Where to look for trailer rentals in your area
Trailer rentals are available through three main channels: national equipment rental chains, local independent rental shops, and online marketplaces that connect you with private owners. Each has different inventory, pricing, and availability depending on where you live and what type of trailer you need.
National chains like Home Depot, Lowe's, U-Haul, and Sunbelt Rentals operate rental counters in most cities and suburbs. They stock utility trailers, enclosed trailers, and equipment trailers as standard inventory. Local rental shops—often called party rental companies, moving companies, or equipment rental yards—may have specialty trailers like enclosed cargo trailers, car haulers, or boat trailers. Online platforms like Turo (which expanded into equipment rental), Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist connect you with private owners renting trailers from their driveways or storage lots.
Start by searching "[your city] trailer rental" or "[your city] equipment rental" in Google Maps. This shows you what's within driving distance, their hours, and customer reviews. Call ahead—trailer availability changes daily, especially during moving season or before holidays.
Key Takeaways
- National chains like U-Haul and Home Depot have consistent pricing and locations but may have limited specialty trailers; local shops often have more variety but require phone calls to check availability.
- You will need a valid driver's license, proof of insurance or the ability to purchase rental coverage, and a credit card to reserve or rent a trailer.
- Rental costs vary by trailer size, rental duration, and location—a utility trailer might cost $15 to $30 per day from a national chain but $50 to $100 per day from a private owner.
- Most trailers require a vehicle with a hitch receiver and the correct towing capacity; confirm your vehicle can tow the loaded trailer before you rent.
- Damage waivers and insurance options protect you from liability if the trailer is damaged, but read the terms carefully because some exclude certain types of damage.
What documents and information you need to bring
Rental companies require a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name. Some national chains will accept a debit card, but most prefer credit. You will also need to provide your vehicle information—make, model, year, and license plate—so the rental company can confirm your vehicle has the towing capacity for the trailer you want.
Proof of insurance is not always required, but many rental companies offer damage waiver or loss damage waiver (LDW) coverage that you can purchase at the counter. If you have your own auto insurance policy, call your insurer before renting to ask whether your policy covers rental trailers. Some policies do; others exclude them. Bring your insurance card or policy number so you can show the rental company what coverage you have.
If you are renting from a private owner through an online marketplace, you may need to provide additional information like your phone number, email, and sometimes references. Some private owners ask for a security deposit separate from the rental fee.
Understanding trailer types and what they cost
The most common rental trailer is the utility trailer—a small, open flatbed or box trailer with two wheels, typically 4 by 8 feet or 5 by 10 feet. National chains rent these for $15 to $30 per day, plus mileage fees or a flat daily rate. Local shops and private owners often charge $40 to $100 per day depending on the trailer condition and your location.
Enclosed cargo trailers cost more because they protect contents from weather and theft. Expect $50 to $150 per day from national chains and $75 to $200 per day from private owners. Car haulers and boat trailers are specialty items; local rental shops are your best bet, and prices range from $75 to $250 per day depending on the trailer size and your area.
Rental fees often include a base daily rate plus mileage (charged per mile driven) or a flat weekly rate that includes unlimited mileage. Some companies charge a delivery fee if you cannot pick up the trailer yourself. Damage waivers typically add $10 to $30 per day. Ask for the total cost in writing before you commit, and confirm whether fuel, tolls, or parking fees are your responsibility.
Confirming your vehicle can tow the trailer
Before you rent, you must know your vehicle's towing capacity—the maximum weight it can safely pull. This information is in your vehicle's owner's manual, on a sticker inside the driver's door jamb, or on the manufacturer's website. Do not guess or assume; towing a trailer heavier than your vehicle can handle is dangerous and may void your insurance.
The rental company will ask for your vehicle's year, make, and model so they can confirm the match. They will also estimate the loaded weight of the trailer plus whatever you plan to haul. If your vehicle cannot tow the trailer, they will not rent it to you—this is a liability issue for them and a safety issue for you.
If your vehicle does not have a hitch receiver, you will need to have one installed before you rent. A basic Class II receiver costs $200 to $500 installed and takes a few hours at a mechanic or dealership. Some rental companies can recommend installers in your area.
Reservation and pickup process
National chains usually allow you to reserve a trailer online or by phone. You will select the trailer type, rental dates, and pickup location. The company will hold the trailer for a set time (usually a few hours to a day) and charge your credit card a deposit. You pay the balance when you pick up.
Local rental shops typically require a phone call to reserve because their inventory changes constantly. Be specific about your dates and trailer type. Ask whether they require a deposit and what payment methods they accept. Some accept cash; others require a card.
At pickup, inspect the trailer with the rental company representative. Walk around it together, note any existing damage on the rental agreement, and take photos if you can. Ask how to operate the lights, brakes, and hitch. Confirm the tire pressure and condition. If something is broken or unsafe, report it before you leave the lot—you do not want to be charged for damage you did not cause.
Insurance, damage coverage, and liability
Rental companies offer damage waivers or loss damage waivers (LDW) that limit your financial responsibility if the trailer is damaged during the rental period. These typically cost $10 to $30 per day and cover collision, theft, and vandalism. However, they often exclude damage from improper loading, overloading, or towing beyond the trailer's capacity.
Before you purchase a waiver, check whether your personal auto insurance or credit card already covers rental trailers. Some credit cards offer rental car and equipment coverage as a cardholder benefit. If your insurance covers it, you may not need the rental company's waiver—but call your insurer to confirm the coverage limits and what you must do if damage occurs.
If you rent from a private owner, ask what insurance they carry and whether you are covered under their policy or must purchase your own. Private owners often require you to sign a liability waiver stating you are responsible for any damage. Read it carefully before you sign.
Common issues and what to do if something goes wrong
The most common problem is arriving at the rental location and finding the trailer you reserved is not available. This happens during peak seasons (summer, holidays, moving season). Call ahead the day before pickup to confirm the trailer is still reserved for you. If it is not available, ask whether the company has a similar trailer or can recommend another location.
If the trailer breaks down during your rental, contact the rental company when ready. Most national chains have roadside information or will send a replacement trailer. Local shops may ask you to bring it back for repair. Do not attempt to repair it yourself—you could be charged for improper repair.
If you damage the trailer, report it to the rental company as soon as possible. Take photos and get a written statement from the company about what happened. If you purchased a damage waiver, the company will handle the claim. If you did not, you will be charged for repairs. Keep all receipts and documentation in case your insurance needs to review the claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a special license to tow a trailer?
Most states do not require a special license for towing a standard utility or cargo trailer. However, some states require a commercial driver's license (CDL) if the trailer exceeds a certain weight or if you are towing for business purposes. Check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website or call ahead to confirm. The rental company can also tell you whether your current license is sufficient.
Can I rent a trailer one way, or do I have to return it to the same location?
National chains like U-Haul offer one-way rentals for an additional fee. Local rental shops almost always require you to return the trailer to the same location. Ask about one-way options when you call, and expect to pay a premium for the convenience.
What happens if I return the trailer late?
Most rental companies charge an hourly or daily overage fee if you return the trailer after the agreed time. Some charge a flat fee for a few hours of lateness; others charge a full day's rental rate. Confirm the late fee policy before you rent, and plan to return the trailer early if possible to avoid surprise charges.
Can I rent a trailer if I do not have a credit card?
Most national chains require a credit card for the security deposit and payment. Some local rental shops accept cash or debit cards, but this varies by location. Call ahead and ask about payment options. If you do not have a credit card, you may need to bring a co-signer with a card or find a private owner who accepts alternative payment.
What should I do if the trailer has a flat tire during my rental?
Contact the rental company when ready. If you purchased roadside information or a damage waiver, they will typically cover the repair or send a replacement. Do not attempt to change the tire yourself unless you are trained and have the proper equipment. Most rental companies will tow the trailer or send help rather than have you handle it on the roadside.