Looking for good cargo system for back of prius 2012 std.

Could go with plastic crates. When it comes to groceries, bags in wide open areas like our hatchback is a problem waiting to happen.

 

I found that 4 of the interlocking plastic milk carton crates (mine were from Wegman's ) would fit the rear area under the hatch perfectly, and since they all interlocked they could not tip over. But, their side walls were about a foot high, so I had to always lift stuff " up and out", which was slightly inconvenient. Advantages if the plastic crate approach is that they are robust, lightweight, very durable , and easily cleanable.

Looking for alternative solutions, I am trying the low-sided, heavy-duty cardboard boxes used to ship melons, kiwis, and large fruit in general. They about 18"x 30" with 4 " sides, and slide in and out easily (I have Weatherbeater underneath). You should pick clean, dry ones that have double-cardboard corners and handles cut out of the end pieces --I'm using some kiwi ones from Costco now and glued some thin strips of wood above the handle to reinforce that area. Advantages of the melon box approach are the low lift over height, lightweight, and they are very portable and stack together when not needed. But for major liquid spills, Cleaning the cardboard would be difficult, so I would have to ditch these and grab replacements at Costco.

 

I got this from Walmart on clearance for $17. It's pretty nice and doesn't really move. I'm not sure if it's gonna hold anything like a gallon milk or anything like that. I just got a few caps and my owners manual in it atm.

Rubbermaid A Cargo Organizer - Walmart.com

 

I have one of those collapsible organizers that works real well. If I'm loading up with groceries, I can put the heavier things in there (e.g. milk) to keep them from rolling around. The nice thing with this is that it folds up if I don't need it.

 

My suggestion would be to get some folding plastic crates that would either hold the bags or fill the space behind the bags to keep them upright when placed between the crates and the cargo net, effectively reducing the size of the cargo area.

Another idea would be to construct a small grid using 1x6's or 1x8's. One would span the width of the cargo area and two "legs" would come out at a 90 degree angle. The legs would be attached with hinges, so they'd fold when not in use. They would keep the grid upright and bags could be placed inside the grid or in front between it and the cargo net. The advantage to the crates though is they can be used for other things.

back of seats
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cargo net

 

I have two of these Harbor Freight Trunk Organizers.

What I really like is the collapsible nature. So if I don't need or want them, I can fold them down and put them off to the side.

Can't beat the price. And I've had one of mine for over 4 years, brought it with me from my old car. So pretty durable.

www.harborfreight.com/trunk-organizer-65178.html

 

Good suggestion. Another option for a very similar organizer that was linked from the walmart page a few posts back:

Highland 2 Pocket Trunk Organizer - Walmart.com

 

I wonder if they are made by the same company?
Because after I had said, "You can't beat the price" I saw those. They look almost identical.
Oh well, I'm happy with my Harbor Freight ones and it's only a few bucks difference.

 

I used couple sizes from Amazon.com shipped boxes, just fold the flaps inward & is good to go, works for me....hehehehe!!!