U-Haul Trailers Sizes And Prices: Your Comprehensive Guide to Smart Moving types.truckstrend.com
Embarking on a move, tackling a major renovation project, or transporting a vehicle often brings with it the logistical challenge of moving large, bulky, or numerous items. While hiring professional movers or renting a large truck are options, U-Haul trailers offer a uniquely flexible, cost-effective, and often more convenient solution for many individuals and businesses. Understanding U-Haul trailer sizes and prices is paramount to ensuring a smooth, efficient, and budget-friendly experience. This comprehensive guide will demystify the various trailer options available, break down their typical costs, and provide actionable insights to help you make the most informed decision for your specific needs.
U-Haul, a household name in DIY moving, provides a vast fleet of trailers designed to cater to diverse hauling requirements. From compact enclosed trailers perfect for apartment moves to robust car carriers for vehicle transportation, knowing the dimensions, capacities, and pricing structures of these trailers is the first step toward successful self-service moving. Misjudging your needs can lead to multiple trips, wasted time, unexpected costs, or even safety hazards. This article aims to empower you with all the necessary information to select the ideal U-Haul trailer, ensuring your belongings arrive safely and your budget remains intact.
U-Haul Trailers Sizes And Prices: Your Comprehensive Guide to Smart Moving
Understanding U-Haul Trailer Types: A Fleet for Every Need
U-Haul broadly categorizes its trailers into three primary types, each serving distinct purposes. Familiarizing yourself with these categories is crucial before diving into specific sizes and prices.
1. Cargo Trailers (Enclosed Trailers)
These are perhaps the most common type, designed to protect your belongings from the elements and secure them during transit. They come with a roof and walls, offering privacy and security. Ideal for moving household goods, furniture, boxes, and other items that need protection from weather or theft.
2. Utility Trailers (Open Trailers)
Utility trailers are open-top, flatbed trailers, some equipped with ramps for easier loading. They are perfect for hauling irregularly shaped items, landscaping materials, construction debris, ATVs, motorcycles, or anything that doesn’t fit well into an enclosed space or doesn’t require weather protection.
3. Car Trailers (Vehicle Transport Trailers)
Specifically designed for transporting vehicles, these come in two main forms:
- Tow Dolly: Lifts the front two wheels of the vehicle off the ground, allowing the rear wheels to roll. Best for front-wheel-drive vehicles or for short distances.
- Auto Transport: A full-platform trailer that lifts all four wheels of the vehicle off the ground. Suitable for all types of vehicles, including AWD, 4×4, and for longer distances.
Deciphering U-Haul Trailer Sizes: A Detailed Look
Each trailer type comes in various sizes, offering different capacities and functionalities. Choosing the right size is critical to avoid multiple trips or, conversely, paying for more space than you need.
Cargo Trailer Sizes (Enclosed)
- 4’x8′ Cargo Trailer:
- Ideal Use: Smallest moves, college dorms, studio apartments, or hauling a few pieces of furniture. Can hold roughly 1-2 rooms of belongings.
- Features: Lightweight, easy to maneuver, lowest cost.
- 5’x8′ Cargo Trailer:
- Ideal Use: Small apartments (1-2 rooms), furniture, appliances, or extended trips. A very popular choice for general moving.
- Features: Slightly more capacity than the 4×8, still relatively easy to tow.
- 5’x10′ Cargo Trailer:
- Ideal Use: 1-2 bedroom apartments or small houses. Can fit larger furniture pieces like sofas, dining tables, and multiple boxes.
- Features: Offers a good balance of capacity and towability.
- 6’x12′ Cargo Trailer:
- Ideal Use: 2-3 bedroom homes, larger furniture, appliances, and a substantial number of boxes. This is the largest enclosed trailer U-Haul offers.
- Features: Provides significant capacity, often requires a more capable towing vehicle.
Utility Trailer Sizes (Open)
- 4’x7′ Utility Trailer:
- Ideal Use: Small loads, landscaping materials (mulch, dirt), ATVs, small motorcycles, or yard waste.
- Features: Compact, easy to maneuver, lowest cost utility trailer.
- 5’x8′ Utility Trailer:
- Ideal Use: General hauling, larger ATVs, dirt bikes, appliances, furniture, or construction materials.
- Features: More versatile than the 4×7, often comes with a low side for easier loading.
- 5’x9′ Utility Trailer with Ramp:
- Ideal Use: Motorcycles, riding lawnmowers, ATVs, or other wheeled equipment that benefits from a ramp. Also good for general hauling.
- Features: Integrated ramp for easy loading/unloading of wheeled items.
- 6’x12′ Utility Trailer:
- Ideal Use: Large construction materials (lumber, drywall), multiple motorcycles, large equipment, or bulky items that don’t fit in enclosed trailers.
- Features: Largest utility trailer, high capacity, often comes with a ramp option.
- 6’x12′ Utility Trailer with Ramp:
- Ideal Use: Similar to the 6×12 without a ramp, but specifically for items that can be rolled on and off, like a small car (check weight limits), large ATVs, or multiple motorcycles.
Car Trailer Sizes
- Tow Dolly:
- Ideal Use: Front-wheel drive vehicles, short to medium distances, saving on fuel costs compared to full transport.
- Limitations: Not suitable for all vehicles (e.g., AWD, 4×4), can put wear on the rear tires of the towed vehicle.
- Auto Transport:
- Ideal Use: All vehicle types (including AWD, 4×4), long-distance moves, protecting the towed vehicle from wear and tear.
- Features: Full platform, integrated ramps, secure strapping system. Requires a significantly capable towing vehicle.
U-Haul Trailer Pricing: What Influences the Cost?
U-Haul trailer pricing is dynamic and influenced by several factors. Understanding these can help you anticipate costs and potentially save money.
- Local vs. One-Way Rentals:
- Local: Typically the cheapest option, with daily rates. You pick up and drop off the trailer at the same location.
- One-Way: Allows you to pick up at one location and drop off at another. Pricier than local rentals, as the cost often includes an estimated mileage or distance fee, and accounts for the repositioning of the trailer. One-way rates are highly variable based on supply and demand between locations.
- Rental Duration: Local rentals are often charged per day. One-way rentals are given a set number of days to complete the trip. Exceeding this can incur extra charges.
- Trailer Size and Type: Larger trailers and specialized car carriers are generally more expensive than smaller cargo or utility trailers.
- Availability and Demand: During peak moving seasons (e.g., summer, end of month), prices might be higher due to increased demand. Booking in advance can sometimes lock in better rates.
- Location: Prices can vary slightly between different U-Haul locations or regions.
- Optional Add-ons:
- Damage Coverage (Safemove® / Safetow®): Highly recommended insurance options that protect you from financial liability for damage to the trailer or your belongings.
- Moving Supplies: Boxes, tape, packing materials, furniture pads, dollies – these are additional costs.
- Towing Accessories: If you don’t have a hitch, wiring, or ball mount, U-Haul offers these for purchase and installation, adding to your initial outlay.
- Taxes and Fees: Local and state taxes, environmental fees, and other administrative charges will be added to the base rate.
U-Haul Trailers Sizes and Prices Table (Estimated Daily Rates)
It’s crucial to remember that U-Haul prices are highly dynamic and can change based on location, availability, demand, and whether it’s a local or one-way rental. The prices below are estimated daily rates for local rentals and serve as a general guide. One-way rates are significantly higher and vary wildly based on distance and route.
| Trailer Type | Size | Interior Dimensions (Approx.) | Ideal Use | Approx. Local Daily Rate* | Approx. One-Way Rate* (Variable) | Max Load Capacity (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cargo Trailers | 4’x8′ | 8’x4’x4’5" (LxWxH) | Studio/Dorm, few items, boxes | $14.95 – $19.95 | $100 – $300+ | 1,600 lbs |
| (Enclosed) | 5’x8′ | 8’x4’11"x5’2" (LxWxH) | 1-2 room apartment, furniture, appliances | $19.95 – $24.95 | $120 – $400+ | 1,800 lbs |
| 5’x10′ | 10’x4’11"x5’2" (LxWxH) | 1-2 bedroom home, larger furniture | $28.95 – $34.95 | $150 – $500+ | 1,800 lbs | |
| 6’x12′ | 12’x6’x6′ (LxWxH) | 2-3 bedroom home, major appliances, significant volume | $29.95 – $39.95 | $200 – $700+ | 2,500 lbs | |
| Utility Trailers | 4’x7′ | 7’x4′ (LxW) | Small loads, landscaping, small ATVs | $14.95 – $19.95 | N/A (Local Only) | 1,770 lbs |
| (Open) | 5’x8′ | 8’x5′ (LxW) | General hauling, ATVs, appliances, furniture | $18.95 – $23.95 | N/A (Local Only) | 1,890 lbs |
| 5’x9′ w/ Ramp | 9’x5′ (LxW) | Motorcycles, riding mowers, wheeled equipment | $22.95 – $27.95 | N/A (Local Only) | 1,650 lbs | |
| 6’x12′ | 12’x6′ (LxW) | Large lumber, construction materials, multiple motorcycles | $29.95 – $34.95 | N/A (Local Only) | 2,670 lbs | |
| 6’x12′ w/ Ramp | 12’x6′ (LxW) | Large equipment, small vehicles (check weight), multiple wheeled items | $34.95 – $39.95 | N/A (Local Only) | 2,490 lbs | |
| Car Trailers | Tow Dolly | Fits most cars & pickups | Front-wheel drive vehicles, short/medium distances | $40.00 – $55.00 | $150 – $600+ | 3,450 lbs (vehicle weight) |
| Auto Transport | Fits most cars & pickups | All vehicle types (AWD/4×4), long distances, vehicle protection | $55.00 – $70.00 | $250 – $900+ | 5,290 lbs (vehicle weight) |
- Disclaimer: Prices are estimates for local daily rentals and subject to change without notice. One-way rates are highly variable based on distance, demand, and specific routes. Always check U-Haul’s official website for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing for your specific needs.
Choosing the Right U-Haul Trailer: Practical Advice
Selecting the perfect trailer involves more than just glancing at prices. Consider these practical steps:
- Assess Your Cargo:
- Volume: Estimate the cubic feet of your belongings. U-Haul’s website has helpful guides for this.
- Weight: Be mindful of the total weight. Overloading is dangerous and illegal.
- Shape/Fragility: Enclosed trailers protect fragile items. Open trailers are better for odd-shaped, weather-resistant items.
- Evaluate Your Towing Vehicle:
- Towing Capacity: Your vehicle’s owner’s manual specifies its maximum towing capacity. Never exceed this.
- Hitch Type: Ensure you have the correct hitch receiver (Class I, II, III, IV, or V) and ball size (typically 1-7/8" or 2" for U-Haul trailers).
- Wiring: You need a working 4-pin or 7-pin wiring harness for trailer lights.
- Brakes: Some larger trailers (like auto transports) may have surge brakes, but your vehicle’s braking system must be adequate.
- Determine Your Route and Distance:
- Local Move: If you’re staying in the same city, a local daily rental is usually cheapest.
- One-Way Move: For inter-city or interstate moves, a one-way rental is essential, but be prepared for higher, more variable pricing.
- Consider Your Budget: Factor in not just the rental cost, but also fuel (towing reduces MPG), insurance, and any necessary towing accessories.
Renting a U-Haul Trailer: Step-by-Step Guide
The rental process is straightforward, but preparation helps.
- Online Reservation: Visit U-Haul’s website. Input your pickup location, drop-off location (if one-way), dates, and the type/size of trailer you need. The system will provide available options and estimated pricing.
- Confirm Towing Capability: Before finalizing, double-check that your vehicle meets the towing requirements for the selected trailer. U-Haul’s system will guide you through this.
- Pickup Process: Arrive at the U-Haul location at your scheduled time. You’ll need your driver’s license, reservation details, and a valid payment method. Staff will verify your vehicle’s towing setup.
- Pre-Trip Inspection: Before leaving, inspect the trailer with a U-Haul representative. Check tires, lights, hitch connection, and overall condition. Report any existing damage.
- Hook-Up and Safety Check: U-Haul staff will assist with hooking up the trailer to your vehicle, ensuring the hitch is properly secured, safety chains are crossed, and the electrical connection for lights is working.
- Loading: Load the trailer carefully, distributing weight evenly, with about 60% of the cargo weight in the front half of the trailer to prevent swaying. Secure all items to prevent shifting during transit.
- Return Process: Return the trailer to the designated U-Haul location by the agreed-upon time. Ensure it’s clean and empty.
Important Considerations & Tips for a Smooth Rental
- Towing Vehicle Requirements: U-Haul is strict about ensuring your vehicle can safely tow the chosen trailer. They will not rent you a trailer if your vehicle doesn’t meet their safety standards for hitch class, ball size, and wiring.
- Insurance Options: While your personal auto insurance might cover liability for towing, it often doesn’t cover damage to the U-Haul trailer itself or the contents. U-Haul offers Safetow® (for damage to the trailer) and Safemove® (for damage to your belongings in a U-Haul truck or cargo trailer). It’s highly recommended to consider these for peace of mind.
- Loading and Weight Distribution: This is paramount for safety. An improperly loaded trailer can sway dangerously, leading to loss of control. Place heavier items low and over the trailer’s axle, with more weight towards the front (tongue weight).
- Driving Tips: Drive slower than usual, especially on turns and descents. Allow extra braking distance. Be aware of the added length and width when changing lanes or turning. Watch for trailer sway and correct it smoothly.
- Check Tire Pressure: Before and during your trip, ensure the trailer’s tires are properly inflated to the recommended PSI.
- Practice: If you’re new to towing, practice turning, backing up, and braking in an empty parking lot before hitting the road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need a special license to tow a U-Haul trailer?
A: In most states and provinces in North America, you do not need a special driver’s license to tow a U-Haul trailer, provided your combined vehicle and trailer weight is within the standard limits of a regular driver’s license. However, always check your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent for specific regulations.
Q: Can I rent a trailer one-way?
A: Yes, most cargo trailers and all car trailers (Tow Dolly and Auto Transport) are available for one-way rentals. Utility trailers are typically for local use only.
Q: What’s included in the rental price?
A: The base rental price covers the use of the trailer for the specified duration. It does not typically include fuel, optional insurance coverage, moving supplies, or taxes and fees.
Q: Do U-Haul trailers have brakes?
A: Smaller cargo and utility trailers generally do not have independent braking systems. Larger trailers, especially Auto Transports and some 6’x12′ cargo trailers, are equipped with surge brakes, which activate automatically when your tow vehicle slows down.
Q: What if my vehicle can’t tow the trailer I need?
A: U-Haul will not allow you to rent a trailer if your vehicle does not meet their safety requirements for towing capacity, hitch class, or wiring. In such cases, you might need to rent a U-Haul truck (which can also tow trailers if you have a second vehicle or need more space) or find an alternative towing vehicle.
Q: What about insurance for the trailer?
A: Your personal auto insurance may offer some liability coverage when towing, but it often does not cover damage to the U-Haul trailer itself or the items inside. U-Haul offers Safetow® (for trailer damage) and Safemove® (for cargo damage in trucks and cargo trailers), which are highly recommended for peace of mind.
Q: Can I pick up a trailer at one U-Haul location and drop it off at another?
A: Yes, for most cargo and all car trailers, one-way rentals are available, allowing you to pick up and drop off at different authorized U-Haul locations.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of U-Haul trailer sizes and prices doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By understanding the different types of trailers, their specific dimensions and capacities, and the factors that influence pricing, you can make an educated choice that perfectly matches your moving or hauling requirements. Remember to meticulously assess your cargo, verify your towing vehicle’s capabilities, and consider essential safety measures like proper loading and optional insurance. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now equipped with the knowledge and practical advice to confidently select and utilize the ideal U-Haul trailer, ensuring a successful, safe, and cost-effective experience for your next big project or move. Happy hauling!