The Ultimate Guide to U-Haul Trailer Sizes: Find Your Perfect Rental

The Ultimate Guide to U-Haul Trailer Sizes: Find Your Perfect Rental Typestruck.Guidemechanic.com

Moving, hauling, or transporting a vehicle can often feel like a monumental task, especially when you’re faced with the myriad of equipment choices available. Among the most popular and accessible options are U-Haul trailers, renowned for their versatility and widespread availability. But with so many configurations, a common question arises: "What size trailers does U-Haul have for rent, and which one is right for me?"

Navigating the various U-Haul trailer sizes can be daunting, but choosing the correct one is crucial for a smooth, safe, and cost-effective experience. An undersized trailer means multiple trips or not fitting your items, while an oversized one can be harder to tow and might cost more than necessary. As an expert in logistics and moving solutions, I’m here to break down every U-Haul trailer option, offering insights and pro tips to help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive deep into the world of U-Haul rental trailers!

The Ultimate Guide to U-Haul Trailer Sizes: Find Your Perfect Rental

Why Choose U-Haul Trailers for Your Hauling Needs?

Before we explore the specifics of U-Haul trailer sizes, it’s worth understanding why U-Haul remains a top choice for countless individuals and businesses. Based on my experience, their extensive network and diverse fleet make them incredibly convenient. You can typically find a U-Haul location near you, offering flexibility for pickup and drop-off.

U-Haul rental trailers are designed with user-friendliness in mind, catering to both seasoned haulers and first-time renters. Their trailers are generally well-maintained and come equipped with standard safety features. This accessibility and reliability are key reasons why many turn to U-Haul for their temporary towing needs.

Understanding the Different Types of U-Haul Trailers

U-Haul categorizes its trailers into several main types, each serving a distinct purpose. Knowing these categories is the first step in narrowing down your options. We’ll primarily focus on Cargo Trailers, Utility Trailers, Auto Transport Trailers, and Motorcycle Trailers.

Each type is engineered for specific loads, offering different levels of protection, accessibility, and weight capacities. Let’s explore each category in detail, examining the various U-Haul trailer sizes available within them.

U-Haul Cargo Trailer Sizes: Enclosed Protection for Your Valuables

U-Haul cargo trailers are enclosed units, offering excellent protection from weather and road debris for your belongings. These are ideal for moving household goods, furniture, or anything you need to keep secure and dry. They typically feature a low deck for easy loading and a sturdy frame for safe transport.

Let’s explore the various U-Haul cargo trailer sizes available for rent.

1. The 4’x8′ Cargo Trailer

This is U-Haul’s smallest enclosed trailer, often an ideal choice for compact moves or supplementary hauling. It’s surprisingly spacious for its size, making it perfect for students, small apartment dwellers, or anyone needing to transport a few key items.

• Description: The 4’x8′ cargo trailer is a single-axle unit, designed for lighter loads and easier maneuverability. It’s often chosen when a full moving truck is overkill but a regular car trunk isn’t enough. Think of it as an extension of your car’s cargo space.
• Dimensions & Capacity:
  • Interior dimensions are approximately 8′ L x 4′ W x 4′ H.
  • It offers about 160 cubic feet of loading space.
  • The maximum load capacity typically ranges from 1,600 to 1,900 lbs.
  • It features a low deck, usually around 17 inches from the ground, for easy loading.
• Features: This trailer comes with a spring-assisted ramp for effortless loading and unloading of heavier items or dollies. It also includes sturdy tie-downs inside to secure your cargo during transit. The rear door doubles as this ramp, which is a convenient design.
• Pro Tips & Common Mistakes:
  • When to choose: Ideal for moving a dorm room, a studio apartment, or transporting tools and equipment for a small project. It’s also great for camping gear or small furniture pieces.
  • Towing: Most passenger vehicles with a Class I or II hitch can safely tow this trailer. Always check your vehicle’s towing capacity first.
  • Common mistake: Overloading the trailer or improperly distributing weight can lead to swaying. Always place heavier items towards the front, over the axle, and balance the load side-to-side.

2. The 5’x8′ Cargo Trailer

A step up in size, the 5’x8′ cargo trailer is one of the most frequently rented U-Haul trailers. It strikes a balance between capacity and manageability, making it suitable for a wider range of moving and hauling tasks.

• Description: This enclosed, single-axle trailer offers significantly more space than its smaller counterpart without being overly cumbersome. It’s a popular choice for moving a one-bedroom apartment or transporting larger pieces of furniture that won’t fit in a 4×8.
• Dimensions & Capacity:
  • Interior dimensions are approximately 8′ L x 5′ W x 5′ H.
  • It provides around 250 cubic feet of enclosed storage.
  • The maximum load capacity typically falls between 1,800 and 2,000 lbs.
  • The low deck height, usually around 18 inches, assists with loading.
• Features: Similar to the 4×8, it includes a spring-assisted ramp for easy loading and unloading. Integrated tie-downs are present to help secure your belongings, ensuring they don’t shift during your journey.
• Pro Tips & Common Mistakes:
  • When to choose: Excellent for moving a one-bedroom apartment, larger appliances like refrigerators or washing machines, or transporting bulky boxes. It’s also great for small business inventory.
  • Towing: Most SUVs, light trucks, and larger cars with a Class II or III hitch can comfortably tow this trailer. Ensure your vehicle’s tow rating exceeds the loaded trailer weight.
  • Common mistake: Forgetting to properly secure the ramp after loading, which can be a significant safety hazard. Always double-check latches before driving off.

3. The 5’x10′ Cargo Trailer

The 5’x10′ cargo trailer offers an extended length, providing extra space for those slightly larger moves that just won’t fit into the 5×8. It’s still a single-axle design, maintaining a degree of maneuverability.

• Description: This trailer is a fantastic option when you need that extra couple of feet in length for items like long mattresses, couches, or construction materials. It’s still relatively easy to tow for capable vehicles.
• Dimensions & Capacity:
  • Interior dimensions are approximately 10′ L x 5′ W x 5′ H.
  • It boasts about 270 cubic feet of loading capacity.
  • The maximum load capacity is typically around 1,500 to 1,800 lbs. Note that sometimes the weight capacity can be slightly lower than a 5×8 due to design factors.
  • Deck height remains low for convenience.
• Features: Equipped with a spring-assisted ramp for easy loading and sturdy tie-downs. The enclosed nature protects your items from the elements.
• Pro Tips & Common Mistakes:
  • When to choose: Ideal for longer furniture pieces, multiple large boxes, or when you’re moving a smaller 1-2 bedroom apartment. It’s also suitable for transporting longer musical instruments or sports equipment.
  • Towing: Requires a vehicle with a Class II or III hitch and sufficient towing capacity. It might feel a bit longer to tow, so practice turns.
  • Common mistake: Underestimating the extra length when backing up or making sharp turns. Always take wider turns and use your mirrors diligently.

4. The 6’x12′ Cargo Trailer

This is U-Haul’s largest enclosed cargo trailer, a dual-axle unit designed for substantial hauling tasks. When you need serious space and robust capacity, the 6’x12′ is often the answer.

• Description: The 6’x12′ cargo trailer is a powerhouse, perfect for moving a two-bedroom apartment, larger homes, or transporting significant amounts of equipment. Its dual-axle design provides greater stability and weight distribution.
• Dimensions & Capacity:
  • Interior dimensions are approximately 12′ L x 6′ W x 5.5′ H.
  • It offers a generous 396 cubic feet of enclosed space.
  • The maximum load capacity is impressive, typically ranging from 2,500 to 2,600 lbs.
  • The dual axles spread the load, reducing stress on the towing vehicle.
• Features: This trailer features a wide, strong spring-assisted ramp, capable of handling heavy items and appliances. It also comes with multiple heavy-duty tie-downs to secure even the bulkiest loads.
• Pro Tips & Common Mistakes:
  • When to choose: Best for moving a 2-3 bedroom apartment or small house, transporting large furniture suites, or a significant amount of business inventory. It’s also excellent for hauling ATVs or other recreational vehicles.
  • Towing: Requires a strong towing vehicle, typically a larger SUV or a truck, with a Class III hitch or higher. Experience towing is beneficial due to its size and weight.
  • Common mistake: Forgetting the added length and width of a dual-axle trailer, especially when maneuvering in tight spaces or parking. Always plan your route and parking strategy in advance.
  • Based on my experience, this trailer offers the most bang for your buck if you have a lot of items and a capable towing vehicle.

U-Haul Utility Trailer Sizes: Open-Air Versatility for Bulky Loads

U-Haul utility trailers are open-top trailers, designed for hauling items that might be too large, oddly shaped, or dirty for an enclosed trailer. These are perfect for landscaping projects, construction materials, large appliances, or anything that doesn’t require weather protection. They often come with low side rails and a sturdy deck.

Here’s a breakdown of the various U-Haul utility trailer sizes.

1. The 4’x7′ Utility Trailer

This is the smallest of U-Haul’s open utility trailers, offering basic hauling capabilities for smaller, bulkier items. It’s straightforward and easy to manage.

• Description: The 4’x7′ utility trailer is a simple, single-axle open trailer, great for quick trips to the dump, hauling gardening supplies, or moving smaller furniture pieces. It’s lightweight and very easy to maneuver.
• Dimensions & Capacity:
  • Bed dimensions are approximately 7′ L x 4′ W.
  • It features low side rails (around 12-14 inches high) for easy loading from the sides.
  • The maximum load capacity is typically around 1,600 lbs.
• Features: It comes with a low deck and integrated tie-down points to secure your load. Some models may feature a fold-down rear gate for easier loading.
• Pro Tips & Common Mistakes:
  • When to choose: Excellent for yard waste, lumber, small appliances, or a few pieces of furniture. It’s also good for transporting dirt bikes or ATVs if secured properly.
  • Towing: Most passenger cars, SUVs, and trucks with a Class I or II hitch can easily tow this trailer. Its light weight makes it very forgiving.
  • Common mistake: Not properly securing the load with straps or ropes. Open trailers require extra vigilance to prevent items from flying out during transit.

2. The 5’x8′ Utility Trailer

A popular mid-range option, the 5’x8′ utility trailer provides more deck space and a slightly higher load capacity, making it versatile for many hauling tasks.

• Description: This single-axle utility trailer is a workhorse, offering a good balance of size and maneuverability. It’s commonly used for larger landscaping projects, hauling construction debris, or transporting bulkier furniture.
• Dimensions & Capacity:
  • Bed dimensions are approximately 8′ L x 5′ W.
  • Side rails are typically around 20 inches high, offering a bit more containment.
  • The maximum load capacity is usually around 1,800 to 2,000 lbs.
• Features: Equipped with multiple tie-down points and a sturdy, low deck. Many models include a heavy-duty ramp gate that folds down for easy loading of wheeled items or heavy objects.
• Pro Tips & Common Mistakes:
  • When to choose: Ideal for transporting riding lawnmowers, motorcycles, large pieces of furniture, or significant amounts of construction materials like drywall sheets or timber.
  • Towing: Suitable for SUVs and trucks with a Class II or III hitch. Ensure your vehicle has adequate power for the loaded trailer.
  • Common mistake: Overloading the rear of the trailer, especially with items like motorcycles, which can cause severe tongue weight issues and trailer sway. Always balance the load.

3. The 5’x9′ Utility Trailer with Ramp

This specialized utility trailer adds extra length and always comes with a robust ramp, making it perfect for loading and unloading heavier, wheeled equipment.

• Description: The 5’x9′ utility trailer is designed specifically for ease of loading. The integrated ramp is a key feature, making it a go-to for recreational vehicles or heavy machinery. It’s a single-axle design.
• Dimensions & Capacity:
  • Bed dimensions are approximately 9′ L x 5′ W.
  • Side rails are typically 20-24 inches high.
  • The maximum load capacity is around 1,600 to 1,800 lbs.
• Features: The primary feature is its extra-long, fold-down ramp gate, making it incredibly convenient for rolling items on and off. It also has ample tie-down points.
• Pro Tips & Common Mistakes:
  • When to choose: Perfect for ATVs, golf carts, larger riding lawnmowers, or multiple dirt bikes. It’s also useful for moving heavy appliances with a dolly.
  • Towing: Requires a vehicle with a Class II or III hitch. The longer length means you’ll need to be mindful of turning radius.
  • Common mistake: Not properly securing the ramp in the upright position before driving. A loose ramp can be incredibly dangerous on the road.

4. The 6’x12′ Utility Trailer

This is U-Haul’s largest utility trailer, a dual-axle behemoth designed for maximum open-air hauling capacity. It’s built for the toughest jobs.

• Description: The 6’x12′ utility trailer is a heavy-duty, dual-axle unit offering extensive deck space and superior stability. It’s the choice for large landscaping projects, extensive construction hauling, or transporting multiple large items.
• Dimensions & Capacity:
  • Bed dimensions are approximately 12′ L x 6′ W.
  • Side rails are typically around 20-24 inches high.
  • The impressive maximum load capacity ranges from 2,800 to 3,700 lbs, thanks to its dual-axle design.
• Features: It comes with a robust, wide ramp gate for easy loading of heavy, wheeled equipment. The dual axles provide enhanced stability, especially with heavier loads, and numerous heavy-duty tie-down points ensure everything stays put.
• Pro Tips & Common Mistakes:
  • When to choose: Ideal for hauling full sheets of plywood, large construction materials, multiple ATVs, or even a small vehicle (if within weight limits and properly secured). Excellent for major yard clean-ups or moving large amounts of lumber.
  • Towing: Absolutely requires a strong towing vehicle, typically a full-size truck or a heavy-duty SUV, equipped with a Class III or IV hitch. Driver experience with larger trailers is highly recommended.
  • Common mistake: Underestimating the trailer’s width and length, especially when navigating tight turns or backing up. Always use a spotter if possible and practice patience.

U-Haul Auto Transport Trailers: Moving Your Vehicles Safely

When you need to move a car, truck, or SUV, U-Haul offers specialized trailers designed for vehicle transport. These come in two main types: the full auto transport trailer and the tow dolly.

1. The U-Haul Auto Transport Trailer (Car Hauler)

This is a full-platform trailer designed to carry an entire vehicle completely off the ground. It offers maximum protection for your towed vehicle.

• Description: The U-Haul Auto Transport is a robust, dual-axle trailer with a full deck, allowing all four wheels of the transported vehicle to be off the ground. It’s the safest and most secure way to move a vehicle over long distances.
• Dimensions & Capacity:
  • Deck dimensions vary but are designed to accommodate most passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks.
  • It can typically carry vehicles up to 5,290 lbs.
  • The towing vehicle must be significantly heavier than the vehicle being towed. U-Haul has specific requirements, often demanding the tow vehicle to be at least 750 lbs heavier than the car being transported.
• Features: Features include easy-to-use, integrated loading ramps, adjustable security chains, and tire tie-down straps to securely fasten your vehicle. It also has a low deck height for easier loading.
• Pro Tips & Common Mistakes:
  • When to choose: Best for long-distance moves, transporting classic cars, low-clearance vehicles, or cars with mechanical issues. It minimizes wear and tear on the towed vehicle.
  • Towing: Requires a heavy-duty towing vehicle (truck or large SUV) with a Class III or IV hitch. The combined length and weight demand careful driving.
  • Common mistake: Not properly securing the vehicle to the trailer, leading to shifting during transit. Always double-check all straps and chains. Another common error is failing to ensure the towing vehicle meets U-Haul’s strict weight requirements – they will often deny rentals if it doesn’t.

2. The U-Haul Tow Dolly

For shorter distances or when you need a more budget-friendly option, the tow dolly is a popular choice. It lifts only the front wheels of the vehicle being towed.

• Description: The U-Haul Tow Dolly is a single-axle trailer that lifts the front two wheels of the towed vehicle off the ground, while the rear two wheels remain on the road. It’s lighter and often more economical than a full auto transport.
• Dimensions & Capacity:
  • Designed to fit most front-wheel-drive and some rear-wheel-drive vehicles.
  • Can typically tow vehicles up to 3,900 lbs.
  • The towing vehicle must weigh at least 750 lbs more than the vehicle being towed, or be a minimum of 3,500 lbs (empty).
• Features: Comes with integrated ramps, security chains, and wheel straps to secure the front tires. It’s a simpler design focused on functionality.
• Pro Tips & Common Mistakes:
  • When to choose: Ideal for moving front-wheel-drive vehicles over shorter to medium distances. It’s also a good option if your towed vehicle has a manual transmission that can be safely flat-towed (check your vehicle’s manual!).
  • Towing: Can often be towed by larger SUVs or light trucks with a Class II or III hitch. The overall length is shorter than a full auto transport.
  • Common mistake: Not disconnecting the driveshaft on rear-wheel-drive vehicles or placing the vehicle in neutral for automatic transmissions (check your car manual!). Failure to do so can cause serious transmission damage. Always ensure the steering wheel of the towed vehicle is unlocked but secured straight ahead.

U-Haul Motorcycle Trailer: Specialized Transport for Bikes

For motorcycle enthusiasts, U-Haul offers a dedicated trailer designed to transport one or more bikes securely.

1. The U-Haul Motorcycle Trailer

This specialized trailer is built to safely cradle and transport motorcycles, preventing damage during transit.

• Description: The U-Haul Motorcycle Trailer is an open, single-axle trailer featuring a low deck and integrated wheel chocks and tie-down points specifically designed for motorcycles. It ensures your bike remains stable and upright during the journey.
• Dimensions & Capacity:
  • Deck dimensions are typically around 9′ L x 5′ W, often accommodating one large motorcycle or two smaller ones.
  • Maximum load capacity is usually around 1,600 to 1,800 lbs.
• Features: Includes a sturdy loading ramp, strategically placed wheel chocks to hold the front wheel, and multiple tie-down points to secure the motorcycle using appropriate straps (which you’ll typically need to provide or purchase separately).
• Pro Tips & Common Mistakes:
  • When to choose: Perfect for transporting motorcycles to rallies, repair shops, or when moving residences. It’s safer than trying to fit a bike into a utility trailer not designed for it.
  • Towing: Most SUVs, light trucks, and larger cars with a Class II or III hitch can tow this trailer.
  • Common mistake: Not using enough tie-down straps or not securing them properly. Based on my experience, using at least four strong, soft-loop straps (two front, two rear) is crucial, compressing the suspension slightly to prevent movement. Avoid strapping directly to handlebars or delicate parts.

Essential Considerations Before Renting a U-Haul Trailer

Choosing the right U-Haul trailer size is just the beginning. Several critical factors must be carefully considered to ensure a safe and successful towing experience. Ignoring these can lead to accidents, damage, or even legal issues.

1. Towing Vehicle Requirements and Capacity

This is arguably the most important factor. Your towing vehicle must be capable of safely handling the weight of the trailer and its load.

• Hitch Class: Your vehicle needs a properly installed trailer hitch of the correct class. U-Haul generally requires a Class I (2,000 lbs capacity) for smaller trailers, Class II (3,500 lbs) for medium, and Class III (5,000 lbs) or IV (10,000 lbs+) for larger trailers and auto transports.
• Towing Capacity: Every vehicle has a maximum towing capacity specified by the manufacturer. You must not exceed this. The total weight of the loaded trailer (Gross Trailer Weight – GTW) must be less than your vehicle’s towing capacity. Pro tips from us: Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual directly; don’t rely on online estimates.
• Tongue Weight: This is the downward force the trailer’s coupler exerts on the hitch ball. It should ideally be 10-15% of the total loaded trailer weight. Too little or too much tongue weight can cause severe trailer sway or handling issues. Proper loading is key to achieving this balance.
• Wiring and Lights: Your towing vehicle needs a functional wiring harness to power the trailer’s brake lights, turn signals, and running lights. U-Haul trailers come with standard connectors, usually a 4-flat or 7-way round plug.
• Mirrors: Ensure you have adequate visibility around the trailer. Extended towing mirrors might be necessary for wider trailers, though U-Haul trailers are generally designed to be within standard mirror views for most trucks and SUVs.

2. What Are You Moving? (Weight, Dimensions, Fragility)

Carefully assess the items you plan to transport. This directly impacts the U-Haul trailer size and type you’ll need.

• Total Weight: Accurately estimate the combined weight of all your items. This is crucial for matching it with the trailer’s maximum load capacity and your vehicle’s towing capacity.
• Dimensions: Measure your largest items (furniture, appliances, vehicles) to ensure they will physically fit within the trailer’s interior dimensions or onto the utility trailer’s deck. Don’t forget height clearance for enclosed trailers.
• Fragility and Protection: If your items are delicate, sensitive to weather, or valuable, an enclosed cargo trailer is almost always the best choice. For robust, weather-resistant items like lumber or yard waste, a utility trailer is sufficient.

3. Packing Strategies and Weight Distribution

Proper packing and weight distribution are non-negotiable for safe towing. Common mistakes to avoid are:

• Uneven Loading: Never load all your heavy items at the very front or very back of the trailer. This leads to extreme tongue weight issues (too much or too little), causing instability and dangerous swaying.
• Center of Gravity: Aim to keep the center of gravity low and centered over the trailer’s axle(s). Place heavier items on the floor, over the axle, and distribute weight evenly from side to side.
• Securing Your Load: Use appropriate tie-downs, ropes, or moving blankets to prevent items from shifting or sliding during transit. Even in enclosed trailers, items can move and cause damage or shift the trailer’s balance.

4. Safety First: Driving with a Trailer

Towing a trailer significantly changes your vehicle’s dynamics. Prioritize safety above all else.

• Reduced Speed: Drive slower than usual, especially on highways, curves, and inclines. Trailer sway can quickly become uncontrollable at high speeds.
• Increased Braking Distance: Your stopping distance will be much longer. Allow ample space between your vehicle and others.
• Wider Turns: Trailers cut corners. Make wider turns than you normally would to avoid hitting curbs, lampposts, or other vehicles.
• Pre-Trip Inspection: Before every drive, check tire pressure (on both tow vehicle and trailer), lights, hitch connection, safety chains, and load security.
• Mirror Usage: Constantly check your mirrors to monitor the trailer and traffic around you.

5. Rental Process and Logistics

Understanding the rental process can save you time and hassle.

• Reservations: U-Haul recommends making reservations in advance, especially for popular trailer sizes or during peak moving seasons.
• Pickup and Return: Understand the pickup and drop-off procedures, including location hours and any specific instructions.
• Insurance: Consider optional Safemove® or Safetrip® coverage offered by U-Haul, which can protect you from liability for damage to the trailer or your belongings. Your personal auto insurance may not cover rental trailers.

For more in-depth advice on preparing for your move, you might find our article on helpful.

U-Haul Trailer vs. Moving Truck: Which is Right for You?

Sometimes the choice isn’t just about U-Haul trailer sizes, but whether a trailer is the best solution at all. When should you choose a trailer over a U-Haul moving truck?

• Choose a Trailer if:
  • You already have a capable towing vehicle and want to save money on truck rental.
  • You need to transport a vehicle and some household goods simultaneously (by towing the car with a truck).
  • You only have a few large or heavy items that won’t fit in your car but don’t warrant a full truck.
  • You prefer the flexibility of detaching the trailer at your destination and using your own vehicle.
• Choose a Moving Truck if:
  • You don’t have a vehicle capable of towing a U-Haul trailer.
  • You are moving an entire household (multiple bedrooms).
  • You prefer a single, integrated unit for driving and hauling.
  • You need maximum cargo space and protection for all your belongings.

For a comprehensive comparison, check out our detailed analysis:

Frequently Asked Questions About U-Haul Trailer Rentals

Here are some common questions we encounter regarding U-Haul trailer sizes and rentals:

• Do U-Haul trailers have brakes?
  U-Haul tow dollies and smaller utility/cargo trailers (typically single-axle) do not have independent braking systems. The towing vehicle’s brakes