U-Haul Car Trailer Rental Prices And Sizes: Your Comprehensive Guide to Vehicle Transport

U-Haul Car Trailer Rental Prices And Sizes: Your Comprehensive Guide to Vehicle Transport types.truckstrend.com

Moving a vehicle, whether it’s across town or across the country, can be a daunting task. Driving it yourself might not always be an option, especially if you’re already driving a moving truck or if the vehicle isn’t road-ready. This is where U-Haul car trailers come into play, offering a practical and often economical solution for transporting your automobile. Understanding U-Haul car trailer rental prices and sizes is crucial for making an informed decision, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and your budget remains intact. This guide will delve into everything you need to know, from the types of trailers available to the factors influencing their cost and how to choose the right one for your needs.

Understanding U-Haul Car Trailers: An Overview

U-Haul Car Trailer Rental Prices And Sizes: Your Comprehensive Guide to Vehicle Transport

U-Haul is synonymous with DIY moving, and their range of vehicle transport trailers is a testament to their commitment to comprehensive solutions. They offer two primary types of car trailers designed to cater to different vehicle types, towing needs, and budgets: the Auto Transport (often called a car hauler) and the Tow Dolly. Each has distinct features, benefits, and limitations that directly impact its suitability and rental cost.

Choosing the right trailer isn’t just about price; it’s about compatibility with your towed vehicle, the capacity of your tow vehicle, the distance of your move, and your specific safety requirements. Missteps in this selection process can lead to significant issues, from damage to your vehicles to unsafe towing conditions.

U-Haul Auto Transport (Car Hauler) – The Full Solution

The U-Haul Auto Transport is the most robust option for vehicle transportation, designed to carry your entire vehicle with all four wheels off the ground.

Description and Ideal Use Cases

An Auto Transport trailer is a full-sized, two-axle trailer equipped with ramps, tie-downs, and an independent braking system. It provides the highest level of protection for your towed vehicle.

• Ideal Use Cases:
  • Long-Distance Moves: Minimizes wear and tear on the towed vehicle over hundreds or thousands of miles.
  • Valuable or Classic Cars: Offers maximum protection from road debris and mileage accumulation.
  • Non-Running Vehicles: Can transport vehicles that are not in working order.
  • All-Wheel Drive (AWD) / Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) Vehicles: Essential for these types of vehicles, as towing them with a tow dolly can cause severe transmission damage unless specific driveshaft disconnections are made (which is complex and often not recommended by manufacturers).
  • Low-Clearance Vehicles: Prevents scraping the undercarriage.

Sizes and Specifications

While U-Haul typically offers one primary size for their auto transports, it’s designed to accommodate a wide range of standard passenger vehicles.

• Deck Dimensions (Approximate):
  • Inside Fender Width: Approximately 79.25 inches (6 feet 7 inches) – this is the crucial measurement for vehicle width.
  • Overall Bed Length: Approximately 145 inches (12 feet 1 inch).
• Maximum Vehicle Weight Capacity: Up to approximately 5,290 lbs (2,400 kg).
• Trailer Tare Weight: Approximately 2,210 lbs (1,000 kg).
• Key Features: Integrated ramps for easy loading, heavy-duty security chains, adjustable wheel straps, and a low profile for stable towing. Most auto transports come with surge brakes, which engage automatically when the tow vehicle slows down.

Pricing Factors for Auto Transport

Auto transport rental prices are generally higher than tow dollies due to their larger size, heavier construction, and integrated braking systems.

• Daily Rate: The base cost per day.
• One-Way vs. In-Town: One-way rentals (picking up in one location and dropping off in another) are typically more expensive and their price is often a flat rate for the duration of the trip, irrespective of daily rate. In-town rentals are usually cheaper per day.
• Rental Duration: Longer rentals will accrue higher costs for in-town use. One-way rates are fixed for the estimated travel time.
• Pickup/Drop-off Locations: Prices can vary significantly based on demand and availability in specific regions or cities.
• Insurance Options: U-Haul offers Safemove® and Safetow® plans, which provide coverage for damage to the trailer, the towed vehicle, and liability. These are optional but highly recommended and add to the total cost.

Benefits and Considerations

• Benefits: Superior protection for the towed vehicle, no mileage accumulation on the towed vehicle, suitable for all drive types (FWD, RWD, AWD, 4WD), ideal for non-running vehicles.
• Considerations: Requires a more capable tow vehicle (higher towing capacity, usually a full-size truck or large SUV), higher rental cost, heavier to maneuver, consumes more fuel.

U-Haul Tow Dolly – The Economical Choice

The U-Haul Tow Dolly is a simpler, lighter, and more budget-friendly option for transporting vehicles, especially over shorter distances.

Description and Ideal Use Cases

A tow dolly lifts only the front wheels of the towed vehicle off the ground, with the rear wheels remaining on the pavement.

• Ideal Use Cases:
  • Shorter Distances: Reduces wear on the towed vehicle compared to long-distance towing.
  • Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Vehicles: Most suitable for FWD vehicles, as their drive wheels are lifted.
  • Budget-Conscious Movers: Generally more affordable than an auto transport.
  • Vehicles That Can Be Driven: The towed vehicle must be able to roll freely.

Sizes and Specifications

U-Haul’s tow dollies are designed to accommodate most passenger cars and small trucks.

• Maximum Tire Width Capacity: Up to approximately 76 inches (6 feet 4 inches) measured from outside tire edge to outside tire edge.
• Maximum Vehicle Weight Capacity: Up to approximately 3,900 lbs (1,769 kg).
• Trailer Tare Weight: Approximately 750 lbs (340 kg).
• Key Features: Integrated ramps, security chains, adjustable tire straps. Unlike auto transports, tow dollies typically do not have integrated braking systems, relying solely on the tow vehicle’s brakes.

Pricing Factors for Tow Dolly

Tow dollies are the more economical choice.

• Daily Rate: Lower than auto transports.
• One-Way vs. In-Town: Similar to auto transports, one-way rates are typically higher and fixed, while in-town rates are daily.
• Rental Duration: Impacts total cost for in-town rentals.
• Location Impact: Prices vary by location and availability.
• Insurance Options: Safetow® is available for protection, adding to the cost.

Benefits and Considerations

• Benefits: Lighter and easier to maneuver, more affordable, requires a less powerful tow vehicle compared to an auto transport.
• Considerations: Not suitable for all vehicles (RWD, AWD, 4WD vehicles usually require driveshaft disconnection or should not be towed this way), mileage accrues on the towed vehicle’s rear wheels, less protection from road debris, no independent braking system.

How U-Haul Car Trailer Rental Pricing Works

U-Haul’s pricing model is dynamic and influenced by several factors beyond just the trailer type. Understanding these nuances can help you anticipate costs and avoid surprises.

1. One-Way vs. In-Town Rentals:

   • One-Way: You pick up the trailer at one U-Haul location and drop it off at another. These rentals are priced as a flat fee for the entire estimated duration of your trip (e.g., 3-5 days), regardless of how many actual days you use it within that window. The price is determined by the distance between locations and demand.
   • In-Town: You pick up and return the trailer to the same U-Haul location. These are typically priced on a daily basis, often with a lower daily rate than one-way rentals.

2. Daily Rates: This is the fundamental cost. For in-town rentals, you pay per day. For one-way, it’s factored into the overall flat rate.

3. Rental Duration: For in-town rentals, the longer you keep the trailer, the more you pay. For one-way, you’re given a specific number of days to complete your trip; returning it late will incur additional charges.

4. Location and Demand: Prices can fluctuate significantly based on the specific U-Haul location, local demand for trailers, and time of year (e.g., peak moving season). Booking in advance, especially for one-way rentals, can sometimes secure better rates.

5. Insurance Options (Safetow®): U-Haul offers Safetow® coverage which can protect you from damage to the trailer and the towed vehicle, as well as providing limited liability coverage. While optional, it’s a wise investment that adds to the overall cost.

6. Additional Fees: Be aware of potential taxes, environmental fees, and late return fees if you exceed your allotted rental period.

Choosing the Right Trailer and Ensuring Compatibility

Selecting the correct U-Haul car trailer requires careful consideration of both your towed vehicle and your tow vehicle.

1. Assess Your Towed Vehicle:

   • Weight: Know the curb weight of the vehicle you intend to tow. This is crucial for matching it against the trailer’s capacity.
   • Dimensions: Measure the overall width, wheelbase, and ground clearance. Ensure it fits within the trailer’s limits (especially the auto transport’s fender width or the tow dolly’s tire width).
   • Drive Type (FWD, RWD, AWD, 4WD): This is paramount. FWD vehicles are generally fine for tow dollies. RWD vehicles might be towed with a dolly if the drive shaft is disconnected, but this is complicated. AWD/4WD vehicles should almost always be transported on an Auto Transport to prevent severe damage to the drivetrain.

2. Assess Your Tow Vehicle:

   • Towing Capacity: Your tow vehicle’s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) must exceed the combined weight of your tow vehicle, the trailer, and the towed vehicle. Your vehicle’s individual towing capacity (often found in the owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door) must be greater than the sum of the trailer’s tare weight and the towed vehicle’s weight.
   • Hitch Class: U-Haul trailers require a minimum Class II (3,500 lbs) hitch for tow dollies and a Class III (5,000 lbs) or higher for auto transports.
   • Trailer Wiring: Your tow vehicle needs a functioning 4-flat or 7-way wiring harness for the trailer lights.
   • Braking System: While U-Haul auto transports have surge brakes, your tow vehicle’s braking system must be robust enough to safely stop the combined load.

3. Use U-Haul’s Online Tools: U-Haul’s website has an excellent "trailer selector" tool where you input your tow vehicle and towed vehicle information. It will tell you which trailer options are compatible and provide an instant quote.

Tips for a Smooth U-Haul Car Trailer Rental Experience

• Reserve Early: Especially during peak moving seasons (summer, end of month), trailers can be scarce.
• Accurately Measure and Weigh: Do not guess your vehicle’s specifications. Check your owner’s manual or a reliable online source for curb weight and dimensions.
• Inspect Thoroughly: Before leaving the U-Haul lot, inspect the trailer for any existing damage, check tire pressure, and ensure all lights are working. Report any issues immediately.
• Understand Loading Instructions: U-Haul provides clear instructions for loading and securing vehicles. Follow them precisely to prevent shifting and damage during transit. Ensure proper weight distribution.
• Drive Safely: Towing a trailer significantly changes your vehicle’s handling. Drive slower, allow for longer braking distances, and take wider turns.
• Check Straps Periodically: Stop safely every few hours to check that the tire straps and safety chains are still tight and secure.
• Return on Time: Avoid late fees by returning the trailer within your agreed-upon rental period.

U-Haul Car Trailer Rental Prices and Sizes: Estimated Ranges

Please note: These are estimated ranges only. Actual prices are dynamic and depend on your specific locations, dates, duration, and availability. Always get a real-time quote directly from U-Haul.

Trailer Type	Max Vehicle Weight (Approx.)	Max Vehicle Width (Approx.)	Estimated In-Town Daily Price Range	Estimated One-Way Price Range (Flat Rate)	Key Features & Ideal Use
U-Haul Tow Dolly	3,900 lbs (1,769 kg)	76 inches (tire-to-tire)	$45 – $65 USD	$150 – $350 USD	Lifts front wheels, no trailer brakes, for FWD vehicles, short/medium distances, economical.
U-Haul Auto Transport	5,290 lbs (2,400 kg)	79.25 inches (fender-to-fender)	$65 – $85 USD	$250 – $800+ USD	Lifts all four wheels, surge brakes, for all drive types (especially AWD/4WD), long distances, non-running vehicles, maximum protection.

Prices are subject to change and vary by location, demand, and season. Insurance (Safetow) is an additional cost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I get an exact quote for a U-Haul car trailer?

A1: The best way is to visit the official U-Haul website (uhaul.com) or use their mobile app. Enter your pickup and drop-off locations, dates, and the type of vehicle you plan to tow and the vehicle you plan to tow with. The system will provide real-time pricing and availability.

Q2: Do I need special insurance to rent a U-Haul car trailer?

A2: While your personal auto insurance policy might offer some coverage, it’s often limited for rental trailers. U-Haul offers Safetow® coverage which protects the trailer from damage, offers some coverage for the towed vehicle, and provides limited liability. It’s highly recommended to consider this option for peace of mind.

Q3: Can I tow an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) vehicle on a U-Haul Tow Dolly?

A3: Generally, no. U-Haul and vehicle manufacturers strongly recommend against towing AWD or 4WD vehicles with a tow dolly unless specific (and often complex) driveshaft disconnections are performed. Towing them with two wheels on the ground can cause severe and expensive damage to the drivetrain. An Auto Transport trailer is the safest and recommended option for AWD/4WD vehicles.

Q4: What’s the difference between a "one-way" and "in-town" rental?

A4: An "in-town" rental means you pick up and return the trailer to the same U-Haul location, usually priced per day. A "one-way" rental means you pick up at one location and drop off at a different U-Haul location, typically priced as a flat rate for the entire journey.

Q5: What are the minimum requirements for my tow vehicle to pull a U-Haul car trailer?

A5: Your tow vehicle needs a hitch (Class II for a tow dolly, Class III for an auto transport), functioning trailer lights (4-flat or 7-way wiring), and sufficient towing capacity. The combined weight of the trailer and the towed vehicle must not exceed your tow vehicle’s maximum towing capacity. Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific towing limits.

Q6: Do I need a special driver’s license to tow a U-Haul car trailer?

A6: In most U.S. states and Canadian provinces, a standard driver’s license is sufficient for towing U-Haul trailers, as they typically fall within the weight limits for non-commercial licenses. However, always verify local regulations.

Q7: Are there mileage charges for U-Haul car trailers?

A7: No, U-Haul car trailers themselves do not have mileage charges. If you are also renting a U-Haul moving truck, that truck might have mileage charges, but the trailer rental cost is separate.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of U-Haul car trailer rentals can seem complex, but with a clear understanding of the available options, their sizes, and the factors influencing their prices, you can confidently choose the right solution for your vehicle transport needs. Whether you opt for the economical Tow Dolly or the robust Auto Transport, meticulous planning, accurate measurements, and a thorough understanding of your vehicle’s capabilities are paramount. By leveraging U-Haul’s resources and following best practices for safe towing, you can ensure your vehicle arrives at its destination securely and without unnecessary hassle, making your move or transport project a success.