Sizes Of U-Haul Trailers: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Fit

Sizes Of U-Haul Trailers: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Fit cars.truckstrend.com

Moving, hauling, or transporting a vehicle can often feel like a monumental task, but with the right tools, it becomes significantly more manageable. For countless individuals and businesses, U-Haul trailers stand out as a versatile and accessible solution. However, the sheer variety of sizes and types can be daunting, leading to questions like: "Which U-Haul trailer is right for me?" and "How much can each trailer hold?"

Understanding the "Sizes Of U-Haul Trailers" is not merely about knowing dimensions; it’s about optimizing your move for efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Choosing the wrong size can lead to multiple trips, wasted fuel, potential damage to your belongings, or even dangerous overloading. This comprehensive guide will break down the various U-Haul trailer options, explore their specific uses, and provide the practical advice you need to make an informed decision for your next project.

Sizes Of U-Haul Trailers: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Fit

The U-Haul Trailer Ecosystem: An Overview

U-Haul offers a diverse fleet of trailers designed to cater to virtually every hauling need, from transporting a few boxes across town to relocating an entire household or even a vehicle. These trailers generally fall into four main categories: Utility Trailers, Cargo Trailers (Enclosed), Car Trailers (Auto Transport & Tow Dolly), and Specialty Trailers (Motorcycle). Each category serves a distinct purpose, defined primarily by its size, design, and weight capacity.

Let’s delve into the specifics of each type and their available sizes.

1. Utility Trailers: The Open-Air Workhorses

U-Haul’s utility trailers are open-top, flatbed trailers, ideal for hauling items that are weather-resistant, oddly shaped, or require easy loading and unloading. They are perfect for landscaping projects, transporting building materials, or moving furniture that doesn’t need enclosed protection. Most come with low sides and a ramp for convenient access.

• 4’x7′ Utility Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Approximate): 4′ wide x 7′ long.
  • Capacity: Up to 2,000 lbs.

  

  • Typical Use: Small landscaping jobs, moving appliances (washers, dryers, refrigerators), hauling yard debris, single pieces of furniture. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver.
  • Benefits: Lightweight, easy to tow, often comes with a ramp.
  • Considerations: Exposed to elements, requires proper tie-downs for all cargo.



• 5’x8′ Utility Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Approximate): 5′ wide x 8′ long.
  • Capacity: Up to 2,800 lbs.
  • Typical Use: Larger appliances, small ATVs, multiple pieces of furniture, moderate amounts of building materials or yard waste.
  • Benefits: More versatile than the 4’x7′, still relatively easy to tow, usually has a ramp.
  • Considerations: Same as 4’x7′ regarding exposure and tie-downs.

• 6’x12′ Utility Trailer (Single Axle):

  • Dimensions (Approximate): 6′ wide x 12′ long.
  • Capacity: Up to 2,800 lbs.
  • Typical Use: Larger loads like riding lawnmowers, motorcycles, large furniture pieces, or considerable amounts of construction debris.
  • Benefits: Ample space, ramp for easy loading of wheeled items.
  • Considerations: Requires a slightly more capable towing vehicle.

• 6’x12′ Utility Trailer (Tandem Axle):

  • Dimensions (Approximate): 6′ wide x 12′ long.
  • Capacity: Up to 4,000 lbs.
  • Typical Use: The heaviest and largest open loads, including small vehicles (like golf carts), multiple ATVs, or very heavy building materials. The tandem axle provides increased stability and weight distribution.
  • Benefits: Superior stability, higher weight capacity, ideal for heavier or bulkier items.
  • Considerations: Requires a robust towing vehicle with a higher towing capacity.

2. Cargo Trailers: The Secure, Enclosed Transporters

U-Haul’s cargo trailers are fully enclosed, providing protection from weather, theft, and road debris. They are the go-to choice for moving household goods, fragile items, electronics, or anything that requires a secure, dry environment.

• 4’x8′ Cargo Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Approximate): 4′ wide x 8′ long x 4′ tall (interior).
  • Capacity: Up to 1,600 lbs, approx. 140 cu. ft.
  • Typical Use: Smallest moves, college dorm rooms, studio apartments, or transporting a few large pieces of furniture and boxes.
  • Benefits: Compact, easy to tow, provides excellent protection for small loads.

• 5’x8′ Cargo Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Approximate): 5′ wide x 8′ long x 5′ tall (interior).
  • Capacity: Up to 1,800 lbs, approx. 200 cu. ft.
  • Typical Use: Studio or small one-bedroom apartment moves, multiple appliances, or a significant number of boxes.
  • Benefits: Good balance of size and maneuverability, secure and weather-proof.

• 5’x10′ Cargo Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Approximate): 5′ wide x 10′ long x 5′ tall (interior).
  • Capacity: Up to 2,000 lbs, approx. 250 cu. ft.
  • Typical Use: One-bedroom apartment or small home, multiple large pieces of furniture, and a good volume of boxes.
  • Benefits: More space than the 5’x8′ while remaining relatively easy to tow.

• 6’x12′ Cargo Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Approximate): 6′ wide x 12′ long x 6′ tall (interior).
  • Capacity: Up to 2,500 lbs, approx. 390 cu. ft.
  • Typical Use: 1-2 bedroom home or apartment, large appliances, considerable furniture, and numerous boxes. This is the largest enclosed trailer U-Haul offers.
  • Benefits: Maximum enclosed capacity, ideal for larger household moves.
  • Considerations: Requires a more capable towing vehicle, can be challenging to back up for inexperienced drivers.

3. Car Trailers: Transporting Your Wheels

For vehicle relocation, U-Haul offers two primary options: the Auto Transport trailer and the Tow Dolly.

• Auto Transport Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Approximate): Varies, but designed to carry a full-sized vehicle.
  • Capacity: Up to 5,290 lbs. Suitable for most cars, trucks, and SUVs.
  • Typical Use: Transporting non-running vehicles, vehicles with all-wheel drive, or for long-distance moves where you want your vehicle completely off the ground.
  • Benefits: Most secure way to transport a vehicle, protects tires and suspension from wear.
  • Considerations: Requires a heavy-duty towing vehicle, can be challenging to maneuver due to length and weight.

• Tow Dolly:

  • Dimensions (Approximate): Smaller, designed for two wheels.
  • Capacity: Up to 3,450 lbs. Primarily for front-wheel drive vehicles.
  • Typical Use: Transporting a car with its front wheels off the ground, ideal for shorter distances or when you need to tow a second vehicle.
  • Benefits: Lighter and less expensive than an Auto Transport, easier to maneuver.
  • Considerations: Only suitable for front-wheel drive vehicles (unless using a car that can be flat towed), rear wheels are still on the ground, adding mileage to the towed vehicle.

4. Specialty Trailer: The Motorcycle Hauler

• Motorcycle Trailer:
  • Dimensions (Approximate): Around 9′ long, specifically designed for motorcycles.
  • Capacity: Up to 1,800 lbs. Can typically hold up to two motorcycles.
  • Typical Use: Transporting one or two motorcycles securely.
  • Benefits: Features built-in wheel chocks and tie-down points for safe motorcycle transport.
  • Considerations: Ensure proper securing of motorcycles to prevent tipping.

How to Choose the Right U-Haul Trailer Size: Practical Advice

Selecting the perfect trailer involves more than just guessing. Here’s a systematic approach:

1. Assess Your Cargo:

   • Volume: Measure your largest items (sofas, refrigerators, beds). Will they fit through the trailer door (for enclosed)?
   • Weight: Estimate the total weight of your belongings. Do not exceed the trailer’s or your towing vehicle’s weight capacity.
   • Fragility/Protection: Do your items need to be protected from weather or theft? If so, choose an enclosed cargo trailer.
   • Shape: Oddly shaped items might fit better in an open utility trailer.

2. Evaluate Your Towing Vehicle:

   • Towing Capacity: This is paramount. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for its maximum towing capacity. Never exceed this limit.
   • Hitch Class: Ensure your vehicle has the correct hitch receiver and ball size for the chosen trailer. U-Haul representatives can help determine this.
   • Electrical Connection: Your vehicle needs a working 4-pin or 7-pin electrical connector for trailer lights.

3. Consider the Distance and Road Conditions:

   • Long-distance moves often benefit from enclosed trailers for security and weather protection.
   • Heavier loads on rough terrain require more robust towing vehicles and potentially tandem-axle trailers for stability.

4. U-Haul’s Planning Tools:

   • Utilize U-Haul’s online Room-by-Room Planner and Truck & Trailer Size Estimator. These tools can suggest appropriate sizes based on your inventory.

Important Considerations for Safe Towing

Towing a trailer requires diligence and adherence to safety guidelines:

• Weight Distribution: Load heavier items first, over the trailer’s axle(s), to maintain proper tongue weight (10-15% of total trailer weight). Improper distribution can cause dangerous swaying.
• Secure All Items: Use moving blankets, furniture pads, and strong tie-downs to prevent items from shifting, which can affect stability and damage cargo.
• Tire Pressure: Check the tire pressure on both your towing vehicle and the trailer before departure.
• Pre-Trip Inspection: Confirm all lights (brakes, turn signals, running lights) are working, the hitch connection is secure, and safety chains are crossed.
• Driving Adjustments: Drive slower, allow for increased braking distance, make wider turns, and be mindful of crosswinds. Practice backing up in an empty lot if you’re new to towing.
• Do Not Overload: Exceeding weight limits is extremely dangerous and illegal.

Estimated U-Haul Trailer Rental Prices

U-Haul trailer rental prices are highly dynamic and depend on various factors including:

• Location: Prices vary by pickup and drop-off locations.
• Availability: High demand can increase prices.
• Duration: Daily vs. multi-day rentals.
• Time of Year: Peak moving seasons (summer) often see higher rates.
• One-Way vs. In-Town: One-way rentals are generally more expensive due to logistics.

The table below provides estimated daily rental price ranges for in-town rentals. Always get a personalized quote from U-Haul for accurate pricing.

Trailer Type	Size	Typical Use	Estimated Daily Rental Price Range (USD)*
Utility Trailers	4’x7′	Small open cargo, appliances, yard work	$14.95 – $29.95
	5’x8′	Larger open cargo, furniture, small equipment	$19.95 – $34.95
	6’x12′ (Single)	Larger open cargo, some furniture, ATV	$29.95 – $49.95
	6’x12′ (Tandem)	Heaviest open cargo, vehicles, large items	$39.95 – $59.95
Cargo Trailers	4’x8′	Small boxes, personal items, few furniture	$18.95 – $34.95
	5’x8′	Studio apartment, small bedroom, appliances	$22.95 – $39.95
	5’x10′	1-bedroom apartment, multiple appliances	$29.95 – $49.95
	6’x12′	1-2 bedroom apartment, larger furniture	$34.95 – $59.95
Car Trailers	Tow Dolly	Front-wheel drive vehicles, short distances	$49.95 – $69.95
	Auto Transport	All vehicle types, long distances	$59.95 – $89.95
Specialty Trailer	Motorcycle Trailer	Up to 2 motorcycles	$24.95 – $44.95

Disclaimer: Prices are approximate estimates for in-town, daily rentals and can vary significantly based on location, availability, demand, and duration. Always obtain a direct quote from U-Haul for the most accurate pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About U-Haul Trailer Sizes

Q: Can I tow a U-Haul trailer with any vehicle?
A: No. Your vehicle must meet U-Haul’s safety requirements, including adequate towing capacity, proper hitch, and functioning electrical connections. Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for its maximum towing capacity.

Q: Do U-Haul trailers come with ramps?
A: Most utility trailers (4’x7′, 5’x8′, 6’x12′) come with a loading ramp. Cargo trailers typically do not, as they are loaded from the rear door. Auto transports and motorcycle trailers have integrated ramps or tilting beds for vehicle loading.

Q: Are U-Haul trailers safe?
A: When properly selected, loaded, and towed according to U-Haul’s guidelines and road safety rules, U-Haul trailers are safe. Issues typically arise from overloading, improper weight distribution, or exceeding the towing vehicle’s capacity.

Q: How do I know my car can tow a U-Haul trailer?
A: Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for its Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and maximum towing capacity. U-Haul also has an online "Tow Your Car" tool where you can input your vehicle’s make and model to see what it can safely tow.

Q: Can I rent a U-Haul trailer one-way?
A: Yes, U-Haul offers one-way rentals for most of their trailers, allowing you to pick up in one location and drop off in another. This is especially common for long-distance moves.

Q: What if I need to change my reservation or size?
A: U-Haul allows you to modify reservations, subject to availability. It’s best to contact them as soon as possible if your needs change.

Q: Do I need insurance for a U-Haul trailer?
A: Your personal auto insurance policy may or may not cover rented trailers. U-Haul offers various optional coverage plans (like Safemove® and Safetow®) that provide protection for the trailer, your belongings, and liability. It’s highly recommended to consider these options.

Conclusion

Navigating the "Sizes Of U-Haul Trailers" doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the different types, their capacities, and how to match them to your specific needs, you can transform a potentially stressful task into a smooth, efficient, and safe experience. Remember to accurately assess your cargo, verify your towing vehicle’s capabilities, and always prioritize safety through proper loading and cautious driving. With U-Haul’s diverse fleet and the insights provided in this guide, you’re well-equipped to choose the perfect trailer for your next hauling adventure. Happy hauling!