U-Haul Open Trailer Sizes Chart Dimensions: Your Ultimate Guide to Hauling Success
U-Haul Open Trailer Sizes Chart Dimensions: Your Ultimate Guide to Hauling Success cars.truckstrend.com
Moving, undertaking a DIY home improvement project, or transporting a vehicle often requires specialized equipment. For countless individuals and businesses across North America, U-Haul’s diverse fleet of trailers provides the perfect solution. Among their offerings, the open utility trailers stand out for their versatility, affordability, and ease of use, making them an ideal choice for hauling everything from furniture and appliances to landscaping materials and motorcycles.
However, selecting the right U-Haul open trailer is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. The success of your hauling task hinges on understanding the specific dimensions, weight capacities, and features of each trailer type. Choosing a trailer that’s too small can lead to multiple trips, wasted time, and potential safety hazards from overloading, while an oversized trailer might be more challenging to maneuver and cost more than necessary. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of the U-Haul open trailer sizes chart and dimensions, equipping you with the knowledge to make an informed decision for your next project.
U-Haul Open Trailer Sizes Chart Dimensions: Your Ultimate Guide to Hauling Success
Understanding U-Haul Open Trailers: Why Size Matters
U-Haul, a ubiquitous name in the moving and storage industry, offers a range of trailer options, broadly categorized into enclosed cargo trailers and open utility trailers. While enclosed trailers provide protection from the elements and added security, open trailers excel in their ability to accommodate oddly shaped items, allow for easy loading and unloading, and often come at a more economical rental rate.
Open trailers are particularly well-suited for:
- Landscaping projects: Hauling dirt, mulch, rocks, or garden waste.
- Construction and renovation: Transporting lumber, drywall, tools, and debris.
- Appliance and furniture delivery: Moving large, bulky items that don’t require weather protection.
- Vehicle transport: Specialized open trailers for cars, motorcycles, and ATVs.
- DIY projects: General hauling of materials to and from hardware stores.
The critical importance of selecting the correct size cannot be overstated. Beyond convenience and cost, safety is paramount. Overloading a trailer, exceeding its weight capacity, or improperly distributing weight due to a misfit trailer can lead to dangerous situations on the road, including loss of control, tire blowouts, and even accidents. Furthermore, understanding the dimensions helps you ensure your items will actually fit and that your towing vehicle is capable of handling the load.
The Core of the Matter: U-Haul Open Trailer Sizes Chart Dimensions
U-Haul primarily offers three main sizes of open utility trailers, along with specialized open trailers for vehicle transport. Each is designed with specific hauling needs in mind. Let’s break down their dimensions, capacities, and ideal use cases.
1. The 4’x7′ Utility Trailer
This is U-Haul’s smallest open utility trailer, often chosen for quick, lighter loads.
- Key Dimensions (Approximate Interior):
- Length: 7 feet
- Width: 4 feet
- Side Height: Approximately 2 feet (or 24 inches)
- Loading Capacity:
- Max Load: Approximately 1,770 lbs (803 kg)
- Empty Weight (Tare): Approximately 650 lbs (295 kg)
- Features:
- Equipped with a loading ramp for easy access.
- Multiple tie-down points to secure your cargo.
- Ideal Use Cases:
- Perfect for small-scale hauling tasks.
- Transporting a few pieces of furniture (e.g., dresser, small couch).
- Hauling gardening supplies, mulch bags, or a few bags of concrete.
- Moving appliances like a washer, dryer, or refrigerator.
- Great for quick trips to the dump or recycling center.
- Suitable for smaller ATVs or dirt bikes, provided they fit and are properly secured.
The 4×7 is easy to maneuver, even for novice trailer towers, and its compact size makes it a good choice for urban environments or properties with limited space. However, its smaller capacity means it’s not suitable for large moves or heavy construction materials.
2. The 5’x8′ Utility Trailer
A popular mid-range option, the 5’x8′ trailer offers a significant increase in capacity over the 4’x7′ while remaining relatively easy to tow.
- Key Dimensions (Approximate Interior):
- Length: 8 feet
- Width: 5 feet
- Side Height: Approximately 2 feet (or 24 inches)
- Loading Capacity:
- Max Load: Approximately 1,890 lbs (857 kg)
- Empty Weight (Tare): Approximately 900 lbs (408 kg)
- Features:
- Includes a loading ramp for convenient loading of heavier items.
- Robust tie-down points for secure transportation.
- Ideal Use Cases:
- More substantial DIY projects requiring lumber, drywall sheets, or multiple bags of cement.
- Moving a studio apartment or a few rooms of furniture.
- Transporting larger appliances or multiple pieces of furniture.
- Hauling debris from a renovation project.
- Suitable for a standard ATV or a couple of dirt bikes.
The 5×8 provides a good balance between capacity and towability, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of household and light commercial tasks. It can handle most standard sheet goods like plywood or drywall without overhang.
3. The 6’x12′ Utility Trailer
This is U-Haul’s largest open utility trailer, designed for significant hauling needs.
- Key Dimensions (Approximate Interior):
- Length: 12 feet
- Width: 6 feet
- Side Height: Approximately 2 feet (or 24 inches)
- Loading Capacity:
- Max Load: Approximately 2,670 lbs (1,211 kg)
- Empty Weight (Tare): Approximately 1,450 lbs (658 kg)
- Features:
- Equipped with a loading ramp at the rear for easy loading of heavy or wheeled items.
- Numerous sturdy tie-down points.
- Tandem axle configuration (two axles) on many models for improved stability and weight distribution, especially with heavier loads.
- Ideal Use Cases:
- Major landscaping projects (large quantities of soil, gravel, or large trees).
- Hauling substantial construction materials (long lumber, large quantities of bricks, concrete blocks).
- Clearing out an entire garage, basement, or large property.
- Transporting multiple ATVs, a small tractor, or other recreational vehicles.
- Ideal for professional contractors or extensive DIYers.
The 6×12 trailer’s size and capacity demand a more capable towing vehicle and a driver experienced with towing. Its tandem axles provide better stability for heavier loads, but also require wider turns and more careful maneuvering.
Specialized Open Trailers: Auto Transport & Motorcycle Trailer
Beyond the general utility trailers, U-Haul also offers specialized open trailers designed for vehicle transport.
-
Auto Transport Trailer:
- Purpose: Designed to tow most cars, trucks, and SUVs.
- Key Dimensions (Approximate Platform):
- Length: Varies, generally around 14-16 feet for the vehicle platform.
- Width: Approximately 6 feet 8 inches to 7 feet (between fenders).
- Max Load: Approximately 5,290 lbs (2,400 kg)
- Empty Weight (Tare): Approximately 2,210 lbs (1,000 kg)
- Features: Integrated ramps, security chains, adjustable straps for tires, and often surge brakes.
- Considerations: Requires a robust towing vehicle (typically a full-size pickup or large SUV) with significant towing capacity and a proper hitch setup.
-
Motorcycle Trailer:
- Purpose: Specifically designed for transporting one to three motorcycles.
- Key Dimensions (Approximate Interior):
- Length: Approximately 7 feet 6 inches to 9 feet.
- Width: Approximately 3 feet 8 inches.
- Max Load: Approximately 1,600 lbs (726 kg)
- Empty Weight (Tare): Approximately 400 lbs (181 kg)
- Features: Multiple tie-down points, front wheel chocks, and often a loading ramp.
- Considerations: Lighter and easier to tow than auto transports, but still requires proper securing of motorcycles.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your U-Haul Open Trailer
Selecting the right trailer goes beyond just looking at the chart. Here are crucial factors to weigh:
- Load Size and Weight: This is the most critical factor. Measure your largest items and estimate the total weight. Always err on the side of caution and slightly overestimate. Never exceed the trailer’s maximum load capacity or your vehicle’s towing capacity.
- Type of Items: Are you hauling loose materials (dirt, gravel) that might spill from low sides? Or long items like lumber that might exceed the trailer’s length? Oddly shaped items benefit greatly from open sides.
- Towing Vehicle Compatibility: Your vehicle must be equipped with a proper hitch (receiver and ball), adequate towing capacity (check your owner’s manual), and functional trailer wiring for lights. U-Haul will verify your vehicle’s suitability before rental.
- Distance of Travel: For short, local trips, you might tolerate a slightly less-than-ideal fit. For long distances, comfort, stability, and proper fit are paramount for safety and ease of mind.
- Budget: While open trailers are generally more affordable than enclosed ones, larger trailers will typically have higher rental rates.
- Safety: Always prioritize safety. Ensure proper weight distribution (heavier items over the axle, slightly forward), secure all items with appropriate tie-downs, and conduct a pre-trip inspection of lights, tires, and hitch connection.
- Accessibility: All U-Haul utility trailers come with a ramp, which is incredibly useful for loading wheeled items or heavy objects using a hand truck.
Practical Tips for Renting and Using Your U-Haul Open Trailer
- Reserve in Advance: Especially during peak moving seasons (end of month, summer), trailers can be in high demand. Reserve online or by phone well in advance.
- Inspect Before You Leave: Before driving off, thoroughly inspect the trailer. Check tire pressure and condition, ensure all lights (running lights, brake lights, turn signals) work, and verify the hitch connection is secure.
- Load Smart: Distribute weight evenly, with about 60% of the weight in the front half of the trailer, slightly forward of the axle. Secure everything with heavy-duty straps or ropes. Even seemingly stable items can shift during transit.
- Adjust Your Driving: When towing, remember you have increased length, width, and weight. Make wider turns, allow significantly more braking distance, and accelerate slowly. Be mindful of speed limits for trailers, which are often lower than for cars alone.
- Know Your Hitch: U-Haul typically uses 1 7/8" or 2" hitch balls for their trailers. Ensure your vehicle has the correct size ball mounted on a Class I, II, or III hitch receiver, depending on the trailer’s weight.
- Consider Damage Coverage: U-Haul offers optional coverage plans (Safemove®, Safetow®) that can protect you from financial liability in case of damage to the trailer or your personal property. Review your personal auto insurance policy as well to understand your existing coverage.
U-Haul Open Trailer Dimensions and Key Information Chart
This table provides a concise overview of the U-Haul open trailer options, including their dimensions, capacities, and estimated daily rental prices (prices can vary by location, demand, and season).
| Trailer Type | Interior Length (Approx.) | Interior Width (Approx.) | Side Height (Approx.) | Max Load Weight (Approx.) | Empty Weight (Tare) (Approx.) | Ramp Included? | Estimated Daily Price* | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4’x7′ Utility | 7 ft | 4 ft | 2 ft (24 in) | 1,770 lbs (803 kg) | 650 lbs (295 kg) | Yes | $14.95 – $19.95 | Small loads, appliances, few furniture items, gardening, small ATVs. |
| 5’x8′ Utility | 8 ft | 5 ft | 2 ft (24 in) | 1,890 lbs (857 kg) | 900 lbs (408 kg) | Yes | $19.95 – $24.95 | Mid-size loads, renovation debris, furniture, multiple appliances, standard ATVs, bulk materials. |
| 6’x12′ Utility | 12 ft | 6 ft | 2 ft (24 in) | 2,670 lbs (1,211 kg) | 1,450 lbs (658 kg) | Yes | $29.95 – $39.95 | Large loads, construction materials, major cleanouts, multiple ATVs/tractors, professional use. |
| Auto Transport | 14-16 ft (platform) | 6 ft 8 in – 7 ft | N/A (open deck) | 5,290 lbs (2,400 kg) | 2,210 lbs (1,000 kg) | Yes | $60.00 – $80.00 | Most cars, trucks, SUVs. |
| Motorcycle Trailer | 7 ft 6 in – 9 ft | 3 ft 8 in | N/A (open deck) | 1,600 lbs (726 kg) | 400 lbs (181 kg) | Yes | $24.95 – $34.95 | 1-3 motorcycles, dirt bikes. |
Note: Prices are estimates for local, daily rentals and can vary significantly based on location, availability, demand, rental duration, and one-way options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I tow a U-Haul open trailer with any vehicle?
A1: No. Your vehicle must have a proper hitch receiver (Class I, II, or III depending on the trailer), a correctly sized hitch ball, and adequate towing capacity as specified by your vehicle manufacturer. U-Haul will verify your vehicle’s suitability. You also need functional trailer wiring for lights.
Q2: Do U-Haul open utility trailers have ramps?
A2: Yes, all U-Haul open utility trailers (4×7, 5×8, 6×12) come equipped with a rear loading ramp for easy loading and unloading of wheeled items or heavy objects with a hand truck. Auto transport and motorcycle trailers also have integrated ramps.
Q3: What type of hitch ball do I need for a U-Haul open trailer?
A3: U-Haul trailers typically require either a 1 7/8" or a 2" diameter hitch ball. The specific size needed will be confirmed by U-Haul when you rent the trailer. Ensure your hitch ball is rated for the trailer’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
Q4: Do I need extra insurance when renting a U-Haul open trailer?
A4: It’s highly recommended to check with your personal auto insurance provider to understand what coverage, if any, extends to rental trailers. U-Haul also offers optional coverage plans like Safetow® that can protect you from damage to the trailer or your personal property during the rental period.
Q5: How do I properly load an open trailer to prevent accidents?
A5: Proper loading is crucial. Place approximately 60% of the weight in the front half of the trailer, slightly forward of the axle. Distribute weight evenly from side to side. Use heavy-duty tie-down straps or ropes to secure all items, ensuring they cannot shift or fall out during transit. Loose items should be covered or contained.
Q6: What if my items are slightly longer than the trailer?
A6: For items that slightly exceed the trailer’s length, ensure they are securely fastened and do not obstruct lights or license plates. Many states have regulations on how much items can overhang (e.g., typically 3 feet in front, 4 feet in the rear). For significant overhang, a larger trailer or an enclosed trailer might be necessary. Always check local regulations.
Q7: Can I rent a U-Haul open trailer for one-way trips?
A7: Yes, U-Haul offers one-way rental options for their trailers, allowing you to pick up in one location and drop off in another. One-way rentals are generally more expensive than local, in-town rentals.
Conclusion
Choosing the right U-Haul open trailer is a critical step towards a successful and stress-free hauling experience. By understanding the detailed dimensions, weight capacities, and specific features of each trailer type, you can confidently select the perfect fit for your needs. Always prioritize safety by ensuring your towing vehicle is compatible, loading the trailer correctly, and practicing defensive driving techniques. With this comprehensive guide in hand, you’re now well-equipped to navigate the U-Haul open trailer sizes chart, ensuring your next moving or hauling project is efficient, safe, and cost-effective. Happy hauling!
