Uhaul Car Trailer Rental: Costs, Sizes & How to Tow Safely

Renting a car trailer is often the most economical way to transport a secondary vehicle during an interstate move. Prices fluctuate based on the specific route and the time of year you plan to travel. You should expect to pay a daily rate for local moves or a flat fee for one way rentals that covers a set number of days. Most people find that securing their reservation at least two weeks in advance ensures availability, especially during peak summer moving months. Relying on last minute bookings often leads to limited equipment choices or higher rates at remote pickup locations. If you are comparing your options, you might want to try our moving cost calculator to see how this compares to professional auto transport.

How much does a Uhaul car trailer rental really cost

The price you pay for a trailer rental is rarely a single flat number across the board. Companies base their quotes on the distance between your origin and your destination as well as the high demand for equipment in specific regions. A trailer rental that costs $200 in a quiet market might climb toward $400 if you are moving from a major metropolitan area during the height of moving season. Local rentals follow a simple daily rate structure. These prices are often lower because you are returning the equipment to the same location. One way rentals include a specific window of time to complete your journey. You should always read the contract closely to understand the daily penalty fees if your move takes longer than expected.

Understanding hidden variables in pricing

Demand serves as the primary driver for rental fluctuations. You will often pay more if your move aligns with the end of the month or a major holiday weekend. Some locations offer lower rates if you are willing to drop off your equipment at a less popular hub.

Fees beyond the base rental rate

You must account for extra costs like environmental fees and damage protection plans. These additions can increase your total bill by 15 to 20 percent. Always check if your personal car insurance covers the trailer because double paying for protection is a common mistake among first time movers.

Why one way rentals are expensive

Moving companies must pay to transport equipment back to its point of origin if they have an excess of trailers in one city and a shortage in another. This operational cost is passed directly to the consumer in the form of higher one way rental fees. You can sometimes lower this expense by being flexible with your pickup and drop off dates.

Can my vehicle tow a Uhaul car trailer rental

Safety is the single most important factor when you decide to pull a trailer behind your personal truck or a rented moving vehicle. Most passenger cars are not rated to handle the weight of a heavy steel trailer and a second car. You need a truck with a frame hitch that matches or exceeds the gross vehicle weight rating of the loaded trailer. The Uhaul website allows you to input your specific tow vehicle model to verify compatibility. Ignoring these recommendations risks damaging your transmission and your engine. You should also verify if your hitch has the correct ball size and electrical hookups for the trailer lights.

Weight limits and safety margins

Your tow vehicle must be heavier than the trailer and the towed car combined to maintain control on the highway. Sudden stops or steep descents put immense pressure on your braking system. Never exceed the towing capacity specified in your vehicle owner manual under any circumstances.

Checking your hitch and wiring

A solid hitch connection is mandatory for safe towing. Ensure your safety chains are crossed under the tongue of the trailer to prevent it from hitting the road if the hitch fails. Verify that your brake lights and turn signals are synced correctly before you leave the parking lot.

Before you commit to a long distance move with a trailer, confirm that your insurance provider offers liability coverage for towed equipment. Many policies specifically exclude trailers from their standard coverage, leaving you personally responsible for damages caused in an accident.

What is it like to drive with an auto transport trailer

Driving a truck with a trailer attached requires a different set of skills than your daily commute. You must plan for significantly wider turns to avoid clipping curbs or signs with the trailer wheels. Experienced drivers recommend taking your turns slowly and making them as wide as the lane permits. Highways present their own set of challenges, particularly when you encounter high winds or uneven pavement. You should avoid sudden lane changes and keep a much larger following distance than you would normally. If you feel the trailer begin to sway, gently remove your foot from the gas pedal but avoid slamming on the brakes.

Navigating the highways

Maintaining a steady speed of 55 to 60 miles per hour is the sweet spot for towing a trailer. High speeds increase the likelihood of trailer sway and make it harder to react to road hazards. You should also plan for extra time at fuel stations because maneuvering a long rig requires clear space.

The art of reversing

Reversing with a trailer is notoriously difficult for beginners. You must turn your steering wheel in the opposite direction of the way you want the trailer to move. It is helpful to have a spotter outside the vehicle to guide you and warn you of hidden obstacles behind the trailer.

Should you rent a trailer or hire a professional

Deciding between a DIY move and hiring professionals involves looking at your budget and your physical comfort level. Renting a trailer saves money but places all the responsibility of loading, driving, and maintenance on you. Professionals charge more, but they handle the logistics of the transport so you can focus on other aspects of your relocation. If you are not comfortable operating large vehicles, professional auto transport is often worth the extra expense. You can verify a mover's license to ensure they are legitimate before you hand over the keys to your car. Many people choose to hire professional movers for their belongings and drive their own car separately to avoid the stress of towing.

Comparing DIY vs full service

Calculate your total costs by including fuel, potential overnight stays, and the stress of driving a heavy rig. DIY moving is excellent for short distances where you have a reliable truck. Full service transport is safer and more convenient for cross country moves where equipment failure could ruin your entire schedule.

When to outsource the move

Consider hiring pros if you have a luxury car, a vehicle with low ground clearance, or if you are moving in the dead of winter. Ice and snow make towing extremely dangerous even for experienced drivers. You can find more advice on how to manage these decisions by visiting our browse more cost guides section to get a clearer picture of market rates.