What Size Cargo Trailer Do I Need?

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If you’re trying to decide which size U-Haul cargo trailer you need, the answer depends on a couple of factors. The amount you’re moving, the size and weight of your items, and the towing capacity of your towing vehicle all play a role in choosing which size cargo trailer is right for you.  

Key Takeaways: 

  • Choose your cargo trailer size based on the type and number of items you're moving. 
  • The right trailer can make loading, unloading, and towing easier and more efficient. 
  • U-Haul cargo trailers are available in multiple sizes to accommodate everything from small furniture hauls to larger moving projects. 
  • Selecting the appropriate trailer helps ensure you have enough space without paying for more capacity than you need. 
  • Cargo trailers provide added protection for your belongings during transport. 
  • All three U-Haul cargo trailers are available for local in-town and one-way moves. 

What’s the Difference Between a Cargo Trailer and a Utility Trailer? 

U-Haul offers both cargo and utility trailers, and it’s important to decide which one is right for your needs. Both cargo trailers and utility trailers are designed to help transport your belongings, but there is one key difference.  

A U-Haul cargo trailer is fully enclosed, while a utility trailer features an open design. Cargo trailers help protect your belongings from weather, road debris, and unwanted attention while traveling, whereas utility trailers offer more space for oversized items.  

Another important consideration is rental flexibility. All three U-Haul cargo trailer sizes are available for both local in-town and one-way rentals, making them a convenient option for long-distance moves. While some utility trailers are available for one-way rentals, availability is limited to select models. 

The best benefits of the cargo trailers include added protection from rain and weather, built-in lockable latches for extra security, low deck height for easier loading, and wide doors for larger items. Some U-Haul cargo trailers even come with a ramp to make loading and unloading your belongings much easier. This ramp is great when paired with rentable moving equipment such as furniture pads or dollies.  

If you’re planning on moving furniture, boxes, or equipment that you want to cover during transportation, a cargo trailer may be the best fit.  

What Size U-Haul Cargo Trailer Do I Need? 

If you’re not sure which U-Haul trailer size you need, start by considering the size and weight of your belongings. Each trailer has dedicated measurements that are made to accommodate certain belongings while all still being simple to tow and affordable. 

Below is a quick overview of U-Haul cargo trailer sizes and dimensions. 

  Trailer Size Best For Volume (approx.)
4’ x 8’  Small furniture, boxes, dorm moves  142 cu. ft. 
5’ x 8’  Mattresses, office furniture, apartment items  208 cu. ft. 
6’ x 12’  Large moves and larger household loads  396 cu. ft. 

So, how much can a U-Haul cargo trailer hold? The answer depends on the trailer you choose and what you’re loading.  

4’ x 8’ Cargo Trailer: A Small U-Haul Trailer Option 

If you’re looking for a smaller trailer, the 4' x 8' cargo trailer is one of the easiest options to tow and maneuver. This trailer is fantastic for loveseats, small furniture pieces, home improvement supplies, storage bins and moving boxes. With up to 142 cubic feet of cargo space and a maximum carrying capacity of 1,650 lbs., this trailer can help handle smaller jobs without taking up unnecessary space.  

Another highlight about this trailer is the empty weight. This trailer only weighs 850 lbs. which means it can be towed by a class one hitch (2,000 lb. limit). This hitch is one of the most affordable and widely available hitch classes for small sedans and crossovers.  

They are also much more affordable compared to larger hitch classes. If you’re only towing small cargo trailers, cargo carriers, and bike racks, a class one hitch is perfect for all your needs. Need a trailer hitch installed near you?  

Learn How to Schedule a Trailer Hitch Installation on the U-Haul App. 

5’ x 8’ Cargo Trailer: A Larger U-Haul Trailer Option

The 5' x 8' U-Haul cargo trailer is a popular option because it offers extra cargo room compared to the 4’ x 8’ cargo trailer and remains compact and easy to tow. This trailer is great for transporting a queen-size mattress, office furniture, multiple boxes and bins, or trade show equipment. The additional space of the 5’ x 8’ cargo trailer gives you more flexibility if you need room for larger or awkwardly shaped items.  

A stellar feature of the 5’ x 8’ cargo trailer is that some of them have a ramp door! This ramp is perfect for loading heavy washer and dryers, couches, long dressers, and so much more. It makes unloading when you get to your new destination even easier, accommodating storage unit carts, furniture dollies, and hand trucks. 

4’ x 8’ vs 5’ x 8’ U-Haul Trailer 

When comparing the 4’ x 8’ vs 5’ x 8’ U-Haul trailer, it’s important to consider some key factors to decide which option is the best fit for your move.  

Choose a 4' x 8' Cargo Trailer If... 

Choose a 5' x 8' Cargo Trailer If... 

You're moving fewer items 

You need more floor space 

You drive a smaller vehicle 

You're moving larger furniture pieces 

You need a lighter trailer setup 

You want room for additional boxes and equipment 

If you’re on the fence, consider your largest item first. This usually helps narrow down the best fit. 

6’ x 12’ Cargo Trailer: Our Biggest Cargo Trailer Option 

If you need even more space than both the 4’ x 8’ and 5’ x 8’ cargo trailers, the 6' x 12' cargo trailer, the biggest U-Haul cargo trailer available may be for you.  

This trailer can be a good fit for:  

  • Larger household moves 
  • Business equipment  
  • Long-distance hauling needs  

The 6’ x 12’ cargo trailer also includes an automatic hydraulic surge brake system for additional towing support. 

As the largest U-Haul trailer option, the 6’ x 12’ cargo trailer offers extra room for large loads with the most cargo capacity among U-Haul cargo trailers.  

U-Haul Trailer Weight Capacity  

Beyond the weight of your belongings, it’s also important to consider how much a U-Haul trailer weighs. U-Haul trailer weight and towing capacity vary by the trailer size and the vehicle you're towing with. It is important to consider both the weight of the trailer itself and the weight of your cargo when planning your move.  

During the U-Haul reservation process, you'll enter your towing vehicle information. Our towing validation system will recommend compatible trailers and show how much cargo weight your specific vehicle and trailer combination can safely handle. 

Trailer Size 

Empty weight 

Max Load 

Gross Vehicle Weight (Max) 

4’ x 8’  

850 lbs. 

1,650 lbs. 

2,500 lbs. 

5’ x 8’  

900 lbs. 

1,800 lbs. 

2,700 lbs. 

6’ x 12’  

1,920 lbs. 

2,480 lbs. 

4,400 lbs. 

Before reserving your trailer, check your vehicle owner’s manual and towing specifications to confirm compatibility. Choosing the right trailer size starts with choosing one that your vehicle can safely tow. Our validation process will also guide you through which trailer your vehicle can tow and how much cargo weight you can safely tow in the trailer. 

Ready to Reserve Your Trailer? 

With U-Haul, reserving a cargo trailer for rent has never been easier. Just fill out the form below and get trailering or simply reserve your trailer in the U-Haul App! 

 

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Get an affordable, reliable and accessible rental trailer for your move. Unlimited miles are included on all trailer rentals, always.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cargo Trailers 

What size cargo trailer do I need? 

The right cargo trailer depends on the weight and size of your items, as well as your vehicle's towing capability. During the reservation process, U-Haul helps identify compatible cargo trailer options for your vehicle and moving needs. 

What size U-Haul trailer do I need? 

The best U-Haul trailer depends on what you're hauling. U-Haul offers three cargo trailer models, five utility trailer models, motorcycle trailers, tow dollies, auto transport trailers, and our newest Toy Hauler flatbed trailer to accommodate different types of loads. The reservation process can help match you with the right trailer for your trip. 

How much can a U-Haul trailer hold? 

The amount a U-Haul trailer can hold depends on the trailer size. Smaller cargo trailers are well-suited for boxes, luggage, and smaller furniture, while larger cargo trailers can accommodate bigger household items and more belongings during a move. For example, a 4' x 8' cargo trailer can fit select twin and split king and queen mattresses, a 5' x 8' cargo trailer can fit full and queen mattresses, and a 6' x 12' cargo trailer can fit a California king mattress. Larger trailers also provide additional space for furniture, appliances, and moving boxes. 

What is the biggest U-Haul cargo trailer? 

The largest cargo trailer option is the 6’ x 12’ cargo trailer. 

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