U-Haul Trailers: Your Comprehensive Guide to Renting and Utilizing for a Seamless Move
Moving can be one of life’s most stressful events, but with the right tools and planning, it can also be an empowering journey. For millions, U-Haul trailers represent a cornerstone of the do-it-yourself (DIY) moving experience. These ubiquitous orange-and-white units are far more than simple boxes on wheels; they are versatile, accessible, and cost-effective solutions designed to help individuals and families transport their belongings, haul equipment, or even move vehicles across town or across the country. Understanding the different types, rental processes, and essential towing considerations is key to unlocking the full potential of U-Haul trailers and ensuring your next move or haul is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Why Choose a U-Haul Trailer? The Benefits of DIY Hauling
Opting for a U-Haul trailer offers a compelling array of advantages, making it a popular choice for various hauling needs. Primarily, the most significant benefit is often cost-effectiveness. Renting a trailer typically costs significantly less than hiring professional movers or even renting a full-sized moving truck, especially for shorter distances or if you already own a capable tow vehicle. This allows you to allocate your budget to other aspects of your move.
Beyond the financial savings, U-Haul trailers provide unparalleled flexibility and control. You dictate your moving schedule, pace, and route, without being beholden to the availability or timelines of a moving company. The extensive network of U-Haul locations means you can pick up and drop off trailers conveniently, often in your local neighborhood. Furthermore, the sheer variety of sizes and types ensures there’s a trailer suited for almost any job, from moving a small apartment’s worth of boxes to hauling an ATV or a second vehicle. For many, the DIY approach also fosters a sense of accomplishment, transforming a potentially daunting task into a manageable project.
Understanding the Types of U-Haul Trailers
U-Haul offers a diverse fleet of trailers, each designed for specific purposes. Knowing which type best suits your needs is the first step toward a successful rental.
Cargo Trailers (Enclosed)
These are the classic enclosed trailers, instantly recognizable by their solid walls and roof. They are ideal for protecting your belongings from weather elements, road debris, and potential theft.
- 4′ x 8′ Cargo Trailer: The smallest enclosed option, perfect for small apartments, dorm rooms, or hauling boxes and light furniture. It offers about 160 cubic feet of loading space.
- 5′ x 8′ Cargo Trailer: A popular choice for one-bedroom apartments, providing around 200 cubic feet. It’s great for small furniture, appliances, and numerous boxes.
- 5′ x 10′ Cargo Trailer: Offers 260 cubic feet, suitable for larger one-bedroom or small two-bedroom apartments, accommodating more substantial furniture pieces.
- 6′ x 12′ Cargo Trailer: The largest enclosed option, boasting 396 cubic feet. This trailer is often used for two-to-three-bedroom moves, larger appliances, or even transporting motorcycles securely inside.
Utility Trailers (Open)
Utility trailers are open-top, flatbed trailers, best for items that are too large for enclosed trailers, don’t require weather protection, or are awkward to load. Many come with ramps for easy loading.
- 4′ x 7′ Utility Trailer: The smallest open option, ideal for yard waste, small appliances, or light construction materials.
- 5′ x 8′ Utility Trailer: A versatile option for landscaping projects, ATVs, motorcycles, or bulky furniture.
- 5′ x 9′ Utility Trailer with Ramp: Specifically designed with a low-deck and integrated ramp, making it perfect for loading motorcycles, ATVs, lawnmowers, or heavy equipment.
- 6′ x 12′ Utility Trailer with Ramp: The largest open trailer, capable of hauling large quantities of landscaping supplies, construction materials, multiple motorcycles, or even small vehicles.
Car Transport Trailers
For moving vehicles, U-Haul provides two primary options:
- Auto Transport: A full car trailer that lifts all four wheels of your vehicle off the ground. This is the safest and most recommended option for longer distances or for vehicles that cannot be flat-towed. It accommodates most cars, trucks, and SUVs.
- Tow Dolly: Designed to lift only the front two wheels of your vehicle off the ground, leaving the rear wheels to roll on the pavement. This is suitable for front-wheel-drive vehicles and shorter distances, or when an auto transport trailer is not available or suitable.
How to Rent a U-Haul Trailer: A Step-by-Step Guide
Renting a U-Haul trailer is a straightforward process, whether online or in person.
- Determine Your Needs: Assess the volume and type of items you need to move to select the appropriate trailer size and type.
- Check Tow Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure your vehicle has the necessary towing capacity, hitch, hitch ball (correct size), and working wiring harness for trailer lights. U-Haul’s website has a helpful "Trailer Hitch Guide" and "Vehicle Towing Capacity" tool.
- Make a Reservation: You can reserve a trailer online via U-Haul’s website or app, or by calling or visiting a U-Haul location. You’ll need to specify pick-up/drop-off locations, dates, and the type of trailer. Providing details about your tow vehicle is crucial.
- Consider Insurance: U-Haul offers various protection plans (e.g., Safetow for trailers) that can cover damage to the trailer, your belongings, or provide roadside assistance. While optional, these can offer peace of mind.
- Pick Up Your Trailer: At the scheduled time, go to your U-Haul location. A representative will help you inspect the trailer, ensure it’s properly hitched, and verify your tow vehicle’s setup. They’ll also go over rental agreement details and answer any questions.
- Return the Trailer: Return the trailer to the agreed-upon location by the specified time. Ensure it’s clean and free of damage.
Essential Considerations Before You Tow
Safety is paramount when towing. Before you hit the road, consider these critical factors:
- Tow Vehicle Capacity: This is non-negotiable. Every vehicle has a maximum towing capacity (GCWR – Gross Combined Weight Rating, GVWR – Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, and tongue weight). Never exceed these limits. Overloading is extremely dangerous and can lead to loss of control, brake failure, and severe accidents.
- Hitch and Ball Size: U-Haul trailers require specific hitch ball sizes (1-7/8", 2", or 2-5/16"). Ensure your hitch ball matches the trailer’s coupler and is properly secured to a sturdy receiver hitch.
- Wiring Harness: A functioning wiring harness is essential for operating the trailer’s brake lights and turn signals, which are legally required and critical for safe driving.
- Loading the Trailer: Proper weight distribution prevents sway and maintains control. Aim for approximately 60% of the cargo weight to be in the front half of the trailer (closest to the tow vehicle) and 40% in the rear. Secure all items tightly with ropes, straps, or moving blankets to prevent shifting during transit.
- Driving with a Trailer: Expect significant changes in handling. Your braking distance will increase, turns will need to be wider, and acceleration will be slower. Be mindful of speed limits for towing, and be aware of potential trailer sway, especially at higher speeds or in windy conditions. Always use your mirrors to monitor the trailer.
Tips for a Smooth and Safe Towing Experience
To make your towing experience as easy and safe as possible, keep these tips in mind:
- Practice Makes Perfect: If you’re new to towing, find an empty parking lot to practice turns, braking, and especially backing up before you hit busy roads.
- Pre-Trip Inspection: Before every journey, check your hitch connection, safety chains, tire pressure on both your vehicle and the trailer, and all trailer lights.
- Secure Your Load: Use plenty of tie-downs and moving blankets to prevent items from shifting, which can cause dangerous weight imbalances.
- Plan Your Route: Avoid steep grades, winding roads, or areas with low overhead clearances. Use GPS systems that allow for trailer routing.
- Take Breaks: Long drives with a trailer can be fatiguing. Stop regularly to rest, stretch, and re-check your trailer and load.
- Maintain a Safe Speed: Drive slower than you normally would. Excessive speed is a primary cause of trailer sway and loss of control.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
Even with careful planning, challenges can arise.
- Trailer Sway: This terrifying phenomenon often results from improper weight distribution (too much weight in the rear) or excessive speed. Solution: Immediately ease off the accelerator, do not brake sharply, and gently apply the trailer brakes if your vehicle has a controller. Proper loading is the best prevention.
- Flat Tire: Both your tow vehicle and the trailer are susceptible. Solution: Always check tire pressure before departing. U-Haul trailers do not typically come with spare tires, so if you experience a flat, pull over safely and contact U-Haul’s roadside assistance.
- Overloading: Exceeding weight limits is a serious safety hazard. Solution: Be honest about the weight of your items. If unsure, err on the side of caution and consider a larger trailer or multiple trips. Never guess.
- Difficult Maneuvering/Backing Up: Backing up with a trailer can be tricky. Solution: Practice. If you’re in a tight spot, unhitch the trailer and manually move it, or ask for help from a spotter. Remember to turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction you want the trailer to go when backing.
U-Haul Trailers Price Table (Estimated)
Please note that these prices are estimates and can vary significantly based on factors such as location, demand, duration of rental, one-way vs. in-town rental, and time of year. Always check the official U-Haul website for the most current and accurate pricing for your specific needs.
| Trailer Type | Size (W x L) | Est. In-Town Rate (Daily) | Est. One-Way Rate (Variable) | Approx. Capacity (lbs) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cargo Trailers | 4′ x 8′ | $14.95 – $19.95 | $100 – $300+ | 800-1,600 | Small apt, boxes, dorm room |
| 5′ x 8′ | $19.95 – $24.95 | $150 – $400+ | 1,500-2,000 | 1-bedroom apt, appliances | |
| 5′ x 10′ | $24.95 – $29.95 | $200 – $500+ | 1,800-2,500 | 1-2 bedroom apt, larger items | |
| 6′ x 12′ | $29.95 – $34.95 | $250 – $700+ | 2,500-3,000 | 2-3 bedroom apt, small car/motorcycle (inside) | |
| Utility Trailers | 4′ x 7′ | $14.95 – $19.95 | N/A (typically in-town only) | 1,000-1,500 | Yard work, small appliances, ATV |
| 5′ x 8′ | $19.95 – $24.95 | N/A (typically in-town only) | 1,500-2,000 | Landscaping, ATVs, furniture | |
| 5′ x 9′ (Ramp) | $24.95 – $29.95 | N/A (typically in-town only) | 1,800-2,500 | Motorcycles, lawnmowers, heavy equipment | |
| 6′ x 12′ (Ramp) | $29.95 – $34.95 | N/A (typically in-town only) | 2,500-3,000 | Large ATVs, small vehicles, construction materials | |
| Car Trailers | Auto Transport | $55.00 – $75.00 (in-town) | $200 – $900+ | Up to 5,290 | Cars, trucks, SUVs (all wheels off ground) |
| Tow Dolly | $35.00 – $45.00 (in-town) | $100 – $500+ | Up to 3,450 | Front-wheel drive cars (2 wheels off ground) |
Disclaimer: Prices are estimates and subject to change based on location, availability, demand, and specific rental details. One-way rates are highly variable and depend on distance, route, and market conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need a special license to tow a U-Haul trailer?
A: In most states and provinces in North America, a standard driver’s license is sufficient for towing U-Haul trailers, provided your vehicle and trailer combination does not exceed specific weight limits (which U-Haul’s trailers are generally designed to stay within for standard vehicles). Always check local regulations.
Q: What kind of hitch do I need?
A: You’ll need a proper receiver hitch installed on your vehicle, along with a hitch ball of the correct size (1-7/8", 2", or 2-5/16") that matches the trailer’s coupler. U-Haul can install hitches and sell hitch balls if you don’t have them.
Q: Can I rent a trailer one-way?
A: Yes, most enclosed cargo trailers and car transport trailers are available for one-way rentals. Utility trailers are generally for in-town use only. One-way rates are typically higher and depend on the distance and demand.
Q: Do U-Haul trailers have brakes?
A: Larger U-Haul trailers, particularly auto transports and some larger cargo trailers, are equipped with surge brakes that activate automatically when your tow vehicle slows down. Smaller trailers typically do not have independent braking systems.
Q: What if my vehicle isn’t suitable for towing?
A: U-Haul will not rent you a trailer if your vehicle does not meet their safety requirements for towing capacity, hitch type, and working lights. In such cases, you might need to rent a U-Haul moving truck, which can also tow a car trailer if needed.
Q: Is insurance required for U-Haul trailers?
A: While not always legally required, U-Haul offers various protection plans (like Safetow) that can cover damage to the trailer, your belongings, or provide roadside assistance. Your personal auto insurance policy may or may not cover rented trailers, so it’s wise to check your coverage or purchase U-Haul’s protection.
Conclusion
U-Haul trailers offer an invaluable service for anyone seeking a flexible, affordable, and hands-on solution for moving or hauling. From compact cargo trailers for small moves to robust utility and car transport options, there’s a U-Haul trailer designed to meet nearly every need. By understanding the different types, carefully planning your rental, prioritizing safety through proper loading and towing practices, and being aware of potential challenges, you can confidently navigate your next journey. With the right preparation and knowledge, U-Haul trailers empower you to take control, making your moving or hauling experience efficient, cost-effective, and ultimately, a successful endeavor.
