U-Haul trailers rent by the day, week, or month, with prices that depend on trailer size, distance, and current demand

U-Haul is the largest trailer rental network in the United States, with thousands of pickup locations. You reserve a trailer online or by phone, pick it up at a U-Haul location (usually a dealer or moving center), and return it to any U-Haul location when you're done. The rental period starts when you pick up the trailer and ends when you return it — you pay for every day in between, whether you use it or not.

Pricing varies significantly based on three factors: the trailer size you choose, how far you're moving it, and the time of year. A local one-way rental of a small utility trailer might cost $15 to $25 per day. A cross-country move with a larger enclosed trailer can run $40 to $100+ per day, plus mileage charges if you exceed the included mileage. U-Haul publishes no fixed rates — you get a quote only after entering your specific pickup location, return location, and dates into their website or by calling 1-800-468-4285.

Key Takeaways

  • U-Haul charges by the day and requires you to return the trailer to a U-Haul location, with prices varying by size, distance, and season.
  • You can reserve online at uhaul.com or by phone, and you'll need a valid driver's license and credit card at pickup.
  • Utility trailers (4x8 or 5x8) are cheapest for small loads; enclosed trailers cost more but protect cargo from weather.
  • Damage waivers and insurance are optional but recommended, and you pay for any damage not covered by your personal auto insurance.
  • Peak moving season (May through September) has higher prices and longer wait times than off-season rentals.

Trailer sizes and what each one costs to rent

U-Haul offers five main trailer categories. The utility trailer (4x8 or 5x8 feet) is the smallest and cheapest option, designed for hauling yard waste, small furniture, or a few boxes. Local daily rates typically start around $15 to $20. The cargo trailer (5x9 or 6x12 feet) is fully enclosed, protects your belongings from weather, and costs roughly $25 to $40 per day locally.

The enclosed moving trailer (6x12 or 7x14 feet) is the workhorse for apartment and small house moves. Expect $35 to $60 per day for local rentals. The car hauler (open or enclosed) is built to transport vehicles and costs $40 to $80 per day depending on capacity. The specialty trailers — including equipment trailers, motorcycle trailers, and boat trailers — have their own pricing, typically $30 to $70 per day.

These are local estimates only. A 500-mile move in the same trailer will cost significantly more because U-Haul charges mileage or applies a distance-based rate. You'll see the exact price when you enter your specific route into their reservation system.

How to reserve and pick up a U-Haul trailer

Start at uhaul.com or call 1-800-468-4285. Enter your pickup location, return location, and rental dates. The website will show available trailers, prices, and estimated pickup times. Reserve the trailer you want — you can usually hold a reservation for 24 hours without paying. At pickup, bring a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and proof of insurance (your auto insurance policy or a U-Haul damage waiver).

U-Haul staff will inspect the trailer with you, document any existing damage on the rental agreement, and explain the hitch requirements for your vehicle. You must have a compatible hitch receiver on your car or truck — U-Haul can install one for an additional fee if you don't have one. Before you leave, confirm the trailer's condition, check that lights and brakes work, and understand the fuel or mileage limits included in your rental.

Return the trailer to any U-Haul location during business hours. The staff will inspect it again, charge you for any new damage beyond normal wear, and process your final bill. If you return it after hours, some locations have after-hours drop-off procedures — ask when you pick up.

Damage coverage and insurance options

U-Haul does not automatically cover damage to the trailer. You are responsible for any dents, scratches, broken lights, or mechanical damage that occurs during your rental. Your personal auto insurance may cover the trailer if you're towing it — check your policy or call your insurer before renting.

U-Haul offers two damage protection options at checkout. The Damage Waiver (around $15 to $30 per rental, depending on trailer size) shifts responsibility for most damage to U-Haul, though you may still pay a deductible for major damage. The Safemove insurance is a separate product that covers damage, theft, and liability — it costs more but provides broader protection. Read the terms carefully: both have exclusions for negligence, off-road use, and improper loading.

If you decline both options and damage occurs, U-Haul will bill you for repairs. Trailer damage can be expensive — a bent frame or damaged axle can cost $500 to $2,000 or more. If you're uncertain about your auto insurance coverage, the damage waiver is usually worth the cost.

Mileage, fuel, and hidden charges to watch for

Local rentals often include unlimited mileage. Long-distance rentals may include a set number of free miles (typically 100 to 200), with overage charges of $0.50 to $1.00 per mile. Always ask how many miles are included before you confirm your reservation.

U-Haul does not charge for fuel — the trailer doesn't use it. However, towing a trailer increases your vehicle's fuel consumption significantly, sometimes by 20 to 40 percent depending on the trailer size and your driving. Budget extra fuel costs into your move.

Other charges that may appear on your final bill include late fees (typically $40 per day if you return the trailer after the agreed time), equipment add-ons (hitch installation, furniture pads, dollies), and cleaning fees if the trailer is returned excessively dirty. Read your rental agreement carefully before signing.

Seasonal pricing and booking timing

U-Haul prices surge during peak moving season, roughly May through September. Demand is highest on weekends and at the end of the month. If you can move on a weekday in October through April, you'll pay substantially less — sometimes 30 to 50 percent less than peak-season rates for the same trailer and distance.

Book as early as possible, especially for peak-season moves. Popular trailer sizes and locations can sell out weeks in advance. If your dates are flexible, checking availability a few weeks out and adjusting your move date can save hundreds of dollars. U-Haul's website shows real-time availability and pricing, so you can compare costs across different dates before committing.

Alternatives to U-Haul for trailer rentals

Penske, Home Depot, and Lowes all rent trailers, though their networks are smaller than U-Haul's. Penske focuses on commercial and long-distance moves and may have different pricing for one-way rentals. Home Depot and Lowes rent small utility trailers for local moves only, usually at competitive daily rates ($15 to $25) but with limited size options.

For long-distance moves, some moving companies offer their own trailers or partner with rental networks. If you're moving across the country, comparing U-Haul's price with a full-service moving company's quote can reveal whether renting and moving yourself is actually cheaper than hiring professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special license to tow a U-Haul trailer?

No. Most trailers under 10,000 pounds can be towed with a standard driver's license in most states. Larger trailers may require a commercial license depending on your state and the combined weight of your vehicle and trailer. Check your state's DMV website or ask U-Haul staff when you reserve — they can tell you the trailer's weight and whether your license is sufficient.

Can I return a U-Haul trailer to a different location than where I rented it?

Yes. U-Haul allows one-way rentals, and you can return the trailer to any U-Haul location. One-way rentals typically cost more than round-trip rentals because U-Haul has to move the trailer back to high-demand areas. Always specify your return location when you reserve so you get an accurate quote.

What happens if I damage the trailer during my rental?

You are responsible for the cost of repairs unless you purchased a damage waiver or have insurance coverage. U-Haul will inspect the trailer at return, document damage, and send you a bill. Damage charges can range from $50 for minor dents to $2,000+ for structural damage. This is why a damage waiver is worth considering.

Can I extend my rental if I need the trailer longer?

Yes, but you must contact U-Haul before your return date. Extensions are subject to availability and may incur additional charges. Call the location where you rented or U-Haul's customer service line to request an extension as soon as you know you need more time.

Is my personal auto insurance enough to cover towing a U-Haul trailer?

It depends on your policy. Some auto insurance covers trailers you're towing; others don't. Call your insurer before you rent and ask specifically whether your policy covers rental trailers and what the limits are. If it doesn't, U-Haul's damage waiver or Safemove insurance fills the gap.