U-Haul Enclosed Trailer: Your Comprehensive Guide to Secure and Efficient Hauling types.truckstrend.com
Moving, transporting goods for a business, or simply needing to haul oversized items can be a daunting task. While various solutions exist, the U-Haul enclosed trailer stands out as a remarkably versatile, secure, and cost-effective option for a wide array of hauling needs. More than just a simple box on wheels, these trailers offer a protected environment for your belongings, shielding them from the elements and potential theft, making them an indispensable tool for DIY movers, small businesses, and adventurers alike. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about U-Haul enclosed trailers, from choosing the right size to mastering the art of safe towing.
U-Haul Enclosed Trailer: Your Comprehensive Guide to Secure and Efficient Hauling
Why Choose a U-Haul Enclosed Trailer? The Benefits Unpacked
When contemplating your hauling options, the U-Haul enclosed trailer presents several compelling advantages:
- Superior Protection: Unlike open trailers or pickup trucks, enclosed trailers provide a sealed environment, safeguarding your possessions from rain, snow, dust, road debris, and even curious onlookers. This is crucial for delicate furniture, electronics, or anything susceptible to weather damage.
- Enhanced Security: With a lockable rear door, your valuable items are secured against theft. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially during overnight stops on long-distance moves or when storing equipment.
- Versatility for Various Needs: While commonly associated with household moves, U-Haul enclosed trailers are incredibly versatile. They are perfect for transporting business inventory, construction tools, landscaping equipment, sporting gear (like kayaks or ATVs), or even acting as temporary storage.
- Cost-Effectiveness: For those who prefer a DIY approach, renting an enclosed trailer can be significantly cheaper than hiring professional movers, especially for smaller loads or local moves. You control the packing, loading, and driving, saving on labor costs.
- Designed for DIY Towing: U-Haul trailers are engineered with features like low decks for easy loading and independent suspension for a smoother ride, making them manageable for individuals with basic towing experience.
Understanding U-Haul Enclosed Trailer Sizes: Finding Your Perfect Fit
Choosing the right size is paramount to a successful and efficient haul. U-Haul offers a range of enclosed trailers to accommodate different volumes and types of cargo. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular sizes and their typical uses:
- 4′ x 8′ Enclosed Trailer:
- Capacity: 200 cu. ft.
- Best For: Studio apartments, dorm rooms, small local deliveries, boxes, luggage, small furniture items. Ideal for when a pickup truck isn’t enough, but a large moving truck is overkill.
- 5′ x 8′ Enclosed Trailer:
- Capacity: 256 cu. ft.
- Best For: Small apartments (1-2 rooms), queen-size beds, dressers, appliances, business inventory. A popular choice for its compact size yet decent capacity.
- 5′ x 10′ Enclosed Trailer:
- Capacity: 390 cu. ft.
- Best For: 1-bedroom apartments, larger appliances, multiple pieces of furniture, motorcycles, ATVs, or small business equipment. Offers more length for longer items.
- 6′ x 12′ Enclosed Trailer:
- Capacity: 550 cu. ft.
- Best For: 2-bedroom homes or apartments, larger furniture sets, multiple appliances, extensive business equipment, or small vehicles. One of the most frequently rented sizes due to its balanced capacity and maneuverability.
- 6′ x 10′ Enclosed Trailer (Ramp):
- Capacity: 440 cu. ft.
- Best For: Similar to the 6×12 but with a convenient ramp, making it ideal for moving motorcycles, lawnmowers, heavy equipment, or items with wheels.
- 7′ x 12′ Enclosed Trailer:
- Capacity: 650 cu. ft.
- Best For: Larger 2-bedroom homes, smaller 3-bedroom homes, significant business inventory, or multiple motorcycles/ATVs. Provides extra height and width.
- 7′ x 16′ Enclosed Trailer:
- Capacity: 850 cu. ft.
- Best For: Larger 3-4 bedroom homes, extensive business relocation, multiple large vehicles, or commercial hauling needs. This is the largest enclosed trailer U-Haul offers, requiring a robust tow vehicle.
Actionable Insight: Always overestimate slightly rather than underestimate. An under-filled larger trailer is better than an over-stuffed smaller one, which can lead to damage or multiple trips.
Key Features and Specifications: What Makes Them Work
U-Haul enclosed trailers are designed for ease of use and safety. While specific features vary by model and size, common characteristics include:
- Sturdy Construction: Built with a steel frame and durable plywood walls or composite panels, often clad in aluminum for weather resistance.
- Low Loading Decks: Engineered for easy loading and unloading, reducing the effort needed to lift heavy items.
- Integrated Tie-Down Points: Many trailers feature internal rails or tie-down rings to help secure your cargo, preventing shifting during transit.
- Spring-Assisted Ramps or Swing Doors: Smaller trailers typically have swing-open barn doors. Larger models (like the 6×10 and 7×16) often come with a spring-assisted ramp for effortless loading of wheeled items.
- Independent Suspension: Provides a smoother ride, reducing bouncing and minimizing stress on your cargo.
- Safety Lighting: Equipped with standard brake lights, turn signals, and running lights for visibility and compliance.
- Surge Brakes: Larger trailers (typically 6×12 and up) are equipped with hydraulic surge brakes that activate automatically when the tow vehicle slows down, enhancing safety.
How to Rent a U-Haul Enclosed Trailer: A Step-by-Step Guide
Renting a U-Haul enclosed trailer is a straightforward process:
- Online Reservation: The easiest way is to visit UHaul.com. Enter your pickup and drop-off locations, desired dates, and trailer size. You can also specify one-way or in-town rental.
- Vehicle Compatibility Check: U-Haul’s system will guide you through confirming your tow vehicle’s capabilities (hitch type, ball size, tow capacity, wiring). Ensure your vehicle has a properly installed hitch receiver, the correct hitch ball, and working wiring for trailer lights.
- Confirmation: You’ll receive a confirmation with your pickup location and time. Availability can vary, so booking in advance, especially during peak moving seasons, is highly recommended.
- Pickup: Head to your designated U-Haul location. You’ll need your valid driver’s license and a credit card for payment. The staff will assist you with the hitching process and ensure all lights are working.
- Inspection: Before leaving, thoroughly inspect the trailer for any pre-existing damage and ensure it’s noted on your rental agreement. Check tire pressure, lights, and the security of the hitch connection.
- Return: Return the trailer to the agreed-upon location by the specified time. Ensure it’s empty and reasonably clean.
Towing and Safety Considerations: Driving with Confidence
Towing an enclosed trailer requires extra vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines:
- Match Trailer to Tow Vehicle: Your vehicle’s towing capacity (found in your owner’s manual) must exceed the loaded weight of the trailer. Ensure your hitch class and ball size (usually 1 7/8" or 2" for U-Haul trailers) are appropriate.
- Proper Hitching:
- Ensure the coupler is fully seated over the hitch ball and the latch is securely closed.
- Cross the safety chains beneath the coupler, attaching them to your tow vehicle’s frame or hitch.
- Connect the light wiring harness securely.
- Weight Distribution: This is CRITICAL. Load approximately 60% of the cargo weight in the front half of the trailer and 40% in the rear. Heavy items should be placed low and centered over the axle. Improper loading can lead to dangerous trailer sway.
- Secure Your Cargo: Use moving blankets, straps, and tie-downs to prevent items from shifting during transit. Shifting cargo can destabilize the trailer.
- Driving Tips:
- Slow Down: Reduce your speed, especially on curves, in windy conditions, or on uneven roads.
- Wider Turns: Account for the trailer’s length when turning.
- Increased Braking Distance: Your stopping distance will be significantly longer. Maintain extra space between your vehicle and others.
- Check Mirrors Frequently: Be aware of the trailer’s position and surrounding traffic.
- Avoid Sudden Movements: Smooth acceleration, braking, and steering are key.
- Pre-Trip Inspection: Before every leg of your journey, check tire pressure (trailer and tow vehicle), lights, and hitch connection.
Tips for a Successful Enclosed Trailer Experience
- Pack Smart: Use uniform-sized boxes for easier stacking. Label everything.
- Protect Furniture: Use moving blankets or shrink wrap to protect furniture from scratches and dings.
- Utilize Vertical Space: Stack items carefully, but ensure stability. Heavy items on the bottom.
- Bring Your Own Locks: While the trailer has a latch, bring a sturdy padlock for added security.
- Plan Your Route: Avoid narrow streets, low bridges, or steep grades. Factor in extra time for travel.
- Fuel Economy: Expect reduced fuel efficiency when towing.
- Practice Backing Up: If you’re new to towing, find an empty parking lot to practice backing up before hitting the road.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
- Availability: During peak seasons (summer, end of month), trailers can be scarce. Solution: Book well in advance. Consider picking up a day early if possible.
- Towing Difficulty: New drivers might find towing challenging. Solution: Start with a smaller trailer. Practice driving and backing up in a safe, open area.
- Damage During Transit: Items can shift and get damaged. Solution: Secure everything with straps and blankets. Load correctly (60/40 rule). Consider U-Haul’s Safetow insurance.
- Hitch/Wiring Issues: Your vehicle might not be properly equipped. Solution: U-Haul can often install hitches and wiring on-site, but it’s best to verify and prepare beforehand.
U-Haul Enclosed Trailer Estimated Pricing Guide
Disclaimer: Prices for U-Haul rentals are highly dynamic and vary significantly based on location (city, state, region), availability, demand, time of year, rental duration (daily, weekly, monthly), and whether it’s a one-way or in-town rental. The table below provides estimated average daily rates and should be used for general planning purposes only. Always check UHaul.com or contact a U-Haul center for the most accurate and current pricing for your specific needs.
| Trailer Size | Approximate Daily Rate (In-Town) | Approximate Daily Rate (One-Way)* | Estimated Cubic Feet | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4′ x 8′ | $14.95 – $24.95 | $49 – $129+ | 200 cu. ft. | Studio, dorm, small local deliveries |
| 5′ x 8′ | $18.95 – $29.95 | $59 – $149+ | 256 cu. ft. | Small apartment, appliances, business inventory |
| 5′ x 10′ | $24.95 – $34.95 | $69 – $179+ | 390 cu. ft. | 1-bedroom apt, motorcycles, longer items |
| 6′ x 12′ | $29.95 – $39.95 | $79 – $199+ | 550 cu. ft. | 2-bedroom home, furniture, larger equipment |
| 6′ x 10′ (Ramp) | $29.95 – $39.95 | $79 – $199+ | 440 cu. ft. | ATVs, lawnmowers, wheeled items (similar to 6×12) |
| 7′ x 12′ | $34.95 – $44.95 | $89 – $229+ | 650 cu. ft. | Larger 2-3 bedroom home, significant inventory |
| 7′ x 16′ | $44.95 – $54.95 | $99 – $249+ | 850 cu. ft. | Large 3-4 bedroom home, commercial, multiple vehicles |
*One-way rates are typically flat fees determined by the distance and demand, not daily rates. These can vary wildly. Prices do not include taxes, environmental fees, or optional insurance (e.g., Safetow).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What do I need on my vehicle to tow a U-Haul enclosed trailer?
A1: You need a properly installed hitch receiver, a hitch ball of the correct size (usually 1 7/8" or 2"), and a working electrical wiring harness for the trailer lights. Your vehicle must also meet U-Haul’s towing capacity requirements for the specific trailer size.
Q2: Do I need a special driver’s license to tow a U-Haul enclosed trailer?
A2: In most U.S. states and Canadian provinces, a standard Class D driver’s license is sufficient for towing U-Haul trailers for personal use, as long as the combined weight of the tow vehicle and trailer does not exceed specific limits (which U-Haul trailers are designed to stay within for typical passenger vehicles).
Q3: Can I rent a U-Haul enclosed trailer for a one-way trip?
A3: Yes, U-Haul specializes in one-way rentals, allowing you to pick up a trailer in one location and drop it off in another, which is ideal for long-distance moves.
Q4: Are U-Haul enclosed trailers waterproof?
A4: U-Haul trailers are designed to be highly weather-resistant, offering excellent protection against rain, snow, and dust. While they are not fully submersible, they provide a very good seal against typical weather conditions.
Q5: What is U-Haul’s trailer insurance, and do I need it?
A5: U-Haul offers "Safetow" coverage, which is optional. It helps protect you from financial liability for damage to the trailer itself or to your personal vehicle if an accident occurs while towing. It’s highly recommended, as your personal auto insurance might not cover trailer damage or liability fully.
Q6: How fast can I drive while towing a U-Haul enclosed trailer?
A6: U-Haul recommends a maximum speed of 55 mph (88 km/h) when towing any of their trailers. This is a general safety guideline, and you should always adhere to posted speed limits and adjust your speed based on road conditions, weather, and traffic.
Q7: What if my trailer breaks down or I have an issue on the road?
A7: U-Haul provides 24/7 roadside assistance. You can call the number provided on your rental agreement or on the trailer itself for help with tire issues, mechanical problems, or other emergencies.
Conclusion: Empowering Your Hauling Needs
The U-Haul enclosed trailer is a robust, reliable, and highly functional solution for anyone needing to transport goods securely and efficiently. By understanding the different sizes, key features, and crucial safety considerations, you can confidently choose the right trailer for your needs and ensure a smooth, stress-free hauling experience. Whether you’re moving your entire household, transporting valuable business assets, or embarking on a cross-country adventure with your gear, U-Haul enclosed trailers empower you to take control of your logistics, offering protection, peace of mind, and unparalleled versatility. Plan smart, load safely, and hit the road with confidence.