U-Haul Open Trailer Sizes Chart Dimensions: Your Comprehensive Guide to Hauling Success types.truckstrend.com
Moving, renovating, or tackling a large DIY project often brings with it the challenge of transporting oversized items. While U-Haul is widely recognized for its moving trucks, their fleet of open utility trailers offers a versatile and cost-effective solution for a myriad of hauling needs. From landscaping materials and construction debris to ATVs and even other vehicles, an open trailer can be an invaluable asset.
However, the key to a successful and safe hauling experience lies in selecting the right trailer size. Too small, and you might not fit everything; too large, and you could be paying for unused space or struggling with maneuverability. Understanding the U-Haul open trailer sizes, their dimensions, and their capacities is paramount. This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about U-Haul open trailer sizes, helping you make an informed decision for your next project.
U-Haul Open Trailer Sizes Chart Dimensions: Your Comprehensive Guide to Hauling Success
Understanding U-Haul Open Trailers: Why Size Matters
U-Haul’s open trailers, also known as utility trailers, are characterized by their open-top design and typically come with a low deck, making loading and unloading relatively easy. Unlike enclosed trailers that protect contents from weather and theft, open trailers are ideal for items that are weather-resistant, unusually shaped, or simply too tall for an enclosed space.
Benefits of Open Trailers:
- Versatility: Great for landscaping waste, construction materials, large appliances, motorcycles, ATVs, and even small vehicles.
- Easy Loading: The open design and low deck (often with ramps) simplify the process of getting heavy or bulky items on and off.
- Cost-Effective: Often more affordable than enclosed trailers, especially for shorter distances or specific hauling tasks.
- Height Flexibility: Accommodate tall items that wouldn’t fit in an enclosed truck or trailer.
Risks of Choosing the Wrong Size:
- Overloading: Exceeding the trailer’s weight capacity can lead to tire blowouts, structural damage, loss of control, and severe accidents.
- Insufficient Space: Not being able to fit all your items, leading to multiple trips or the need for a larger (and potentially more expensive) rental.
- Instability: An improperly sized or loaded trailer can cause sway, making towing dangerous.
- Legal Issues: Many jurisdictions have weight limits for trailers, and exceeding them can result in fines.
Therefore, a thorough understanding of U-Haul’s open trailer dimensions and capacities is not just about convenience; it’s about safety and efficiency.
The U-Haul Open Trailer Lineup: A Detailed Look at Sizes
U-Haul offers a focused selection of open trailers, each designed for specific purposes. Here’s a detailed breakdown of their common offerings:
1. 4×7 Utility Trailer
- Dimensions (Deck Size): Approximately 4 feet wide by 7 feet long.
- Features: Often comes with a low deck and a spring-assisted ramp for easy loading. It’s a single-axle trailer.
- Max Load Capacity: Typically around 1,890 lbs.
- Ideal Use Cases: Perfect for smaller tasks like hauling a few pieces of furniture, a washer/dryer, a riding lawnmower, ATVs, dirt bikes, or garden supplies. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver and tow, even with smaller SUVs or trucks.
2. 5×8 Utility Trailer
- Dimensions (Deck Size): Approximately 5 feet wide by 8 feet long.
- Features: Similar to the 4×7 but with more space. It also usually includes a low deck and a sturdy loading ramp. This is also a single-axle trailer.
- Max Load Capacity: Around 2,670 lbs.
- Ideal Use Cases: A versatile choice for small apartment moves, hauling construction debris, transporting large appliances, furniture sets, motorcycles, or multiple ATVs. It offers a good balance between capacity and ease of towing.
3. 6×12 Utility Trailer
- Dimensions (Deck Size): Approximately 6 feet wide by 12 feet long.
- Features: The largest utility trailer in U-Haul’s open fleet, often featuring a low deck and a full-width ramp. This is a tandem-axle trailer, providing better stability and weight distribution for heavier loads.
- Max Load Capacity: Impressive, usually around 3,710 lbs.
- Ideal Use Cases: Best for major hauling projects such as large furniture, multiple appliances, significant amounts of building materials (lumber, drywall), landscaping equipment, or even a small car (though an auto transport trailer is specifically designed for this). The tandem axles are crucial for heavier, longer hauls.
4. Auto Transport Trailer
- Dimensions (Deck Size): Designed specifically for vehicles. The deck is approximately 6 feet 8 inches wide by 14 feet 2 inches long.
- Features: Comes with integrated ramps, tie-down straps, and a tilt-bed function for easy loading of vehicles. It’s a heavy-duty, tandem-axle trailer.
- Max Load Capacity: Around 5,290 lbs. (vehicle weight).
- Ideal Use Cases: Explicitly for transporting cars, trucks, and SUVs. Essential for moving non-running vehicles, classic cars, or when you need to transport a vehicle without putting miles on it.
5. Motorcycle Trailer
- Dimensions (Deck Size): Approximately 3 feet 6 inches wide by 7 feet long.
- Features: Equipped with a front wheel chock, a low deck, and often a ramp, specifically designed to secure and transport one or two motorcycles safely.
- Max Load Capacity: Around 900 lbs.
- Ideal Use Cases: Perfect for transporting motorcycles, dirt bikes, or smaller ATVs securely.
Choosing the Right Open Trailer: Practical Considerations
Selecting the correct U-Haul open trailer goes beyond just looking at dimensions. Consider these practical aspects:
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What Are You Hauling?
- Volume & Shape: Will your items fit within the trailer’s footprint? Are there any height restrictions for your items (though less common with open trailers)?
- Weight: This is critical. List all items you plan to haul and estimate their total weight. Never exceed the trailer’s max load capacity or your towing vehicle’s capacity.
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Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity:
- Hitch Type: Do you have the correct hitch receiver (e.g., 1-1/4" or 2" square receiver) and ball size (usually 1-7/8" or 2")? U-Haul trailers require specific ball sizes.
- Tow Rating: Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for its maximum towing capacity. This includes the weight of the trailer itself plus its loaded contents. Do not forget to factor in the weight of passengers and cargo inside your tow vehicle.
- Braking System: Does your vehicle have sufficient braking power for the combined weight? Some heavier trailers might require a vehicle with trailer brake controllers, though most U-Haul utility trailers do not have electric brakes themselves.
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Ramp Needs: If you’re loading rolling items (mowers, motorcycles, ATVs), ensure the trailer comes with a suitable ramp. All U-Haul utility trailers typically have ramps.
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Securing Your Load: Open trailers require diligent load securement. Plan to bring your own ratchet straps, ropes, or bungee cords. U-Haul locations may sell these, but it’s best to have them ready. A tarp can be useful for protecting items from weather or keeping loose materials contained.
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Rental Type (One-Way vs. In-Town): Availability of certain trailer sizes might vary for one-way rentals compared to local, in-town rentals. Auto transports and motorcycle trailers are often available for one-way.
How to Rent a U-Haul Open Trailer: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Reserve Online: The easiest way is to visit the U-Haul website. Enter your pickup location, desired dates, and select the type of trailer. You can often see real-time availability.
- Confirm Towing Capability: Before finalizing your reservation, the U-Haul system will ask about your towing vehicle’s make, model, and year to ensure compatibility. Be honest about your vehicle’s capabilities.
- Pickup Day:
- Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the trailer for any existing damage (dents, scratches, tire condition) and ensure it’s noted on your rental agreement.
- Hitching: U-Haul staff will typically assist with hitching the trailer to your vehicle, connecting safety chains, and testing the lights.
- Documentation: Keep your rental agreement, emergency contacts, and roadside assistance information handy.
- Return: Return the trailer to the designated U-Haul location by the agreed-upon time. Ensure it’s clean and in the same condition as when you picked it up.
Important Safety Tips and Best Practices
Towing a trailer significantly changes your vehicle’s dynamics. Prioritize safety:
- Weight Distribution: Load the trailer heavier in the front (about 60% of the load over the front half of the trailer) to ensure proper tongue weight. Too much weight in the back can cause dangerous sway.
- Secure Your Load: Use multiple tie-down points and high-quality straps. Items should not shift during transit. Cover loose items like debris or gravel.
- Pre-Trip Check: Before every drive, check:
- Hitch connection is secure.
- Safety chains are crossed and attached.
- Trailer lights (running lights, brake lights, turn signals) are working.
- Tire pressure on both your vehicle and the trailer.
- Driving Habits:
- Reduce Speed: Drive slower than usual, especially on curves, downhills, and in adverse weather.
- Increase Following Distance: You’ll need more time and distance to stop.
- Wider Turns: Account for the trailer’s length when turning.
- Lane Changes: Be mindful of the trailer in your blind spots.
- Tire Care: Check trailer tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires can lead to blowouts and instability.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
- Availability: Popular trailer sizes can be booked quickly, especially during peak moving seasons (summer, end of month). Solution: Book well in advance. Consider alternative pickup locations if your primary choice is unavailable.
- Towing Vehicle Limitations: Discovering your vehicle isn’t rated to tow the desired trailer. Solution: Double-check your owner’s manual before reserving. If necessary, rent a U-Haul moving truck that can also tow a car or another trailer.
- Loading Difficulties: Struggling to load heavy items. Solution: Ask for help! Use ramps, dollies, or appliance straps if available. Never attempt to lift more than you can safely handle.
- Weather: Rain or strong winds can affect open trailer hauling. Solution: Use a durable tarp to protect contents from rain. Drive slower and be extra cautious in windy conditions. Consider rescheduling if weather is severe.
U-Haul Open Trailer Sizes Chart Dimensions and Estimated Prices
| Trailer Type | Approx. Deck Dimensions (W x L) | Max Load Capacity (Weight) | Ramp Included? | Ideal Use Cases | Approx. Daily Price Range (Disclaimer Below) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4×7 Utility Trailer | 4 ft x 7 ft | 1,890 lbs | Yes | Small furniture, lawnmowers, ATVs, garden supplies | $14.95 – $29.95 |
| 5×8 Utility Trailer | 5 ft x 8 ft | 2,670 lbs | Yes | Small moves, appliances, furniture, motorcycles | $19.95 – $34.95 |
| 6×12 Utility Trailer | 6 ft x 12 ft | 3,710 lbs | Yes | Large furniture, building materials, heavy equipment | $29.95 – $49.95 |
| Auto Transport | 6 ft 8 in x 14 ft 2 in | 5,290 lbs (vehicle weight) | Yes | Transporting cars, trucks, SUVs | $59.95 – $89.95 (often one-way pricing) |
| Motorcycle Trailer | 3 ft 6 in x 7 ft | 900 lbs | Yes | Transporting motorcycles, dirt bikes, small ATVs | $24.95 – $39.95 |
Disclaimer: Prices listed are approximate daily rates for local, in-town rentals and can vary significantly based on location, availability, demand, rental duration, and whether it’s a one-way rental. Always check the official U-Haul website for current and exact pricing for your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Do I need a special driver’s license to tow a U-Haul open trailer?
A1: In most US states and Canadian provinces, a standard driver’s license is sufficient for towing U-Haul utility trailers, as their gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) typically falls within the limits for a regular license. Always check your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent for specific regulations.
Q2: What kind of hitch do I need for a U-Haul open trailer?
A2: You’ll need a hitch receiver installed on your vehicle (typically 1-1/4" or 2" square). U-Haul utility trailers usually use a 1-7/8" or 2" hitch ball, which U-Haul can provide or sell. The hitch must be properly rated for the trailer’s loaded weight.
Q3: Can I tow a U-Haul open trailer with a car?
A3: It depends on the car and the trailer. Many sedans and smaller SUVs have limited towing capacities. You must check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for its specific towing capacity. Smaller trailers like the 4×7 or 5×8 might be towable by some larger sedans or crossovers, but heavier trailers require trucks or larger SUVs.
Q4: Do U-Haul open trailers have brakes?
A4: Most U-Haul utility trailers (4×7, 5×8, 6×12, and motorcycle trailers) do not have independent braking systems. The auto transport trailers, due to their higher weight capacity, are typically equipped with surge brakes, which activate automatically when the tow vehicle slows down.
Q5: What happens if I overload the trailer?
A5: Overloading is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious consequences, including tire blowouts, axle damage, loss of steering control, increased stopping distances, and potential legal penalties. Never exceed the trailer’s stated maximum load capacity or your tow vehicle’s capacity.
Q6: Are ramps included with all utility trailers?
A6: Yes, U-Haul’s utility trailers (4×7, 5×8, 6×12) typically come equipped with a sturdy ramp for easy loading and unloading of wheeled items or heavy objects. Auto transports and motorcycle trailers also have integrated loading mechanisms.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of U-Haul open trailer sizes chart dimensions doesn’t have to be daunting. By understanding the specific dimensions, capacities, and intended uses of each trailer type, coupled with a keen awareness of your towing vehicle’s capabilities and essential safety practices, you can confidently select the perfect trailer for your needs. Whether you’re moving a new appliance, clearing out yard waste, or transporting a vehicle, choosing the right U-Haul open trailer ensures your hauling project is not only efficient but, most importantly, safe. Plan smart, load right, and tow with confidence!