
Renting a U-Haul car trailer typically costs between $14.95 and $29.95 for a local, one-way rental, not including fees and . The final price is highly dependent on the rental duration, the specific trailer model, your pickup and drop-off locations, and the add-ons you select. For a local move, you can generally expect a total cost, including mandatory fees, to start around $50 to $60 for a single day.
The core cost is the base rental rate, which is determined by the model you choose. U-Haul’s most common car trailers are the Auto Transport (for front-wheel or rear-wheel drive vehicles) and the Tow Dolly (for towable front-wheel drive vehicles). The transport is generally more expensive but offers greater versatility and safety for all-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive cars.
| Trailer Model | Rental Duration | Estimated Base Rate | Estimated Total Cost (with fees) | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tow Dolly | 1 Day (Local) | $14.95 - $19.95 | $45 - $55 | Only for towable front-wheel drive vehicles. |
| Auto Transport | 1 Day (Local) | $24.95 - $29.95 | $55 - $70 | Required for all-wheel drive, 4x4, or non-running vehicles. |
| Auto Transport | 5 Days (One-Way) | $29.95 + $14/day | $150 - $250+ | Price varies massively by distance; includes mileage charges. |
| Tow Dolly | 7 Days (One-Way) | $19.95 + $10/day | $120 - $200+ | Lower daily rate but same mileage fees as larger trailer. |
| - | Safetow Protection (per day) | $12 - $15 | - | Covers damage to the trailer; highly recommended. |
Beyond the base rate, several fees significantly impact the total:
The most accurate way to get a price is to use the online quote tool on U-Haul's website, entering your exact dates and locations. Always reserve your trailer well in advance, especially during peak moving seasons.

Just got a quote last week. For a local, in-town move, the trailer itself was about $25 for the day. But the final bill was closer to $60 after all their fees and the damage waiver. If you're going to another state, the price is mostly about the distance—they charge by the mile. The website's quote tool is pretty accurate if you put in your real info. Don't forget you need a vehicle that can tow it safely.

You have to read the fine print. The advertised price is just the starting point. The real cost comes from the per-mile charges on a one-way trip, which can double or triple the bill. I always factor in the cost of the Safetow , too; it's peace of mind. My advice is to get an official online quote and then add another 15% for taxes and unexpected fees. What seems cheap can get expensive fast if you're not careful.

is everything. I've moved cross-country twice using U-Haul trailers. The cost is a function of distance, trailer size, and rental period. An auto transport for a 500-mile trip might have a low daily rate but the mileage fees are what add up. My pro tip: book your trailer months ahead for a summer move. That's the only way to guarantee availability and a decent rate. Call the local shop directly to confirm your reservation a week before.

It's not just about the rental cost; it's about the right equipment for your car. An all-wheel-drive vehicle has to go on an auto transport trailer, which costs more than a tow dolly. Make sure your tow vehicle has the proper hitch and capacity. The rental associate will you through hitching it up safely—take the time to learn. A safe move is a successful move, and that's worth the extra few bucks for the right trailer and insurance.


