folds flat when not needed, a plus for storage.
That said, the trunk mount design can block the rear camera and license plate, which may be a legal issue in some areas. Also, the weight capacity limits it to manual chairs; power wheelchair users should look elsewhere. If you have a sedan and a lightweight chair, this is a good value pick, but skip it if you need a hitch-based solution or have a heavy power chair.
- Universal trunk mounting system with adjustable straps fits a wide range of sedans and hatchbacks.
- Holds up to 300 lbs, suitable for most manual wheelchairs.
- Foldable design when not in use, stores easily in trunk.
Pros: No hitch required, great for vehicles without a receiver.; Relatively affordable compared to hitch carriers.
Cons: Can obstruct rear view and license plate.; May scratch trunk paint if not padded properly.
3. Inside Vehicle Wheelchair Ramp by EZ-ACCESS: Best for Minivans
In our evaluation of inside vehicle solutions, the EZ-ACCESS Ramp is a top performer for minivans. It has an 800 lb capacity and a non-skid surface that owners appreciate for safety. The ramp folds into two sections, making it manageable to store. It is designed for side or rear entry, common in wheelchair-accessible vans.
The main drawback is that it is not a portable solution; it is meant to be installed semi-permanently. It also requires a vehicle with a low floor and wide door opening. If you drive a sedan or SUV, this ramp will not work. Skip this if you need a hitch or trunk carrier. It is ideal for those who own a minivan and want a reliable ramp for daily use.
- Two-piece folding ramp designed for side or rear entry of minivans.
- 800 lb capacity supports heavy power chairs and scooters.
- Non-skid surface provides secure traction in wet conditions.
Pros: Very high weight capacity.; Folds compactly for storage inside vehicle.
Cons: Requires vehicle modifications for permanent installation.; Not suitable for sedans or small SUVs.
4. Wheelchair Carrier by Ramps 4 U: Best Budget Pick
For budget-conscious buyers, the Ramps 4 U Carrier offers a low-cost entry point. Based on owner feedback, it works well for lightweight manual chairs. The included adapter is convenient for different hitch sizes. It is also light, making it easy to install and remove.
However, the single arm design does not secure the chair as firmly as dual-arm models, and some owners report wobbling. The 300 lb limit restricts it to manual chairs. If you have a power chair or want maximum stability, invest in a heavier-duty model. This is best for occasional use with a lightweight manual chair on a tight budget.
- Affordable hitch-mounted carrier for manual wheelchairs.
- Works with both 1.25-inch and 2-inch receivers with included adapter.
- Lightweight design at 25 lbs for easy handling.
Pros: Very cost-effective option.; Includes adapter for different hitch sizes.
Cons: Single arm design may allow chair to sway.; Not for power wheelchairs due to weight limit.
5. Hitch-Mounted Wheelchair Carrier by Drive Medical: Runner Up
Drive Medical offers a strong contender with a 500 lb capacity and a folding ramp. We compared it to the Solax and found it slightly less refined but still very reliable. Owners appreciate the included hitch lock. The ramp folds out, making loading easier than some competitors.
The main downside is its weight and bulk. At 70 lbs, it is one of the heaviest carriers, and storing it when not in use requires effort. Also, some owners note the ramp lacks a non-skid surface, so caution is needed in rain. If you need a heavy-duty carrier and have a place to store it, this is a solid choice. Skip it if you need something more portable.
- 500 lb capacity supports most power wheelchairs and scooters.
- Folding ramp with integrated strap secures chair.
- Anti-theft hitch lock included for security.
Pros: Sturdy construction with good weight capacity.; Ramp folds out for easy loading.
Cons: Heavy at 70 lbs, difficult to store when off vehicle.; Ramp can be slippery when wet.
6. Trunk-Mounted Wheelchair Carrier by Pride Mobility: Compact Design
The Pride Mobility trunk carrier is designed for those who prioritize compactness. It folds down small and includes padded straps to protect the car. Owners like that it does not require a hitch. It is a decent option for lightweight manual chairs.
However, the 250 lb capacity is restrictive, and some users report that the straps do not fit all trunk contours securely. There are also reports of the carrier shifting during turns. If you have a heavier chair or a trunk with unusual shape, look elsewhere. This is best for occasional use with a very lightweight chair and a standard trunk.
- Compact foldable design for easy trunk storage.
- Padded straps protect vehicle paint.
- 250 lb capacity for manual wheelchairs.
Pros: Very compact when folded.; Straps are gentle on trunk paint.
Cons: Lower weight capacity limits chair options.; Installation can be tricky on some trunk shapes.
7. Wheelchair Carrier by Bruno: Premium Build
Bruno is known for quality, and this carrier reflects that. The powder-coated steel is durable and rust-resistant. Based on owner feedback, it is very stable once mounted. It fits a 2-inch hitch and can handle up to 400 lbs, covering most manual and some power chairs.
The biggest drawback is the cost; it is significantly more expensive than comparable models. Additionally, there is no loading ramp, so you must lift the chair onto the carrier, which can be difficult for some. If you value long-term durability and have the budget, this is a fine choice. Skip it if you need a ramp or are on a tight budget.
- Powder-coated steel resists rust and corrosion.
- 400 lb capacity suitable for most manual and light power chairs.
- Easy pin-style hitch attachment.
Pros: Excellent build quality and finish.; Stable and secure on the road.
Cons: Premium price, not budget-friendly.; No ramp included, requires lifting chair.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of wheelchair hauler for a car?
The best type depends on your vehicle and wheelchair. Hitch-mounted carriers are the most stable and can handle heavier chairs. Trunk-mounted carriers are good for sedans without hitches but have lower weight limits. Inside vehicle ramps are ideal for minivans but require more installation. We recommend hitch-mounted for most users due to safety and ease of use.
Can I use a wheelchair hauler with a power wheelchair?
Yes, but you need a carrier with sufficient weight capacity. Most power wheelchairs weigh between 200 and 500 lbs. Look for carriers rated at least 500 lbs, such as the Solax or Drive Medical models. Always check your chair’s weight and the carrier’s limit before purchasing.
Do wheelchair haulers block the license plate?
Trunk-mounted carriers often block the license plate and rear lights. Many states require a license plate relocation kit or an auxiliary light bar. Hitch-mounted carriers typically sit lower and may not block the plate, but you should still check local laws. Some carriers include a plate mounting bracket.
How do I secure a wheelchair on a carrier?
Most carriers come with straps or tie-downs to secure the wheelchair. Always use the provided straps to attach the chair at multiple points, typically the frame. Ensure the chair is centered and cannot shift. Some carriers have a ramp that folds up to hold the chair in place. Always double-check before driving.
Can I install a wheelchair hauler on a car with a 1.25-inch hitch?
Yes, but many carriers are designed for 2-inch hitches. You can use a hitch adapter (1.25 to 2 inches), but this may reduce weight capacity and stability. Some carriers, like the Ramps 4 U model, include an adapter. For heavy chairs, a 2-inch receiver is recommended for safety.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top wheelchair haulers, our top pick is the Solax Hitch-Mounted Wheelchair Carrier for its excellent build quality, high capacity, and ease of use. The Drive Medical Hitch-Mounted Carrier is a close runner-up, offering similar features with a slightly lower price point. For sedan owners, the Amylior Trunk-Mounted Carrier is a solid choice, provided you are comfortable with the trunk mount limitations.
