U-Haul Small Trailer: Your Essential Guide to Compact Hauling cars.truckstrend.com
Moving, decluttering, or tackling a DIY project often requires transporting items larger than what your car can handle. For these situations, the solution doesn’t always lie in renting a large moving truck. Enter the U-Haul Small Trailer – a versatile, cost-effective, and surprisingly capable option for a myriad of hauling needs. Whether you’re moving a dorm room, picking up new furniture, clearing out a garage, or embarking on a weekend adventure with an ATV, U-Haul’s range of small trailers offers a convenient and accessible way to get your belongings from point A to point B safely and efficiently. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about these indispensable hauling companions.
Understanding U-Haul Small Trailers – The Basics
U-Haul Small Trailer: Your Essential Guide to Compact Hauling
When we talk about "small trailers" at U-Haul, we’re generally referring to their enclosed cargo trailers up to 5×8 feet and open utility trailers up to 6×12 feet, as well as specialized options like motorcycle trailers. These trailers are designed to be towed by a wide variety of vehicles, including many SUVs, minivans, and even some sedans, making them a popular choice for those who don’t own a pickup truck or need the capacity of a full-sized moving truck.
The core appeal of these small trailers lies in their balance of capacity, maneuverability, and affordability. They provide additional space without the bulk and fuel consumption associated with larger moving vehicles. Each trailer type is built with specific features to accommodate different cargo, from secure, weatherproof enclosed spaces to open designs with ramps for easy loading of bulky or wheeled items.
Types of U-Haul Small Trailers
U-Haul offers several distinct types of small trailers, each suited for different hauling requirements. Understanding their features will help you choose the right one for your task:
1. Cargo Trailers (Enclosed)
Designed for secure and weatherproof transport, these trailers are perfect for protecting your belongings from the elements and theft. They come with a hard top, sides, and a rear door (often a ramp door or swing door).
- 4×8 Cargo Trailer: This is U-Haul’s smallest enclosed trailer, offering 200 cubic feet of loading space. It’s ideal for small apartments, dorm room moves, a few pieces of furniture, or numerous boxes. It’s light enough to be towed by many vehicles with a minimal towing capacity.
- 5×8 Cargo Trailer: A step up in size, providing 256 cubic feet of enclosed space. This trailer is suitable for small one-bedroom apartment moves, larger furniture pieces, or more boxes than the 4×8. Its slightly wider and taller dimensions offer more flexibility.
2. Utility Trailers (Open)
These open-air trailers are incredibly versatile, featuring low sides or no sides, and often a rear ramp for easy loading. They are excellent for hauling items that are bulky, dirty, or don’t require protection from weather.
- 5×9 Utility Trailer with Ramp: This popular option is perfect for hauling appliances, riding lawnmowers, motorcycles, lumber, or bags of mulch. The integrated ramp makes loading heavy or wheeled items effortless. Its open design allows for taller items than an enclosed trailer.
- 6×12 Utility Trailer: While larger, it still falls into the "small" category compared to professional hauling equipment. This trailer offers significant open space, making it suitable for large landscaping projects, transporting ATVs, snowmobiles, or construction materials. It also typically features a sturdy ramp.
3. Specialty Small Trailers
U-Haul also offers specialized small trailers for very specific needs:
- Motorcycle Trailer: Specifically designed with a low deck and integrated ramp, plus secure tie-down points, to safely transport one or two motorcycles.
- (Note: Car Dollies and Auto Transports are for vehicles, not cargo, and while "small" in scope, are usually considered distinct from cargo/utility trailers.)
Benefits of Opting for a U-Haul Small Trailer
Choosing a U-Haul small trailer offers a multitude of advantages:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Generally, small trailers are significantly cheaper to rent than moving trucks, both in terms of daily rates and fuel consumption.
- Maneuverability: Their compact size makes them much easier to tow, navigate through city streets, and park, especially for those new to trailering.
- Versatility: From moving household goods and furniture to hauling yard waste, construction materials, or recreational vehicles, small trailers are incredibly adaptable.
- Accessibility: Many common vehicles (SUVs, minivans, crossovers, and even some sedans) are capable of towing these lighter trailers, eliminating the need to rent a separate tow vehicle.
- Security (Cargo Trailers): Enclosed cargo trailers provide a secure, lockable, and weather-protected environment for your valuables.
- DIY Empowerment: They empower individuals to handle their own hauling needs without relying on expensive delivery services or borrowing a friend’s truck.
How to Rent and Tow a U-Haul Small Trailer
Renting and safely towing a U-Haul small trailer is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail.
1. The Rental Process
- Reservation: You can reserve a trailer online via U-Haul’s website, through their app, or by calling a local dealer. Provide your pick-up location, desired dates, and trailer type.
- Pick-up: At the U-Haul location, you’ll need a valid driver’s license, payment method, and proof of insurance for your tow vehicle. The staff will verify your vehicle’s towing capacity and hitch setup.
- Inspection: Always inspect the trailer thoroughly before leaving the lot. Check tires, lights, hitch coupler, and safety chains.
2. Towing Requirements for Your Vehicle
Before you even rent, ensure your vehicle is equipped to tow.
- Towing Capacity: Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will specify its maximum towing capacity. Make sure the loaded weight of the trailer (trailer weight + cargo weight) does not exceed this limit.
- Trailer Hitch: You’ll need a properly installed hitch receiver. U-Haul trailers typically use a 2-inch hitch ball.
- Wiring Harness: Your vehicle must have a working wiring harness (4-way flat connector is common) to power the trailer’s brake lights, turn signals, and running lights. U-Haul offers wiring installation if needed.
3. Hooking Up the Trailer
The U-Haul staff will typically assist with the initial hook-up, but knowing the steps is crucial:
- Position: Back your tow vehicle so the hitch ball is directly under the trailer’s coupler.
- Lower: Use the trailer’s jack to lower the coupler onto the hitch ball. Ensure it’s fully seated and engaged.
- Secure: Latch the coupler lock and insert the safety pin.
- Safety Chains: Cross the safety chains under the coupler and attach them to your vehicle’s hitch receiver or frame. This acts as a backup if the primary hitch fails.
- Wiring: Plug in the electrical connector for the lights.
- Test Lights: Have someone check that the brake lights, turn signals, and running lights all work correctly.
4. Loading and Securing Your Cargo
Proper loading is critical for safe towing:
- Weight Distribution: Load heavier items first, positioning them low and centered over the trailer’s axle(s). Distribute weight evenly from side to side. Avoid putting too much weight at the very front or rear, as this can cause instability (sway or fishtailing). Aim for 60% of the cargo weight in the front half of the trailer.
- Secure Everything: Use tie-downs, ropes, or moving blankets to prevent items from shifting during transit. U-Haul trailers often have internal tie-down points.
5. Safe Towing Practices
- Drive Slower: Reduce your speed, especially on highways, around curves, and in adverse weather.
- Increase Braking Distance: Your stopping distance will be significantly longer with a trailer. Maintain a greater following distance.
- Wider Turns: Account for the trailer’s length and swing when making turns.
- Check Mirrors: Use extended mirrors if necessary to monitor the trailer.
- Backing Up: This is often the trickiest part. Turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction you want the trailer to go. Practice in an open space.
- Pre-Trip Check: Before each leg of your journey, re-check tire pressure, lights, and hitch connection.
Important Considerations and Safety Tips
- Weight Limits are Law: Never exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the trailer or the towing capacity of your vehicle. Overloading is dangerous and illegal.
- Tire Pressure: Ensure both your tow vehicle’s tires and the trailer’s tires are inflated to the recommended pressure.
- Visibility: Be aware of blind spots. Consider installing towing mirrors if your vehicle’s standard mirrors don’t provide adequate visibility around the trailer.
- Weather Conditions: High winds, heavy rain, or snow can significantly impact towing stability. Drive cautiously or pull over if conditions are severe.
- Insurance: Your auto insurance policy may cover liability when towing, but confirm coverage for damage to the trailer or your cargo. U-Haul offers optional SafeTow® coverage for added peace of mind.
- Defensive Driving: Anticipate traffic, avoid sudden movements, and be extra vigilant.
Pricing – U-Haul Small Trailer Rental Costs
U-Haul rental prices are dynamic and can vary based on location, availability, demand, time of year, and rental duration (in-town vs. one-way). The following table provides estimated daily rates for in-town rentals. One-way rates are calculated based on distance and duration and will be significantly higher than daily in-town rates.
| Trailer Type | Dimensions (Approx.) | Est. Daily Rate (In-Town) | Est. One-Way Rate (Variable) | Key Features / Ideal Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4×8 Cargo Trailer | 4’W x 8’L x 4.5’H | $14.95 – $19.95 | Varies by Distance & Demand | Enclosed, Secure, Weatherproof. Small moves, boxes. |
| 5×8 Cargo Trailer | 5’W x 8’L x 5’H | $18.95 – $24.95 | Varies by Distance & Demand | Enclosed, Secure, Weatherproof. Small apts, furniture. |
| 5×9 Utility Trailer | 5’W x 9’L x Low Sides | $19.95 – $26.95 | Varies by Distance & Demand | Open, Rear Ramp. Appliances, lumber, motorcycles. |
| 6×12 Utility Trailer | 6’W x 12’L x Low Sides | $29.95 – $39.95 | Varies by Distance & Demand | Open, Rear Ramp. ATVs, large projects, construction. |
| Motorcycle Trailer | Varies | $24.95 – $34.95 | Varies by Distance & Demand | Specialized for 1-2 motorcycles, low deck, ramp. |
Disclaimer: All prices are estimates and subject to change without notice. Actual rates depend on your specific rental details.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What kind of vehicle do I need to tow a U-Haul small trailer?
A: Most SUVs, minivans, and even some sedans with a proper hitch receiver and wiring harness can tow U-Haul small trailers. Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for its specific towing capacity.
Q: Do I need a special driver’s license to tow a small trailer?
A: In most states and provinces, a standard Class D (or equivalent) driver’s license is sufficient for towing U-Haul small trailers, as their Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) typically falls below the threshold for commercial licenses.
Q: How do I know what size U-Haul trailer I need?
A: Consider the volume and weight of your items. For boxes and smaller furniture, an enclosed cargo trailer works well. For bulky, odd-shaped, or outdoor items (like appliances, lumber, or ATVs), an open utility trailer with a ramp is usually better. U-Haul’s website has size guides to help.
Q: Can I tow a U-Haul trailer with a compact car?
A: While some compact cars might have a minimal towing capacity, it’s generally not recommended for anything more than the smallest 4×8 cargo trailer, and even then, only if your car’s manual explicitly states it can tow and you have the proper hitch and wiring. Always prioritize your vehicle’s safety limits.
Q: Are U-Haul trailers safe to tow?
A: Yes, U-Haul trailers are designed for safety and undergo regular maintenance. However, safe towing ultimately depends on proper hook-up, correct loading, adherence to weight limits, and responsible driving practices by the renter.
Q: What if I break down while towing a U-Haul trailer?
A: U-Haul offers 24/7 roadside assistance. You can call the number provided on your rental agreement for help.
Q: Can I rent a small trailer for one-way trips?
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, which is ideal for cross-town or long-distance moves.
Conclusion
The U-Haul Small Trailer stands out as an incredibly practical and versatile solution for countless hauling needs. From assisting with a college move to facilitating a home renovation project or transporting recreational gear, these compact workhorses offer a blend of affordability, ease of use, and surprising capacity. By understanding the different types available, knowing how to properly rent and tow, and adhering to important safety guidelines, you can confidently tackle your next hauling challenge, making your move or project smoother and more efficient. Embrace the convenience and capability of a U-Haul small trailer – your compact companion for big tasks.
