Best Generator Mounts for Vans: Cargo Carrier and Tray Solutions
Choosing the right generator mount or cargo tray for a van involves ensuring compatibility with your bumper, trailer tongue, or under-vehicle space, plus securing load stability and ease of access. The following selections highlight a mix of bumper brackets, trailer-style trays, and dedicated generator slides to help you expand cargo capacity while protecting your gear on the road.
| Product | Type | Mounting Style | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| ECOTRIC Universal Bumper Cargo Bracket | Bumper-mounted brackets | 4″ x 4″ square bumper | Increased cargo space with sturdy support |
| Stromberg Carlson CC-255 Trailer Tray | A-frame trailer tray | A-frame trailer mount | Maximizes travel trailer storage and gear transport |
| RecPro Generator Slide Out Tray | Slide-out tray | Under RV compartment access | Easy generator access and secure mounting |
| MaxxHaul 70107/70108 Series | Hitch cargo carrier | 2″ hitch receiver | High capacity with durable construction |
| Mount-n-Lock GennyGo Kit | bumper-mounted generator tray | Bumper-mounted | Versatile assembly options for generator and cargo |
Below are five selected products that align well with the keyword “generator mount for van,” offering a range of mounting methods—from bumper brackets to slide-out trays—to fit different van configurations and payload needs.
ECOTRIC Universal Bumper Bracket Pair
The ECOTRIC bumper brackets are designed for 4″ x 4″ square bumpers, enabling additional cargo space on a van without sacrificing overall vehicle balance. This pair weighs around 8 pounds and supports up to 200 pounds, making them suitable for generator mounts or other bulky gear. While the design emphasizes simplicity, installation details aren’t included in the packaging, so users may need to refer to vehicle-specific guidance or accessories for secure mounting. The brackets also help keep cargo out of lane traffic, improving road safety during transit.
Stromberg Carlson CC-255 Trailer Tray
The CC-255 Trailer Tray is an A-frame-mounted cargo carrier designed to expand storage on travel trailers and vans used for road trips. It supports up to 300 pounds and accommodates generators, coolers, toolboxes, and more, making it versatile for camping and work vans. Its universal fit and curved-leg design help ensure a family of trailers can achieve a smooth installation. This option emphasizes stable load distribution over longer trips and can serve as both a generator mount and a general cargo rack in RV setups.
RecPro Generator Slide Out Tray
The RecPro Generator Slide Out Tray is designed specifically for mounting generators under RV compartments and baggage doors, offering easy access and positive locking latches to secure the generator during transit. This tray combines a sliding mechanism with a secure latch system to minimize generator movement, helping protect sensitive equipment while on the move. It’s a practical choice for van-turned-camper setups or service vehicles that prioritize quick generator access and reliable restraint.
Mount-n-Lock GennyGo Kit
The Mount-n-Lock GennyGo Kit is a bumper-mounted generator and cargo carrier tray system that emphasizes strength and adaptability. Its patent-pending design claims to carry ten times its weight, and it offers multiple assembly modes including Standard, Compact, Extended, or angled configurations. This flexibility makes it suitable for vans with limited vertical clearance or unusual bumper shapes, enabling a custom fit for generator mounting and extra cargo space when needed.
MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Cargo Carrier
MaxxHaul’s 70107 offers a large 53 x 19-1/2 inch basket with high side rails and a 500-pound total capacity, making it well-suited for vans that frequently haul heavy equipment or multiple generators. Built from steel, it includes a sturdy underframe and is compatible with standard 2″ hitch receivers. Its rugged design includes reflective accents for visibility during low-light conditions, contributing to safer loading and transit. The extra space and robust construction make it a top pick for long road trips requiring substantial cargo support.
MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier
This MaxxHaul 70108 adds a lighter aluminum construction to the rugged carrier lineup, delivering 2″ hitch compatibility with a 500-pound load capacity. Its high side rails, reinforced under frame, and rust-resistant aluminum design provide a balanced mix of strength, durability, and reduced weight. The carrier is suitable for vans that need a reliable generator mount or general cargo rack that’s easier to maneuver and less prone to corrosion during travel across varied climates.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Mount compatibility: Confirm bumper size, hitch receiver type, or under-van clearance to ensure the chosen mount fits your specific van model and configuration.
- Weight capacity: Compare the rated load capacity with the generator’s weight plus any additional gear. Overloading can compromise stability and vehicle handling.
- Installation complexity: Some options require minimal tools, while others may demand vehicle-specific brackets or professional installation for safe mounting.
- Access and security: Decide between slide-out trays for easy generator access or fixed racks for increased security during transit. Look for locking mechanisms or positive latches where applicable.
- Durability and weather resistance: Aluminum trays resist corrosion and reduce weight; steel builds deliver maximum strength but may require rust protection and maintenance.
- Versatility: If you anticipate changing configurations, select a system that offers multiple mounting options (Standard, Compact, Extended, angled) to adapt to different trips.
- Vehicle weight distribution: Consider how load placement affects center of gravity and handling, especially for smaller vans or vehicles with lighter rear ends.
- Legal and safety considerations: Ensure your setup complies with local regulations and RV/vehicle safety standards, and use properly rated tie-downs and straps.
These factors help compare options across bumper brackets, A-frame trays, slide-out generators, and hitch-mounted carriers. Safety, durability, and adaptability should guide your final pick, ensuring reliable operation and maximizing cargo capacity without compromising van performance.