What you'll pay for a U-Haul trailer rental
U-Haul trailer rental costs depend on the trailer size, how far you're moving it, and how many days you need it. A small utility trailer (5 by 8 feet) typically costs between $15 and $30 per day, while a 6 by 12 enclosed trailer runs $40 to $60 per day. Larger enclosed trailers and specialty trailers cost more. The company charges a base daily rate plus mileage, though some local moves include unlimited mileage for a flat fee.
The total bill also includes a damage waiver (optional but common), equipment fees if you rent dollies or furniture pads, and fuel surcharges that vary by location and current prices. U-Haul publishes rates on its website, but the actual price you see depends on your specific pickup location, drop-off location, and the exact dates you need the trailer.
Key Takeaways
- Small utility trailers cost $15 to $30 per day; enclosed trailers cost $40 to $60 per day, with larger sizes running higher.
- U-Haul charges both a daily rate and mileage, though local moves under a certain distance may have unlimited mileage included.
- Your final price depends on pickup location, drop-off location, and rental dates — the same trailer size costs different amounts in different cities.
- A damage waiver, equipment rentals, and fuel surcharges are added costs that can increase your total by $50 to $200 depending on what you rent.
- Booking online and checking rates for different dates and locations can reveal significant price differences for the same trailer type.
How U-Haul calculates your rental price
U-Haul uses a two-part pricing model: a daily rate plus a mileage charge. When you enter your pickup and drop-off locations on their website or at a location, the system calculates the distance and multiplies it by the per-mile rate for that trailer type. For example, a 5 by 8 utility trailer might cost $20 per day plus $0.50 per mile. A 100-mile move would add $50 to the daily charge.
Some moves may have access to for a flat rate instead. If you're renting locally — typically within 40 to 50 miles of the rental location — U-Haul may offer unlimited mileage for a single daily fee. This is common for city moves and short-distance relocations. The company's website shows you the exact rate structure for your specific route before you book.
Seasonal demand also affects price. Summer months (May through September) are peak moving season, and trailer rates are higher. Winter and early spring rates are typically lower. Booking further in advance sometimes locks in a lower rate, though U-Haul does not always offer advance discounts.
Trailer sizes and their typical daily rates
U-Haul offers several trailer sizes, each with its own daily rate range. These are approximate and vary by location:
| Trailer Type | Dimensions | Typical Daily Rate | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Utility trailer | 5 × 8 feet | $15–$30 | Small moves, single rooms, yard equipment |
| Enclosed utility trailer | 5 × 8 feet | $25–$40 | Weather protection for furniture or valuables |
| Enclosed cargo trailer | 6 × 12 feet | $40–$60 | One-bedroom apartment or small house |
| Enclosed cargo trailer | 6 × 15 feet | $50–$75 | Two-bedroom apartment or larger |
| Car hauler | Fits 1–2 vehicles | $35–$55 | Transporting vehicles |
Open utility trailers are the cheapest option and work well for hauling yard waste, construction materials, or equipment. Enclosed trailers protect contents from weather and theft, which is why they cost more. If you're moving furniture or electronics, an enclosed trailer is worth the extra cost.
Additional fees that increase your total cost
The daily rate and mileage are only part of the bill. U-Haul adds several optional and mandatory fees. The damage waiver (also called loss damage waiver or LDW) typically costs $10 to $20 per day and covers accidental damage to the trailer. It's optional, but most renters buy it because a single accident can cost thousands to repair.
Equipment rentals add up quickly. A furniture dolly costs $5 to $10 per day, moving blankets run $2 to $5 per item, and a hand truck is $5 to $8 per day. If you're renting multiple items, these can easily add $30 to $50 to your bill. U-Haul also charges a fuel surcharge in some locations, which varies based on current fuel prices and can add $5 to $20 to your total.
Some locations charge a drop-off fee if you return the trailer to a different U-Haul location than where you picked it up. This fee varies widely — sometimes it's included, sometimes it's $20 to $100 depending on the distance between locations. Always ask about this before booking if you plan a one-way rental.
How to find the lowest price for your specific move
U-Haul's website lets you compare prices by entering your pickup location, drop-off location, and dates. The price changes based on all three inputs, so testing different dates can reveal cheaper options. If your move is flexible by even a few days, checking rates for a Tuesday or Wednesday instead of a Friday or Saturday often shows lower prices.
Picking up from a less-busy location sometimes costs less than picking up from a major U-Haul center. If you live near multiple U-Haul dealers (including independent dealers, not just company-owned locations), check rates from each one. The same trailer for the same dates can have different prices depending on which location you use.
Booking online is usually cheaper than calling or renting in person. U-Haul sometimes offers web-only discounts, and you can see the full price before committing. If you have a AAA membership or military affiliation, check whether U-Haul offers a discount code — these typically save 5 to 10 percent.
One-way rentals versus round-trip rentals
A round-trip rental means you pick up and return the trailer to the same location. A one-way rental means you pick up at one location and drop off at another. One-way rentals usually cost more because U-Haul has to move the trailer back to balance its inventory across locations.
For a one-way move, the price depends on whether the drop-off location has high demand for trailers. If you're moving from a rural area to a city, the one-way fee might be small because the city location needs trailers. If you're moving the opposite direction, the fee could be substantial. U-Haul's website calculates this automatically when you enter different pickup and drop-off locations.
If your move is short enough to make a round-trip practical, that's usually the cheaper option. For example, if you're moving 80 miles away, renting round-trip and driving back might cost less than a one-way rental, even with the extra mileage and fuel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does U-Haul charge by the hour or only by the day?
U-Haul charges by the day, not by the hour. A one-day rental is the minimum, even if you only need the trailer for a few hours. Some locations may offer hourly rates for very short local moves, but this is not standard. Check with your local U-Haul dealer to see if hourly rental is an option in your area.
What happens if I return the trailer late?
Late returns are charged as additional full days. If you rent for one day and return it the next day, you'll be charged for two days. There's no grace period, so plan your return time carefully. Some locations may charge an after-hours fee if you return the trailer outside business hours.
Can I negotiate U-Haul trailer prices?
U-Haul's published rates are generally fixed and not negotiable. However, you can reduce your total cost by choosing a smaller trailer, moving on a less-busy date, or picking up from a location with lower rates. Military, AAA, and other membership discounts are sometimes available and worth asking about.
Is the damage waiver worth buying?
The damage waiver costs $10 to $20 per day but covers accidental damage that could otherwise cost hundreds or thousands to repair. If you're an experienced driver and confident in your ability to avoid accidents, you might skip it. If you're nervous about towing or driving in unfamiliar areas, it's worth the cost for peace of mind.
How far in advance should I book a U-Haul trailer?
Booking a few days to a week ahead is usually sufficient for local moves. For long-distance moves during peak season (May through September), booking two to four weeks ahead gives you better availability and sometimes lower rates. Last-minute bookings are possible but may have limited trailer sizes available.