U-Haul Trailer Rental Sizes And Prices: Your Comprehensive Guide to Moving Smart

U-Haul Trailer Rental Sizes And Prices: Your Comprehensive Guide to Moving Smart cars.truckstrend.com

Moving can be a daunting task, but with the right tools, it becomes significantly more manageable. For countless individuals and families, U-Haul trailer rentals offer a flexible, cost-effective solution for transporting belongings, vehicles, or even just large items that don’t fit in a standard car. Understanding the array of U-Haul trailer rental sizes and prices is paramount to a successful, stress-free move. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through the various options, helping you select the perfect trailer for your needs and budget, ensuring your next move is as smooth as possible.

U-Haul, a household name in the moving industry, provides an extensive fleet of trailers designed to cater to diverse hauling requirements. From compact cargo trailers perfect for dorm room moves to robust utility trailers capable of carrying heavy machinery, and specialized auto transports for vehicles, their offerings cover nearly every scenario. The key to unlocking the full potential of U-Haul’s services lies in accurately assessing your needs against the available sizes and understanding the factors that influence pricing.

U-Haul Trailer Rental Sizes And Prices: Your Comprehensive Guide to Moving Smart

Understanding U-Haul Trailer Types: Cargo, Utility, and Auto Transport

U-Haul categorizes its trailers into three primary types, each serving distinct purposes. Knowing these categories is the first step in making an informed decision.

1. Cargo Trailers (Enclosed): These trailers are fully enclosed, providing maximum protection from weather, dust, and theft. They are ideal for moving furniture, boxes, electronics, and other items that require a secure, dry environment.
2. Utility Trailers (Open): Open-top trailers with low sides, often equipped with a ramp for easy loading. They are perfect for hauling irregularly shaped items, landscaping materials, ATVs, motorcycles, and anything that might not fit in an enclosed trailer or requires easy access.
3. Auto Transport Trailers: Specifically designed for moving vehicles. This category includes full auto transports (car carriers) and tow dollies.

Let’s delve into the specifics of each type, including their typical sizes and estimated price ranges.

Cargo Trailers: Enclosed Protection for Your Belongings

U-Haul’s enclosed cargo trailers are the go-to choice for safeguarding your possessions during transit. They come in several sizes, each suited for different volumes of goods.

• 4′ x 8′ Cargo Trailer:
  
  • Dimensions (Approximate Interior): 8′ L x 4′ W x 4′ H (160 cu. ft.)
  • Typical Use: Small studio apartments, dorm rooms, extra storage for a car load, or transporting a few large pieces of furniture. Often fits a queen-size bed and box spring, with room for boxes.
  • Estimated Price Range: Local: $14.95 – $19.95 per day; One-Way: $90 – $180+ (depending on distance).
• 5′ x 8′ Cargo Trailer:
  • Dimensions (Approximate Interior): 8′ L x 5′ W x 4.5′ H (180 cu. ft.)
  • Typical Use: One-bedroom apartments, small office moves, or larger studio apartments. Can typically hold the contents of a living room or a bedroom.
  • Estimated Price Range: Local: $19.95 – $24.95 per day; One-Way: $120 – $250+ (depending on distance).
• 5′ x 10′ Cargo Trailer:
  • Dimensions (Approximate Interior): 10′ L x 5′ W x 5′ H (250 cu. ft.)
  • Typical Use: One to two-bedroom apartments, small homes, or large office moves. Offers more height and length for taller items and more boxes.
  • Estimated Price Range: Local: $29.95 – $34.95 per day; One-Way: $150 – $350+ (depending on distance).
• 6′ x 12′ Cargo Trailer:
  • Dimensions (Approximate Interior): 12′ L x 6′ W x 5.5′ H (340 cu. ft.)
  • Typical Use: Two to three-bedroom homes, large apartment moves, or extensive office relocations. This is the largest enclosed trailer U-Haul offers and is great for most residential moves.
  • Estimated Price Range: Local: $34.95 – $39.95 per day; One-Way: $180 – $450+ (depending on distance).

Benefits of Cargo Trailers:

• Security: Keeps your belongings safe from prying eyes and theft.
• Weather Protection: Offers complete enclosure, protecting items from rain, snow, and excessive sun.
• Cleanliness: Shields items from road grime and dust.

Utility Trailers: Open Versatility for Odd Loads

U-Haul’s utility trailers are designed for hauling items that might be too large, tall, or dirty for an enclosed trailer. Their open design and often included ramps make loading a breeze.

• 4′ x 7′ Utility Trailer:
  • Dimensions (Approximate Bed): 7′ L x 4′ W (no ramp)
  • Typical Use: Small local hauling tasks, lawnmowers, small furniture, or construction materials.
  • Estimated Price Range: Local: $14.95 – $19.95 per day; One-Way: Not typically offered.
• 5′ x 8′ Utility Trailer:
  • Dimensions (Approximate Bed): 8′ L x 5′ W (no ramp)
  • Typical Use: Appliances, small equipment, furniture, or a few large boxes.
  • Estimated Price Range: Local: $19.95 – $24.95 per day; One-Way: Not typically offered.
• 5′ x 9′ Utility Trailer with Ramp:
  • Dimensions (Approximate Bed): 9′ L x 5′ W (with ramp)
  • Typical Use: Ideal for ATVs, motorcycles, riding lawnmowers, or large, heavy items that need a ramp for loading.
  • Estimated Price Range: Local: $24.95 – $29.95 per day; One-Way: Not typically offered.
• 6′ x 12′ Utility Trailer with Ramp:
  • Dimensions (Approximate Bed): 12′ L x 6′ W (with ramp)
  • Typical Use: The largest utility trailer, perfect for multiple motorcycles, large ATVs, small vehicles, significant amounts of landscaping materials, or large furniture pieces.
  • Estimated Price Range: Local: $29.95 – $34.95 per day; One-Way: Not typically offered.

Benefits of Utility Trailers:

• Easy Loading: Open design and ramps (on select models) facilitate loading bulky or wheeled items.
• Versatility: Accommodates odd-shaped or oversized items that might not fit in an enclosed trailer.
• Ventilation: Ideal for items that require airflow.

Auto Transport Solutions: Car Carriers and Tow Dollies

Moving a vehicle along with your household goods? U-Haul offers two primary solutions for auto transport.

• Auto Transport (Car Carrier):
  • Dimensions: Designed for full-size cars, trucks, and SUVs. Has all four wheels of the towed vehicle off the ground.
  • Typical Use: Long-distance moves, protecting the towed vehicle from wear and tear, or transporting non-running vehicles.
  • Estimated Price Range: Local: $49.95 – $69.95 per day; One-Way: $180 – $700+ (depending on distance, vehicle type, and demand).
• Tow Dolly:
  • Dimensions: Two-wheeled trailer that lifts the front wheels of the towed vehicle off the ground.
  • Typical Use: Shorter distances, smaller vehicles (compact to mid-size), or when budget is a primary concern. Rear wheels of the towed vehicle remain on the ground.
  • Estimated Price Range: Local: $39.95 – $49.95 per day; One-Way: $120 – $350+ (depending on distance, vehicle type, and demand).

Important Considerations for Auto Transport:

• Towing Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure your towing vehicle has the proper towing capacity and hitch receiver for the combined weight of the trailer and the towed vehicle.
• Vehicle Size/Weight: Check the dimensions and weight of the vehicle you intend to tow against U-Haul’s specifications for each auto transport option.

Factors Influencing U-Haul Trailer Rental Prices

While the estimated ranges above provide a good starting point, several factors can significantly impact the final price of your U-Haul trailer rental.

1. Distance (Local vs. One-Way): Local rentals are typically priced per day, while one-way rentals (picking up in one city and dropping off in another) are priced based on the mileage and duration of the trip. One-way rentals are almost always more expensive.
2. Duration of Rental: Local rentals are often priced for a 24-hour period, with additional charges for extra days. One-way rentals come with an allotted number of days.
3. Availability and Demand: Prices can fluctuate based on the availability of trailers at your chosen location and the demand for them. Peak moving seasons (summer, end of month) and holidays will generally see higher prices.
4. Time of Year/Week: Weekends and holidays are usually more expensive than weekdays. Summer months (May-August) are U-Haul’s busiest and most expensive.
5. Additional Equipment: If you need to rent a hitch, wiring harness, or moving supplies (boxes, dollies, blankets), these will add to the total cost.
6. Insurance Options: U-Haul offers various coverage plans (e.g., Safetrip® and Safemove®) that protect you and your belongings. While optional, they are highly recommended and will increase the total price.
7. Taxes and Fees: Local and state taxes, as well as environmental fees, will be added to your rental cost.

How to Choose the Right U-Haul Trailer

Selecting the correct trailer size is crucial for both efficiency and safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Assess Your Cargo:
   • Volume: Estimate the total volume of items you need to move. Consider using U-Haul’s online room-by-room estimator.
   • Weight: Be mindful of the weight of your items, especially for heavy appliances or machinery.
   • Dimensions: Measure the largest items (sofa, mattress, refrigerator) to ensure they will fit through the trailer’s opening and lie flat inside.
   • Type of Items: Are they delicate and need protection (cargo trailer)? Or bulky and require easy loading (utility trailer)?
2. Consider Your Towing Vehicle:
   • Towing Capacity: Crucially, determine your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity. This information is usually found in your owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Never exceed this limit.
   • Hitch Type: Ensure your vehicle has a compatible hitch receiver (e.g., 1.25" or 2" square receiver) and the correct ball mount and ball size (typically 1-7/8" or 2" for U-Haul trailers).
   • Wiring: Your vehicle will need a working 4-way or 7-way flat light connector for the trailer’s lights. U-Haul can install hitches and wiring if needed, for an additional fee.
3. Local vs. One-Way Move: This dictates the pricing structure and trailer availability.
4. Budget: While you want the right size, also consider your overall budget and factor in all potential costs (rental, insurance, fuel, supplies).
5. Safety Considerations: Always err on the side of a slightly larger trailer if you’re unsure, rather than overloading a smaller one. Overloading is dangerous and can damage your vehicle and the trailer.

Tips for a Smooth U-Haul Trailer Rental Experience

• Reserve in Advance: Especially during peak seasons or for one-way moves, booking your trailer several weeks ahead can secure your desired size and potentially a better price.
• Inspect the Trailer: Before leaving the U-Haul location, thoroughly inspect the trailer for any existing damage, ensure tires are properly inflated, and test all lights.
• Understand Hitch Requirements: If you don’t have a hitch or wiring, U-Haul can install them, but factor in the time and cost.
• Load Correctly: Distribute weight evenly over the trailer’s axle(s), with slightly more weight towards the front (tongue weight). Secure all items to prevent shifting.
• Drive Safely: Remember that towing significantly changes your vehicle’s handling. Drive slower, allow for longer braking distances, and take wider turns.
• Return on Time: Avoid late fees by returning the trailer by the agreed-upon time and location.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

• Availability Issues:
  • Solution: Book early, especially for one-way rentals. Be flexible with your pick-up date or location if possible. Consider alternate sizes if your first choice isn’t available.
• Towing Capacity Concerns:
  • Solution: Double-check your vehicle’s manual. If your vehicle can’t handle the weight, consider renting a U-Haul truck or making multiple trips if feasible.
• Loading Difficulties:
  • Solution: Utilize ramps for heavy or wheeled items. Use furniture dollies or hand trucks. Enlist help from friends or family.
• Unexpected Costs:
  • Solution: Get a detailed quote upfront that includes all fees, taxes, and optional services. Understand the fuel policy.

U-Haul Trailer Rental Sizes and Estimated Prices Table

Trailer Type	Size	Approximate Dimensions (L x W x H)	Capacity (Cu. Ft.)	Estimated Local Daily Price Range	Estimated One-Way Price Range (Varies Greatly)
Cargo Trailers	4′ x 8′	8′ x 4′ x 4′	160	$14.95 – $19.95	$90 – $180+
(Enclosed)	5′ x 8′	8′ x 5′ x 4.5′	180	$19.95 – $24.95	$120 – $250+
	5′ x 10′	10′ x 5′ x 5′	250	$29.95 – $34.95	$150 – $350+
	6′ x 12′	12′ x 6′ x 5.5′	340	$34.95 – $39.95	$180 – $450+
Utility Trailers	4′ x 7′	7′ x 4′ (no ramp)	N/A	$14.95 – $19.95	N/A (Local only)
(Open)	5′ x 8′	8′ x 5′ (no ramp)	N/A	$19.95 – $24.95	N/A (Local only)
	5′ x 9′ with Ramp	9′ x 5′	N/A	$24.95 – $29.95	N/A (Local only)
	6′ x 12′ with Ramp	12′ x 6′	N/A	$29.95 – $34.95	N/A (Local only)
Auto Transport	Tow Dolly	Lifts 2 wheels	N/A	$39.95 – $49.95	$120 – $350+
	Auto Transport	Lifts 4 wheels	N/A	$49.95 – $69.95	$180 – $700+

Note: All prices are estimates and can vary significantly based on location, availability, demand, duration, and specific U-Haul promotions or fees. Always obtain a direct quote from U-Haul for accurate pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Do I need a special license to tow a U-Haul trailer?
A1: In most U.S. states and Canadian provinces, you do not need a special driver’s license to tow a U-Haul trailer, as long as the combined weight of your vehicle and the loaded trailer is within legal limits and your vehicle’s towing capacity. However, always check local regulations.

Q2: What kind of hitch do I need for a U-Haul trailer?
A2: Most U-Haul trailers require either a 1-7/8" or 2" diameter hitch ball. Your towing vehicle also needs a compatible hitch receiver. U-Haul offers hitch installation services if your vehicle isn’t equipped.

Q3: Can I rent a U-Haul trailer one-way?
A3: Yes, U-Haul offers one-way rentals for most cargo trailers and all auto transports. Utility trailers are typically rented for local use only. One-way rates are usually higher than local daily rates.

Q4: What is the weight capacity of U-Haul trailers?
A4: Each trailer size has a specific maximum load capacity, which U-Haul clearly states. It’s crucial not to exceed this. For example, a 6×12 cargo trailer typically has a maximum load capacity of around 2,500 lbs. Always refer to the specific trailer’s capacity sticker.

Q5: Do U-Haul trailers have brakes?
A5: Larger U-Haul trailers (like the 6×12 cargo and auto transports) are equipped with surge brakes, which activate automatically when your towing vehicle slows down. Smaller trailers typically do not have independent braking systems.

Q6: What insurance options are available for U-Haul trailers?
A6: U-Haul offers optional coverage plans like Safetrip® (for liability and property damage caused to others) and Safemove® (which adds coverage for damage to the trailer and your cargo). It’s advisable to consider these, as your personal auto insurance may not cover rental trailers.

Q7: Can I tow a U-Haul trailer with any vehicle?
A7: No. Your vehicle must meet specific requirements, including having adequate towing capacity, a proper hitch, and functional lighting connections. U-Haul provides a free online "Tow Capacity" tool to help you determine if your vehicle is suitable.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of U-Haul trailer rental sizes and prices doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the different types of trailers, their capacities, and the factors that influence pricing, you empower yourself to make an informed decision. Whether you’re moving a single piece of furniture across town or relocating an entire household across the country, U-Haul offers a flexible and accessible solution. Remember to plan ahead, accurately assess your needs, prioritize safety, and utilize the practical advice provided in this guide to ensure your next move is not just successful, but also surprisingly smooth and cost-effective.