U-Haul Tow Dolly Rental: Your Complete Guide to Safe and Affordable Vehicle Transport

Moving across town or across the country often involves more than just transporting household goods; it frequently means relocating your vehicle as well. For many do-it-yourself movers, the prospect of driving a moving truck and a personal car simultaneously is daunting, if not impossible. This is where the U-Haul tow dolly rental service emerges as an invaluable solution, offering a practical, cost-effective, and relatively straightforward way to transport your car behind a U-Haul moving truck or another suitable towing vehicle.

A U-Haul tow dolly is a two-wheel trailer designed specifically to lift the front wheels of a vehicle off the ground while its rear wheels remain on the road. This ingenious design makes it an ideal choice for transporting front-wheel-drive (FWD) cars, keeping mileage off your vehicle, and simplifying the moving process. Whether you’re relocating for a new job, heading to college, or just need to move a second car, understanding the ins and outs of U-Haul tow dolly rental can save you time, money, and stress.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about U-Haul tow dolly rental, from understanding its benefits and compatibility to the step-by-step rental and usage process, safety considerations, and pricing.

What is a U-Haul Tow Dolly and Why Choose It?

At its core, a U-Haul tow dolly is a specialized trailer with two wheels, ramps for loading, and adjustable straps to secure your vehicle’s front tires. It connects to your towing vehicle via a standard hitch ball. The key feature that distinguishes a tow dolly from a full car carrier (which lifts all four wheels) is that it only lifts the front axle of the towed vehicle. The rear wheels of the towed car remain on the ground and roll freely.

Choosing a U-Haul tow dolly rental offers several compelling advantages:

• Cost-Effectiveness: Tow dollies are generally less expensive to rent than full car carriers, making them a budget-friendly option for vehicle transport.
• Ease of Use: While any towing requires attention, tow dollies are often perceived as simpler to maneuver than longer, four-wheel trailers, especially for those new to towing.
• Mileage Preservation: By lifting the drive wheels off the ground, the tow dolly ensures that no extra mileage is accumulated on your towed vehicle during transit.
• Convenience: It allows you to transport your car and household goods simultaneously with one towing vehicle, eliminating the need for a separate driver or professional transport service.
• Availability: U-Haul has an extensive network of locations, making it relatively easy to find a tow dolly when and where you need it.

Is a U-Haul Tow Dolly Right for Your Vehicle? Compatibility and Requirements

One of the most critical aspects of U-Haul tow dolly rental is ensuring compatibility with your specific vehicle. Misunderstanding this can lead to serious damage to your car.

Towed Vehicle Compatibility: The FWD Rule

The U-Haul tow dolly is primarily designed for front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles. Here’s why:

• FWD Vehicles: When a FWD vehicle is loaded onto a tow dolly, its front (drive) wheels are lifted, and its rear (non-drive) wheels are on the ground. The transmission is disengaged from the rotating wheels, preventing damage. You should place the transmission in park and ensure the steering wheel is secured straight but not locked.
• Rear-Wheel-Drive (RWD), All-Wheel-Drive (AWD), or Four-Wheel-Drive (4WD) Vehicles: Towing these types of vehicles on a tow dolly is generally not recommended by U-Haul and most experts. When a RWD, AWD, or 4WD vehicle is towed with its drive wheels on the ground, the transmission or drivetrain components can rotate without proper lubrication, leading to severe and costly damage. While some RWD vehicles might be towed backward, this is often not recommended due to steering geometry and stability issues. For AWD/4WD, disconnecting the drive shaft is often required, a complex procedure typically done by a mechanic, making it impractical for a DIY tow dolly rental.

Always use U-Haul’s online towing compatibility tool (available on their website) to confirm if your specific make and model can be safely towed by their dolly.

Other Towed Vehicle Requirements:

• Weight Limits: Your towed vehicle must fall within the tow dolly’s maximum weight capacity, typically around 3,450 lbs for the vehicle’s curb weight.
• Width and Tire Size: Ensure your vehicle’s track width and tire size fit within the dolly’s specifications.
• Ground Clearance: Your vehicle needs sufficient ground clearance to avoid scraping on the ramps or the dolly structure during loading and unloading.

Towing Vehicle Requirements:

The vehicle doing the towing (e.g., your U-Haul moving truck or personal truck/SUV) also has specific requirements:

• Towing Capacity: It must have a sufficient towing capacity to handle the combined weight of the tow dolly (approx. 750 lbs) and your towed vehicle.
• Hitch: A properly installed hitch receiver (usually Class III or IV) with a 2-inch hitch ball is required.
• Electrical Connector: A working 4-flat electrical connector is necessary to power the tow dolly’s brake and signal lights.
• Brakes: While tow dollies often have surge brakes that engage automatically, your towing vehicle’s braking system must be in excellent condition.

The U-Haul Tow Dolly Rental Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Renting a U-Haul tow dolly is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s how it generally works:

1. Reservation:

   • Visit the U-Haul website (www.uhaul.com/Trailers/Tow-Dolly-Rental/TD/) or call their customer service.
   • Provide your pickup and drop-off locations, rental dates, and details about both your towing and towed vehicles. This is crucial for U-Haul to confirm compatibility and provide an accurate quote.
   • It’s highly recommended to reserve in advance, especially during peak moving seasons.

2. Pickup:

   • Arrive at your designated U-Haul location with your valid driver’s license and a credit card.
   • A U-Haul representative will help you inspect the tow dolly for any existing damage and ensure all components (ramps, straps, lights) are in working order.
   • They will guide you through the initial hook-up process.

3. Hooking Up the Dolly to Your Towing Vehicle:

   • Hitch Connection: Securely attach the tow dolly’s coupler to your 2-inch hitch ball. Ensure the latch is fully closed and locked with a safety pin.
   • Safety Chains: Cross the safety chains under the coupler and attach them to your towing vehicle’s hitch receiver. This acts as a backup in case the coupler detaches.
   • Electrical Connection: Plug the 4-flat electrical connector into your towing vehicle’s receptacle.
   • Test Lights: Before moving, test all lights (running, brake, turn signals) on the tow dolly to ensure they are functioning correctly.

4. Loading Your Vehicle onto the Dolly:

   • Positioning: Park your towed vehicle directly in front of the tow dolly, aligning its front wheels with the dolly’s ramps.
   • Drive On: Slowly and carefully drive your vehicle up the ramps until its front wheels are centered and resting securely in the cradles.
   • Secure the Straps: Use the provided ratchet straps to firmly secure the front tires of your vehicle to the dolly’s wheel cradles. Ensure they are tight and the tires cannot move. Re-check these straps periodically during your trip.
   • Steering Wheel: The steering wheel of the towed vehicle should typically be left unlocked but secured in a straight-ahead position using a bungee cord or seatbelt to prevent it from turning during transit.
   • Transmission/Parking Brake: Place the towed vehicle’s transmission in "Park" (for automatics) or "Neutral" (for manuals, with the parking brake off). Ensure the parking brake is OFF to avoid damage to the rear wheels.

5. Driving with a Tow Dolly:

   • Practice: If possible, practice driving in a safe, open area before hitting the road.
   • Slower Speeds: Drive at reduced speeds, especially on turns and in adverse weather conditions. U-Haul generally recommends a maximum speed of 55 MPH.
   • Wider Turns: Account for the extra length and width of your combined setup by making wider turns.
   • Increased Stopping Distance: Your combined vehicle will be heavier, requiring more time and distance to stop.
   • Pre-Trip and During-Trip Checks: Before each leg of your journey and periodically during stops, re-check all connections: hitch, safety chains, electrical plug, and especially the wheel straps.

6. Return:

   • Return the tow dolly to the agreed-upon U-Haul location by the specified time.
   • A U-Haul representative will inspect the dolly upon return.

Important Considerations and Safety Tips

Towing a vehicle requires diligence and adherence to safety protocols.

• Weight Distribution: Ensure your towed vehicle is loaded squarely and evenly on the dolly to maintain proper weight distribution and stability.
• Tire Pressure: Check the tire pressure on both the tow dolly and your towed vehicle before starting your trip and periodically throughout.
• Visibility: Your towed vehicle may obstruct your rear view. Consider using extended side mirrors on your towing vehicle for better visibility.
• Legal Requirements: Be aware of any state-specific towing laws regarding speed limits, maximum length, and braking systems.
• Insurance: U-Haul offers supplementary insurance coverage like SafeTow, which can cover damage to the rental equipment and your towed vehicle. Check your personal auto insurance policy to understand what coverage you already have for towing.
• Roadside Assistance: U-Haul provides 24/7 roadside assistance. Keep their number handy in case of a flat tire, mechanical issue, or accident.
• Weather Conditions: Exercise extreme caution when towing in rain, snow, high winds, or icy conditions.
• Cargo in Towed Vehicle: Avoid loading heavy items into the towed vehicle, as this can increase its weight beyond the dolly’s capacity and affect stability.

U-Haul Tow Dolly Rental Pricing and Value

The cost of a U-Haul tow dolly rental varies based on several factors, including:

• Rental Duration: Daily, weekly, or monthly rates.
• One-Way vs. In-Town: One-way rentals (picking up in one location and dropping off in another) are typically more expensive than in-town rentals (picking up and dropping off at the same location).
• Distance: For one-way rentals, the distance of the move significantly impacts the price.
• Location and Demand: Prices can fluctuate based on geographic location and current demand.

While exact prices are dynamic and best obtained directly from U-Haul for your specific needs, here is a representative table of potential pricing ranges:

Rental Type	Duration	Approximate Price Range (USD)	Notes / Factors Affecting Price
In-Town Rental	Daily	$40 – $60	For local moves where pickup and drop-off are at the same U-Haul location. Price can vary by location and availability.
One-Way Rental	1-3 Days	$150 – $250	Short distance one-way moves (e.g., 100-300 miles). Price is highly dependent on distance, route, and demand. This often includes a set number of days; additional days may incur extra charges.
One-Way Rental	4-7 Days	$250 – $400+	Medium to long-distance one-way moves (e.g., 300-1000+ miles). Pricing scales significantly with distance and duration. It’s crucial to get a direct quote from U-Haul for your specific route and dates.
Optional Add-ons	Insurance	$10 – $25 per day	U-Haul offers SafeTow coverage (covers damage to the dolly and your towed vehicle). Highly recommended for peace of mind, as your personal auto insurance may not fully cover towing scenarios.
Other Charges	Late Return	Variable	Returning the dolly late can incur additional daily rental fees.
	Damage	Variable	If the dolly is damaged during your rental and you do not have appropriate coverage, you will be responsible for repair costs.

Disclaimer: The prices listed above are approximate ranges and are subject to change based on U-Haul’s policies, location, availability, and specific rental details. Always obtain a direct quote from U-Haul for the most accurate pricing for your rental.

Conclusion

A U-Haul tow dolly rental provides a practical and economical solution for transporting your front-wheel-drive vehicle during a move. By understanding the compatibility requirements, following the step-by-step rental and loading process, and adhering to important safety guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. While it requires careful attention and preparation, utilizing a tow dolly empowers DIY movers to manage their vehicle transport efficiently, saving both time and money. With U-Haul’s widespread availability and comprehensive support, moving your vehicle doesn’t have to be another burden on your moving checklist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about U-Haul Tow Dolly Rental

Q1: Can I tow an RWD, AWD, or 4WD vehicle on a U-Haul tow dolly?
A1: Generally, no. U-Haul tow dollies are designed for front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles only. Towing RWD, AWD, or 4WD vehicles on a tow dolly can cause severe and expensive damage to their transmissions or drivetrains, as the drive wheels would be rotating without proper lubrication. Always use U-Haul’s compatibility tool or consult a U-Haul representative to confirm.

Q2: What size hitch ball do I need for a U-Haul tow dolly?
A2: You will need a 2-inch hitch ball. Ensure it is securely fastened to your towing vehicle’s hitch receiver.

Q3: Do I need a separate brake controller for a U-Haul tow dolly?
A3: Most U-Haul tow dollies come equipped with surge brakes, which activate automatically when the towing vehicle slows down. Therefore, a separate brake controller is typically not required for the tow dolly itself. However, your towing vehicle must have a working 4-flat electrical connector for the dolly’s lights.

Q4: How fast can I drive with a U-Haul tow dolly?
A4: U-Haul recommends a maximum speed of 55 MPH when towing with their equipment. Always adhere to posted speed limits, drive cautiously, and adjust your speed for road and weather conditions.

Q5: What if my car is too wide or too heavy for the tow dolly?
A5: You must ensure your vehicle’s curb weight, track width, and tire size fall within the tow dolly’s specifications. U-Haul has a detailed compatibility tool on their website. If your vehicle exceeds these limits, it cannot be safely transported on a tow dolly, and you may need to consider a full car carrier or professional transport.

Q6: Do I need to lock my steering wheel when my car is on the tow dolly?
A6: No, you should generally not lock the steering wheel. Instead, leave it unlocked but secure it in a straight-ahead position using a bungee cord or the vehicle’s seatbelt. This allows the wheels to articulate slightly with the dolly’s pivot plate, which is crucial for safe turning.

Q7: What should I do if I get a flat tire on the tow dolly during my trip?
A7: U-Haul offers 24/7 roadside assistance. Pull over to a safe location, call their helpline, and they will dispatch assistance to help you with the tire repair or replacement.