Lowest Cost Moving Option: Hitch and Trailer Combo
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If you're looking for one of the most affordable ways to move, a hitch and trailer combination may be the answer. By using your own vehicle and towing a trailer, you can avoid the expense of a large moving truck rental while still getting the cargo space you need for small and medium-sized moves.
Whether you're moving out of an apartment or dorm room, transporting furniture, or tackling a DIY project, towing a trailer can help reduce moving costs while giving you the flexibility to move on your own schedule.
Key Takeaways
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Why a Hitch and Trailer Combo Is an Affordable Way to Move
Moving costs add up quickly. If you’re only moving a few large items or a small apartment, renting a full-size moving truck or hiring a full-service moving company may not be the most cost-effective option. A trailer allows you to use only the cargo space you need, which can help lower rental costs while still using your own vehicle for passengers and transportation.
A hitch-and-trailer setup works well for many common moving situations, including apartment moves, college moves, picking up furniture, and local relocations.
When a Trailer Makes More Sense Than a Moving Truck
A trailer may be the right choice if you're moving a 1–2-bedroom home or apartment. The 6’ x 12’ U-Haul cargo trailer is equivalent to two U-Box containers or a 10’ U-Haul moving truck. It’s a good option for moving:
- A studio apartment
- A dorm room or student housing
- A 1–2-bedroom home or apartment
- Furniture and large household items
- Equipment for a home improvement project
If you only require a portion of a moving truck's capacity for transporting furniture, large household items or equipment for home improvement projects, a trailer may also be more practical and cost-effective. Utility trailers are great for oversized items, while cargo trailers help protect boxes and household goods from harsh weather conditions.
How a Hitch and Trailer Combo Works
Getting started is simple:
- Install the correct trailer hitch on your vehicle.
- Verify your vehicle's towing capacity.
- Choose the trailer that best fits your move.
- Load and secure your belongings.
- Tow the trailer to your destination.
- Unload and return the trailer when you're finished.
Many SUVs, crossovers, and even small sedans can safely tow a trailer when properly equipped. If your vehicle is tow-ready, renting a trailer is one of the most affordable moving solutions available.
Choosing the Right Trailer for Your Move
Utility Trailers
Utility trailers are ideal for moving furniture, appliances, landscaping materials, and outdoor equipment. Their open design makes loading and unloading quick and convenient, making them a great option for bulky items. Plus, with their low wall height, you can still see out of the back of your vehicle when towing.
With seven unique utility trailers, U-Haul offers options, so you can pick one that is the right size for your move.
Cargo Trailers
Cargo trailers protect from weather and road debris, making them a smart choice for moving boxes, household goods, electronics, and other personal belongings. They're especially useful for longer trips or when you want extra peace of mind.
U-Haul offers cargo trailers in three specialized sizes, with the 5’ x 8’ trailer coming in a roll-up door, swing door, and a ramp door option, offering flexibility for the size of your move. The best part about U-Haul cargo trailers is that all of them are available for local and one-way moving!
Cost Comparison: Trailer Rental vs. Truck Rental vs. Portable Moving Containers
Different moves call for different solutions. For many small- and medium-sized moves, using your own vehicle with a trailer can be one of the most affordable options compared to renting a pickup truck, cargo van, or full-size moving truck.
The best choice depends on how much you're moving, how far you're traveling, and whether your vehicle can safely tow a trailer. Here is a cost comparison of just how much a trailer rental can save you.
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To and From Destination |
U-Haul 6’ x 12’ Cargo Trailer |
U-Haul 10’ Moving Truck |
2 U-Box Containers |
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Phoenix, AZ, to Salt Lake City, Utah |
$233.00 |
$664.00 |
$1,699.90 |
Quoted prices are for a one-way move from Phoenix, AZ (85012) to Salt Lake City, Utah (84107). Prices do not include any additional add-ons like moving insurance. These prices are subject to change.
Ways to Save Even More on a Trailer Move
You can stretch your moving budget even further by decluttering before you move, reserving equipment early, packing efficiently to maximize trailer space, using free or recycled packing material, and planning your route to avoid unnecessary trips.
Did you know that the U-Haul App comes with a trip planner? Learn more about How to Use the Trip Planner in the U-Haul App.
Is Your Vehicle Ready to Tow?
Making sure that you have a secure and reliable connection before you start towing any distance is crucial to completing your move without any issues. Before towing any trailer, check:
- Your vehicle's towing capacity
- You can do this by checking the owner’s manual of your vehicle or calling the dealership of your vehicle’s make.
- Hitch rating
- You can do this by looking at the weight numbers on your hitch ball, ball mount, and hitch receiver. The lowest weight rating will be your max capacity.
- Trailer wiring and lights
- Plug in your 4-way or 7-way connector to the trailer and have a spotter behind the trailer to tell you what lights to turn on and off, making sure to confirm what works and what doesn’t.
- Tire condition and pressure of your vehicle and the trailer
- You can do this before picking up your trailer, take it to a local tire shop and have them check/inflate your tires to the necessary PSI before picking up a trailer. Rear tires can be inflated up to 6 PSI more than the recommended inflation pressure, if it does not exceed the max pressure on the tires.
- Trailer and towing hookups are always checked by a U-Haul team member when the trailer is connected to the towing vehicle.
- Your owner's manual for towing recommendations
Professional trailer hitch installation can ensure that your hitch is properly fitted and ready for the road. With more than 1,500 U-Haul hitch installation locations across the U.S. and Canada, it's easy to find an expert service center near you. U-Haul Hitch Pros are trained to install all sorts of hitches that are designed for specific vehicle years, makes, and models, and they can also conduct a FREE towing inspection to make sure that your towing setup meets your needs.
Whether you're preparing to move or just want to add year-round towing capability, professional installation can save time and give you some extra confidence before you hit the road.
Equip Your Vehicle With a Trailer Hitch
If your vehicle isn't tow-ready, U-Haul offers trailer hitches for thousands of vehicle makes and models. The right hitch gives you the flexibility to tow a trailer for moving, recreation, home improvement projects, and more.
Professional Hitch Installation
Not sure how to install a trailer hitch? U-Haul's experienced technicians can professionally install your hitch and towing accessories, helping ensure your vehicle is ready for the road. Professional installation can save time, provide peace of mind, and help you tow with confidence.
Find the Right Trailer
From utility trailers for bulky items to cargo trailers that help protect your belongings from the elements, U-Haul offers a variety of trailer options for moves of all sizes. Choosing the right trailer can help you move efficiently while paying only for the cargo space you need.
Ready to get started? Find the right trailer, schedule a professional hitch installation, or explore trailer hitch options at your local U-Haul today.
FAQs
What is the most inexpensive way to move?
For many small- and medium-sized moves, using your own vehicle with a trailer can be one of the most affordable options. You only rent the cargo space you need while continuing to drive the vehicle you already own.
How can I lower my moving costs?
Declutter before you pack, reserve equipment early, use free packing materials when possible, and choose equipment that's appropriately sized for your move. For many smaller moves, consider using a trailer.
How do trailer costs compare to moving truck rentals?
Costs vary based on location, equipment, and timing. For smaller moves, renting a trailer and towing it with your own vehicle is a more economical option than renting a moving truck. a more economical option than renting a larger moving truck.
Can I move with little money?
Planning ahead can make a big difference. Reduce the number of items you move, use free packing supplies when available, ask friends for help, and choose rental equipment, like a trailer rental, that fits the size of your move without paying for unnecessary capacity.