Your Ultimate Guide to U-Haul Trailer Rental Sizes and Prices: Towing Made Easy

Your Ultimate Guide to U-Haul Trailer Rental Sizes and Prices: Towing Made Easy Lmctruck.Guidemechanic.com

Planning a move, hauling equipment, or transporting a vehicle? U-Haul trailers offer a versatile and often cost-effective solution. However, navigating the array of sizes, types, and pricing structures can feel overwhelming. As an expert blogger and professional SEO content writer, I understand the need for clarity and comprehensive information when making such important decisions.

This in-depth guide is designed to be your one-stop resource, breaking down everything you need to know about U-Haul trailer rental sizes and prices. We’ll explore each trailer type, discuss their ideal uses, demystify pricing factors, and share invaluable pro tips to ensure your rental experience is smooth, safe, and successful. Get ready to become a U-Haul trailer expert!

Your Ultimate Guide to U-Haul Trailer Rental Sizes and Prices: Towing Made Easy

Why Choose U-Haul Trailers for Your Hauling Needs?

U-Haul has long been a household name in the moving industry, and their trailer rentals are a cornerstone of their service. Based on my experience, their widespread availability, diverse fleet, and commitment to providing accessible moving solutions make them a popular choice for various hauling tasks. Whether you’re a DIY mover or a small business owner, U-Haul likely has a trailer to meet your specific needs.

Their trailers are generally well-maintained and designed for ease of use, even for those new to towing. Plus, the flexibility of one-way rentals across their vast network of locations adds a significant layer of convenience that few competitors can match.

Understanding U-Haul Trailer Types: A Quick Overview

Before diving into specific dimensions and costs, it’s crucial to understand the main categories of U-Haul trailers. Each type is engineered for different purposes, impacting your choice and ultimately, your rental price.

1. Cargo Trailers (Enclosed)

These are the most common type for household moves and protecting your belongings from the elements. They are fully enclosed, offering security and weather protection for furniture, boxes, and other personal items.

2. Utility Trailers (Open)

Utility trailers are open-top flatbeds, ideal for hauling large, irregularly shaped items, yard waste, construction materials, or anything that doesn’t require protection from weather or security from theft. Many come with a ramp for easier loading.

3. Car Haulers & Auto Transports

Specifically designed for transporting vehicles, these trailers come in two primary forms: the full auto transport (a flatbed trailer for all four wheels) and the tow dolly (for towing a vehicle with its front two wheels off the ground).

Detailed Breakdown of U-Haul Cargo Trailer Sizes and Prices

Cargo trailers are the workhorses for many moves, providing a secure, weather-protected space for your possessions. Choosing the right size is paramount to avoid multiple trips or, worse, not fitting everything in.

4×8 Cargo Trailer

The 4×8 enclosed cargo trailer is U-Haul’s smallest option in this category. It’s a compact yet surprisingly useful trailer, perfect for smaller hauling jobs.

• Ideal Use: This trailer is excellent for college dorm moves, small apartment relocations (studio or one-bedroom without much furniture), transporting appliances, or making quick trips to clear out clutter. It’s also suitable for small business owners needing to transport tools or inventory.
• Key Features: It typically features a low deck for easy loading, a secure latch, and often a rear ramp for rolling items in. Despite its size, it offers 200 cubic feet of loading space, capable of holding a surprising amount of boxes and smaller furniture items.
• Dimensions (Approximate):
  • Interior: 8′ long x 4′ wide x 4′ high
  • Door Opening: 3′ wide x 3′ high
• Typical Price Range: Rental prices for the 4×8 cargo trailer usually start from $14.95 – $19.95 per day for in-town rentals. One-way rates will vary significantly based on distance and demand, often ranging from $100 to several hundred dollars.

5×8 Cargo Trailer

Stepping up slightly, the 5×8 cargo trailer offers a significant increase in capacity, making it one of the most popular choices for a broader range of moving tasks.

• Ideal Use: This trailer is a go-to for one-bedroom apartment moves, clearing out a garage, or transporting larger pieces of furniture like sofas, queen-size mattresses, or multiple appliances. It’s also a favorite for DIY home improvement projects where you need to pick up supplies.
• Key Features: Like its smaller counterpart, it’s fully enclosed, provides security, and protects against weather. It boasts 256 cubic feet of space, making it a versatile option for many users. The wider interior accommodates more substantial items with greater ease.
• Dimensions (Approximate):
  • Interior: 8′ long x 5′ wide x 4.5′ high
  • Door Opening: 4.5′ wide x 4′ high
• Typical Price Range: Expect to pay around $19.95 – $24.95 per day for an in-town 5×8 cargo trailer rental. One-way prices are dynamic but will be higher than in-town rates, often starting around $150-$200 for shorter distances and increasing with mileage.

5×10 Cargo Trailer

For those needing a bit more length without a significant increase in overall footprint, the 5×10 cargo trailer fills a crucial gap.

• Ideal Use: This size is perfect for moving a larger one-bedroom or small two-bedroom apartment. It’s excellent for transporting longer items such as kayaks, lumber, or longer pieces of furniture that might not fit in the 5×8. It offers 390 cubic feet of space, providing ample room for more extensive household goods.
• Key Features: The added length is its primary advantage, allowing for more flexible packing arrangements and accommodating items that are just a bit too long for smaller trailers. It still provides the security and weather protection of an enclosed trailer.
• Dimensions (Approximate):
  • Interior: 10′ long x 5′ wide x 5′ high
  • Door Opening: 4.5′ wide x 4.5′ high
• Typical Price Range: In-town rentals for the 5×10 cargo trailer generally fall in the $29.95 – $34.95 per day range. One-way rentals will be priced based on demand, distance, and availability, typically starting from $200 and going up.

6×12 Cargo Trailer

The 6×12 enclosed cargo trailer is the largest U-Haul offers, designed for substantial moves and larger hauling projects.

• Ideal Use: This trailer is often chosen for two-bedroom apartment moves, larger home cleanouts, or transporting significant amounts of equipment. It can handle king-size mattresses, large sofas, and a considerable volume of boxes. With 450 cubic feet of loading space, it rivals the capacity of some smaller moving trucks.
• Key Features: Its generous dimensions make it incredibly versatile. Many 6×12 trailers come equipped with an automatic surge brake system, a crucial safety feature for heavier loads, especially if your tow vehicle doesn’t have a trailer brake controller. Always confirm brake features when reserving.
• Dimensions (Approximate):
  • Interior: 12′ long x 6′ wide x 5.5′ high
  • Door Opening: 5′ wide x 5′ high
• Typical Price Range: Expect to pay around $34.95 – $39.95 per day for an in-town 6×12 cargo trailer. One-way rates will be the highest among cargo trailers, potentially ranging from $300 to $1000+ depending on the route and timing.

Detailed Breakdown of U-Haul Utility Trailer Sizes and Prices

Utility trailers are perfect for open-air hauling, especially when dealing with items that are bulky, dirty, or don’t require protection from the elements. Many come with integrated ramps, making loading much easier.

4×7 Utility Trailer

The 4×7 utility trailer is the smallest open trailer available, designed for light-duty hauling tasks.

• Ideal Use: This trailer is perfect for quick trips to the dump, hauling yard waste, picking up small construction materials like bags of mulch or concrete, or transporting a small ATV. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver and park.
• Key Features: It’s an open-top, single-axle trailer, making it lightweight and easy to tow with a wide range of vehicles. It typically does not include a ramp, so manual lifting is often required.
• Dimensions (Approximate):
  • Deck: 7′ long x 4′ wide
• Typical Price Range: In-town rentals for the 4×7 utility trailer are usually the most affordable, starting from $14.95 – $19.95 per day. One-way rentals are generally not available for this smallest utility trailer.

5×8 Utility Trailer

A step up in size, the 5×8 utility trailer offers more space and often features a ramp, increasing its versatility.

• Ideal Use: This is a popular choice for larger yard projects, hauling motorcycles, ATVs, or small landscaping equipment. It’s also suitable for picking up sheetrock, plywood, or longer lumber for home improvement projects.
• Key Features: Many 5×8 utility trailers come with a fold-down ramp, which is incredibly useful for rolling items on and off. It’s still a single-axle design, keeping it relatively easy to tow.
• Dimensions (Approximate):
  • Deck: 8′ long x 5′ wide
• Typical Price Range: Expect to pay around $19.95 – $24.95 per day for an in-town 5×8 utility trailer. Like the 4×7, one-way rentals are typically not offered for this size.

5×9 Utility Trailer with Ramp

The 5×9 utility trailer with a ramp is specifically designed to make loading and unloading a breeze, particularly for wheeled items.

• Ideal Use: This trailer is fantastic for transporting larger motorcycles, lawn tractors, golf carts, or smaller off-road vehicles. The extra length provides more stability for longer items, and the ramp is a game-changer for heavy, wheeled loads.
• Key Features: The primary advantage here is the robust, full-width ramp, making it much easier and safer to load items. It’s a single-axle trailer, maintaining good maneuverability.
• Dimensions (Approximate):
  • Deck: 9′ long x 5′ wide
• Typical Price Range: In-town rentals for the 5×9 utility trailer with ramp typically range from $24.95 – $29.95 per day. One-way rentals are generally not available for this specific utility trailer.

6×12 Utility Trailer with Ramp

The largest utility trailer U-Haul offers, the 6×12 with a ramp is a heavy-duty option for significant hauling tasks.

• Ideal Use: This dual-axle trailer is ideal for transporting multiple motorcycles, larger ATVs, side-by-sides, or substantial amounts of building materials. It’s also suitable for moving larger pieces of outdoor furniture or landscaping equipment.
• Key Features: The double axle provides increased stability and weight capacity, which is essential for heavier loads. The wide, sturdy ramp makes loading almost any wheeled item straightforward. Its robust construction ensures it can handle demanding jobs.
• Dimensions (Approximate):
  • Deck: 12′ long x 6′ wide
• Typical Price Range: In-town rentals for the 6×12 utility trailer with ramp usually start from $34.95 – $39.95 per day. Similar to the smaller utility trailers, one-way rentals are not typically offered for this size.

Detailed Breakdown of U-Haul Car Haulers & Auto Transports Sizes and Prices

When your primary goal is to move a vehicle, U-Haul provides specialized trailers designed for safety and ease of use.

Auto Transport (Car Hauler)

The auto transport is a full-size trailer designed to carry an entire vehicle on its deck, with all four wheels off the ground.

• Ideal Use: This is the safest and most recommended option for long-distance vehicle transport, moving non-running vehicles, or for precious cars where you want to minimize wear and tear. It can accommodate most cars, SUVs, and light trucks.
• Key Features: Auto transports feature easy-to-use loading ramps, safety chains, and adjustable tire straps to secure your vehicle. They are typically heavy-duty, dual-axle trailers with surge brakes, ensuring a stable and controlled tow.
• Dimensions (Approximate):
  • Deck: Fits vehicles up to 83" wide between fenders.
• Typical Price Range: Auto transport rental prices are highly variable, primarily dependent on distance for one-way rentals. In-town rentals might range from $50 – $75 per day. One-way rates can start from $150 for very short distances and easily climb to $700 – $1000+ for cross-country moves.

Tow Dolly

A tow dolly lifts only the front two wheels of your vehicle off the ground, allowing the rear wheels to roll on the pavement.

• Ideal Use: Tow dollies are a more economical option for transporting front-wheel-drive vehicles over shorter to medium distances. They are also suitable for vehicles that can be towed with the rear wheels on the ground without causing transmission damage (always check your vehicle’s manual).
• Key Features: Lighter and more compact than an auto transport, a tow dolly is easier to maneuver and typically less expensive. It comes with safety chains and wheel straps to secure the front wheels.
• Dimensions (Approximate):
  • Fits vehicles up to 74" wide.
• Typical Price Range: In-town rentals for a tow dolly are usually around $35 – $45 per day. One-way rentals are more common and can range from $80 for short distances to $400 – $600+ for longer hauls, still generally less than an auto transport.

Factors Influencing U-Haul Trailer Rental Prices

While we’ve provided typical price ranges, it’s crucial to understand that U-Haul’s pricing is dynamic. Several factors come into play, causing rates to fluctuate.

1. Rental Duration

This is straightforward: the longer you keep the trailer, the more it will cost. Daily rates apply, and extended rentals can accrue significant charges. Always be realistic about how long you’ll need the trailer to avoid unexpected fees.

2. Pickup and Drop-off Location (One-way vs. In-town)

This is perhaps the biggest pricing differentiator.

• In-town rentals (picking up and dropping off at the same location) are consistently the most affordable because U-Haul doesn’t need to account for repositioning the equipment.
• One-way rentals (picking up at one location and dropping off at another) are significantly more expensive. The price reflects the cost of moving the trailer from your drop-off point back to where it’s needed, factoring in demand, distance, and the specific route.

3. Time of Year and Demand

Like airline tickets, U-Haul prices are influenced by seasonality and demand.

• Peak moving seasons (late spring, summer, especially month-end and weekends) see higher prices due to increased demand.
• Off-peak seasons (fall and winter, weekdays) often offer more competitive rates. Booking in advance during peak times can sometimes lock in a better rate, but flexibility is your best friend.

4. Additional Equipment

You might need more than just the trailer.

• Hitches and wiring: If your vehicle isn’t already equipped, U-Haul can install a hitch and wiring for a fee. This is an upfront cost you need to factor in.
• Moving supplies: Boxes, dollies, moving blankets, and tie-downs are extra and can add up.

5. Insurance Options

U-Haul offers various insurance and damage waiver options, such as Safetow®. While not mandatory, these can provide peace of mind by covering damage to the trailer, your belongings, or even third-party liability. Based on my experience, it’s a wise consideration, especially for long distances or if you’re new to towing. Always check your personal auto insurance policy first, as some coverage might extend to rental trailers.

Pro Tips for Choosing the Right U-Haul Trailer

Selecting the perfect trailer involves more than just looking at the price tag. Here are some expert tips to guide your decision-making process.

1. Assess Your Load Accurately

• Dimensions: Measure your largest items (furniture, appliances, equipment) to ensure they will fit through the trailer’s door opening and within its interior dimensions. Don’t forget to account for height.
• Weight: Estimate the total weight of your belongings. Overloading a trailer is incredibly dangerous and can lead to severe accidents or damage. U-Haul trailers have specific gross weight ratings (GTWR) and cargo capacities (CC) that you must adhere to.

2. Consider Your Tow Vehicle

This is a critical, often overlooked step.

• Towing Capacity: Your vehicle has a maximum towing capacity specified by the manufacturer. You absolutely must not exceed this. This includes the weight of the trailer itself (empty weight) plus its contents.
• Hitch Class: Ensure your vehicle has an appropriate hitch and ball size that matches the trailer. U-Haul trailers typically use a 2-inch hitch ball.
• Wiring: Your vehicle needs working taillights, brake lights, and turn signals, which requires a compatible wiring harness (usually a 4-flat connector for smaller trailers, 7-way for those with brakes).

3. Understand Your Route

• Distance: Longer distances often make one-way rentals more practical, despite the higher cost.
• Terrain: If you’re traversing steep hills or mountains, you’ll need a tow vehicle with ample power and robust brakes. Consider a trailer with surge brakes for added safety on inclines.
• Maneuverability: Driving a larger trailer in tight urban environments or crowded parking lots can be challenging. Factor in your comfort level with towing.

4. Budgeting for Your Rental

Beyond the daily rate, remember to account for:

• Fuel: Towing significantly reduces your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
• Hitch/Wiring installation: If needed.
• Insurance: Decide if you want U-Haul’s coverage.
• Moving supplies: Tie-downs, blankets, etc.
• Tolls: If your route includes toll roads.

5. Read the Fine Print

Always review the rental agreement carefully. Understand the mileage limits (if any), late return fees, and what constitutes acceptable damage. This prevents any surprises when you return the trailer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Renting a U-Haul Trailer

Based on my observations and experiences, many people make similar errors that can lead to frustration, added costs, or even dangerous situations. Learn from these common pitfalls!

1. Underestimating Load Size or Weight

This is the most frequent mistake. People often think they can fit "just one more box" or that their items aren’t that heavy. Always round up on size and err on the side of caution with weight. An overloaded trailer is a serious safety hazard.

2. Neglecting Tow Vehicle Capacity

Assuming your SUV or pickup truck can tow "anything" is dangerous. Every vehicle has a specific towing capacity. Exceeding it strains your engine, transmission, and brakes, leading to potential breakdowns and loss of control. Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

3. Not Inspecting the Trailer Thoroughly

Before you leave the U-Haul lot, do a walk-around inspection. Check for tire pressure, functional lights, secure hitch connection, and any existing damage. Document everything with photos or videos. This protects you from being charged for pre-existing issues.

4. Skipping Insurance Without Checking Your Own Policy

While U-Haul’s insurance options cost extra, they can save you thousands if an accident occurs. Don’t just skip it; first, verify what your personal auto insurance policy covers regarding rental trailers. Many policies have limitations or no coverage at all.

5. Improper Loading and Weight Distribution

How you load a trailer significantly impacts its stability. Common mistakes include:

• Too much weight at the back: This can cause the trailer to sway violently (fishtailing).
• Too much weight at the front: This can overload your tow vehicle’s rear axle and reduce steering control.
• Unsecured items: Loose items can shift during transit, throwing off balance or causing damage.

Pro tip from us: Aim for 60% of the weight to be in the front half of the trailer, directly over or slightly ahead of the axle(s). Always use tie-downs to secure your cargo.

Safety First: Essential Tips for Towing a U-Haul Trailer

Towing a trailer is different from everyday driving. Safety should always be your top priority.

1. Proper Hitching

• Secure Connection: Ensure the trailer coupler is fully seated and latched onto the hitch ball.
• Safety Chains: Cross the safety chains under the coupler and attach them to your tow vehicle. This acts as a backup if the primary hitch fails.
• Electrical Connection: Plug in the wiring harness and check all lights (running lights, brake lights, turn signals) before driving away.

2. Weight Distribution and Securing Your Load

As mentioned, proper weight distribution is key to preventing sway. Heavy items should be low and centered. Use ropes, straps, or moving blankets to prevent items from shifting during transit. Remember, a properly loaded trailer makes for a much safer journey.

3. Pre-trip Inspection

Beyond the initial inspection, do a quick check every time you stop.

• Tires: Check tire pressure and look for any visible damage.
• Hitch: Ensure the hitch connection and safety chains are still secure.
• Lights: Quickly verify all lights are working.

4. Driving Safely

• Reduce Speed: Drive slower than you normally would. Higher speeds exacerbate trailer sway and reduce reaction time.
• Increase Following Distance: You’ll need more time and space to stop with a trailer attached.
• Wider Turns: Trailers cut corners. Make wider turns to avoid hitting curbs, signs, or other vehicles.
• Avoid Sudden Movements: Smooth acceleration, braking, and steering inputs are crucial. Sudden maneuvers can lead to loss of control.

5. Maneuvering and Parking

• Practice Backing Up: If you’re new to towing, find an empty parking lot to practice backing up. Remember, to turn the trailer left, you turn your steering wheel right (and vice-versa).
• Use a Spotter: Whenever possible, have someone help guide you when backing up.
• Parking: Choose parking spots that allow for easy pull-through or require minimal backing up.

For more comprehensive towing safety guidelines, you can always refer to resources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) https://www.nhtsa.gov/.

How to Book Your U-Haul Trailer Rental

Booking a U-Haul trailer is a straightforward process:

1. Visit U-Haul’s Website or App: Go to uhaul.com or use their mobile app.
2. Enter Pickup/Drop-off Locations and Dates: Specify if it’s an in-town or one-way rental.
3. Select Trailer Type: Browse the available trailers and choose the one that fits your needs. The website will often suggest a size based on your move type.
4. Provide Vehicle Information: You’ll need to enter details about your tow vehicle to ensure compatibility.
5. Review and Reserve: Check the estimated cost, including any additional equipment or insurance, and confirm your reservation.
6. Pickup: Head to your chosen U-Haul location with your driver’s license, reservation details, and a valid payment method.

If you’re also considering U-Haul trucks for your move, we’ve covered that extensively in our article, Choosing the Right U-Haul Moving Truck (Internal Link 1). And for more detailed advice on packing your trailer efficiently, check out our guide on Efficient Packing Strategies for Your Move (Internal Link 2).

Conclusion: Empowering Your Hauling Journey

Renting a U-Haul trailer doesn’t have to be a guessing game. By understanding the different sizes, their ideal uses, and the factors that influence pricing, you can make an informed decision that saves you time, money, and stress. Remember to prioritize safety, always match the trailer to your tow vehicle’s capacity, and never underestimate the power of proper loading.

Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, U-Haul’s diverse range of trailers provides a flexible solution for almost any hauling challenge. Now, armed with this comprehensive knowledge, you’re well-equipped to choose the perfect U-Haul trailer and embark on your next adventure with confidence. Happy hauling!