U-Haul Car Trailer: Your Comprehensive Guide to Vehicle Transport types.truckstrend.com
Moving across town or across the country often involves more than just household goods; for many, it means transporting a beloved vehicle. Whether it’s a family car, a classic restoration project, or a non-running automobile, finding a reliable and cost-effective way to move it is paramount. This is where the U-Haul Car Trailer steps in, offering a practical, accessible, and do-it-yourself solution for vehicle transportation.
Designed for ease of use and safety, U-Haul’s car trailers empower individuals to take control of their vehicle’s relocation, saving money and providing flexibility that professional auto transport services often can’t match. This comprehensive guide will delve into every aspect of using a U-Haul Car Trailer, from understanding its features to mastering the towing process, ensuring you’re well-equipped for a successful move.
U-Haul Car Trailer: Your Comprehensive Guide to Vehicle Transport
Understanding the U-Haul Car Trailer
At its core, a U-Haul Car Trailer, officially known as the "Auto Transport," is a tow-behind trailer specifically engineered to carry a single vehicle with all four wheels off the ground. This full-deck trailer design distinguishes it from a tow dolly, which only lifts the front wheels. U-Haul’s commitment to user-friendly design is evident in their trailers, which feature:
- Low Deck Height: Makes loading and unloading easier, especially for vehicles with lower ground clearance.
- Integrated Ramps: Stored conveniently within the trailer, these ramps provide a secure incline for driving your vehicle onto the deck.
- Automatic Hydraulic Surge Brakes: These brakes activate automatically when the tow vehicle slows down, providing crucial stopping power for the combined weight of the trailer and the towed vehicle, without requiring a separate brake controller in the tow vehicle.
- Independent Suspension: Contributes to a smoother ride and better handling, reducing stress on both the tow vehicle and the towed car.
- Heavy-Duty Tie-Down Straps: Specifically designed for securing the vehicle’s wheels, ensuring it remains firmly in place throughout the journey.
- Breakaway Chain System: A safety feature that applies the trailer brakes if it ever separates from the tow vehicle.
Choosing a U-Haul Auto Transport means benefiting from a nationwide network of well-maintained equipment, ensuring reliability and accessibility wherever your journey takes you.
Types of U-Haul Vehicle Transport Trailers
While this article focuses on the "Car Trailer" (U-Haul Auto Transport), it’s important to understand the distinction between U-Haul’s primary vehicle transport options:
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U-Haul Auto Transport (Car Trailer): This is the full-deck trailer that lifts all four wheels of the towed vehicle off the ground.
- Ideal For: Long distances, all-wheel-drive (AWD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicles (as these drivetrains often cannot be towed with two wheels on the ground without potential damage), low-clearance vehicles, non-running vehicles, and those seeking maximum protection for their car.
- Features: Surge brakes, heavy-duty construction, integrated ramps, secure wheel straps.
-
U-Haul Tow Dolly: A lighter, more compact option that only lifts the front two wheels of the towed vehicle, leaving the rear two wheels on the ground.
- Ideal For: Shorter distances, front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles, or rear-wheel-drive (RWD) vehicles if the driveshaft is disconnected. It’s generally cheaper and easier to maneuver than the full auto transport.
- Considerations: Not suitable for AWD/4WD vehicles unless specific precautions (like removing driveshafts) are taken, which U-Haul does not recommend.
For comprehensive vehicle protection and versatility, the U-Haul Auto Transport is almost always the preferred choice.
Benefits of Using a U-Haul Car Trailer
Opting for a U-Haul Car Trailer offers a multitude of advantages:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Often significantly cheaper than hiring a professional auto transport company, especially for one-way moves.
- Control and Flexibility: You dictate the schedule, route, and pace of your move, without being beholden to a third-party carrier’s timeline.
- Safety and Reliability: U-Haul trailers are regularly inspected and maintained. The robust design and built-in safety features (like surge brakes and secure tie-downs) provide peace of mind.
- Reduced Wear and Tear: Keeping all four wheels off the ground prevents mileage accumulation, tire wear, and potential mechanical stress on your towed vehicle during transit.
- Versatility: Capable of transporting a wide range of cars, trucks, and SUVs, including those that are non-operational.
- Accessibility: With thousands of locations across North America, U-Haul trailers are readily available for rent.
How to Rent a U-Haul Car Trailer
Renting a U-Haul Car Trailer is a straightforward process, whether you do it online or in person:
- Online Reservation: The easiest way is through the U-Haul website. You’ll need to provide:
- Pick-up and Drop-off Locations: For one-way moves.
- Dates: Pick-up and return.
- Tow Vehicle Information: Year, make, model, trim, and whether it has a hitch and proper wiring. U-Haul’s system will verify its towing capacity.
- Towed Vehicle Information: Year, make, model, and if it’s running.
- Contact Information: For reservation confirmation.
- In-Person Rental: You can also visit a U-Haul location directly. However, reserving online is recommended to ensure availability, especially during peak moving seasons.
- Required Information at Pick-up:
- Valid Driver’s License.
- Payment method.
- Confirmation of your tow vehicle’s hitch ball size (typically 2" or 2 5/16") and electrical connection (4-flat or 7-way).
U-Haul’s system will automatically check if your tow vehicle is compatible with the car trailer and the vehicle you intend to transport. If there’s an incompatibility, they will often suggest alternative solutions, such as renting a U-Haul moving truck capable of towing.
Important Considerations Before Renting
Successful and safe towing hinges on proper planning and understanding key factors:
Tow Vehicle Compatibility
- Towing Capacity: Your tow vehicle must have a sufficient towing capacity to handle the combined weight of the U-Haul Auto Transport (approximately 2,210 lbs empty) and your towed vehicle. U-Haul’s reservation system will verify this.
- Hitch Class and Ball Size: A Class III or higher hitch is usually required. Most U-Haul Auto Transports use a 2" or 2 5/16" hitch ball. Ensure your hitch ball matches the trailer’s coupler.
- Electrical Connections: Your tow vehicle needs a functional 4-flat or 7-way wiring harness for trailer lights (turn signals, brake lights, running lights). U-Haul can install these if your vehicle doesn’t have them.
- Vehicle Weight Distribution: Your tow vehicle must weigh at least 750 lbs more than the vehicle being towed on the auto transport. This is a critical safety measure to prevent the towed vehicle from "wagging the dog."
Towed Vehicle Compatibility
- Weight and Dimensions: The U-Haul Auto Transport has maximum weight and dimension limits. Generally, it can carry vehicles up to 7,500 lbs and with a maximum outside tire width of 79 inches. Consult U-Haul’s website for specific limits based on the trailer model.
- Clearance: Ensure your vehicle has enough ground clearance to drive up the ramps without scraping the undercarriage.
- Drivetrain: As mentioned, AWD and 4WD vehicles must be transported with all four wheels off the ground, making the Auto Transport the only suitable U-Haul option.
Driving with a Car Trailer
Towing significantly alters your vehicle’s dynamics. Be prepared for:
- Increased Stopping Distances: The added weight means you’ll need much more room to stop. Anticipate traffic and brake earlier.
- Wider Turns: The trailer will cut corners more sharply than your tow vehicle. Make wide turns to avoid hitting curbs or other obstacles.
- Reduced Speed Limits: Many states have lower speed limits for vehicles towing trailers. Adhere to these.
- Lane Changes: Allow ample space when changing lanes and use your mirrors frequently.
- Steep Grades: Ascending and descending hills will require more power and careful speed management. Use lower gears to control speed on descents.
- Pre-Trip Inspection: Before every leg of your journey, check tire pressure (tow vehicle and trailer), lights, and all tie-downs.
Loading and Securing Your Vehicle
Proper loading and securing are crucial for safety. U-Haul provides clear instructions at pick-up, but here’s a general overview:
- Position the Trailer: Place the trailer on a level surface, securely hitched to your tow vehicle, with the parking brake engaged on the tow vehicle.
- Extend Ramps: Pull out the integrated loading ramps from the rear of the trailer. Ensure they are fully extended and locked into place.
- Load the Vehicle: Slowly drive (or winch) the towed vehicle onto the trailer, centering it as much as possible. Stop when the vehicle’s front wheels are just past the front tire stops.
- Secure the Vehicle:
- Engage the parking brake of the towed vehicle (if operational).
- Use the provided heavy-duty ratchet straps over the front tires. Thread the straps through the wheel openings and secure them tightly using the ratchets. Ensure the straps are not twisted and are free from the brake lines or suspension components.
- Repeat for the rear tires if your vehicle has a heavy rear end or for added security. While U-Haul primarily uses front wheel straps, additional rear straps are good practice for long hauls or heavy vehicles.
- Attach safety chains from the towed vehicle’s frame to the trailer’s frame if available.
- Retract Ramps: Once the vehicle is secured, retract the ramps and lock them back into their stored position.
- Final Check: Double-check all straps, chains, the hitch connection, and trailer lights before departing.
Tips for a Smooth Towing Experience
- Weight Distribution: Ensure your towed vehicle is centered on the trailer. Incorrect weight distribution can lead to dangerous trailer sway.
- Tire Pressure: Always check the tire pressure on both your tow vehicle and the trailer before and during your trip. Proper inflation is vital for safety and fuel efficiency.
- Regular Stops: Plan for more frequent stops than usual to rest, refuel, and re-check your hitch connection, straps, and lights.
- Avoid Sudden Movements: Gradual acceleration, braking, and steering inputs are key to maintaining control.
- Route Planning: Use GPS and plan your route to avoid tight city streets, low bridges, or roads with steep inclines/declines if possible.
- Understand Insurance: U-Haul offers optional Safetow insurance which covers damage to the trailer and your towed vehicle. Consider purchasing it for peace of mind. Your personal auto insurance may not cover towing.
- Practice: If you’re new to towing, practice in a safe, open area before hitting the open road.
U-Haul Car Trailer Pricing Information
U-Haul pricing is dynamic and depends on various factors such as location, distance (local vs. one-way), duration of rental, and time of year. The following table provides estimated price ranges for common U-Haul Car Trailer services and related items. Always get an exact quote from U-Haul for your specific needs.
| Service/Item | Description | Estimated Price Range (Local) | Estimated Price Range (One-Way) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Transport Trailer Rental | Full-deck trailer, all four wheels off the ground. Ideal for most vehicles, including AWD/4WD. | $55 – $85 per day | $150 – $800+ (depending on distance) |
| Tow Dolly Rental | Two wheels on the ground. For FWD vehicles only (or RWD with driveshaft disconnected). | $45 – $65 per day | $100 – $400+ (depending on distance) |
| Safetow® Insurance | Optional coverage for damage to the U-Haul trailer and your towed vehicle. Highly recommended. | $8 – $15 per day | $20 – $50+ (per rental) |
| Hitch Installation | If your tow vehicle doesn’t have a receiver hitch. (Includes parts & labor) | N/A | $250 – $600+ (one-time) |
| Wiring Harness Installation | If your tow vehicle doesn’t have proper trailer light wiring (4-flat or 7-way). | N/A | $50 – $200+ (one-time) |
| Hitch Ball | Required to connect the trailer to your hitch receiver. (Often sold separately or included with hitch kit) | $15 – $30 | $15 – $30 |
| Moving Supplies | Optional items like moving blankets, tie-downs (beyond those provided). | Varies | Varies |
Note: These are estimated ranges. Actual prices will vary based on specific dates, locations, and demand. Always obtain a direct quote from U-Haul.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do U-Haul car trailers have brakes?
A: Yes, U-Haul Auto Transports are equipped with automatic hydraulic surge brakes that activate when your tow vehicle slows down, providing essential stopping power without requiring a separate brake controller in your vehicle.
Q: What size hitch ball do I need for a U-Haul car trailer?
A: Most U-Haul Auto Transports use either a 2" or a 2 5/16" hitch ball. U-Haul’s system will specify the correct size for your rental.
Q: Can I tow a 4×4 or AWD vehicle on a U-Haul car trailer?
A: Yes, the U-Haul Auto Transport (Car Trailer) is designed to carry 4×4 and AWD vehicles with all four wheels off the ground, which is essential to prevent damage to their drivetrains. You should not use a tow dolly for these vehicles.
Q: What if my tow vehicle isn’t strong enough to tow the car trailer?
A: U-Haul’s reservation system will assess your tow vehicle’s capabilities. If it doesn’t meet the requirements, they will inform you and may suggest alternative solutions, such as renting a U-Haul moving truck (which often has a higher towing capacity) to tow the car trailer.
Q: Do I need a special license to tow a U-Haul car trailer?
A: In most states and provinces, a standard driver’s license is sufficient for towing a U-Haul Auto Transport for personal use, as long as the combined weight does not exceed certain commercial limits (which is rarely the case for typical personal vehicles). Always check your local regulations.
Q: Can I pick up the trailer at one location and drop it off at another?
A: Yes, U-Haul specializes in one-way rentals, allowing you to pick up your trailer at one U-Haul location and drop it off at another, which is ideal for long-distance moves.
Q: Are ramps included with the U-Haul car trailer?
A: Yes, all U-Haul Auto Transports come with integrated loading ramps that slide out from the rear of the trailer.
Q: What about insurance for the car trailer and my towed vehicle?
A: U-Haul offers optional Safetow insurance, which provides coverage for damage to the U-Haul trailer and your towed vehicle while in transit. It’s highly recommended, as your personal auto insurance policy may not cover all aspects of towing.
Conclusion
The U-Haul Car Trailer, or Auto Transport, stands as an invaluable resource for anyone needing to move a vehicle safely and efficiently. By understanding its features, planning meticulously, and adhering to safe towing practices, you can leverage this DIY solution to save money and gain unparalleled control over your vehicle’s relocation. From the initial reservation to the final drop-off, U-Haul provides the tools and support to make your vehicle transport a smooth and successful endeavor. With a U-Haul Car Trailer, the open road becomes a pathway to your next destination, with your vehicle securely in tow.
