Cargo trailers – also known as enclosed or van trailers – are extremely useful pieces of equipment. Whether you’re relocating or simply hauling items around town, a cargo trailer can provide safe and efficient transportation for things that you can’t fit in your personal vehicle.
But if you’re new to the world of trailers and towing, you might have some questions about cargo trailer rentals – what size do I need, are they easy to operate, how should they be loaded, etc. To put your curiosities at ease, we at U-Haul have put together this guide to answer your questions and promote safe trailering.
What is a Cargo Trailer?
Unlike a utility, or “open,” trailer, a cargo trailer is completely enclosed with a door, side walls, and roof. This design makes cargo trailers useful for hauling items that require protection from the elements, road debris, and other external hazards.
Cargo trailers also offer added protection for your belongings. If you're moving long distance and need to leave your trailer unattended in a parking lot overnight, a cargo trailer is ideal for keeping your items locked up and protected from potential thieves.
Pro tip:
We recommend using the three different locks included in our Trailer Protection Kit for maximum protection.
Popular Uses for a Cargo Trailer
Cargo trailers are popular among a wide variety of people for an even wider variety of uses. Everyone from contractors and landscapers to weekend enthusiasts and small business owners make use of cargo trailers every day.
Here are some common uses.
- Moving – Furniture, appliances, and personal belongings during residential moves.
- Events/Trade Show – Booths, displays, promotional materials, and products.
- Recreational – Camping gear, bikes, kayaks, and other recreational equipment.
- Business Use – Deliveries, particularly for large or bulk items, and portable storage.
- Motorcycle Hauling – Motorcycles and ATVs for long-distance travel or relocations.
Benefits of Renting a Cargo Trailer
- Cost – Renting a cargo trailer is a cost-effective method of transporting goods. With rates starting at just $14.95, renting a trailer and towing with your personal vehicle is the most economical way to move – whether it’s local or long distance.
- Security – when transporting things with a pickup truck or open trailer, your belongings are more susceptible to theft. Cargo trailers, on the other hand, are completely enclosed and can be secured with a lock and key for enhanced security.
- Protection – In addition to providing protection from theft, cargo trailers offer protection from the elements.
- Variety – Whether your load is on the lighter side or slightly oversized, you’ll likely find a cargo trailer to suit your needs. We outline the three U-Haul cargo trailer sizes below to help you get started.
Cargo Trailer Rental Sizes
4’ x 8’Featuring our lowest deck, the small cargo trailer is perfect for both personal and business moves requiring lightweight items. From kitchen furniture to office equipment to children's beds, this trailer can easily accommodate a variety of items with its impressive 142 cubic feet of space. Learn more about our 4’ x 8’ cargo trailer. | |
5’ x 8’Our most popular cargo trailer, the medium-sized option has the perfect blend of affordability and functionality. With 200 cubic feet of space, this trailer is spacious enough to accommodate larger furniture items such as a queen-sized bed, yet lightweight enough to tow with a car. Learn more about our 5’ x 8’ cargo trailer. | |
6’ x 12’A great choice for local or long distance moving, the large cargo trailer from U-Haul boasts an impressive 400 cubic feet of cargo space and nearly 2,500 lbs. of payload capacity – perfect for all kinds of household belongings. This trailer also doubles as an enclosed motorcycle for added functionality. Learn more about our 6 x 12 cargo trailer. |
Tips for Operating a Cargo Trailer
Load the Trailer Heavier in Front – This is commonly referred to as the “60/40 rule,” where about 60 percent of the weight is loaded in the front, while 40 percent is in the back. This helps prevent trailer sway and keeps things balanced.
Drive with Care – We recommend staying below 55 miles per hour. In fact, it’s good to travel about 10 miles per hour less than the posted speed limit. In addition, leave a sizable gap between you and the vehicle in front, and brake with care.
Secure Yourself and Your Cargo – Make sure to always wear your seatbelt when driving! And don't forget about securing your cargo - use tie-downs, ratchet straps, or twine to keep things safe in the trailer. Check out more tips on how to load a trailer properly here.
Start a Trailer Reservation
Ready to begin your trailering adventure? Visit our trailers page to get a rate and start a reservation.
More Articles About Trailers:
- How to Choose the Right Size U-Haul Trailer Rental
- Learn How to Load and Haul a Trailer Safely
- What Size Utility Trailer Do I Need?
