U-Haul Trailer Sizes And Dimensions: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Hauling Solution cars.truckstrend.com
Moving, transporting goods, or hauling equipment can be a daunting task, but with the right tools, it becomes significantly more manageable. For millions, U-Haul trailers are the go-to solution for DIY moves and various transportation needs. However, the sheer variety of U-Haul trailer sizes and dimensions can be overwhelming. Choosing the wrong trailer can lead to multiple trips, wasted money, potential damage to your belongings, or even unsafe towing conditions.
This comprehensive guide is designed to demystify U-Haul’s extensive trailer fleet. We’ll delve into the specific sizes, dimensions, and capacities of their cargo, utility, and car trailers, providing you with the essential information to select the perfect trailer for your next project, ensuring a safe, efficient, and cost-effective experience. Understanding these crucial details is the first step towards a stress-free haul.
U-Haul Trailer Sizes And Dimensions: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Hauling Solution
Understanding U-Haul Trailer Types
U-Haul offers a diverse range of trailers, each designed for specific purposes. Before diving into the nitty-gritty of dimensions, it’s essential to understand the fundamental types available:
- Cargo Trailers (Enclosed Trailers): These trailers are fully enclosed, providing protection for your belongings from weather elements, road debris, and theft. They are ideal for moving household goods, furniture, boxes, and items that require security and protection.
- Utility Trailers (Open Trailers): As the name suggests, these trailers are open-topped, making them perfect for hauling oddly shaped items, landscaping materials, construction debris, ATVs, motorcycles, or anything that doesn’t require protection from the elements. Many come with a ramp for easy loading.
- Car Trailers (Auto Transport & Tow Dolly): Specifically designed for vehicle transportation, these trailers come in two main forms:
- Auto Transport: A full-size trailer designed to carry an entire vehicle with all four wheels off the ground.
- Tow Dolly: A smaller, two-wheel trailer designed to lift the front two wheels of a vehicle off the ground, allowing the rear wheels to roll on the road.
Detailed Breakdown: U-Haul Cargo Trailer Sizes & Dimensions
U-Haul’s enclosed cargo trailers are the workhorses for most residential moves. Their dimensions are crucial for estimating how much you can fit.
1. 4’x8′ Cargo Trailer
- Ideal For: Small moves, studio apartments, dorm rooms, small furniture pieces, or supplementing a truck.
- Interior Dimensions (LxWxH): 8′ x 4′ x 4′
- Approximate Cubic Feet: 160 cu. ft.
- Max Load Capacity: 1,600 lbs
- Empty Weight: 850 lbs
- Features: Single axle, lightweight, easy to maneuver. No ramp.
- Considerations: Perfect for essentials, but won’t fit larger items like queen-sized mattresses standing up (they’d need to lay flat, taking up floor space).
2. 5’x8′ Cargo Trailer
- Ideal For: 1-bedroom apartments, small office moves, or large furniture items. This is one of U-Haul’s most popular trailers.
- Interior Dimensions (LxWxH): 8′ x 5′ x 4.5′
- Approximate Cubic Feet: 196 cu. ft.
- Max Load Capacity: 1,800 lbs
- Empty Weight: 900 lbs
- Features: Single axle, relatively easy to tow. No ramp.
- Considerations: Can fit a queen-sized mattress and box spring if tilted or laid flat. Offers a good balance of capacity and ease of towing.
3. 5’x10′ Cargo Trailer
- Ideal For: Small homes, larger 1-bedroom apartments, or when you need a bit more space than the 5’x8′.
- Interior Dimensions (LxWxH): 9’11" x 4’11" x 5’5"
- Approximate Cubic Feet: 257 cu. ft.
- Max Load Capacity: 1,550 lbs
- Empty Weight: 1,210 lbs
- Features: Single axle, higher interior ceiling than smaller models. Equipped with a spring-assisted ramp for easier loading.
- Considerations: The ramp is a significant advantage for heavier items. Pay attention to the slightly lower max load capacity compared to the 5×8, due to the heavier trailer weight itself.
4. 6’x12′ Cargo Trailer
- Ideal For: 2-3 bedroom homes, large apartments, or significant hauling needs.
- Interior Dimensions (LxWxH): 11’11" x 6′ x 5’6"
- Approximate Cubic Feet: 396 cu. ft.
- Max Load Capacity: 2,500 lbs
- Empty Weight: 1,750 lbs
- Features: Tandem axle (two axles for better stability and weight distribution), low deck for easy loading, equipped with a spring-assisted ramp.
- Considerations: Requires a tow vehicle with a higher towing capacity due to its size and potential load. The tandem axle makes it more stable on highways but can be trickier to maneuver in tight spaces.
Detailed Breakdown: U-Haul Utility Trailer Sizes & Dimensions
Utility trailers are versatile for open-air hauling and bulky items.
1. 5’x9′ Utility Trailer with Ramp
- Ideal For: ATVs, motorcycles, riding mowers, landscaping materials, construction debris, or large, awkward furniture.
- Deck Dimensions (LxW): 9’2" x 5’1"
- Approximate Side Height: 1’2"
- Max Load Capacity: 1,650 lbs
- Empty Weight: 850 lbs
- Features: Single axle, sturdy mesh ramp for easy loading of wheeled items, low deck height.
- Considerations: Open design means items are exposed to elements. Requires proper tie-downs.
2. 6’x12′ Utility Trailer
- Ideal For: Larger landscaping projects, appliance delivery, construction materials (lumber, drywall), or even small vehicle transport (like a golf cart).
- Deck Dimensions (LxW): 12′ x 6′
- Approximate Side Height: 1’2"
- Max Load Capacity: 2,670 lbs
- Empty Weight: 1,240 lbs
- Features: Single axle (some models may be tandem), heavy-duty frame, low deck height. May or may not have a ramp depending on specific model/location.
- Considerations: High capacity, but again, items are exposed. Ensure your tow vehicle can handle the combined weight of the trailer and your load.
Detailed Breakdown: U-Haul Car Trailer Sizes & Dimensions
For vehicle transportation, U-Haul offers specialized options.
1. U-Haul Auto Transport (Car Carrier)
- Ideal For: Transporting vehicles with all four wheels off the ground, especially for long distances, vehicles with mechanical issues, or all-wheel-drive cars.
- Deck Dimensions (LxW): Varies slightly, but generally accommodates most passenger vehicles.
- Between Fenders: 6’8"
- Deck Length: ~14′
- Max Vehicle Weight: 5,290 lbs (can vary slightly, always check)
- Empty Weight: 2,210 lbs
- Features: Tandem axle for stability, built-in ramps, heavy-duty tie-down straps, and safety chains. Includes surge brakes.
- Considerations: Requires a robust tow vehicle with a high towing capacity (often a truck or large SUV). Always verify your vehicle’s compatibility with U-Haul’s system.
2. U-Haul Tow Dolly
- Ideal For: Short to medium distance moves, front-wheel-drive vehicles, or when you need a more economical option than a full auto transport.
- Max Vehicle Weight: 3,900 lbs (front-wheel drive vehicle weight)
- Empty Weight: 650 lbs
- Features: Two wheels, built-in ramps, safety chains, and tie-down straps for the front wheels.
- Considerations: Only the front wheels are off the ground, meaning the rear wheels of the towed vehicle are still on the road. Not suitable for all-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive vehicles without disconnecting the drive shaft. Less stable than an auto transport for very long distances or high speeds.
Key Considerations When Choosing a U-Haul Trailer
Selecting the right U-Haul trailer goes beyond just knowing the dimensions. Several critical factors influence your decision and ensure a safe, successful move:
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Volume & Weight of Your Belongings:
- Estimate Your Load: Don’t just guess. Use U-Haul’s online room-by-room estimator or physically measure your largest items (sofas, mattresses, appliances).
- Cubic Feet: Match your estimated cubic feet of belongings to the trailer’s capacity. When in doubt, a slightly larger trailer is better than one too small, which could necessitate multiple trips or leaving items behind.
- Weight Distribution: Always load heavier items towards the front of the trailer (over the axle) to maintain proper tongue weight and prevent swaying. Do not overload the trailer beyond its maximum load capacity.
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Tow Vehicle Compatibility:
- Towing Capacity: This is paramount. Your tow vehicle (car, SUV, truck) must have a sufficient towing capacity as specified by its manufacturer. This includes the weight of the empty trailer plus your entire load.
- Hitch Class & Ball Size: U-Haul trailers require a specific hitch ball size (typically 1-7/8" or 2") and a receiver hitch that matches the trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Ensure your vehicle has the correct hitch installed.
- Wiring Harness: Your vehicle needs a working 4-pin (or sometimes 7-pin for larger trailers with electric brakes) wiring harness for trailer lights (turn signals, brake lights, running lights).
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Loading & Unloading:
- Ramps: If you’re moving heavy or wheeled items (appliances, motorcycles), a trailer with a ramp (like the 5’x10′ and 6’x12′ cargo trailers, or all utility/car trailers) is invaluable.
- Tie-Downs: Always use appropriate tie-downs, ropes, or moving blankets to secure your items inside the trailer. U-Haul locations sell these accessories. Loose items can shift, causing damage or affecting stability.
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Driving Experience & Maneuverability:
- Practice: If you’re new to towing, practice driving and especially backing up in an empty parking lot before hitting the road.
- Visibility: Large trailers significantly reduce rear visibility. Ensure your side mirrors are properly adjusted.
- Braking Distance: Your braking distance will increase with a loaded trailer. Allow extra space between your vehicle and others.
- Turns: Wide turns are necessary to avoid hitting curbs or other obstacles.
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Destination Accessibility:
- Consider whether the chosen trailer size will fit into your driveway, parking lot, or moving dock at your destination. Narrow streets or tight turns can be challenging with larger trailers.
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Cost vs. Convenience:
- While smaller trailers are cheaper, renting a slightly larger trailer than you think you need can often save you time, stress, and potentially another trip (and associated fuel costs).
Practical Advice and Actionable Insights
- Measure Twice, Rent Once: Before reserving, measure your largest furniture pieces (sofas, beds, refrigerators) to ensure they will fit through the trailer door and lie flat if necessary.
- Utilize U-Haul’s Online Tools: U-Haul’s website has excellent resources, including a "Truck & Trailer Size" selector and a "Room Planner" that can help estimate your needs.
- Book in Advance: Especially during peak moving seasons (end of the month, summer, holidays), U-Haul inventory can be limited. Book your preferred trailer size as early as possible.
- Inspect Before You Leave: Before driving off the lot, do a quick walk-around. Check tire pressure, lights, and ensure the hitch connection and safety chains are secure.
- Understand Insurance Options: U-Haul offers damage coverage for their equipment and your belongings. Review these options carefully to decide if they are right for your move.
- Don’t Overload: Adhere strictly to the maximum load capacity for the trailer and your tow vehicle. Overloading is dangerous and can lead to equipment failure or accidents.
U-Haul Trailer Sizes & Estimated Daily Rental Price Range
Please note: U-Haul rental prices are highly variable based on location, availability, duration, demand, and whether it’s a one-way or in-town rental. The prices below are estimates for in-town daily rentals and should be verified directly with U-Haul for an accurate quote.
| Trailer Type | Approximate Interior Dimensions (LxWxH or LxW) | Approximate Cubic Feet | Max Load Capacity | Estimated Daily Rental Price Range (In-Town)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cargo Trailers | ||||
| 4’x8′ Cargo | 8′ x 4′ x 4′ | 160 cu. ft. | 1,600 lbs | $14.95 – $19.95 |
| 5’x8′ Cargo | 8′ x 5′ x 4.5′ | 196 cu. ft. | 1,800 lbs | $19.95 – $24.95 |
| 5’x10′ Cargo (w/ Ramp) | 9’11" x 4’11" x 5’5" | 257 cu. ft. | 1,550 lbs | $24.95 – $29.95 |
| 6’x12′ Cargo (w/ Ramp) | 11’11" x 6′ x 5’6" | 396 cu. ft. | 2,500 lbs | $29.95 – $39.95 |
| Utility Trailers | ||||
| 5’x9′ Utility (w/ Ramp) | 9’2" x 5’1" (deck) | N/A (open) | 1,650 lbs | $19.95 – $24.95 |
| 6’x12′ Utility | 12′ x 6′ (deck) | N/A (open) | 2,670 lbs | $24.95 – $29.95 |
| Car Trailers | ||||
| Auto Transport | Variable, fits most cars | N/A | 5,290 lbs | $59.95 – $79.95+ |
| Tow Dolly | N/A (two-wheel lift) | N/A | 3,900 lbs | $39.95 – $49.95+ |
*Prices are highly variable and serve as rough estimates for in-town daily rentals. Always obtain a direct quote from U-Haul for accurate pricing for your specific needs and location.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I tow a U-Haul trailer with my car?
A: It depends on your car’s towing capacity and the specific U-Haul trailer. Most passenger cars can tow smaller utility or cargo trailers, but larger trailers and car carriers require SUVs or trucks with higher towing capacities. Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for its maximum towing capacity and U-Haul’s compatibility checker.
Q: Do U-Haul trailers have brakes?
A: The larger U-Haul Auto Transport (car carrier) trailers come equipped with surge brakes, which activate automatically when the tow vehicle slows down. Smaller cargo and utility trailers generally do not have independent braking systems and rely on the tow vehicle’s brakes.
Q: Do I need a special license to tow a U-Haul trailer?
A: In most U.S. states and Canadian provinces, a standard driver’s license is sufficient for towing U-Haul trailers for personal use, as long as the combined weight of the tow vehicle and trailer (GVWR) does not exceed certain limits (typically 26,000 lbs, but check local regulations).
Q: What kind of hitch do I need for a U-Haul trailer?
A: You’ll need a hitch receiver mounted to your vehicle’s frame, a hitch ball mount, and a hitch ball of the correct size (usually 1-7/8" or 2" for U-Haul trailers). The ball must have a weight rating equal to or greater than the loaded trailer’s gross weight.
Q: Are U-Haul cargo trailers waterproof?
A: U-Haul cargo trailers are designed to be weather-resistant and protect your belongings from rain and light moisture. However, they are not completely waterproof, and it’s always advisable to pack sensitive items in plastic bins or wrap them in protective materials for added security against the elements.
Q: What’s the difference between a tow dolly and an auto transport?
A: A tow dolly lifts only the front two wheels of the towed vehicle off the ground, with the rear wheels remaining on the road. An auto transport (car carrier) lifts all four wheels of the vehicle completely off the ground, making it ideal for longer distances, all-wheel-drive vehicles, or cars that cannot be towed with wheels on the ground.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of U-Haul trailer sizes and dimensions doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the different types of trailers, their specific capacities, and key considerations like tow vehicle compatibility and loading practices, you can confidently select the perfect solution for your needs. Whether you’re moving a small apartment, hauling landscaping supplies, or transporting a vehicle, U-Haul offers a trailer designed for the job.
The right choice ensures not only the safety of your belongings and those on the road but also optimizes your time and budget. Take the time to plan, measure, and verify your requirements, and your U-Haul trailer experience will be a smooth and successful one, turning a potentially stressful task into a straightforward journey.
