Navigating U-Haul Car Trailer Rentals: Your Ultimate Guide to Sizes, Prices, and Smart Choices

Navigating U-Haul Car Trailer Rentals: Your Ultimate Guide to Sizes, Prices, and Smart Choices Lmctruck.Guidemechanic.com

Moving house, relocating a classic car, or simply need to transport a vehicle cross-country? U-Haul car trailer rentals often emerge as a go-to solution for many. But with various options and fluctuating prices, understanding the ins and outs can feel like a maze.

As an expert blogger and professional SEO content writer, I’ve delved deep into the world of vehicle transportation. My mission today is to equip you with a super comprehensive guide to U-Haul car trailer rental prices and sizes. We’ll explore everything you need to know to make an informed, budget-friendly, and safe decision.

Navigating U-Haul Car Trailer Rentals: Your Ultimate Guide to Sizes, Prices, and Smart Choices

This isn’t just a list of facts; it’s a pillar content piece designed to offer real value, making your towing experience smoother. Let’s get rolling!

Why Consider U-Haul Car Trailer Rentals for Your Vehicle Transport Needs?

U-Haul has long been a household name in the moving industry, and their car trailer rentals are a testament to their commitment to offering versatile solutions. Many individuals and families turn to U-Haul for a variety of reasons when it comes to transporting a vehicle.

One of the primary benefits is the sheer convenience and widespread availability. U-Haul boasts a massive network of locations across North America, making it relatively easy to pick up and drop off equipment. This extensive reach is particularly helpful for one-way moves.

Based on my experience, U-Haul also offers a cost-effective alternative to professional auto transport services, especially for shorter distances or when you’re already renting a U-Haul moving truck. The ability to tow your own vehicle can significantly reduce overall moving expenses. Moreover, their trailers are designed for versatility, capable of accommodating a wide range of passenger vehicles, from compact cars to larger SUVs.

Understanding U-Haul’s Car Trailer Options: Sizes and Types

When you decide to rent a U-Haul car trailer, you’ll generally encounter two main types: the Auto Transport (often called a car carrier or trailer) and the Tow Dolly. Each serves a distinct purpose and is suited for different vehicles and towing situations. Understanding their differences is crucial for a successful rental.

The U-Haul Auto Transport (Car Carrier/Trailer)

The U-Haul Auto Transport is a full-platform trailer designed to carry your entire vehicle off the ground. It’s the most secure and protective option for transporting a car, as all four wheels are elevated, preventing wear and tear on the towed vehicle. This makes it ideal for long distances or for vehicles you wish to keep mileage-free.

Dimensions and Weight Capacity:
Typically, U-Haul auto transports can accommodate vehicles up to 76 inches wide from outside tire to outside tire. They also have a maximum wheelbase of 133 inches and a maximum weight capacity of around 5,290 lbs. These specifications cover a vast majority of passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks.

Key Features and Benefits:
These trailers come equipped with easy-to-use loading ramps and heavy-duty tie-down straps to secure your vehicle. The surge brakes on the trailer automatically engage, providing added stopping power for your tow vehicle. This feature significantly enhances safety, especially when hauling heavier loads or navigating challenging terrain.

Ideal Use Cases:
Based on my experience, the auto transport is best for long-distance moves, classic or luxury cars, all-wheel-drive (AWD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicles, and any vehicle you want to protect from road wear. It offers peace of mind knowing your vehicle is completely secure. Pro tips from us: Always double-check the tie-down straps after driving a short distance, as they can sometimes loosen slightly initially.

The U-Haul Tow Dolly

The U-Haul Tow Dolly is a simpler, more compact option that lifts only the front wheels of your vehicle off the ground, allowing the rear wheels to roll freely. This makes it a lighter and often more affordable choice, suitable for specific types of vehicles and shorter distances.

Dimensions and Weight Capacity:
Tow dollies are designed for vehicles with a maximum outside tire width of 75 inches and a maximum weight of 3,900 lbs. This makes them suitable for most front-wheel-drive cars and some smaller SUVs. It’s essential that your towed vehicle’s wheelbase is compatible.

Key Features and Benefits:
Tow dollies are lighter and easier to maneuver than auto transports, making them a good choice for those less experienced with towing. They feature a pivoting platform, allowing the towed vehicle to turn with the dolly, which helps with cornering. Secure ratchet straps keep the front wheels firmly in place.

Ideal Use Cases:
The tow dolly is ideal for front-wheel-drive vehicles, shorter local moves, or when budget is a primary concern. It’s also a good option if your tow vehicle has a lower towing capacity, as the dolly itself is significantly lighter. Common mistakes to avoid are attempting to tow a rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicle with a tow dolly without proper preparation, as this can cause severe transmission damage. Always consult your vehicle’s manual or a mechanic for specific towing instructions.

Deconstructing U-Haul Car Trailer Rental Prices

Understanding U-Haul car trailer rental prices involves more than just looking at a single number. Several factors come into play, influencing the final cost of your rental. Being aware of these elements will help you budget accurately and potentially save money.

The Base Rental Rate

The fundamental cost of renting a U-Haul car trailer begins with a base rental rate. This rate is influenced by whether you opt for an Auto Transport or a Tow Dolly. Generally, a tow dolly is less expensive than an auto transport due to its simpler design and lower capacity. These rates can be daily, or for a specific duration for one-way rentals.

Factors Influencing Price

1. Distance and Mileage (One-Way vs. In-Town):
This is perhaps the most significant factor impacting your U-Haul car trailer rental cost.

• One-Way Rentals: If you pick up a trailer in one location and drop it off in another, U-Haul charges a flat rate for a set number of days and miles. Exceeding these limits can incur additional fees. These rates are typically higher as they account for repositioning the equipment.
• In-Town Rentals: For rentals where you pick up and return the trailer to the same location, pricing is usually based on a daily rate. These are often more affordable for local moves.

2. Rental Duration:
Whether you need the trailer for a single day or an extended period will affect the price. One-way rentals are often quoted for a specific duration, and extending that period without prior arrangement can lead to extra charges. Daily rates apply to in-town rentals, so longer use means higher costs.

3. Location (Pick-up/Drop-off):
Demand and regional pricing variations play a role. Renting a trailer in a major metropolitan area during peak moving season might be more expensive than in a less populated area. Prices can also vary depending on the availability of equipment at specific U-Haul centers.

4. Trailer Type (Auto Transport vs. Tow Dolly):
As discussed, the Auto Transport, being a full-platform trailer with more features like surge brakes, is inherently more expensive to rent than a simpler Tow Dolly. The added protection and capability come with a higher price tag.

5. Add-ons and Supplemental Coverage:
While not mandatory, U-Haul offers various add-ons that can impact your final bill.

• SafeTow® or SafeTrip®: These are U-Haul’s supplemental coverage options that protect you from damage to the trailer or your towed vehicle. While they add to the cost, they can provide invaluable peace of mind.
• Moving Supplies: If you’re also purchasing boxes, packing tape, or other moving essentials, these will naturally add to your total expenditure.

6. Seasonality and Demand:
Just like moving trucks, car trailer rental prices can fluctuate based on the time of year. Peak moving seasons (late spring, summer, holidays) often see higher demand and, consequently, higher prices. Booking in advance during these times is crucial.

How to Get an Accurate Quote

The best way to determine the exact U-Haul car trailer rental prices for your specific needs is to use U-Haul’s online reservation system. Input your pick-up and drop-off locations, dates, and the type of vehicle you’re towing. The system will provide a detailed quote, including any estimated taxes and fees. Alternatively, you can call your local U-Haul dealer for a personalized quote.

Pro tips from us for saving money:

• Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure better rates and availability.
• Consider an in-town rental if your move is local and you can return the trailer to the same location.
• Carefully compare the costs of an Auto Transport versus a Tow Dolly against your specific needs and vehicle type.
• – For more ways to save on your overall move!

Essential Considerations Before Renting a U-Haul Car Trailer

Renting a U-Haul car trailer isn’t as simple as just picking it up and going. Several critical factors must be thoroughly considered beforehand to ensure a safe, compliant, and stress-free towing experience. Ignoring these can lead to serious safety hazards or costly damages.

Your Tow Vehicle’s Capacity

This is arguably the most crucial aspect. Your tow vehicle (the car, SUV, or truck pulling the trailer) must be capable of safely handling the weight of the trailer itself plus the vehicle being towed.

• Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR): This is the maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded tow vehicle and trailer combined. You can find this in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
• Towing Capacity: Your vehicle has a maximum weight it can safely tow. This is different from its payload capacity.
• Tongue Weight: This refers to the downward force the trailer’s hitch puts on your tow vehicle’s hitch receiver. It’s typically 10-15% of the total trailer weight.
• Common mistakes to avoid are guessing your vehicle’s capacity or relying on general knowledge. Always consult your specific vehicle’s owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for precise towing specifications. Overloading can lead to loss of control, brake failure, and severe damage to your tow vehicle.

Vehicle Being Towed

The characteristics of the vehicle you intend to tow also dictate your trailer choice.

• Weight and Dimensions: Ensure your towed vehicle fits within the weight and dimension limits of the chosen U-Haul trailer type (Auto Transport or Tow Dolly).
• Drive Train Type (FWD, RWD, AWD, 4WD): This is paramount.
  • Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Generally safe to tow with a tow dolly as the drive wheels are lifted.
  • Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Requires the drive wheels to be lifted or the driveshaft disconnected. A tow dolly typically won’t work without modifications.
  • All-Wheel Drive (AWD) / Four-Wheel Drive (4WD): These vehicles must be towed with all four wheels off the ground, meaning an Auto Transport is the only safe option unless specific manufacturer instructions or modifications (like removing driveshafts) are followed. Failing to do so can cause irreparable damage to the drivetrain.

Insurance Options

While your personal auto insurance policy might cover liability when towing, it’s essential to confirm with your provider. Many policies do not cover damage to the rented trailer itself or the vehicle being towed.

U-Haul offers supplemental coverage options like SafeTow® (for the trailer) and SafeTrip® (for the towed vehicle and personal property). Based on my experience, investing in these can provide significant peace of mind, protecting you from potentially costly out-of-pocket expenses in case of an accident. Always verify your coverage before hitting the road.

Booking Process

Booking a U-Haul car trailer is straightforward. You can reserve online through the U-Haul website, by phone, or in person at a U-Haul location. Providing accurate details about your tow vehicle and the vehicle being towed will help U-Haul recommend the correct equipment. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak moving seasons, to ensure availability.

Pre-Rental Inspection Checklist

Before you drive away with your rented trailer, perform a thorough inspection.

• Check tire pressure on the trailer.
• Ensure all lights (tail, brake, turn signals) are working correctly.
• Verify that the safety chains are properly connected.
• Confirm the hitch connection is secure and locked.
• Inspect the ramps, straps, and any other securing mechanisms for proper function and wear.

Safety First: Operating Your U-Haul Car Trailer

Towing a vehicle, especially for the first time, requires careful attention to safety. Operating your U-Haul car trailer responsibly is paramount to prevent accidents and ensure a smooth journey.

Loading and Securing Your Vehicle

Proper loading is the foundation of safe towing.

• Center the Load: Drive the vehicle onto the trailer or dolly slowly and carefully, ensuring it’s centered to distribute weight evenly. This prevents swaying and instability.
• Secure with Straps: Use the provided heavy-duty ratchet straps to secure the tires of the towed vehicle firmly. Ensure they are tightened adequately, but not excessively, to avoid damaging the tires.
• Parking Brake and Gear: Place the towed vehicle in park (or in gear for manual transmissions) and engage the parking brake. For a tow dolly, ensure the steering wheel is unlocked so it can pivot.
• Pro tips from us: After driving a few miles, pull over and re-check all straps and connections. It’s common for things to settle slightly once on the road.

Driving Tips for Towing

Towing significantly changes your vehicle’s dynamics.

• Reduced Speed: Drive slower than you normally would. Higher speeds increase instability and make it harder to react. Adhere to posted towing speed limits, which are often lower than regular limits.
• Increased Braking Distance: Your stopping distance will be much longer due to the added weight. Begin braking earlier and more gradually.
• Wider Turns: Always make wider turns to account for the length of the trailer and prevent hitting curbs or other obstacles.
• Lane Changes: Plan lane changes well in advance. Use your mirrors frequently and be aware of the trailer’s position relative to other vehicles.
• Maintain Distance: Keep a greater following distance from the vehicle in front of you.
• Hills and Grades: Downshift on inclines to maintain power and on declines to use engine braking, preventing your brakes from overheating.
• Pre-Trip Checks: Before each leg of your journey, quickly check the trailer lights, tire pressure, and all securing straps. for an in-depth guide on safe towing practices.

Alternatives to U-Haul Car Trailer Rentals

While U-Haul offers a popular and often cost-effective solution, it’s not the only option available for transporting a vehicle. Depending on your budget, timeline, and comfort level, you might consider alternatives.

1. Professional Auto Transport Services:
For those who prefer a hands-off approach, professional auto transport companies can pick up your vehicle and deliver it to your destination. This eliminates the need for you to drive a tow vehicle or worry about loading and securing. They offer both open and enclosed carrier options, with enclosed being ideal for classic or luxury vehicles. While generally more expensive than DIY towing, the convenience and reduced stress can be well worth the cost for many.

2. Other Rental Companies:
U-Haul isn’t the sole provider of car trailers. Companies like Penske and Budget also offer moving truck rentals, and some may have car trailers or dollies available for rent. It’s always a good idea to compare prices and availability from multiple providers to ensure you’re getting the best deal for your specific needs. However, U-Haul typically has the largest network specifically for trailer rentals.

3. Driving the Vehicle Yourself:
If the distance is short, and the vehicle is in good working order, simply driving it to the new location might be the simplest and most cost-effective option. This avoids rental fees, fuel for a tow vehicle, and the complexities of towing. However, it adds mileage to the vehicle and might not be feasible for long distances or if you need to transport multiple vehicles simultaneously.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About U-Haul Car Trailer Rentals

To further assist you, here are answers to some of the most common questions regarding U-Haul car trailer rentals.

Q1: Can I tow a 4×4 or AWD vehicle with a U-Haul tow dolly?
A: No, with very few exceptions and specialized procedures (like removing driveshafts), you generally cannot tow a 4×4 or AWD vehicle with a tow dolly. These vehicles must have all four wheels off the ground to prevent severe transmission damage. You will need a U-Haul Auto Transport for these vehicle types.

Q2: Do I need insurance for a U-Haul car trailer rental?
A: While not legally mandatory in all areas, it is highly recommended. Your personal auto insurance may not cover damage to the rented trailer or your towed vehicle. U-Haul offers supplemental coverage options like SafeTow® and SafeTrip® for added protection and peace of mind. Always check with your personal insurance provider first.

Q3: What is the maximum speed limit when towing a U-Haul trailer?
A: U-Haul generally recommends a maximum speed of 55 MPH when towing any of their equipment, regardless of the posted speed limit. This recommendation is for safety and stability. Always adhere to state and local towing laws, which may have lower speed limits for vehicles with trailers.

Q4: Can I rent just a car trailer without also renting a U-Haul moving truck?
A: Yes, absolutely! You can rent a U-Haul car trailer or tow dolly independently, provided your personal tow vehicle meets U-Haul’s safety and towing requirements. You don’t need to rent a U-Haul truck to get a car trailer.

Q5: How far in advance should I book my U-Haul car trailer?
A: It’s always best to book as far in advance as possible, especially if you’re moving during peak seasons (summer, holidays, end of the month). A few weeks to a month ahead is ideal to ensure availability and potentially secure better rates. For off-peak times, a week or two might suffice.

For more detailed information on U-Haul’s policies and current equipment specifications, you can visit their official website at https://www.uhaul.com.

Conclusion: Making Your U-Haul Car Trailer Rental a Success

Navigating the world of U-Haul car trailer rentals doesn’t have to be daunting. By understanding the types of trailers available, the factors influencing U-Haul car trailer rental prices, and the crucial safety considerations, you’re well on your way to a successful vehicle transport.

Remember to always prioritize safety, accurately assess your towing capabilities, and choose the right equipment for your specific vehicle. With careful planning and attention to detail, your U-Haul car trailer rental will be a seamless part of your moving or transportation journey. Drive safely, and happy hauling!