U-Haul Trailer Sizes And Lengths: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Hauling Solution

U-Haul Trailer Sizes And Lengths: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Hauling Solution types.truckstrend.com

Moving, transporting goods, or hauling a vehicle can be a daunting task, but with the right equipment, it becomes significantly more manageable. For millions, U-Haul trailers are the go-to solution, offering a diverse fleet designed to meet virtually any hauling need. Understanding U-Haul trailer sizes and lengths is not just about knowing dimensions; it’s about making an informed decision that ensures safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness for your specific project.

Choosing the wrong trailer size can lead to multiple headaches: an overloaded trailer is dangerous and illegal, while an unnecessarily large one can be difficult to maneuver and more expensive than needed. This comprehensive guide will break down the various types of U-Haul trailers, their specific sizes and capacities, key considerations for selection, and practical advice to ensure your hauling experience is as smooth as possible.

U-Haul Trailer Sizes And Lengths: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Hauling Solution

Understanding U-Haul Trailer Types

U-Haul categorizes its trailers into three primary types, each designed for distinct purposes:

1. Cargo Trailers (Enclosed)

These are fully enclosed trailers, offering protection from weather and enhanced security for your belongings. They are ideal for household moves, transporting furniture, boxes, and other items that need to stay dry and secure.

2. Utility Trailers (Open)

Open-top trailers designed for hauling a wide variety of items that may not fit in an enclosed trailer, or for materials that don’t require protection from the elements. They are perfect for landscaping materials, construction debris, ATVs, motorcycles, and general bulk items. Many come with integrated ramps for easy loading.

3. Car Trailers (Vehicle Transport)

Specifically designed for towing vehicles, these come in two forms:

• Tow Dolly: Lifts the front wheels of a vehicle off the ground, leaving the rear wheels on the road.
• Auto Transport: Lifts all four wheels of the vehicle completely off the ground.

Choosing the Right U-Haul Trailer Size: Key Considerations

Before you even look at specific dimensions, ask yourself these crucial questions:

1. What are you moving? (e.g., a few boxes, a single piece of furniture, an entire household, a car, building materials, an ATV).
2. What is the volume and weight of your cargo? Estimate cubic feet and total weight to ensure you don’t overload the trailer.
3. What is your towing vehicle’s capability? This is paramount. Your vehicle’s towing capacity, hitch class, and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) must exceed the loaded trailer’s weight. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual.



4. How far are you traveling? Longer distances might warrant a more stable auto transport over a tow dolly, or a larger cargo trailer to minimize trips.
5. What is your budget? Larger trailers generally cost more to rent.

Detailed Look at U-Haul Trailer Sizes and Capacities

Here’s a breakdown of U-Haul’s popular trailer offerings, including their typical uses, dimensions, and capacities:

A. U-Haul Cargo Trailer Sizes

These enclosed trailers provide protection and peace of mind.

• 4’x8′ Cargo Trailer:

  • Ideal for: Studio apartments, dorm rooms, small local moves, extra storage space, or hauling small furniture pieces and boxes.
  • Internal Dimensions (LxWxH): 8′ x 4′ x 4′
  • Cubic Feet Capacity: 160 cu. ft.
  • Max Load Capacity: 1,600 lbs.
  • Features: Lightweight, easy to tow, secure latching door.

• 5’x8′ Cargo Trailer:

  • Ideal for: 1-bedroom apartments, moving appliances, larger furniture items, or hauling general goods. This is one of the most popular choices for its versatility.
  • Internal Dimensions (LxWxH): 8′ x 5′ x 4.5′
  • Cubic Feet Capacity: 200 cu. ft.
  • Max Load Capacity: 1,800 lbs.
  • Features: Low loading deck, ample space for typical household items.

• 5’x10′ Cargo Trailer:

  • Ideal for: 1-2 bedroom apartments, larger furniture items, multiple appliances, or small office moves. Offers significant space without being overly large.
  • Internal Dimensions (LxWxH): 10′ x 5′ x 5′
  • Cubic Feet Capacity: 250 cu. ft.
  • Max Load Capacity: 1,860 lbs.
  • Features: Slightly taller and longer than the 5×8, providing more flexibility for taller items.

• 6’x12′ Cargo Trailer:

  • Ideal for: 2-3 bedroom homes, large furniture, major appliances, or extensive hauling projects. This is the largest enclosed trailer U-Haul offers.
  • Internal Dimensions (LxWxH): 12′ x 6′ x 5.5′
  • Cubic Feet Capacity: 330 cu. ft.
  • Max Load Capacity: 2,480 lbs.
  • Features: Largest capacity, low loading ramp for easier loading, secure door.

B. U-Haul Utility Trailer Sizes

These open trailers are versatile for various hauling needs.

• 4’x7′ Utility Trailer:

  • Ideal for: Small loads of brush, lawn equipment, small projects, or items that can get wet.
  • Internal Dimensions (LxW): 7′ x 4′
  • Max Load Capacity: 1,670 lbs.
  • Features: Open top, lightweight, easy to maneuver.

• 5’x8′ Utility Trailer:

  • Ideal for: General purpose hauling, slightly larger equipment, building materials, or bulk items.
  • Internal Dimensions (LxW): 8′ x 5′
  • Max Load Capacity: 1,890 lbs.
  • Features: Larger footprint, robust frame.

• 5’x9′ Utility Trailer with Ramp:

  • Ideal for: Transporting ATVs, motorcycles, lawnmowers, or other wheeled equipment that benefits from a loading ramp.
  • Internal Dimensions (LxW): 9′ x 5′
  • Max Load Capacity: 1,650 lbs.
  • Features: Integrated ramp for easy loading/unloading, low deck.

• 6’x12′ Utility Trailer:

  • Ideal for: Large construction materials, heavy machinery, multiple ATVs, or large landscaping projects.
  • Internal Dimensions (LxW): 12′ x 6′
  • Max Load Capacity: 2,670 lbs.
  • Features: Largest utility trailer, heavy-duty construction.

• 6’x12′ Utility Trailer with Ramp:

  • Ideal for: Similar to the 6×12 without a ramp, but specifically designed for loading heavy or bulky wheeled equipment like small tractors, skid steers, or multiple motorcycles.
  • Internal Dimensions (LxW): 12′ x 6′
  • Max Load Capacity: 2,670 lbs.
  • Features: Integrated ramp for convenient loading, robust frame.

C. U-Haul Car Trailer Sizes (Vehicle Transport)

For when your vehicle needs to be moved, not driven.

• Tow Dolly:

  • Ideal for: Front-wheel drive vehicles, shorter distances, or when you need to tow a car behind a moving truck or larger vehicle.
  • Features: Lifts the front wheels off the ground, easy to hook up. Requires the towed vehicle’s rear wheels to be on the road. Max vehicle weight up to 3,900 lbs.

• Auto Transport:

  • Ideal for: All types of vehicles (front, rear, all-wheel drive), longer distances, or when you prefer all four wheels of the towed vehicle to be off the ground.
  • Features: Full platform trailer, equipped with braking systems, provides maximum protection for the towed vehicle. Max vehicle weight up to 5,290 lbs. (check specific model for exact limits).

Important Considerations Before Renting

• Hitch Requirements: Ensure your towing vehicle has the correct hitch ball size (usually 1 7/8" or 2") and a properly functioning wiring harness for trailer lights.
• Loading and Weight Distribution: Always load heavy items first, low and centered over the trailer’s axle. Improper loading can cause dangerous swaying.
• Driving with a Trailer: Remember that towing a trailer significantly changes your vehicle’s handling. Allow for increased braking distance, wider turns, and be mindful of speed limits (often lower for vehicles with trailers).
• Insurance: Your personal auto insurance may not cover damage to the U-Haul trailer or your cargo. U-Haul offers Safemove® and Safetow® coverage options for peace of mind.
• Reservations: Especially during peak moving seasons (spring, summer, end of month), reserve your trailer well in advance to ensure availability.

Tips for a Smooth U-Haul Trailer Experience

1. Plan Your Route: Avoid narrow streets, low overhead clearances, and steep hills if possible.
2. Practice Backing Up: Find an empty parking lot to practice backing up with the trailer. It’s counter-intuitive initially.
3. Secure Your Load: Use moving blankets, furniture pads, and tie-downs to prevent items from shifting during transit.
4. Check Tires and Lights: Before you leave the U-Haul lot, double-check that the trailer’s tires are properly inflated and all lights (brake lights, turn signals) are working.
5. Understand Your Contract: Read the rental agreement carefully, especially regarding mileage limits (if any) and return policies.

U-Haul Trailer Sizes and Approximate Daily Rental Prices

The following table provides a general overview. Please note that prices are highly variable based on location, availability, demand, duration of rental, and time of year. These are approximate daily rental ranges and do not include taxes, insurance, or other fees.

Trailer Type	Model/Size	Internal Dimensions (LxWxH/LxW)	Cubic Feet Capacity	Max Load Capacity	Ramp (Y/N)	Typical Use	Approx. Daily Price Range*
Cargo Trailers	4’x8′	8’x4’x4′	160 cu. ft.	1,600 lbs.	No	Small apts, dorms, local moves	$15 – $25
(Enclosed)	5’x8′	8’x5’x4.5′	200 cu. ft.	1,800 lbs.	No	1-bedroom apts, appliances, general hauling	$20 – $35
	5’x10′	10’x5’x5′	250 cu. ft.	1,860 lbs.	No	1-2 bedroom apts, larger furniture	$25 – $40
	6’x12′	12’x6’x5.5′	330 cu. ft.	2,480 lbs.	No	2-3 bedroom homes, major moves, large items	$30 – $50
Utility Trailers	4’x7′	7’x4′	Open	1,670 lbs.	No	Lawn equipment, small projects, debris	$15 – $25
(Open)	5’x8′	8’x5′	Open	1,890 lbs.	No	General purpose, larger equipment, bulk items	$20 – $30
	5’x9′ w/ Ramp	9’x5′	Open	1,650 lbs.	Yes	ATVs, motorcycles, mowers	$25 – $35
	6’x12′	12’x6′	Open	2,670 lbs.	No	Construction materials, heavy machinery	$30 – $45
	6’x12′ w/ Ramp	12’x6′	Open	2,670 lbs.	Yes	Small tractors, skid steers, multiple vehicles	$35 – $50
Car Trailers	Tow Dolly	N/A	N/A	Up to 3,900 lbs.	N/A	FWD vehicles, short distances, behind a truck	$45 – $65
	Auto Transport	N/A	N/A	Up to 5,290 lbs.	N/A	All vehicle types, long distances, maximum safety	$60 – $85

*Prices are approximate daily rental rates and can vary significantly based on location, demand, duration, and time of year. Always check current pricing directly with U-Haul.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What’s the smallest U-Haul trailer I can rent?
A1: The smallest enclosed trailer is the 4’x8′ Cargo Trailer, and the smallest open utility trailer is the 4’x7′ Utility Trailer.

Q2: Can I tow a U-Haul trailer with my car?
A2: It depends entirely on your car’s towing capacity and whether it’s equipped with the proper hitch and wiring. You must never exceed your vehicle’s manufacturer-recommended towing capacity. U-Haul’s website has a tool to check your vehicle’s compatibility.

Q3: Do U-Haul trailers have brakes?
A3: Most U-Haul trailers do not have independent braking systems. The towing vehicle’s brakes are responsible for stopping both the vehicle and the trailer. The Auto Transport (car hauler) is an exception, often equipped with surge brakes.

Q4: What’s the difference between a U-Haul Tow Dolly and an Auto Transport?
A4: A Tow Dolly lifts only the front wheels of the towed vehicle off the ground, while the rear wheels remain on the road. An Auto Transport is a full trailer that lifts all four wheels of the towed vehicle completely off the ground, providing maximum protection and stability, especially for longer distances or non-front-wheel-drive vehicles.

Q5: Do I need special insurance to rent a U-Haul trailer?
A5: Your personal auto insurance policy might offer some coverage, but it’s often limited for rental trailers. U-Haul offers additional coverage options like Safemove® and Safetow® which can cover damage to the trailer itself, your belongings, or provide liability coverage. It’s highly recommended to consider these options.

Q6: How far in advance should I reserve a U-Haul trailer?
A6: For peak moving times (e.g., weekends, end of the month, summer, holidays), it’s best to reserve your trailer at least 2-4 weeks in advance. For off-peak times, a few days to a week might suffice, but earlier is always better to ensure availability of your desired size.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of U-Haul trailer sizes and lengths can seem complex, but with the right information, it transforms into a straightforward decision-making process. By carefully considering the volume and weight of your belongings, understanding your towing vehicle’s capabilities, and familiarizing yourself with the distinct advantages of each trailer type, you can confidently select the perfect U-Haul solution for your needs.

The right trailer not only makes your hauling project easier but also significantly safer. So, take the time to plan, measure, and choose wisely. With U-Haul’s extensive fleet, your next move or hauling task is well within reach, designed to be as efficient and stress-free as possible.