What you need to know before renting a car trailer

A car trailer is a single or double-axle trailer designed to haul one or two vehicles behind a tow vehicle. You can rent them from equipment rental chains, moving companies, U-Haul locations, Home Depot, and independent trailer rental shops. Rental costs vary widely based on trailer type, distance, and rental duration — a single-car enclosed trailer might cost $40 to $80 per day locally, while a cross-country rental can run several hundred dollars. The price depends on whether you need an open or enclosed trailer, how far you're moving the vehicle, and current demand in your area.

Before you rent, you need to know your tow vehicle's towing capacity (found in your owner's manual or on a sticker inside the driver's door frame) and the weight of the vehicle you're hauling. You'll also need a valid driver's license and often a credit card for the deposit. Some rental companies require you to be at least 21 or 25 years old. If you're towing across state lines or for a long distance, ask about one-way rental options, which may cost more but save you a return trip.

Key Takeaways

  • Car trailers come in open and enclosed styles, with enclosed trailers costing more but protecting your vehicle from weather and road debris.
  • Your tow vehicle must have a hitch rated for the combined weight of the trailer and the car you're hauling, or you cannot legally or safely tow.
  • Daily rental rates for car trailers range from $40 to $100 for local rentals, but long-distance and enclosed options cost significantly more.
  • U-Haul, Home Depot, Penske, and local equipment rental shops are common sources, and prices and availability vary between them.
  • You will need to provide proof of insurance, a valid driver's license, and often a credit card deposit before you can take the trailer.

Open versus enclosed car trailers

Open trailers are the most affordable option. They have a metal frame and wheel wells but no roof or sides. Your vehicle sits exposed to weather, road salt, and flying debris during transport. Open trailers are lighter, which means they require less towing power from your vehicle. They're suitable for short distances or if you're moving a vehicle that doesn't need protection — an older car, a project vehicle, or one you plan to detail after arrival.

Enclosed trailers fully cover the vehicle with a metal or aluminum box. They protect against rain, snow, salt spray, and road debris. Enclosed trailers cost roughly twice as much as open ones and require more towing capacity because they're heavier. They're the standard choice for moving high-value vehicles, collector cars, or vehicles with fresh paint or new finishes. If you're transporting a vehicle across multiple states or in winter conditions, enclosed is the safer choice for the vehicle's condition.

Some rental companies offer soft-sided or tarp-covered trailers as a middle ground — cheaper than fully enclosed but offering some weather protection. Ask what's available in your area and what the price difference is before deciding.

Where to rent a car trailer

U-Haul operates thousands of locations nationwide and specializes in car trailers. They offer both open and enclosed options, one-way rentals, and online booking. You can reserve online and pick up at a local store or distribution center. Their pricing is transparent upfront, though rates vary by location and season.

Home Depot and Lowe's rent trailers through partnerships with local equipment rental companies. Availability and trailer types vary by store location. These are often good for short local moves because pricing is straightforward and pickup is convenient if you're already shopping there.

Penske and Budget rent car trailers at many locations, particularly in urban areas. Both allow online reservations and offer one-way options. Penske trailers tend to be well-maintained, and Budget often has competitive pricing for local rentals.

Local independent rental shops may offer better rates for short distances and more flexibility on pickup and drop-off times. Search "car trailer rental near me" or "equipment rental [your city]" to find local options. Call a few places to compare prices — rates can differ significantly between shops even in the same area.

Towing capacity and hitch requirements

Your tow vehicle has a maximum towing capacity listed in the owner's manual. This is the total weight your vehicle can safely pull, including the trailer and the car on it. If your truck is rated for 5,000 pounds and the trailer weighs 2,000 pounds plus a 2,500-pound car, you're at 4,500 pounds — within capacity. If you exceed the rating, you risk brake failure, transmission damage, and loss of control.

You also need the correct hitch class. Class I handles up to 3,500 pounds, Class II up to 3,500 pounds, Class III up to 8,000 pounds, and Class IV up to 14,000 pounds. The hitch must match both your vehicle's rating and the trailer's requirements. If your vehicle doesn't have a hitch, you'll need to have one installed before renting — this typically costs $200 to $500 at a shop.

When you reserve a trailer, tell the rental company your vehicle's make, model, and year. They can confirm your towing capacity and recommend the right trailer size. If you're unsure about your vehicle's capacity, bring your owner's manual to the rental location and ask the staff to verify before you commit.

Rental costs and what affects pricing

Local, short-distance open-trailer rentals typically cost $40 to $80 per day. Enclosed trailers for local moves run $80 to $150 per day. Long-distance rentals (100+ miles) are usually priced per mile or as a flat rate rather than per day, and can range from $200 to $1,000 or more depending on distance and trailer type.

Factors that raise the price include enclosed versus open, distance traveled, peak season (summer and holidays), vehicle weight, and whether you need a one-way rental. Some companies charge extra for mileage beyond a certain limit, or for late returns. A few charge a damage waiver or insurance fee, typically $15 to $30 per rental.

Get quotes from at least two or three rental companies before booking. Prices vary significantly, and a company that's expensive for one distance might be competitive for another. Ask whether the quote includes taxes, fees, and insurance, or if those are added at checkout.

Insurance and liability when renting

Most rental companies require you to carry auto insurance on both your tow vehicle and the vehicle being transported. Your personal auto policy may cover a rented trailer, but you should call your insurance company before renting to confirm. Some policies exclude rental equipment or trailers.

The rental company will ask if you want to purchase their damage waiver or rental insurance. This covers damage to the trailer itself — dents, scratches, mechanical failure — but not damage to the vehicle you're hauling. If you decline and the trailer is damaged, you'll be charged for repairs. Read the damage waiver terms carefully; some have high deductibles or exclude certain types of damage.

You are responsible for any damage to the vehicle on the trailer during transport. If the vehicle shifts, falls, or is damaged by road debris, your auto insurance should cover it, but confirm this with your insurer before you rent. If you're transporting a high-value vehicle, consider whether the rental company's insurance options are worth the cost.

Preparing your vehicle and trailer for the move

Before pickup, check your tow vehicle's tire pressure, brakes, lights, and fluid levels. Make sure your hitch is clean and in good condition. The rental company will inspect the trailer before you take it, so note any existing damage on the rental agreement — don't sign off on damage you didn't cause.

When loading the vehicle onto the trailer, center it on the deck and find it with straps or chains at all four corners. The rental company will usually provide these or show you how to use them. Don't overload the trailer beyond its weight capacity, and don't let the vehicle's weight shift during transport — this can cause the trailer to sway or tip.

Check the trailer's lights, brakes, and tires before you leave the rental location. If anything isn't working, report it when ready and don't take the trailer until it's fixed. During the drive, pull over every 50 to 100 miles to check that the vehicle is still find and the trailer lights are working.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special driver's license to tow a car trailer?

Most states don't require a special license for towing a car trailer, but a few states have restrictions based on the trailer's weight. Check your state's motor vehicle department website or call to confirm. Some rental companies require you to be at least 25 years old to rent an enclosed trailer, even if your license allows it.

Can I rent a car trailer for a one-way trip?

Yes, most major rental companies offer one-way rentals. You pick up the trailer in one city and drop it off in another. One-way rentals usually cost more than round-trip rentals because the company has to move the trailer back. Get a quote for both options to see the difference.

What happens if I return the trailer late?

Late fees typically start after the rental period ends and are charged per hour or per day. Rates vary by company but can be $10 to $50 per hour or $50 to $150 per day. Call the rental location as soon as you know you'll be late — some companies may waive a small overage if you notify them in advance.

Can I rent a car trailer if I don't have a hitch on my vehicle?

No, you must have a hitch installed before you can rent a trailer. If your vehicle doesn't have one, have it installed at a shop before your rental date. Installation typically takes a few hours and costs $200 to $500 depending on your vehicle. Some rental locations can recommend shops that do hitch installation.

What if the vehicle I'm towing gets damaged during transport?

Damage to the vehicle itself is covered by your auto insurance, not the trailer rental company's damage waiver. Contact your insurance company to report the damage and file a claim. Keep photos of the damage and documentation of the rental for your claim. If you don't have comprehensive or collision coverage, you'll be responsible for repair costs.