Renting a U-Haul tow dolly typically costs $44.95 to $49.95 per day as a base rate, but your total will be higher due to mandatory fees, mileage charges, and taxes. For a local one-day rental, expect a final total between $70 and $120. For longer trips, costs accumulate quickly with daily rates and per-mile charges.
The advertised daily rate is just the starting point. You must add a $14.95 - $19.95 damage protection fee (often mandatory) and a $1.50 - $2.00 environmental fee. The most significant variable is the mileage charge, which can range from $0.59 to $0.99 per mile depending on your location and rental period. These fees mean the total cost for a 100-mile, one-day rental can easily reach $98 to $150 before taxes.
Base Rental Cost Breakdown (Daily):
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|
| Tow Dolly Daily Rate | $44.95 - $49.95 |
| Damage Protection (Safetrip Plus) | + $14.95 - $19.95 |
| Environmental Fee | + ~$1.50 - $2.00 |
| Subtotal (Before Mileage & Tax) | ~$61.40 - $71.90 |
Your specific total is determined by three main factors: trip type, duration, and location. A one-way rental to another city has different pricing than an in-town rental. Longer rentals may have a lower daily rate after the first day but will incur more mileage charges. Major metropolitan areas often have higher base rates and per-mile fees than smaller towns. Always use the official U-Haul rate quote tool with your exact dates and locations for an accurate estimate, as in-store prices can differ from online quotes.
The tow dolly is designed for front-wheel-drive vehicles. Its maximum load capacity is 4,080 lbs, which covers most sedans, coupes, and smaller SUVs. For rear-wheel-drive vehicles, the driveshaft must be disconnected for towing, which is a significant mechanical step. Your tow vehicle needs a Class III or IV hitch receiver and must be rated to handle the combined weight of the dolly and your car. U-Haul requires the tow vehicle to have a minimum 1-ton towing capacity for their dolleys.
Compared to an auto transport trailer, the dolly is cheaper to rent and lighter to tow, saving on truck rental costs and fuel. However, it leaves your towed vehicle's rear wheels on the road, leading to potential wear. The trailer is more expensive but lifts all four wheels off the ground, protecting the drivetrain and is essential for all-wheel-drive or RWD vehicles that cannot be dollied easily. For a standard FWD car on a budget, the dolly is the cost-effective choice; for longer distances or more sensitive vehicles, the added protection of a trailer may be worth the higher rental fee.
