How Much Is A U-Haul With A Car Trailer? Your Ultimate Guide to Auto Transport Costs

How Much Is A U-Haul With A Car Trailer? Your Ultimate Guide to Auto Transport Costs Typestruck.Guidemechanic.com

Moving can be one of life’s most stressful events, and when it involves transporting your vehicle across town or even across the country, the complexity (and cost) can feel overwhelming. Many people turn to U-Haul for their DIY moving needs, but the question that often lingers is: "How much is a U-Haul with a car trailer?" It’s a crucial query, as understanding the full financial picture is essential for planning your budget and ensuring a smooth journey.

This comprehensive guide is designed to demystify U-Haul car trailer rental costs. We’ll dive deep into all the factors that influence the price, break down potential hidden fees, and offer expert tips to help you save money. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to expect, allowing you to make an informed decision with confidence. Let’s hit the road to clarity!

How Much Is A U-Haul With A Car Trailer? Your Ultimate Guide to Auto Transport Costs

Understanding the Core Factors That Influence U-Haul Car Trailer Costs

The price of renting a U-Haul car trailer isn’t a fixed figure you can simply look up. Instead, it’s a dynamic calculation influenced by several key variables. Grasping these factors is the first step toward accurately estimating your total expense.

Distance of Your Move: Local vs. One-Way

One of the most significant determinants of your rental cost is the distance you intend to travel. U-Haul offers two primary rental models:

• Local Rentals: These are typically shorter, often within a specific metropolitan area, where you pick up and drop off the trailer at the same U-Haul location. Local rentals are generally priced on a daily rate, which can be quite affordable for short-term use.
• One-Way Rentals: This option is for longer distances, where you pick up the trailer at one U-Haul center and return it to a different location, usually in another city or state. One-way rentals come with a predetermined fixed rate for a set number of days and miles. This rate often includes an allowance for mileage, with additional charges if you exceed it.

Pro tips from us: One-way rentals are almost always more expensive than local rentals due to the logistics involved in repositioning the equipment. Always be clear about your travel plans when getting a quote to avoid surprises.

Type of Car Trailer: Auto Transport vs. Tow Dolly

U-Haul offers two distinct types of car trailers, each designed for different needs and carrying different price tags:

• U-Haul Auto Transport Trailer: This is a full-platform trailer designed to carry your entire vehicle off the ground. It features four wheels, integrated ramps for easy loading, and straps to secure your car. Auto transport trailers are suitable for almost all vehicles, including those with all-wheel drive (AWD) or 4×4, as all four wheels of your towed vehicle are lifted.
  • Based on my experience: While more expensive, the auto transport trailer offers superior peace of mind, especially for longer distances or if you have an AWD vehicle. It minimizes wear and tear on your towed car and reduces mileage accumulation.
• U-Haul Tow Dolly: A tow dolly lifts only the front wheels of your vehicle off the ground, leaving the rear wheels to roll on the pavement. It’s a two-wheeled unit with a simpler design. Tow dollies are generally less expensive to rent than auto transport trailers.
  • Common mistakes to avoid are using a tow dolly for vehicles that require all four wheels off the ground, such as most AWD or 4×4 cars, or vehicles with low ground clearance. Always check your car’s owner’s manual for flat-towing restrictions.

Rental Duration: Daily, Weekly, or Longer?

The length of time you need the car trailer also impacts the overall cost.

• Local rentals are typically charged on a daily basis. The longer you keep it, the more you pay.
• One-way rentals are usually given a set number of days for the journey. Returning it earlier generally won’t reduce the price, but returning it late can incur significant late fees.

It’s crucial to accurately estimate your travel time. Building in a little buffer can save you from unexpected charges.

Time of Year and Demand

Just like airfares or hotel rooms, U-Haul rental prices can fluctuate based on demand.

• Peak seasons, such as summer months (May through August), holidays, and the end-of-month moving rush, often see higher prices due to increased demand.
• Off-peak times, like the fall and winter (excluding major holidays), or mid-week, can sometimes offer more competitive rates.

Pro tips from us: If your moving dates are flexible, try to schedule your rental during a less busy period. This simple adjustment could lead to noticeable savings.

Location: Pickup and Drop-off Points

The specific U-Haul locations where you pick up and drop off your trailer can also play a role in pricing.

• Prices might vary slightly between urban and rural areas, or based on equipment availability at a particular center.
• High-demand areas or locations with limited inventory might have higher rates or fewer discount opportunities.

Always check pricing for a few different locations if you have the flexibility to do so.

Breaking Down the Typical Costs: What You Can Expect to Pay

Now that we understand the influencing factors, let’s look at the actual numbers. While precise figures can fluctuate, we can provide general ranges and highlight potential additional charges.

Base Rental Fees for Car Trailers

The base rental fee is the core cost for the trailer itself, before any add-ons or taxes.

• U-Haul Tow Dolly (Local): For a local, daily rental, you might expect to pay anywhere from $40 to $60 per day. Weekend rentals or slightly longer durations will scale up from there.
• U-Haul Tow Dolly (One-Way): One-way tow dolly rentals typically range from $150 to $300 or more, depending heavily on the distance. A cross-state move might be on the lower end, while a cross-country journey would be at the higher end.
• U-Haul Auto Transport Trailer (Local): Local, daily rentals for an auto transport trailer usually start around $55 to $75 per day. Given its heavier construction and additional features, it’s a bit pricier than the tow dolly.
• U-Haul Auto Transport Trailer (One-Way): One-way auto transport trailer rentals are generally the most expensive option, often ranging from $250 to $700 or even higher for very long distances. The robust design and capability to transport nearly any vehicle contribute to this higher cost.

It’s important to remember these are estimates. Always get a direct quote from U-Haul for your specific dates and locations.

Additional Charges and Potential Hidden Fees

Beyond the base rental fee, there are several other costs you should factor into your budget. Overlooking these can lead to an unexpected increase in your total expense.

• Environmental Fee: This is a small, non-negotiable fee typically added to all U-Haul rentals. It’s usually just a few dollars, but it’s part of the final tally.
• Sales Tax: As with most purchases, sales tax will be applied to your rental. The percentage varies by state and locality, so factor this into your overall estimate.
• Insurance Options (Damage Waivers): U-Haul offers various protection plans to cover potential damage to the rental equipment or the items you’re moving.
  • Safetow®: Specifically designed for trailer rentals, Safetow is a damage waiver that covers accidental damage to the U-Haul trailer. It can be a smart investment for peace of mind, especially if you’re not accustomed to towing.
  • Based on my experience: While these plans add to the cost (typically $8-$15 per day for Safetow), they can save you thousands if an accident occurs. Always check if your personal auto insurance policy extends coverage to rental trailers first. Many standard policies do not cover damage to the rented equipment itself, only liability for accidents involving it.
• Equipment Add-ons: If you’re also renting a U-Haul truck, you might add moving blankets, furniture dollies, or utility dollies to your order. These are separate rental items that will increase your overall cost.
• Late Return Fees: U-Haul has strict policies regarding rental returns. If you return your trailer past the agreed-upon time, you could face significant late fees, often charged at an escalated daily rate. Always aim to return on time or communicate any delays well in advance.
• Fuel Costs (for the towing vehicle): This is a critical, often overlooked expense. Towing a car trailer, especially an auto transport, significantly increases the fuel consumption of your towing vehicle.
  • You’ll be carrying extra weight, which puts more strain on your engine and requires more fuel.
  • Factor in the distance of your move and estimate your increased fuel usage. This could add hundreds of dollars to a long-distance move.

Real-World Scenarios: Estimating Your U-Haul Car Trailer Expense

Let’s put these factors into practice with a couple of hypothetical scenarios to give you a clearer picture of potential costs. Remember, these are estimates and actual prices will vary.

Scenario 1: Local Move with a Tow Dolly

Imagine you’re moving your compact sedan to a new apartment across town, about 20 miles away. You need the tow dolly for just one day.

• Base Rental (Tow Dolly, Local, 1 day): $50
• Safetow Protection Plan: $10
• Environmental Fee: $1
• Sales Tax (approx. 7%): $4.27
• Estimated Total (excluding fuel): Approximately $65.27

For a local move, this is a relatively affordable option. Your main additional cost would be the extra gas consumed by your towing vehicle for the short trip.

Scenario 2: Cross-Country Move with an Auto Transport Trailer

Now, let’s consider a much larger undertaking: moving your SUV from New York to California, approximately 2,800 miles. You’ve rented an auto transport trailer for a one-way trip, estimated to take 7 days.

• Base Rental (Auto Transport, One-Way): $550 (This could be higher or lower depending on demand and specific routes).
• Safetow Protection Plan (7 days @ $15/day): $105
• Environmental Fee: $5 (one-way rentals often have a slightly higher flat fee)
• Sales Tax (approx. 7%): $46.20
• Estimated Total (excluding fuel): Approximately $706.20

Based on my experience: For a long-distance move like this, the fuel cost will be substantial. If your towing vehicle typically gets 20 MPG, expect that to drop significantly, perhaps to 10-12 MPG, when towing a heavy auto transport trailer with an SUV. At $4.00/gallon, 2,800 miles at 10 MPG means 280 gallons of fuel, costing $1,120. Adding that to the rental, your total could easily exceed $1,800. This highlights how critical it is to factor in fuel.

Pro Tips for Saving Money on Your U-Haul Car Trailer Rental

Moving can be expensive, but with a little planning and strategy, you can minimize your U-Haul car trailer costs. Here are some expert tips to help you keep more money in your pocket:

• Book in Advance (Especially During Peak Season): This is perhaps the most crucial tip. Reserving your trailer weeks or even months ahead, particularly for one-way rentals or during summer, ensures availability and can sometimes lock in a better rate before demand drives prices up.
• Be Flexible with Dates: If possible, avoid moving on weekends, holidays, or at the end of the month. Mid-week rentals often come with lower demand and potentially lower prices.
• Consider a Tow Dolly (If Suitable): If your vehicle meets the requirements (front-wheel drive, suitable weight, proper ground clearance), opting for a tow dolly instead of a full auto transport trailer can save you a significant amount, especially on local moves.
• Check for Discounts or Promotions: Before booking, always check the U-Haul website for any ongoing promotions, coupon codes, or seasonal discounts. Sometimes, bundling a truck and trailer rental can also offer a slight reduction.
• Optimize Your Route for Fuel Efficiency: Plan your driving route carefully to avoid heavy traffic, steep inclines, and unnecessary detours. Driving at a steady, moderate speed (within speed limits for towing) will also significantly improve your fuel economy.
• Understand Insurance Options Thoroughly: Don’t blindly accept or decline insurance. Call your personal auto insurance provider to understand what, if anything, is covered when towing a rental trailer. If your policy offers no coverage for the rental equipment itself, a damage waiver like Safetow is highly recommended.
• Return on Time (or Early): Avoid late return fees by planning your trip accurately and ensuring you drop off the trailer before your rental period expires. If you finish early, returning it can free up the equipment for others, though it generally won’t reduce your one-way rental cost.
• Pack Smart to Reduce Towing Weight: While the car trailer carries your vehicle, the overall weight you’re towing impacts your towing vehicle’s fuel efficiency. If you’re also renting a U-Haul truck, distribute weight efficiently between the truck and car, and avoid putting heavy items inside the car being towed if possible.

Alternatives to U-Haul Car Trailers

While U-Haul is a popular choice, it’s not the only option for transporting your vehicle. Depending on your budget, distance, and comfort level, alternatives might be more suitable.

• Professional Auto Transport Services:
  • For long-distance moves, especially cross-country, hiring a professional auto transport company can sometimes be comparable in cost to a U-Haul auto transport trailer when you factor in fuel, insurance, and the hassle of towing.
  • These services pick up your vehicle and deliver it to your destination, freeing you from the stress of towing. They offer both open and enclosed carrier options.
  • Pro tips from us: Get multiple quotes from reputable auto transport brokers. While generally more expensive than self-towing for short distances, the convenience can be invaluable for very long hauls.
• Other Rental Companies:
  • While U-Haul specializes in trailer rentals, other moving truck rental companies like Penske and Budget sometimes offer limited car trailer options, usually in conjunction with their moving truck rentals.
  • It’s worth checking their availability and pricing, though U-Haul typically has the largest selection of towing equipment.
• Driving the Car Yourself:
  • If you’re only moving one vehicle and it’s not an excessively long distance, simply driving the car to your new destination might be the most cost-effective solution.
  • Factor in fuel, potential overnight stays, and the time commitment. This is often ideal if you have a second driver or are making multiple trips.

Important Considerations Before You Tow (Safety First!)

Before you even think about booking a U-Haul car trailer, safety must be your absolute top priority. Towing a vehicle is serious business, and preparation is key.

• Towing Vehicle Capacity: This is non-negotiable. Your towing vehicle (the truck or SUV you plan to use) must have a sufficient towing capacity to safely handle the combined weight of the U-Haul trailer and the vehicle you’re towing. Exceeding this limit is incredibly dangerous and illegal.
  • Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for its Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and maximum towing capacity.
  • Common mistakes to avoid are underestimating the weight of your towed vehicle or assuming your truck can "handle it."
• Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure the vehicle you’re towing is compatible with the chosen U-Haul trailer. We mentioned AWD/4×4 restrictions for tow dollies earlier. Also, consider the width, length, and ground clearance of your towed vehicle to ensure it fits properly on the ramps and platform.
• Loading and Securing Your Vehicle: U-Haul provides clear instructions and videos on how to properly load and secure a vehicle onto their trailers. Follow these instructions meticulously. Improper loading can lead to dangerous sway, loss of control, and damage.
  • Ensure all straps are tightly secured and re-check them after driving a short distance.
  • (Internal Link Suggestion: For a deeper dive, check out our guide on "How to Properly Load a U-Haul Car Trailer" to ensure maximum safety.)
• Practice Driving: If you’re new to towing, find a large, empty parking lot and practice turning, backing up, and braking with the empty trailer (or even with the loaded car, if safe). Towing significantly changes the dynamics of your vehicle.
• Pre-Trip Inspection: Before hitting the road, perform a thorough inspection:
  • Check tire pressure on both the towing vehicle and the trailer.
  • Ensure all lights (tail lights, brake lights, turn signals) are working correctly.
  • Verify the hitch connection is secure and the safety chains are properly attached.
  • (Internal Link Suggestion: Planning a bigger move? Our article "The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right U-Haul Truck Size" offers more comprehensive advice for your entire rental needs.)

Frequently Asked Questions About U-Haul Car Trailer Rentals

Let’s address some common questions that arise when considering a U-Haul car trailer.

Q: Can I tow any car with a U-Haul trailer?
A: Almost any car, but it depends on the type of U-Haul trailer and the towing capacity of your tow vehicle. Auto transport trailers can handle most passenger vehicles. Tow dollies are more restrictive, typically for front-wheel drive vehicles and with specific weight limits. Always check U-Haul’s compatibility tool on their website.

Q: Do I need a special license to tow a U-Haul car trailer?
A: In most U.S. states and Canadian provinces, you do not need a special driver’s license to tow a U-Haul car trailer, as long as the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the trailer and your towed vehicle combined does not exceed standard limits (which it typically won’t for non-commercial use). However, always verify local regulations in your state or province.

Q: What if my car is too low for a U-Haul trailer?
A: Some sports cars or modified vehicles with very low ground clearance might struggle with the standard ramps on U-Haul auto transport trailers. While the ramps are designed to be relatively shallow, extremely low vehicles might scrape. It’s best to measure your car’s clearance and consult with a U-Haul representative or try to find a video of someone loading a similar vehicle.

Q: Can I rent a car trailer without a U-Haul truck?
A: Yes, absolutely! You can rent a U-Haul car trailer independently, provided your personal vehicle meets the necessary towing capacity and is equipped with a compatible hitch (typically a 2" receiver) and working wiring for trailer lights.

Conclusion: Your Journey to Informed U-Haul Car Trailer Rental

Navigating the costs of renting a U-Haul with a car trailer doesn’t have to be a mystery. By understanding the key factors like distance, trailer type, rental duration, and demand, you can accurately estimate your expenses and avoid unwelcome surprises. Remember to factor in not just the base rental but also insurance, taxes, and crucially, fuel costs.

Our expert tips, from booking in advance to understanding your insurance options, are designed to help you save money and make the most informed decision. Whether you opt for a tow dolly or an auto transport trailer, prioritize safety above all else, ensuring your towing vehicle is capable and your cargo is securely loaded.

With this comprehensive guide in hand, you’re now equipped to confidently plan your vehicle transport, ensuring a smoother, more predictable, and budget-friendly moving experience. Happy trails!

(External Link Suggestion: For official U-Haul pricing and booking tools, visit the U-Haul Official Website.)