

Wind and road conditions can loosen straps, chains and other devices keeping your items on the trailer. Note: you won’t be able to back up a car dolly, so choose pull-through spots if towing one. It’s a good idea to practice backing up in a safe location and have someone outside of the vehicle to warn you if you may hit something. And jackknifing is possible if you do it incorrectly. Because of the hitch, trailers don’t reverse the same way a vehicle does. Trailer wheels may hit curbs if a turn is too sharp. If you need to get into another lane, confirm you have plenty of space and move over slowly and smoothly. Quick lane changes could lead to trailer sway (a back and forth swinging motion that can be very dangerous). When it’s possible and safe to do so, slow down gradually to take some of the work off them.

It can be tough on brakes to stop a vehicle that’s pulling extra weight. Many rental companies suggest a maximum speed of 55 MPH when towing. Driving a little below the speed limit is a great way to ensure you’re being safe on the road. Before driving, check the trailer latch and wiring and make sure the safety chains are crossed and securely attached. Before you decide to rent a trailer, make sure you know these towing safety tips: This can cause issues during the drive like trailer sway, limited visibility and more time spent on the road. See how these costs come into play for towing your car during a move.ĭepending on the trailer type and what you’re hauling, trailers can add 8-12 feet behind a vehicle and hundreds of pounds of extra weight. These expenses can add up quickly and make trailers a surprisingly expensive option. There are also costs for the additional fuel you’ll use while towing and liability coverage for the rented equipment. The total cost includes more than just the price of the trailer - especially since many companies require you to pull a trailer with a rental truck instead of your own car. Renting a trailer may be more expensive than another moving service Learn more about trailer options and rental requirements for these companies:ģ. There are also different weight restrictions, tow hitch requirements and other details that may affect what you’re able to rent. For example, Budget® only offers dollies and car carriers, while U-Haul® offers cargo, utility and car/motorcycle trailers (though availability can vary by location). If you find a company that offers one-way trailer rental, it’s important to know they may not have the exact option you need. Trailer options aren’t the same at all places Some types are also more difficult to find than others ( enclosed trailers may be the hardest), so make sure you don’t leave reservations for the last minute if you’re set on renting one.Ģ. This means you’d have to return the trailer where you picked it up - not ideal if you’ve moved hundreds of miles away. While most truck rental companies and some home improvement stores rent out trailers, not all of them offer one-way options.
