There’s no such thing as too much preparation when it comes to moving.
The right trailer size can make or break your moving experience, and if you have ever tried to squeeze too much into a small space, you know exactly what this means.
Did you know that about 10% of U.S. residents move each year?
And with the average household containing more than 300,000 items, picking the correct trailer becomes compulsory for a smooth move.
Choosing a U-Haul trailer might sound straightforward, but the decision can have a big impact on your time, budget, and peace of mind.
Just imagine you have packed up a two-bedroom apartment.
If you underestimate the trailer size, you might find yourself unpacking half your stuff just to make it all fit.
And here’s something many people don’t consider: every extra pound or inch adds to fuel costs and potential wear on your vehicle.
In this blog, we will simplify things.
We will discuss everything, from U-Haul trailer sizes to practical tips for choosing and operating a trailer rental.
Let’s make sure you have got the perfect trailer that fits your needs.
Why Choosing the Right Trailer Size Matters
When it comes to moving, the trailer size is more important than most people realize.
Here are some reasons why it is essential to get this right:
Cost Efficiency: Using the right trailer size can save you on fuel costs.
According to the American Moving & Storage Association, fuel costs can increase by up to 30% when towing a trailer.
Safety: Overloading or underloading a trailer affects how safely it tows.
A study shows that 40% of trailer-related accidents result from improper loading or size mismatches.
With the correct trailer, you make sure the weight is distributed properly.
Protecting Your Belongings: Cramped trailers increase the chance of damage, especially for fragile items.
By choosing a trailer with a bit of extra room, you can avoid stacking and cramming items together.
Moving experts estimate that 30% of moving damage could be avoided with proper spacing.
Saves Time: The right size trailer can save hours.
Imagine loading and unloading multiple times because you underestimated the space needed.
A single appropriately sized trailer cuts down on loading time, which makes the process smoother.
Reduce Wear and Tear on Your Vehicle:
Towing a trailer puts added strain on your vehicle.
Using a trailer that’s too large or too small can increase wear on your vehicle’s engine, brakes, and transmission.
A U-Haul report highlights that choosing the correct trailer size can reduce vehicle strain by up to 20%.
Key Questions to Start With
Before getting into the trailer types, ask yourself:
What am I moving? Furniture, boxes, equipment, or vehicles?
How far am I travelling? Longer trips or shorter trips.
What vehicle am I towing with?
Do I need weather protection?
U-Haul Trailer Types
Cargo Trailers
Cargo trailers are covered and ideal for protecting furniture or boxes.
They come in four primary sizes:
4' x 8' Cargo Trailer: It holds up to 1,650 lbs and is great for small furniture and boxes.
5' x 8' Cargo Trailer: It can hold up to 1,800 lbs and fit a queen-size bed.
5' x 10' Cargo Trailer: This one is larger and suitable for a one-room move.
6' x 12' Cargo Trailer: It is the largest option with up to 2,480 lbs capacity.
Utility Trailers
Utility trailers are open and work well for transporting larger or rugged items.
4' x 7' Utility Trailer: It is light and versatile for yard projects.
5' x 8' Utility Trailer: This one is a bit larger and good for equipment.
5' x 9' Utility Trailer with Ramp: It has a ramp, which makes it ideal for motorcycles.
6' x 12' Utility Trailer with Ramp: This one is the biggest and supports up to 2,670 lbs.
Car and Motorcycle Trailers
If you need to tow a vehicle? U-Haul offers a Tow Dolly and Auto Transport trailer for this purpose.
U-Haul Trailer Dimensions and Sizing Tips
One of the most common questions is: What Size Utility Trailer Do I Need?
Here’s a breakdown to simplify your decision:
| Trailer Type | Dimensions | Max Load (lbs) | Suggested Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4' x 8' Cargo | 8'1" x 4'1" x 4' | 1,650 | Small loads, boxes, minor furniture |
| 5' x 8' Cargo | 8' x 4'8" x 5'4" | 8' x 4'8" x 5'4" | Fits a queen bed; larger moves |
| 5' x 10' Cargo | 9'10" x 4'9" x 4'7" | 1,550 | One-room moves |
| 6' x 12' Cargo | 11'7" x 6' x 5'5" | 2,480 | Larger, multiple rooms |
| 4' x 7' Utility | 7'8" x 3'4" | 1,770 | Yard work, tools |
| 5' x 8' Utility | 108" x 51.5" | 1,890 | Small furniture, equipment |
| 6' x 12' Utility | 12' x 6'2" | 2,670 | Heavy loads, motorcycles |
Tips for Choosing and Operating a Trailer Rental
Follow these tips to get the desired U-Haul trailer:
Check the Vehicle Weight Requirements: U-Haul trailers require that your towing vehicle meets specific weight minimums.
Hitch Compatibility: Always check for proper U-Haul trailer hitch installation before setting it off.
Balance the Load: Distribute 60% of the weight toward the front of the trailer.
Drive Cautiously: Keep your speed under 55 MPH, as recommended.
Plan for Fuel Costs: Towing trailers can increase fuel usage by 30% or more.
How Much Does a U-Haul Trailer Cost?
When planning a move, it is crucial to understand the costs associated with renting a U-Haul trailer.
Let's break down the various expenses you might encounter:
Base Rental Rates
U-Haul offers a variety of trailers, each with its own rental price.
| Trailer Type | Size (feet) | Base Price (per day) |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo Trailer | 4' x 8' | $14.95 |
| Cargo Trailer | 5' x 8' | $18.95 |
| Cargo Trailer | 6' x 12' | $29.95 |
| Utility Trailer (without ramp) | 4' x 7' | $14.95 |
| Utility Trailer (with ramp) | 5' x 9' | $24.95 |
| Utility Trailer (with ramp) | 6' x 12' | $34.95 |
Note: Prices are approximate and can vary based on location and demand.
Mileage Fees
U-Haul charges a per-mile fee for local moves in addition to the base rate.
This fee usually ranges from $0.59 to $0.99 per mile, and it depends on factors like location and time of year.
For one-way rentals, mileage is included in the base rate, but it's necessary to confirm this when booking.
Insurance Coverage
U-Haul offers optional insurance plans to protect against potential damages:
| Insurance Type | Coverage Details | Cost (per day) |
|---|---|---|
| SafeMove | Covers damage to the trailer and cargo | $14 |
| SafeMove Plus | Includes SafeMove coverage plus additional benefits | $28 |
Note: Prices are approximate and fluctuate based on location and demand.
Equipment and Accessories
Depending on your needs, you might consider renting additional equipment:
| Equipment | Purpose | Cost (per day) |
|---|---|---|
| Furniture Pads | Protects furniture from scratches | $10 per dozen |
| Hand Truck | Assists in moving heavy items | $7 |
| Tow Dolly | For towing a vehicle | $44.95 |
| Auto Transport Trailer | For transporting a vehicle | $54.95 |
Example Cost Breakdown for a Local Move
Let's say you are planning a local move using a 5' x 8' cargo trailer over a distance of 50 miles:
| Expense Type | Calculation | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Base Rental Rate | 1 day at $18.95 | $18.95 |
| Mileage Fee | 50 miles at $0.79 per mile | $39.50 |
| Insurance (SafeMove) | 1 day at $14 | $14.00 |
| Equipment (Hand Truck) | 1 day at $7 | $7.00 |
| Subtotal | 8% of $79.45 | $6.36 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $85.81 |
