What you need to know before renting a U-Haul trailer

U-Haul trailers come in several sizes, and the one you need depends on what you're moving or hauling. The smallest option is a utility trailer (4x8 feet), which works for a few pieces of furniture or yard equipment. A standard enclosed cargo trailer (5x8 or 5x10 feet) holds the contents of a one-bedroom apartment. Larger enclosed trailers (6x12 or 6x14 feet) fit a two- to three-bedroom house. Open trailers and specialty trailers for cars or equipment are also available. The size you choose directly affects the rental cost, so measuring what you're moving beforehand saves money and prevents a second trip to get a bigger trailer.

U-Haul charges by the day, week, or month, and pricing varies based on trailer size, your location, and how far you're traveling. Local moves (under 40 miles) often have a lower daily rate than one-way rentals across state lines. You'll also pay a mileage fee on top of the base rental rate for most trailers, though some promotional rates include mileage. Fuel, equipment damage, and late fees are separate charges. Getting a quote online or by phone before you commit gives you the actual number for your specific move rather than a general estimate.

Key Takeaways

  • Trailer size ranges from 4x8 utility trailers to 6x14 enclosed cargo trailers, and choosing the right size prevents overpaying or making multiple trips.
  • U-Haul charges a base rental rate plus mileage, and the total cost depends on trailer size, distance, and whether the move is local or one-way.
  • You must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver's license and a vehicle capable of towing the trailer's weight capacity.
  • Reservations can be made online at uhaul.com, by phone, or at a U-Haul location, and booking in advance often locks in a lower rate.
  • Damage waivers and insurance are optional but protect you from liability if the trailer is damaged during your rental period.

How to reserve a U-Haul trailer online or by phone

The fastest way to reserve a trailer is through uhaul.com. Enter your pickup location, drop-off location (or select "local" if you're returning it to the same place), and your move date. The website shows available trailer sizes, the base rental price, estimated mileage charges, and the total cost. You can filter by trailer type—enclosed, open, or specialty—and see real-time availability. Once you've chosen a trailer, you'll enter your driver's license number, payment information, and contact details to complete the reservation. U-Haul sends a confirmation email with your reservation number, pickup time, and location.

If you prefer to book by phone, call U-Haul at 1-800-468-4285. A representative will ask the same questions the website does and can answer questions about trailer features or towing requirements. Calling is useful if you're unsure which trailer size fits your needs or if you want to discuss damage coverage options before committing. You can also walk into any U-Haul location and reserve in person, though this is slower during peak moving season (May through September).

Booking several days or weeks in advance often results in a lower rate than same-day or next-day rentals, especially during busy seasons. U-Haul also runs promotions—such as discounted weekly rates or mileage-included deals—that appear on the website or when you call. Signing up for U-Haul's email list or checking their website before you book can reveal current offers.

What to bring and what to check when you pick up the trailer

Bring your valid driver's license and the credit card used to make the reservation. U-Haul may ask for a second form of ID. If you're renting under a business name or if someone other than the person who made the reservation will be picking up the trailer, bring documentation showing that person's authority to do so. Have your reservation confirmation number ready—it speeds up the check-in process.

When you arrive at the U-Haul location, a staff member will walk you through a damage inspection. They'll photograph or note any dents, scratches, rust, or broken lights on the trailer before you take it. This protects you: if damage already existed, it won't be charged to you when you return it. Ask the staff member to point out the trailer's condition and confirm that any existing damage is documented. Take your own photos or video of the trailer's exterior and interior before you leave the lot—this creates a record if a dispute arises later.

The staff will also review the trailer's weight capacity and towing requirements. Your vehicle must have a hitch rated for the trailer's weight, and your vehicle's engine and brakes must be capable of safely towing that load. If you're unsure whether your vehicle can tow the trailer you've rented, tell the staff member before you leave. They can suggest a smaller trailer or advise you on what equipment you may need to add to your vehicle.

Towing safety and vehicle requirements

Not every vehicle can safely tow a U-Haul trailer. Your vehicle's owner's manual lists its maximum towing capacity—the total weight of the trailer plus its cargo. A trailer's dry weight (empty) is printed on its side; you must add the weight of everything you're loading to get the total. If your vehicle's towing capacity is 3,500 pounds and your loaded trailer weighs 3,600 pounds, you cannot legally or safely tow it. Overloading creates brake failure, loss of steering control, and tire blowouts.

Your vehicle must also have a hitch receiver rated for the trailer's weight class. A Class I hitch (up to 2,000 pounds) is different from a Class II (up to 3,500 pounds) or Class III (up to 8,000 pounds). The hitch ball size must match the trailer's coupler. If your vehicle doesn't have a hitch, U-Haul can install one at most locations for an additional fee, but this takes time—plan ahead if you need this service.

Before you drive, check that the trailer's lights are wired to your vehicle's electrical system and that all lights work: brake lights, turn signals, and running lights. may support the coupler is locked onto the hitch ball and the safety chains are attached to your vehicle's frame. Adjust your mirrors so you can see both sides of the trailer. Drive slowly on your first few miles to get a feel for the trailer's handling, especially when braking and turning. Trailers require more stopping distance and wider turns than your vehicle alone.

Damage waivers and insurance options

U-Haul offers two types of damage coverage: a damage waiver and a supplemental liability waiver. The damage waiver (sometimes called a loss damage waiver) limits your financial responsibility if the trailer is damaged during your rental. With a waiver, you typically pay a small deductible (often $0 to $50) rather than the full repair cost. Without a waiver, you're responsible for all damage, which can be hundreds or thousands of dollars for major repairs.

The supplemental liability waiver covers damage your trailer causes to other people's property—for example, if the trailer hits another car or damages someone's fence. This is separate from your vehicle's insurance and covers liability beyond what your auto policy might include. U-Haul will quote both waivers when you book; they're optional add-ons that increase your rental cost by a modest amount per day.

Before you buy U-Haul's waivers, check your auto insurance policy. Some policies extend coverage to rented trailers, which means you may already be protected. Call your insurance company and ask whether your policy covers rental trailers and what the deductible is. If your policy covers the trailer fully or with a low deductible, buying U-Haul's waiver may be redundant. If your policy doesn't cover rentals or has a high deductible, U-Haul's waiver is worth the cost.

Returning the trailer and avoiding late fees

Return the trailer to the U-Haul location listed on your reservation by the time specified in your contract. Most locations have a grace period of 30 minutes to an hour, but after that, U-Haul charges an additional day's rental fee. If you need more time, call the location where you rented the trailer and ask to extend your reservation. Extending in advance is cheaper than paying a late fee, and it may be possible if the trailer isn't booked for another customer that day.

Before you return the trailer, empty it completely and sweep out any debris. U-Haul charges a cleaning fee if the interior is dirty or if you've left items inside. Refuel the trailer if it has a fuel tank (some specialty trailers do). Check that all lights still work and that there's no new damage beyond what was documented at pickup. If you've damaged the trailer during your rental, report it to the staff member when you return it. Hiding damage and hoping it goes unnoticed doesn't work—U-Haul will photograph the trailer after you leave, and you'll be charged for repairs you didn't disclose.

The staff will inspect the trailer, compare its condition to the pickup photos, and process your return. If there's no new damage and you've returned it on time, you'll receive a final receipt showing the total charges. Keep this receipt for your records. If you used a damage waiver and there is damage, the waiver applies, and you'll pay only the deductible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a U-Haul trailer if I'm under 21?

U-Haul requires renters to be at least 18 years old with a valid driver's license. Some locations may require renters under 21 to pay an additional young renter fee. Call ahead or check the website when you book to confirm the age policy at your specific location.

What happens if I return the trailer late?

U-Haul charges an additional full day's rental fee for each day (or partial day) the trailer is returned late. If you realize you need more time, call the rental location and ask to extend your reservation before the due date. Extending in advance is cheaper than paying a late fee.

Can I tow a U-Haul trailer with a pickup truck?

Yes, most pickup trucks can tow U-Haul trailers, but you must check your truck's owner's manual for its towing capacity and may support it matches the trailer's weight. The truck must also have a properly rated hitch. Confirm these details before you pick up the trailer.

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

Most states don't require a special license for towing a standard U-Haul trailer, but a few states have restrictions based on trailer weight. Check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website or call U-Haul to confirm whether your state has any licensing requirements for the trailer size you're renting.

What if my vehicle doesn't have a hitch?

U-Haul can install a hitch at most locations for an additional fee, but installation takes time and must be scheduled in advance. If you need a hitch installed, contact U-Haul before your rental date to arrange it. Alternatively, you can rent a different vehicle that already has a hitch.