Load Smarter, Not Harder with U-Haul’s Split Dispatch
When you need to move everything from point A to point B – including your personal vehicle – you may be wondering what the best option is. U-Haul makes it easy to move your vehicle and belongings in one single trip when you pair a tow dolly or auto transport trailer with a U-Haul one way rental.
But did you know there is a smarter way to use a tow dolly or auto transport trailer with a moving truck? It’s called a split dispatch reservation, and it’s the most convenient way to tow your personal vehicle behind your moving truck rental to your new home. Here are more details about how it works.
What is a Split Dispatch Reservation?
A split dispatch reservation – also called a split rental – is an equipment reservation that includes a moving truck and a car trailer, only the equipment is picked up from your scheduled location at different times (truck first, car trailer second). Renting your towing and moving equipment this way allows you to load your moving truck before the trailer is attached, giving you easy access to the loading ramp and more space to load your belongings. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that your trailer will be connected safely since it will be connected later by a U-Haul technician after your moving truck is loaded and you’re ready to go.
How a Split Dispatch Reservation Works
It’s simple! Make a reservation that includes a moving truck and a car trailer. Select a pickup location and scheduled pickup day. When the day comes, inform the U-Haul location that you plan to split your rental and come back for your trailer at a later time, and you’re good to go.
Follow these steps to complete your move:
- Pick up your truck rental from your scheduled location
- Return home and load your truck
- Return to the pickup location with your loaded truck and pick up your towing equipment
- Load and secure your vehicle onto the Tow Dolly or Auto Transport*
- Drive to your new home or apartment with everything in tow and unload
- You can even return the towing equipment first and then unload your truck
It’s that easy to complete a split dispatch reservation and make moving easier.
*Some U-Haul locations offer vehicle loading and unloading for a fee.
Auto Transport Trailer vs. Tow Dolly
Which is right for your vehicle, a tow dolly or auto transport trailer? To help you understand the difference and decide which is best for your needs, here is a breakdown of each type of car carrier.
Auto Transport Trailer
- Tows cars completely off the ground
- Great for long distance or short distance moves
- Max towing capacity of 5,290 lb., maximum wheel-base is 133”.
- Comes with easy loading ramps
Tow Dolly
- Tows cars by the front wheels (rear wheels on the ground)
- Best for front-wheel drive vehicles
- Max towing capacity depends on the vehicle type
- Lightweight and durable, easy to tow
How to Use a Tow Dolly
All U-Haul trucks are equipped to tow U-Haul tow dollies. Most FWD vehicles and some older RWD vehicles are compatible with a U-Haul tow dolly. Review the tow dolly instructions to be sure your equipment is used correctly, check your hook-up validation to see if your vehicle is compatible, then review this guide on how to load your vehicle on the U-Haul tow dolly.
How to Tow a Car with an Auto Transport Trailer
All U-Haul trucks can tow U-Haul auto transport trailers, even a 10’ moving van. If you’re wondering “what size trailer do I need to haul a car,” keep in mind that most vehicles are compatible with the auto transport trailer. Review the auto transport instructions for safety tips, then review this guide on how to load your vehicle on the U-Haul auto transport.
Find a U-Haul car trailer near you today
Whether you need a tow dolly or an auto transport trailer, U-Haul has the right vehicle towing equipment for your move. Find a car trailer for rent near you today. You can also view U-Haul trailer sizes and additional trailer and towing tips to ensure your move is done the right way.
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