Learn About U-Haul Trailer Rental Costs and Options

Understanding U-Haul Trailer Rental Pricing Models

U-Haul offers several different ways to calculate trailer rental costs, and understanding these pricing models helps you estimate your total expense. The company uses a distance-based pricing system where you pay for the miles you travel plus a base rental fee. The distance rate varies depending on the type of trailer you rent and current demand in your area. During peak moving seasons—typically May through September—prices tend to be higher than during fall and winter months.

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The base rental fee covers the trailer for a specific number of days, usually one to seven days depending on your reservation. If you keep the trailer longer than your reserved period, additional daily charges apply. U-Haul also offers mileage packages where you can prepay for a certain number of miles at a lower rate than the standard per-mile charge. For example, if you're moving across several states, purchasing a mileage package upfront might cost less than paying per mile during your trip.

Some locations offer different pricing structures based on local market conditions. Urban areas may have different rates than rural regions. U-Haul's pricing algorithm also factors in one-way versus round-trip rentals. A one-way rental from a high-demand area to a low-demand area typically costs more than the reverse direction because U-Haul needs to reposition equipment.

Practical takeaway: When getting a price quote, ask whether the estimate includes all applicable fees and what the mileage rate covers. Request quotes for different travel dates to see how pricing changes seasonally, which may help you choose a more affordable moving timeframe.

Trailer Types and Their Associated Costs

U-Haul rents multiple trailer categories, each with different pricing based on size and capability. The smallest option is the utility trailer, which typically measures 4.5 feet by 8 feet and costs between $15 and $30 per day for local rentals, plus mileage charges. These trailers work well for transporting landscaping equipment, small furniture items, or household goods from a single apartment or small house.

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Enclosed cargo trailers represent a mid-range option and generally cost $25 to $50 per day locally. These trailers protect your belongings from weather and provide better security during transport. They typically range from 5 feet by 8 feet to 6 feet by 12 feet. The enclosed design adds protection but increases the base rental cost compared to open utility trailers.

Specialty trailers include car haulers for transporting vehicles and equipment trailers for construction or moving heavy machinery. Car haulers typically cost $35 to $75 per day depending on whether they're open or enclosed. Equipment trailers with hydraulic lift capabilities may cost $50 to $100 or more per day. These specialty options require specific experience to operate safely, and U-Haul may charge additional fees or require deposits for them.

Large box trailers measuring 6 feet by 12 feet or larger represent a middle ground between small utility trailers and full-size moving trucks. These cost roughly $30 to $60 per day and work well for moving a one or two-bedroom household. The price difference between box trailers and moving trucks often makes trailers more economical for moves that don't require a large cab for passenger space.

Practical takeaway: List what you're moving and estimate the volume before selecting a trailer type. A smaller, cheaper trailer may require a second trip, while oversizing means paying for unused space. Many locations have trailers available for inspection before rental, allowing you to verify the size meets your needs.

Mileage Charges, Fuel, and Hidden Costs

Mileage represents a significant portion of U-Haul rental costs and varies by trailer type and location. Standard mileage rates for small utility trailers range from $0.70 to $1.25 per mile, while larger trailers may cost $1.00 to $1.50 per mile. A 200-mile move with a standard 5x8 trailer could cost between $140 and $250 in mileage charges alone, separate from the base daily rental fee.

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U-Haul allows you to prepurchase mileage packages at discounted rates. For example, buying 1,000 miles upfront might cost $800 to $1,000, reducing your per-mile cost to about $0.80 to $1.00. This option makes sense if you're planning a long-distance move and can estimate your mileage accurately. Mileage packages don't expire, so unused miles can be used on future rentals.

Fuel charges represent another significant expense that many renters overlook. While you provide your own fuel for the vehicle pulling the trailer, some trailers have electric brakes or other power requirements that draw from your vehicle's battery. U-Haul doesn't typically charge separate fuel fees for trailers, but the extra weight significantly increases your vehicle's fuel consumption. A 200-mile trip with a loaded trailer can increase fuel costs by 15 to 30 percent compared to normal driving.

Additional fees may apply for equipment damage, late returns, and toll roads. If you return the trailer in a different condition than the rental agreement specifies, U-Haul assesses damage fees ranging from $50 to several hundred dollars depending on severity. Late return fees typically run $20 to $40 per hour or a percentage of the daily rental rate. Some states and regions charge tolls that pass through to the renter.

Practical takeaway: Request an itemized quote that breaks down the base rental, estimated mileage charges, and any additional fees. Compare the all-in cost to alternatives like moving truck rentals or hiring professional movers to determine the most economical option for your situation.

Seasonal Pricing Variations and Best Times to Rent

U-Haul's pricing fluctuates significantly based on seasonal demand patterns. Summer months—June, July, and August—see peak pricing because most people move during this period. A trailer rental during early July might cost 40 to 60 percent more than the same rental in January or February. This seasonal markup reflects both higher demand and the cost of repositioning equipment from high-demand areas.

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Weekday rentals typically cost less than weekend rentals, especially during moving season. A Thursday-to-Saturday rental might cost 25 to 35 percent less than a Friday-to-Monday rental for the same trailer and distance. If your move has flexible timing, choosing weekdays can result in substantial savings. Mid-week moves (Tuesday through Thursday) offer the lowest prices in most markets.

End-of-month periods also command premium pricing because many lease agreements and rental periods end on the last day of the month. The 25th through 31st of each month typically shows increased prices. Conversely, early-month periods (the 1st through the 10th) often feature lower rates as demand decreases after the end-of-month rush.

Weather also influences seasonal pricing. Winter weather in northern states creates lower demand, making December through February optimal for price-conscious renters in those regions. However, winter conditions may increase travel time and present safety challenges. Southern states may see higher winter prices due to snowbirds relocating and increased demand from northern residents escaping cold weather.

Practical takeaway: If possible, plan moves for Tuesday through Thursday during winter months or early in the month. Check pricing for dates several weeks in advance, as U-Haul's system may offer lower rates further out. Setting up rate alerts or checking prices multiple times over several days may reveal pricing patterns that help you choose the most economical rental dates.

Comparing U-Haul Trailers to Alternative Moving Options

When evaluating moving costs, comparing trailer rentals to full-size moving trucks helps determine the most economical option. U-Haul moving trucks (10-foot, 15-foot, and 20-foot) typically cost $20 to $45 per day locally, plus mileage charges of $0.99 to $1.99 per mile depending on truck size. For a 200-mile move with a 15-foot truck, the total cost might range from $240 to $500 including the base rental and mileage.

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Trailers often cost less than moving trucks for the same distance because they're lighter, more fuel-efficient, and typically cheaper to operate. A comparable 200-mile move with a large enclosed trailer might cost $200 to $400 total.