Approximate Price To Rent A U-Haul Car Trailer For A Day

Approximate Price To Rent A U-Haul Car Trailer For A Day cars.truckstrend.com

Introduction: The Road to Affordable Vehicle Transport

Whether you’re relocating a non-running project car, moving a classic vehicle to a show, or simply need to transport a car you’ve just bought or sold across town, renting a U-Haul car trailer offers a convenient and often cost-effective solution. Unlike professional car transport services that can be expensive for short distances, or the complexities of driving two vehicles, U-Haul provides a practical DIY alternative. But before you hitch up and hit the road, understanding the "Approximate Price To Rent A U-Haul Car Trailer For A Day" is crucial for budgeting and planning.

Approximate Price To Rent A U-Haul Car Trailer For A Day

This comprehensive guide will demystify the costs associated with U-Haul car trailer rentals, detailing not just the base daily rate but also the various factors that influence the final price. We’ll explore the types of trailers available, how to secure one, essential considerations for a safe trip, and provide a clear pricing breakdown to help you make an informed decision. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear roadmap for transporting your vehicle efficiently and affordably.

Understanding U-Haul Car Trailer Options

U-Haul primarily offers two types of trailers for vehicle transport, each designed for different needs and impacting the daily rental cost:

1. U-Haul Auto Transport (Car Trailer): This is the most common and robust option for transporting a car. It’s a flatbed trailer designed to carry the entire vehicle, with all four wheels off the ground.

   • Ideal For: Long-distance moves, transporting non-running vehicles, vehicles with low ground clearance, or simply when you want maximum protection for your car.

   

   • Features: Integrated ramps for easy loading, heavy-duty security chains, and wheel straps to secure the vehicle. It’s designed for vehicles up to 5,290 lbs.

2. U-Haul Tow Dolly: A more compact and economical option, the tow dolly lifts only the front two wheels of the towed vehicle off the ground, with the rear two wheels remaining on the road.

   

   • Ideal For: Shorter distances, front-wheel-drive vehicles, or when budget is a primary concern. Not suitable for all-wheel-drive (AWD) or rear-wheel-drive (RWD) vehicles unless specific drivetrain precautions (like disconnecting the drive shaft for RWD) are taken.
   • Features: Loading ramps, security chains, and straps. It’s generally lighter and easier to maneuver than an auto transport, designed for vehicles up to 3,900 lbs.

While the "car trailer" often refers specifically to the auto transport, it’s important to differentiate, as their daily rental prices vary significantly. For the purpose of this article focusing on "car trailers," we will primarily address the U-Haul Auto Transport, but also include details for the Tow Dolly for comparison.

Factors Influencing the Daily Rental Price

The price you pay for a U-Haul car trailer for a day isn’t a fixed number. Several variables come into play, affecting the final cost:

1. Trailer Type: As discussed, the Auto Transport is more expensive than the Tow Dolly due to its larger size, higher carrying capacity, and more comprehensive design.
2. Location (In-Town vs. One-Way):
   • In-Town/Local Rental: This is the most common and affordable option for a "day" rental. You pick up and return the trailer to the same U-Haul location. Daily rates are considerably lower.
   • One-Way Rental: While U-Haul does offer one-way car trailer rentals, they are far less common for just a single day. These rentals are typically priced for longer distances and durations (e.g., cross-country moves) and will incur a significantly higher, often flat-rate fee, making them impractical and expensive for a mere 24-hour period. For the scope of "a day," we will focus primarily on in-town rentals.
3. Availability and Demand: During peak moving seasons (summer, end of month), holidays, or in highly populated areas, demand can slightly influence pricing. Booking in advance can sometimes lock in a better rate and ensures availability.
4. Rental Duration: While the focus is on a "day," U-Haul’s trailer rentals are typically priced on a 24-hour cycle. If you return it late, you’ll be charged for an additional day.
5. Optional Insurance Coverage (Safetow®): U-Haul offers supplemental protection plans. Safetow® covers damage to the U-Haul trailer, and depending on your personal auto insurance, it might also offer some protection for the towed vehicle or third-party liability. While optional, it’s highly recommended for peace of mind and can add a notable amount to your daily cost.
6. Taxes and Fees: Like any rental, local sales tax will be applied. There might also be small environmental or administrative fees.
7. Additional Equipment (If Needed): While the trailer comes with essential tie-downs, if your towing vehicle requires a hitch, ball mount, or wiring harness, you’ll need to purchase or rent these separately from U-Haul or a third party, adding to the total expense.

Approximate Daily Rental Costs

Getting an exact quote requires inputting your specific details (pickup date, location, trailer type) on the U-Haul website or contacting a local dealer. However, here are the approximate daily ranges for in-town rentals:

• U-Haul Tow Dolly: Generally ranges from $45 – $65 per day.
• U-Haul Auto Transport (Car Trailer): Typically ranges from $60 – $90 per day.

These figures are for the base rental rate. Let’s break down the potential total cost including optional add-ons:

Category	Item/Description	Approximate Daily Cost Range (In-Town)	Notes
Base Trailer Rental	U-Haul Tow Dolly	$45 – $65	Lifts front two wheels. Lighter duty.
	U-Haul Auto Transport (Car Trailer)	$60 – $90	Lifts all four wheels. Heavier duty.
Optional Coverage	Safetow® (U-Haul Supplemental Protection)	$8 – $15	Highly recommended. Covers damage to the U-Haul trailer. Check your personal auto insurance for towed vehicle coverage.
Taxes & Fees	Local Sales Tax, Environmental Fee, etc.	Varies (5-10% of base rental)	Dependent on state/local regulations.
Additional Equipment	Hitch Ball Mount (if needed, purchase)	$20 – $40 (one-time)	Required if your vehicle doesn’t have one compatible with the U-Haul trailer.
	Wiring Harness (if needed, purchase)	$15 – $50 (one-time)	Required for trailer lights if your vehicle’s existing wiring isn’t compatible.
Fuel Costs	Fuel for Towing Vehicle	Highly Variable	Towing significantly reduces fuel efficiency. Account for increased gas consumption for the round trip.
Potential Surcharges	Late Return Fee	Equal to another full day’s rental	Return on time to avoid this.

Example Scenario (Approximate Total for Auto Transport for a Day):

• Base Auto Transport Rental: $75
• Safetow® Coverage: $12
• Tax (e.g., 8%): $6.96
• Estimated Total for 1 Day (Excluding Hitch/Wiring/Fuel): $93.96

This example illustrates how the final cost can quickly approach or exceed $90-100 for a single day, especially with recommended insurance.

How to Rent a U-Haul Car Trailer

Renting a U-Haul car trailer is a straightforward process designed for convenience:

1. Determine Your Needs:
   • Trailer Type: Auto Transport or Tow Dolly? Consider the vehicle you’re towing (FWD, RWD, AWD, weight, condition) and the distance.
   • Towing Vehicle Compatibility: This is paramount. Ensure your towing vehicle has the necessary Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), appropriate hitch class (Class II or higher for most car trailers), and working trailer light wiring. U-Haul’s website has a helpful "Towing Capacity" tool.
2. Get a Quote and Reserve:
   • Online: The easiest way. Visit U-Haul’s website (uhaul.com), enter your desired pickup location, date, and select the trailer type. The system will provide an instant quote.
   • Phone/In-Person: Call your local U-Haul center or visit in person.
   • Book in Advance: Especially during peak times, reserving a week or two ahead ensures availability.
3. Pickup Day:
   • Required Documents: Bring your valid driver’s license and a major credit card for payment.
   • Vehicle Inspection: A U-Haul representative will inspect your towing vehicle to ensure it meets safety requirements. They will check the hitch, ball, and wiring.
   • Trailer Hookup: The U-Haul staff will typically assist with hitching the trailer to your vehicle and ensuring all connections (hitch, safety chains, lights) are secure. They’ll also provide a brief overview of the trailer’s features and operation.
   • Review Contract: Carefully read the rental agreement, noting the return time and any specific instructions.
4. Loading and Transport:
   • Loading: Follow U-Haul’s instructions for loading your vehicle onto the trailer. Drive the vehicle onto the ramps, center it, and secure it with the provided wheel straps and safety chains. Ensure weight is evenly distributed.
   • Driving: Drive slower than usual, allow extra braking distance, make wider turns, and be mindful of increased blind spots.
5. Return:
   • Return the trailer to the designated U-Haul location by the agreed-upon time to avoid late fees.
   • The staff will inspect the trailer for damage.

Important Considerations & Safety Tips

Renting a car trailer is more involved than renting a moving truck. Safety must be your top priority.

• Towing Vehicle Compatibility is Non-Negotiable:
  • Weight: Your towing vehicle must be heavier than the car being towed. U-Haul specifies minimum weight requirements (e.g., for an Auto Transport, the tow vehicle must weigh at least 3,500 lbs. empty, and its GCWR must accommodate the combined weight of the tow vehicle, trailer, and towed car).
  • Hitch Class: A proper hitch (Class II, III, or IV) securely mounted to the vehicle’s frame is essential. Bumper-mounted hitches are generally not allowed.
  • Wiring: Functional 4-flat or 7-way wiring for trailer lights (tail lights, brake lights, turn signals) is mandatory.
• Load Distribution: When loading the towed vehicle, ensure its weight is distributed evenly, with a slight forward bias (approx. 60% of the towed vehicle’s weight should be over the front axle of the trailer) to maintain proper tongue weight and prevent sway.
• Secure All Connections: Double-check the hitch coupling, safety chains, and the vehicle’s tie-down straps before departure and periodically during your trip.
• Pre-Trip Inspection: Before leaving the U-Haul lot, inspect the trailer’s tires (inflation, tread), lights, and overall condition. Report any existing damage.
• Driving Habits:
  • Speed: Reduce your speed, especially on turns, downhills, and uneven roads.
  • Braking: Allow significantly more distance for braking.
  • Turns: Make wider turns to account for the trailer’s length.
  • Visibility: Use extended mirrors if necessary and be aware of larger blind spots.
  • Fuel Economy: Expect a significant drop in miles per gallon (MPG) due to the added weight and wind resistance.
• Insurance: Seriously consider U-Haul’s Safetow® option. While your personal auto insurance might cover some aspects, Safetow® specifically covers damage to the U-Haul trailer itself, which can be costly if an accident occurs.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Even with careful planning, challenges can arise. Being prepared helps.

• Challenge: Trailer Unavailable on Desired Day.
  • Solution: Book well in advance, especially for weekends or peak seasons. Be flexible with your pickup time or consider a slightly different U-Haul location.
• Challenge: Towing Vehicle Not Compatible.
  • Solution: Use U-Haul’s online vehicle compatibility tool before you reserve. If your vehicle isn’t suitable, you might need to rent a U-Haul truck (which can tow trailers) or consider professional transport. Do not attempt to tow with an undersized vehicle.
• Challenge: Difficulty Loading a Non-Running Vehicle.
  • Solution: U-Haul trailers have ramps. If the car is a "roller" but doesn’t run, you can often push it with a few people or use a come-along winch (not provided by U-Haul) to pull it onto the trailer. Ensure the vehicle is in neutral and the parking brake is off.
• Challenge: Unfamiliarity with Towing.
  • Solution: Watch U-Haul’s instructional videos online. Take a short practice drive in a safe, open area (like an empty parking lot) before hitting busy roads. Ask the U-Haul staff for tips during pickup.
• Challenge: Unexpected Damage to Trailer or Towed Vehicle.
  • Solution: This is where Safetow® insurance becomes invaluable. For your towed vehicle, review your personal auto policy to understand coverage while being towed. Perform thorough inspections before and after rental.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I rent a U-Haul car trailer one-way for just a day?
A1: While one-way car trailer rentals are technically possible, they are generally designed for longer distances (e.g., cross-country moves) and come with a significantly higher, often flat-rate fee that makes them very uneconomical for a single day. For short, "daily" rentals, U-Haul primarily focuses on local, round-trip rentals.

Q2: What kind of vehicle do I need to tow a U-Haul car trailer?
A2: Your towing vehicle must be sufficiently heavy (often 3,500 lbs. empty minimum for an Auto Transport), have a properly installed hitch (Class II or higher), and functional wiring for trailer lights. U-Haul has a specific online tool where you can input your vehicle’s make and model to check compatibility.

Q3: Do I need special insurance to rent a U-Haul car trailer?
A3: While your personal auto insurance might offer some coverage, it’s highly recommended to purchase U-Haul’s supplemental Safetow® coverage. This protects you from financial responsibility for damage to the U-Haul trailer itself. Check with your personal insurer about coverage for the towed vehicle while it’s on the trailer.

Q4: How long can I rent a car trailer for?
A4: U-Haul car trailers are rented on a 24-hour cycle for local moves. You can rent for multiple days, with the daily rate applying to each additional day. One-way rentals are priced differently, often with a set number of days included.

Q5: Are ramps included with the U-Haul car trailer?
A5: Yes, both the U-Haul Auto Transport and Tow Dolly come equipped with integrated loading ramps.

Q6: Are tie-down straps provided, or do I need my own?
A6: Yes, U-Haul car trailers (both Auto Transport and Tow Dolly) come with integrated or provided heavy-duty straps and chains designed for securing vehicles. You do not need to bring your own.

Q7: What if my car doesn’t run? Can I still load it onto the trailer?
A7: Yes, you can load a non-running vehicle. If it rolls freely, you can often push it onto the trailer with a few people. For heavier or completely immobile vehicles, you might need a hand winch or come-along (not provided by U-Haul) to pull it up the ramps.

Q8: What happens if I return the trailer late?
A8: If you return the trailer past your agreed-upon return time, you will typically be charged for an additional day’s rental. Always aim to return it on time or communicate with U-Haul if you anticipate delays.

Conclusion: Empowering Your Vehicle Transport

Renting a U-Haul car trailer for a day is a practical and often economical solution for short-distance vehicle transport. While the approximate base price for an Auto Transport typically ranges from $60-$90 and a Tow Dolly from $45-$65, understanding the additional factors like optional insurance, taxes, and potential equipment needs is essential for an accurate budget.

By planning carefully, ensuring your towing vehicle is compatible, and adhering to safety guidelines, you can confidently and affordably move your vehicle. U-Haul’s widespread availability and user-friendly reservation system make it an accessible option for many. With the comprehensive information provided in this guide, you are now well-equipped to navigate the process and make an informed decision for your next vehicle transport need. Safe travels!