What Is The Largest Cargo U-Haul Trailer Available? cars.truckstrend.com
Embarking on a move, decluttering a home, or transporting large items often presents a significant logistical challenge: how to move everything efficiently and affordably. While U-Haul offers a wide array of rental trucks, many people overlook the significant advantages of their trailer fleet. Trailers can be a more economical and flexible solution, especially if you already own a vehicle capable of towing. But when space is paramount, the question invariably arises: "What is the largest cargo U-Haul trailer available?"
This comprehensive guide will delve into U-Haul’s largest enclosed cargo trailer, providing you with all the essential information needed to determine if it’s the right choice for your hauling needs. We’ll explore its specifications, ideal uses, critical considerations for renting, and practical advice to ensure a smooth and successful experience.
What Is The Largest Cargo U-Haul Trailer Available?
Unveiling the Champion: The 6×12 Enclosed Cargo Trailer
When it comes to enclosed cargo trailers designed for household goods, furniture, and general moving purposes, U-Haul’s 6×12 Enclosed Cargo Trailer stands as the undisputed largest option in their fleet. While U-Haul offers larger open utility trailers and car haulers, these serve different functions. For secure, weather-protected transport of your belongings, the 6×12 is your maximum capacity solution.
Key Specifications of the 6×12 Enclosed Cargo Trailer:
- Overall Dimensions: Approximately 16′ long x 7′ wide x 7′ high (including hitch).
- Box Dimensions (Inside): Approximately 12′ long x 6′ wide x 5’6" high.
- Cubic Feet (Volume): Approximately 396 cubic feet. This is roughly equivalent to a 1-bedroom apartment or a small house’s contents.
- Max Load (Payload): 2,500 lbs (1,134 kg). This is the maximum weight of items you can safely load into the trailer.
- Empty Weight (Tare): 1,200 lbs (544 kg).
- Hitch Type: 2" ball required.
- Lighting Connector: 4-way flat light connector.
- Ramp: Most 6×12 enclosed trailers come equipped with a low-profile loading ramp for easy access, though it’s always good to confirm upon rental.
- Security: Features a lockable door, providing excellent security for your belongings.
This trailer is designed to handle a substantial amount of cargo, making it a popular choice for small apartment moves, transporting large pieces of furniture and appliances, or carrying extensive recreational gear.
Why Choose the 6×12 Enclosed Cargo Trailer? Benefits and Ideal Uses
The 6×12 enclosed cargo trailer offers a compelling set of benefits that make it an excellent choice for various hauling needs:
- Maximum Enclosed Capacity: For those needing to protect their belongings from weather, dust, and theft, the 6×12 provides the largest enclosed space available from U-Haul. It’s spacious enough to fit king-size mattresses, sofas, refrigerators, washing machines, and numerous boxes.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Often, renting a trailer is significantly cheaper than renting a moving truck of comparable capacity, especially for local moves. You save on fuel costs (as your personal vehicle is generally more fuel-efficient than a large truck) and rental fees.
- Security and Protection: The enclosed design means your items are out of sight, reducing the risk of theft. It also shields your belongings from rain, snow, sun, and road debris, ensuring they arrive in pristine condition.
- Versatility: Beyond moving household items, the 6×12 is ideal for:
- Home Renovation Projects: Transporting building materials, tools, and debris.
- Business Deliveries: Moving inventory, equipment, or display units for trade shows.
- Recreational Use: Hauling camping gear, ATVs, dirt bikes (check dimensions carefully), or large sports equipment.
- Decluttering/Storage: Moving items to a storage unit or hauling unwanted items for donation or disposal.
- Easier Maneuverability (Compared to Large Trucks): While towing a trailer requires practice, a trailer attached to your familiar vehicle can sometimes feel more manageable than driving a large, unfamiliar moving truck, especially in residential areas or tight parking lots.
Important Considerations Before Renting
Renting a 6×12 cargo trailer requires careful planning to ensure safety and compliance.
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Towing Vehicle Requirements:
- Towing Capacity: Your vehicle’s towing capacity must exceed the combined weight of the trailer (1,200 lbs empty) plus your estimated cargo weight (up to 2,500 lbs), totaling 3,700 lbs. Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific towing limits.
- Hitch Class: A Class II (3,500 lbs minimum capacity) or higher hitch is required. The hitch ball size must be 2 inches.
- Wiring: Your vehicle needs a working 4-way flat light connector for the trailer’s brake lights and turn signals. U-Haul offers wiring kits if your vehicle isn’t equipped.
- Transmission: While not always mandatory, a vehicle with a heavy-duty transmission or a transmission cooler is beneficial for towing, especially over long distances or hilly terrain.
- Brakes: Ensure your vehicle’s brakes are in excellent condition. Some larger trailers (though not typically U-Haul’s cargo trailers) may require separate trailer brakes, but the 6×12 relies on your vehicle’s braking system.
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Driving Considerations:
- Speed Limits: U-Haul recommends a maximum speed of 55 mph when towing their trailers. This is crucial for stability and safety.
- Braking Distance: Your stopping distance will significantly increase with a loaded trailer. Maintain extra space between your vehicle and others.
- Turns: Make wider turns than usual to account for the trailer’s length.
- Backing Up: Practice backing up in an empty lot before you need to do it in a tight spot. It requires counter-intuitive steering.
- Weight Distribution: Proper weight distribution is critical. Load about 60% of the weight in the front half of the trailer (closer to the hitch) and distribute the rest evenly. Avoid putting too much weight in the back, which can cause dangerous sway.
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Rental Process and Insurance:
- Booking: It’s highly recommended to reserve your trailer in advance, especially during peak moving seasons (spring/summer, end of month).
- Identification: You’ll need a valid driver’s license.
- Insurance: Your personal auto insurance policy may or may not cover damage to a rental trailer or liability while towing. U-Haul offers supplemental coverage options like "SafeTow®" which can provide peace of mind by covering collision damage waiver and cargo coverage. Always review these options carefully.
Maximizing Your 6×12 Trailer Experience
To get the most out of your U-Haul 6×12 trailer rental, consider these practical tips:
- Strategic Packing:
- Heavy Items First: Load the heaviest items on the floor, over the trailer’s axle, and towards the front.
- Even Distribution: Distribute weight side-to-side to prevent imbalance.
- Utilize Vertical Space: Stack boxes securely, placing lighter items on top.
- Protect Furniture: Use moving blankets, pads, and stretch wrap to prevent scratches and damage.
- Secure Everything: Use rope, moving straps, or bungee cords to tie down all items, preventing them from shifting during transit. Even small shifts can affect the trailer’s stability. U-Haul trailers come with internal tie-down points.
- Pre-Trip Inspection: Before hitting the road, double-check:
- Hitch Connection: Ensure the ball is properly seated and the coupler is latched and locked.
- Safety Chains: Cross the safety chains under the hitch and attach them to the vehicle.
- Lights: Test all brake lights, turn signals, and running lights.
- Tires: Check tire pressure on both the tow vehicle and the trailer.
- Fuel Efficiency: Towing increases fuel consumption. Drive smoothly, avoid sudden acceleration or braking, and maintain the recommended 55 mph speed to optimize fuel economy.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
While trailers offer great utility, be aware of potential challenges:
- Overpacking/Exceeding Weight Limits:
- Challenge: It’s easy to underestimate the weight of your belongings and exceed the 2,500 lbs payload. This is extremely dangerous, affecting braking, handling, and potentially leading to blowouts.
- Solution: Weigh heavier items if unsure. Use a bathroom scale for boxes. If you’re close to the limit, consider moving some items into your tow vehicle or making a second trip. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.
- Difficult Maneuvers (especially backing up):
- Challenge: Backing a trailer is notoriously tricky and can be frustrating.
- Solution: Practice in a large, empty parking lot. Remember to turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction you want the trailer to go initially. Use a spotter if available.
- Trailer Sway:
- Challenge: Can occur due to improper weight distribution, high winds, or excessive speed. It’s a dangerous condition where the trailer swings from side to side.
- Solution: Reduce speed immediately. Do NOT brake hard or steer sharply. If possible, gently apply the trailer brakes (if equipped, though U-Haul cargo trailers typically aren’t). Properly loading the trailer (60% front-heavy) is the best preventative measure.
- Bad Weather Conditions:
- Challenge: Rain, snow, or strong winds can make towing more hazardous.
- Solution: Slow down significantly. Increase following distance. Avoid travel in severe weather if possible. The enclosed nature of the 6×12 does protect your cargo from precipitation, but the driving conditions remain challenging.
U-Haul 6×12 Enclosed Cargo Trailer: Example Pricing & Information
Please note: U-Haul rental prices are dynamic and vary significantly based on location, demand, duration (daily vs. multi-day, local vs. one-way), and availability. The prices below are estimates for a local daily rental and should be used for general guidance only. Always get a real-time quote from U-Haul for accurate pricing.
| Feature / Metric | U-Haul 6×12 Enclosed Cargo Trailer (Largest Enclosed) |
|---|---|
| Inside Dimensions (L x W x H) | 12′ x 6′ x 5’6" |
| Cubic Feet Volume | ~396 cu. ft. |
| Max Load (Payload) | 2,500 lbs (1,134 kg) |
| Empty Weight (Tare) | 1,200 lbs (544 kg) |
| Overall Length | ~16′ (including hitch) |
| Hitch Ball Size Required | 2" |
| Electrical Connector | 4-Way Flat |
| Ramp Access | Yes (low-profile ramp on most models) |
| Approx. Daily Local Rate | $29.95 – $49.95+ (Highly variable by location/demand) |
| SafeTow® Coverage (Optional) | ~$8 – $15+ per day (Estimate) |
| Ideal For | 1-bedroom apartment, large furniture, appliances, secure transport |
Always obtain a direct quote from U-Haul for your specific dates and locations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Do I need a special driver’s license to tow a U-Haul 6×12 trailer?
A1: In most US states and Canadian provinces, you only need a standard Class D (or equivalent) driver’s license to tow a U-Haul 6×12 trailer, as its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) typically falls below the threshold for commercial licenses. However, always check your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) regulations.
Q2: Can any vehicle tow the 6×12 enclosed trailer?
A2: No. Your vehicle must have a minimum towing capacity of 3,700 lbs (trailer empty weight + max payload), a Class II (or higher) hitch with a 2" ball, and a working 4-way flat electrical connector for lights. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for its specific towing limits.
Q3: Is the 6×12 trailer waterproof?
A3: While U-Haul trailers are designed to be weather-resistant, they are not hermetically sealed and should not be considered 100% waterproof. In heavy rain, some moisture may get in. For sensitive items, it’s wise to use plastic covers or tarps inside the trailer.
Q4: How do I load the trailer properly to prevent sway?
A4: Load approximately 60% of the total cargo weight in the front half of the trailer (closer to your vehicle), with the remaining 40% distributed evenly over the axle and towards the rear. Always place the heaviest items on the floor and secure everything to prevent shifting.
Q5: What happens if I break down while towing a U-Haul trailer?
A5: U-Haul provides roadside assistance for their equipment. You should contact U-Haul directly using the number provided in your rental agreement. They will arrange for assistance or a replacement trailer if necessary.
Q6: Can I rent the 6×12 trailer for a one-way trip?
A6: Yes, U-Haul offers one-way rentals for their trailers, though prices for one-way trips are generally higher than local, round-trip rentals due to logistics and redistribution costs.
Q7: Do U-Haul trailers have brakes?
A7: Most U-Haul cargo trailers, including the 6×12, do not have independent braking systems and rely solely on the tow vehicle’s brakes. This is why having a vehicle with adequate braking capacity is crucial.
Conclusion
The U-Haul 6×12 enclosed cargo trailer is indeed the largest and most versatile option for securely transporting a significant volume of personal belongings or goods. Its generous 396 cubic feet of space, combined with the protection of an enclosed design, makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of moving and hauling tasks.
However, a successful and safe towing experience hinges on meticulous preparation. Always ensure your towing vehicle meets the stringent requirements, understand and adhere to safe driving practices, and load the trailer correctly. By taking these precautions and leveraging the practical advice outlined in this guide, you can confidently utilize the largest cargo U-Haul trailer available to make your next move or haul remarkably efficient and stress-free.
