U-Haul Trailer Sizes: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Towing Solution

U-Haul Trailer Sizes: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Towing Solution cars.truckstrend.com

Moving, transporting goods, or relocating a vehicle often comes with the challenge of fitting everything into the right space. For countless individuals and businesses across North America, U-Haul trailers offer a versatile and cost-effective solution. But with a range of options available, understanding U-Haul trailer sizes is paramount to ensuring a smooth, efficient, and safe journey.

This comprehensive guide will delve into the various U-Haul trailer types and their specific dimensions, helping you make an informed decision for your next hauling task. From compact cargo trailers perfect for dorm room moves to robust auto transports designed for cross-country vehicle relocation, knowing your options is the first step towards a successful tow. Choosing the right size not only prevents multiple trips and saves money but also ensures the safety of your belongings and those on the road.

U-Haul Trailer Sizes: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Towing Solution

Understanding U-Haul Trailer Categories

U-Haul categorizes its extensive trailer fleet into three primary types, each designed for specific hauling needs:

1. Cargo Trailers (Enclosed Trailers): These trailers offer protection from the elements and security for your belongings. They are ideal for moving household goods, furniture, boxes, and anything you want to keep secure and dry.
2. Utility Trailers (Open Trailers): Designed for hauling odd-shaped items, construction materials, yard waste, or vehicles like ATVs and motorcycles, utility trailers are open to the elements but offer flexibility for larger or bulkier loads.
3. Car Carriers (Vehicle Transport Trailers): Specifically engineered for moving vehicles, this category includes both tow dollies and auto transports, providing solutions for different types of car hauling.

Let’s explore the specific sizes and uses within each category.

Deep Dive into U-Haul Trailer Sizes

1. Cargo Trailers (Enclosed)

U-Haul’s enclosed cargo trailers come in a variety of sizes, catering to everything from small apartment moves to multi-bedroom home relocations. They are equipped with a low deck for easy loading, a secure latching system, and a robust construction to protect your items.

• 4′ x 8′ Cargo Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Interior): 8′ long x 4′ wide x 4′ high (128 cu. ft.)
  • Max Load: 1,600 lbs
  • Ideal For: Small loads, studio apartments, dorm rooms, local deliveries, extra storage space. Can hold a queen-size mattress and box spring standing on end, or about 1-2 rooms of belongings.
  • Key Feature: Lightweight, easy to maneuver.

• 5′ x 8′ Cargo Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Interior): 8′ long x 4’8" wide x 5’4" high (200 cu. ft.)
  • Max Load: 1,800 lbs
  • Ideal For: Small apartment moves (1-2 rooms), furniture, boxes, small appliances. Can fit a couch, a love seat, or about 2-3 rooms of belongings.
  • Key Feature: Most popular size for small moves due to its balance of capacity and maneuverability.

• 5′ x 10′ Cargo Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Interior): 9’10" long x 4’8" wide x 5’4" high (240 cu. ft.)
  • Max Load: 1,600 lbs
  • Ideal For: Larger 1-bedroom apartments, small 2-bedroom apartments. Offers more length for longer items like bed frames or couches.
  • Key Feature: A step up in length from the 5×8, providing more floor space.

• 6′ x 12′ Cargo Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Interior): 12′ long x 6′ wide x 5’5" high (370 cu. ft.)
  • Max Load: 2,500 lbs
  • Ideal For: 1-2 bedroom homes or larger apartments. Can hold appliances, multiple pieces of furniture, and numerous boxes. Often the go-to choice for DIY movers.
  • Key Feature: Dual axle for improved stability and higher weight capacity.

• 7′ x 12′ Cargo Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Interior): 12′ long x 6’8" wide x 6′ high (480 cu. ft.)
  • Max Load: 2,500 lbs
  • Ideal For: 2-3 bedroom homes, larger furniture pieces, and more extensive moves.
  • Key Feature: Wider and taller than the 6×12, offering more cubic feet and easier loading of larger items.

• 7′ x 16′ Cargo Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Interior): 16′ long x 6’8" wide x 6′ high (600 cu. ft.)
  • Max Load: 2,500 lbs
  • Ideal For: 3-4 bedroom homes, large furniture, and significant amounts of boxes. This is the largest enclosed trailer U-Haul offers.
  • Key Feature: Maximum capacity for large residential moves, dual axle for stability.

2. Utility Trailers (Open)

Utility trailers are versatile for hauling items that don’t require protection from the elements or are too large for enclosed trailers. They typically feature a ramp for easy loading of wheeled items.

• 4′ x 7′ Utility Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Deck): 7′ long x 4′ wide
  • Max Load: 1,770 lbs
  • Ideal For: Small yard projects, ATVs, dirt bikes, small pieces of equipment.
  • Key Feature: Lightweight, easy to tow, often without a ramp.

• 5′ x 8′ Utility Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Deck): 8′ long x 5′ wide
  • Max Load: 1,890 lbs
  • Ideal For: Motorcycles, appliances, large lawnmowers, moderate construction materials.
  • Key Feature: Often comes with a small ramp, making it easy to load wheeled items.

• 5′ x 9′ Utility Trailer with Ramp:

  • Dimensions (Deck): 9′ long x 5′ wide
  • Max Load: 1,650 lbs
  • Ideal For: Heavier motorcycles, small riding lawnmowers, large appliances, construction debris. The longer ramp makes loading easier.
  • Key Feature: Low deck, heavy-duty ramp for easy loading of heavier equipment.

• 6′ x 12′ Utility Trailer:

  • Dimensions (Deck): 12′ long x 6′ wide
  • Max Load: 2,670 lbs
  • Ideal For: Large construction materials, landscaping supplies, multiple motorcycles, small tractors. This is the largest utility trailer.
  • Key Feature: Dual axle for stability, often with a sturdy ramp for heavy equipment.

3. Car Carriers (Vehicle Transport Trailers)

When you need to move a vehicle, U-Haul offers two specialized solutions:

• Tow Dolly:

  • Dimensions (Overall): Designed to carry the front two wheels of a vehicle.
  • Max Load: 3,000 lbs (vehicle weight)
  • Ideal For: Front-wheel drive vehicles, or rear-wheel drive vehicles with the driveshaft disconnected. Best for shorter distances or when you want to save on fuel.
  • Key Feature: Lighter, more economical, and easier to store than a full auto transport.

• Auto Transport:

  • Dimensions (Deck): Approx. 14′ long x 6’10" wide
  • Max Load: 5,290 lbs (vehicle weight)
  • Ideal For: All types of vehicles, including 4x4s, all-wheel drive, and classic cars, regardless of drive type. Essential for long-distance moves or when you need maximum protection for your vehicle.
  • Key Feature: Full flatbed trailer, providing complete support and protection for the towed vehicle. Equipped with security chains and ratchet-controlled tire straps.

Choosing the Right U-Haul Trailer Size: Practical Advice

Selecting the perfect trailer size is crucial for safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Assess Your Cargo Volume:

   • For Moves: List every major item (furniture, appliances, boxes). Estimate the number of rooms you’re moving. U-Haul’s website offers helpful size estimators.
   • For Hauling: Measure the length, width, and height of your largest items. Consider if they need to be protected from weather.

2. Calculate Total Weight:

   • Don’t just estimate. Heavier items like appliances, safes, or machinery can quickly add up. Overloading a trailer is extremely dangerous and can lead to accidents or vehicle damage.
   • Remember to factor in the weight of packing materials and boxes.

3. Consider Your Towing Vehicle:

   • Towing Capacity: This is the most critical factor. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will specify its maximum towing capacity. Never exceed this limit.
   • Hitch Type: Ensure your vehicle has the correct hitch receiver and ball size for the trailer you intend to rent. U-Haul provides hitches and wiring if needed.
   • Transmission: Automatic transmissions are generally better for towing, but manual transmissions can also tow if properly equipped.
   • Brakes: Ensure your vehicle’s brakes are in excellent condition. Some larger trailers may require a trailer brake controller.

4. Distance and Route:

   • Local vs. Long Distance: For shorter, local hauls, you might tolerate a slightly less-than-perfect fit. For long-distance moves, getting the size exactly right is vital to avoid issues on the road.
   • Terrain: If you’ll be traversing hilly or mountainous terrain, opt for a smaller, lighter trailer or ensure your tow vehicle has ample power and braking capability.

5. Don’t Underestimate, Don’t Overestimate:

   • Underestimation: Leads to multiple trips, wasted time, and potentially needing a larger, more expensive trailer mid-move.
   • Overestimation: Means you’re paying for unused space and towing unnecessary weight, leading to higher fuel consumption and more challenging driving.

Important Considerations for Towing U-Haul Trailers

• Vehicle Readiness: Ensure your tires are properly inflated, lights are working, and brakes are in good order.
• Hitch and Wiring: U-Haul requires a specific hitch ball size (1-7/8" or 2") and a working light connector (4-way flat or 7-way round). They can install these if you don’t have them.
• Proper Loading: Load heavier items towards the front (about 60% of the weight in the front half) to maintain proper tongue weight and prevent swaying. Secure all items to prevent shifting during transit.
• Driving Safely:
  • Reduce Speed: Always drive slower than you normally would.
  • Increase Following Distance: Allow significantly more space for braking.
  • Wide Turns: Trailers cut corners, so make wider turns than usual.
  • Check Mirrors: Constantly monitor your trailer in your side mirrors.
  • Avoid Sudden Movements: Smooth acceleration, braking, and steering are key.
• Insurance: Your personal auto insurance may cover liability for a towed trailer, but often not damage to the trailer itself or its contents. U-Haul offers Safemove® and Safetow® coverage options for peace of mind.

Benefits of Renting U-Haul Trailers

• Cost-Effectiveness: Often significantly cheaper than hiring a full-service moving company or even renting a moving truck, especially for smaller moves.
• Flexibility: Pick up and drop off at various U-Haul locations nationwide.
• Variety of Options: A wide range of sizes and types to suit almost any hauling need.
• DIY Control: You control the packing, loading, and timing of your move.
• Professional Support: U-Haul offers equipment installation, roadside assistance, and expert advice.

Challenges & Solutions

• Challenge: Underestimating Size Needs.
  • Solution: Use U-Haul’s online room-by-room estimators, create a detailed inventory, and err on the side of slightly larger if unsure. It’s better to have a little extra space than not enough.
• Challenge: Improper Loading Leading to Swaying.
  • Solution: Always load 60% of the weight to the front half of the trailer. Secure items tightly to prevent shifting. If swaying occurs, gently apply the trailer brakes (if equipped) or release the accelerator, do NOT hit your vehicle’s brakes hard.
• Challenge: Driving Difficulties.
  • Solution: Practice driving with the trailer in an empty parking lot before hitting the road. Get comfortable with wide turns and backing up. Plan your route to avoid tight spaces or difficult maneuvers.

U-Haul Trailer Size and Estimated Pricing Table

(Please Note: Prices are approximate daily rental rates and can vary significantly based on location, availability, time of year, rental duration, and whether it’s a one-way or in-town rental. Always check current pricing on U-Haul’s official website or with a local dealer.)

Trailer Type	Size (Dimensions)	Max Load (Approx.)	Ideal Use Case	Estimated Daily Rate (In-Town)	Features
Cargo Trailers
4×8	8’L x 4’W x 4’H (128 cu. ft.)	1,600 lbs	Studio/Dorm, Small Local Hauls	$14.95 – $19.95	Lightweight, easy to maneuver
5×8	8’L x 4’8"W x 5’4"H (200 cu. ft.)	1,800 lbs	1-2 Room Apartment, Mid-Size Moves	$19.95 – $24.95	Most popular small move size, secure enclosed space
5×10	9’10"L x 4’8"W x 5’4"H (240 cu. ft.)	1,600 lbs	Larger 1-Bedroom, Small 2-Bedroom Apartment	$24.95 – $29.95	More length for items like bed frames
6×12	12’L x 6’W x 5’5"H (370 cu. ft.)	2,500 lbs	1-2 Bedroom Home, Appliances, Furniture	$29.95 – $34.95	Dual axle for stability, popular for residential moves
7×12	12’L x 6’8"W x 6’H (480 cu. ft.)	2,500 lbs	2-3 Bedroom Home, Larger Furniture	$34.95 – $39.95	Wider and taller, easier loading of bulky items
7×16	16’L x 6’8"W x 6’H (600 cu. ft.)	2,500 lbs	3-4 Bedroom Home, Largest Moves	$39.95 – $44.95	Max capacity, dual axle, largest enclosed option
Utility Trailers
4×7	7’L x 4’W	1,770 lbs	Yard Work, ATVs, Dirt Bikes	$14.95 – $19.95	Open bed, easy for rough items
5×8	8’L x 5’W	1,890 lbs	Motorcycles, Appliances, Small Equipment	$19.95 – $24.95	Versatile, may include small ramp
5×9 with Ramp	9’L x 5’W	1,650 lbs	Heavier Motorcycles, Riding Mowers, Construction Debris	$24.95 – $29.95	Low deck, heavy-duty ramp for easy loading
6×12	12’L x 6’W	2,670 lbs	Large Materials, Tractors, Multiple Motorcycles	$29.95 – $34.95	Dual axle, highest utility capacity, often with ramp
Car Carriers
Tow Dolly	Carries front 2 wheels	3,000 lbs (vehicle)	FWD Vehicles, Short/Medium Distance Car Towing	$49.95 – $69.95	Economical, easy to maneuver, less fuel consumption
Auto Transport	Full flatbed, approx. 14’L x 6’10"W	5,290 lbs (vehicle)	All Vehicle Types, Long Distance, AWD/4×4	$69.95 – $89.95	Full support, secure straps, best for long hauls

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Do I need a special driver’s license to tow a U-Haul trailer?
A1: In most U.S. states and Canadian provinces, you do not need a special driver’s license to tow a U-Haul trailer as long as the combined weight of your vehicle and the trailer is within standard limits (usually under 26,000 lbs GVWR) and you are not operating commercially. Always check your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) regulations.

Q2: What kind of hitch do I need for a U-Haul trailer?
A2: Most U-Haul trailers require either a 1-7/8" or a 2" hitch ball. Your towing vehicle must also have a hitch receiver rated for the trailer’s weight. U-Haul can inspect your vehicle and install the correct hitch and wiring if needed.

Q3: Can I tow a U-Haul trailer with any vehicle?
A3: No. Your vehicle must meet specific U-Haul towing requirements, including having the appropriate towing capacity, a functional hitch, and working trailer lights. U-Haul’s reservation system will guide you on compatibility, and staff will verify it upon pickup.

Q4: How fast can I drive with a U-Haul trailer?
A4: U-Haul recommends a maximum speed of 55 mph (88 km/h) when towing any of their equipment. This is a general safety guideline, and you should always adhere to posted speed limits, which may be lower for vehicles with trailers in some areas.

Q5: Are U-Haul trailers insured?
A5: U-Haul trailers come with basic liability coverage, but this typically does not cover damage to the trailer itself or your cargo. U-Haul offers optional protection plans like Safemove® (for cargo trailers) and Safetow® (for car carriers) that provide additional coverage for damage to the trailer, your belongings, and roadside assistance. It’s advisable to consider these or check with your personal insurance provider.

Q6: What if I need to change my reservation or trailer size?
A6: You can usually modify your reservation online or by calling U-Haul customer service. Changes are subject to availability, and price adjustments may apply. It’s best to make changes as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Navigating the array of U-Haul trailer sizes can seem daunting, but with a clear understanding of your needs and the options available, you can confidently select the perfect trailer for your task. Whether you’re moving across town, transporting a prized possession, or tackling a large landscaping project, U-Haul offers a tailored solution. By carefully assessing your cargo, considering your towing vehicle’s capabilities, and adhering to safe towing practices, you can ensure a successful, stress-free, and efficient experience. Remember, the right size isn’t just about fitting your items; it’s about optimizing safety, cost, and convenience for your journey.