The maximum speed you should drive when towing a car with a U-Haul auto transport trailer is 55 miles per hour (mph). This is explicitly recommended by U-Haul in their rental agreements and safety guidelines. Exceeding this speed significantly increases the risk of a dangerous trailer sway, reduces your ability to brake safely, and puts excessive strain on both your tow vehicle and the trailer's components.
Towing a car is fundamentally different from normal driving. The added weight and length dramatically change your vehicle's dynamics. The 55 mph limit is not a suggestion but a critical safety practice. At higher speeds, forces like wind from passing trucks can easily induce trailer sway, which can quickly become uncontrollable. Furthermore, your stopping distance increases exponentially; a panic stop at 65 mph with a trailer can be catastrophic compared to one at 55 mph.
Your vehicle's towing capacity is just one factor. You must also consider the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the tongue weight, which is the downward force the loaded trailer exerts on the hitch. Properly distributing the weight of the towed car on the auto transport is essential for stability.
Here is a summary of key factors and limitations:
| Factor | Specification / Limitation | Rationale |
|---|
| U-Haul Official Speed Limit | 55 mph | Maximizes control and minimizes trailer sway risk. |
| Common State Law for Towing | 55 mph (varies by state) | Often aligns with U-Haul's recommendation for safety. |
| Typical Towing Capacity Required | Varies by tow vehicle (e.g., SUV/Truck with 5,000+ lbs capacity) | The car + trailer weight must be under your vehicle's rating. |
| Auto Transport Trailer Weight | Approx. 2,100 lbs (empty) | This weight is part of the total load on your vehicle. |
| Stopping Distance Increase | Can be 2-3 times longer than normal | Highlights the critical need for reduced speed and increased following distance. |
| Recommended Following Distance | 4-6 seconds minimum | Provides adequate time to react and stop safely. |
Always conduct a thorough pre-trip inspection, including checking tire pressures on both the tow vehicle and trailer, ensuring all lights work, and double-checking that the towed car is securely strapped down. Plan your route to avoid steep grades and high-wind areas when possible. The goal is a slow, steady, and safe journey.
