U-Haul Car Trailer Dimensions: A Complete Guide to Safe and Successful Vehicle Transport

U-Haul Car Trailer Dimensions: A Complete Guide to Safe and Successful Vehicle Transport Usedtruck.Truckstrend.Com

Moving a car across town or even across the country can be a daunting task. Driving it yourself adds wear and tear, consumes valuable time, and racks up considerable fuel costs. This is where U-Haul car trailers come into play, offering a practical and cost-effective solution. However, before hitching up and hitting the road, understanding U-Haul car trailer dimensions is absolutely crucial for a safe and successful haul. This comprehensive guide will delve into every aspect of these dimensions, ensuring you choose the right trailer, load your vehicle correctly, and avoid any unforeseen complications.

Why Understanding U-Haul Car Trailer Dimensions Matters

U-Haul Car Trailer Dimensions: A Complete Guide to Safe and Successful Vehicle Transport

Ignoring the dimensions of a U-Haul car trailer can lead to a multitude of problems. Overlooking weight restrictions can damage the trailer, your vehicle, or even cause an accident. Trying to load a vehicle that's too wide or too long can result in damage to both the car and the trailer, rendering them unusable. Furthermore, exceeding height restrictions can lead to collisions with low-hanging obstacles like bridges or overpasses.

Therefore, understanding these dimensions is not just a suggestion; it's a necessity for:

• Safety: Ensuring your vehicle is properly secured and within the trailer's capabilities is paramount for preventing accidents.
• Vehicle Protection: Incorrect loading or exceeding weight limits can damage your vehicle.
• Trailer Integrity: Overloading or improper loading can damage the trailer, leading to costly repairs.
• Legal Compliance: Exceeding weight restrictions can result in fines and legal repercussions.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing you've chosen the right trailer and loaded your vehicle correctly provides peace of mind throughout your journey.

Delving into U-Haul Car Trailer Dimensions: The Auto Transport

U-Haul offers two primary types of car trailers: the Auto Transport and the Tow Dolly. We'll focus first on the Auto Transport, which is the preferred choice for transporting vehicles with all four wheels off the ground.

Key Dimensions of the U-Haul Auto Transport:

• Overall Width: 101 inches (8 feet, 5 inches)
• Overall Length: 196 inches (16 feet, 4 inches)
• Empty Weight: 2,210 lbs
• Maximum Load Capacity: 5,290 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): 7,500 lbs

• Maximum Vehicle Width: 79 inches (6 feet, 7 inches) – measured at the fenders
• Maximum Vehicle Wheelbase: 133 inches (11 feet, 1 inch)
• Ramp Width: Varies slightly but generally around 64 inches.
• Deck Height: Approximately 14 inches.

Understanding These Dimensions in Practice:

• Overall Width: This is crucial for maneuvering the trailer. Be mindful of narrow roads, driveways, and parking spaces.
• Overall Length: Consider the total length of your towing vehicle and the trailer when planning routes and parking.
• Empty Weight: This is the weight of the trailer itself, important for calculating the total weight your towing vehicle will be handling.
• Maximum Load Capacity: This is the maximum weight your vehicle can be to be safely transported.
• Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): This is the combined weight of the trailer and your vehicle, which must be less than the towing capacity of your tow vehicle. This is a critical safety factor.
• Maximum Vehicle Width: Measure the width of your vehicle at its widest point (usually the fenders or side mirrors) to ensure it fits within the trailer's width.
• Maximum Vehicle Wheelbase: The wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles of your vehicle. Ensure your vehicle's wheelbase is less than this measurement to ensure proper fit and weight distribution.
• Ramp Width: This is the width of the ramps used to load your vehicle. Ensure your vehicle's tires fit comfortably within the ramps.
• Deck Height: Knowing the deck height helps you anticipate clearance issues when loading and unloading your vehicle.

The Tow Dolly: An Alternative (and its Dimensions)

The Tow Dolly is used to tow vehicles with only two wheels off the ground, typically front-wheel-drive cars.

Key Dimensions of the U-Haul Tow Dolly:

• Overall Width: 92 inches (7 feet, 8 inches)
• Overall Length: 123 inches (10 feet, 3 inches)
• Empty Weight: 750 lbs
• Maximum Load Capacity: 3,450 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): 4,200 lbs
• Maximum Vehicle Width: 76 inches (6 feet, 4 inches)
• Maximum Front Tread Width: 75 inches
• Tire Size: ST205/75D14

Important Considerations When Using a Tow Dolly:

• Front-Wheel Drive: Typically used for front-wheel-drive vehicles.
• Steering Wheel Lock: You must secure the steering wheel to prevent movement during transport.
• Vehicle Preparation: Follow U-Haul's instructions carefully for securing the vehicle to the dolly.
• Speed Restrictions: Adhere to posted speed limits and drive cautiously.

How-To Guide: Measuring Your Vehicle for U-Haul Car Trailers

Before renting a U-Haul car trailer, accurately measuring your vehicle is essential. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Wheelbase: Measure the distance between the center of the front wheel and the center of the rear wheel on the same side of your vehicle.
2. Width: Measure the width of your vehicle at its widest point, typically the fenders or side mirrors. Retract the mirrors, if possible, during the measurement.
3. Weight: Consult your vehicle's owner's manual or the sticker on the driver's side doorjamb to determine its curb weight (the weight of the vehicle without passengers or cargo).
4. Height: If clearance is a concern, measure the height of your vehicle at its highest point.

Tips for Safe Loading and Transport:

• Weight Distribution: Position the vehicle on the trailer with approximately 60% of the weight forward of the trailer axle.
• Securement: Use the provided straps and chains to securely fasten your vehicle to the trailer. Double-check the straps and chains after the first few miles of your journey.
• Tire Pressure: Ensure your vehicle's tires and the trailer's tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure.
• Lighting: Verify that all trailer lights are functioning correctly (brake lights, turn signals, and running lights).
• Speed: Drive at a safe and reasonable speed, taking into account the added weight and length of the trailer.
• Braking: Allow for extra braking distance when towing a trailer.
• Turning: Make wider turns than usual to avoid hitting curbs or other obstacles.

Potential Challenges and Solutions:

• Vehicle Too Wide: If your vehicle is slightly too wide, consider removing side mirrors (if possible) or using a wider trailer (if available). If it is significantly too wide, the trailer is not an option.
• Vehicle Too Heavy: If your vehicle exceeds the trailer's weight capacity, you'll need to explore alternative transport options, such as a professional auto transport company.
• Low Clearance: If your vehicle has low ground clearance, use ramps or boards to ease the loading process and prevent damage to the vehicle's undercarriage.
• Difficult Loading: If you're having trouble loading your vehicle, seek assistance from a friend or family member.

U-Haul Car Trailer Dimensions: Price Table

Feature	Auto Transport	Tow Dolly
Daily Rate	Typically $54.95 per day + mileage	Typically $44.95 per day + mileage
Local Move	Varies based on distance and time	Varies based on distance and time
One-Way Move	Varies significantly based on distance	Varies significantly based on distance
Overall Width	101 inches (8 feet, 5 inches)	92 inches (7 feet, 8 inches)
Overall Length	196 inches (16 feet, 4 inches)	123 inches (10 feet, 3 inches)
Empty Weight	2,210 lbs	750 lbs
Max Load Capacity	5,290 lbs	3,450 lbs
GVW	7,500 lbs	4,200 lbs
Max Vehicle Width	79 inches (6 feet, 7 inches)	76 inches (6 feet, 4 inches)
Max Wheelbase (Auto)	133 inches (11 feet, 1 inch)	N/A
Ramp Width (Auto)	~64 inches	N/A
Deck Height (Auto)	~14 inches	N/A
Max Front Tread (Dolly)	N/A	75 inches
Tire Size (Dolly)	N/A	ST205/75D14

Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change. Contact U-Haul directly for the most up-to-date pricing and availability. Mileage fees also apply.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: How do I reserve a U-Haul car trailer?

  • A: You can reserve a trailer online through the U-Haul website or by calling your local U-Haul rental location.

• Q: What documents do I need to rent a U-Haul car trailer?

  • A: You'll need a valid driver's license and a credit card or cash for payment.

• Q: Can I tow a car trailer with any vehicle?

  • A: No. Your towing vehicle must have the appropriate towing capacity and a properly installed hitch. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual and U-Haul's website for specific requirements. This is vital!

• Q: What happens if my vehicle is damaged during transport?

  • A: U-Haul offers optional SafeTow insurance coverage that can help protect you against damage to your vehicle or the trailer. Review the terms and conditions of the coverage carefully.

• Q: Can I transport personal belongings inside my vehicle while it's on the trailer?

  • A: U-Haul generally advises against transporting personal belongings inside the vehicle on the trailer. This can affect the weight distribution and stability of the load.

• Q: What is the maximum speed I can drive while towing a U-Haul car trailer?

  • A: U-Haul recommends a maximum speed of 55 mph when towing a trailer. Always adhere to posted speed limits.

• Q: What should I do if I experience problems with the trailer during my journey?

  • A: Contact U-Haul Roadside Assistance immediately. They can provide assistance with repairs or replacement trailers.

Conclusion: A Safe and Successful Haul Starts with Knowledge

Understanding U-Haul car trailer dimensions is the cornerstone of a safe, efficient, and stress-free vehicle transport experience. By carefully measuring your vehicle, choosing the appropriate trailer, and following all loading and safety guidelines, you can ensure your vehicle arrives at its destination in perfect condition. Don't underestimate the importance of preparation and attention to detail – it's the key to a successful haul. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult U-Haul's official resources for the most up-to-date information and guidance. Happy hauling!