U Haul Auto Transport Vs Using A Car Shipping Company
When it comes to moving, there are a lot of decisions that one has to make, and the most important one is how to go about it, especially when it comes to moving your car. One of the most straightforward choices is to go to a U Haul Auto Transport company as you are sure to find a franchise close to your neighborhood as there are more than 13,000 dealerships all over the US, which means there are more trucks and tow dollies out there to choose from.
Typically, you can pick up a moving vehicle ranging from 10’-26’, which includes vans, trucks, and trailers. At the same time, looking at the Yellow Pages will also give you many haulers that can offer reasonable offers, and before you decide, it will be prudent to do a little research.
Why Do a Little Research?
Sometimes, it is vital, especially for your pocket and peace of mind, to think about smaller and independent shifters who do not have to follow the rule book strictly and, hence, can bend the rules to suit your needs. Also, you will know that your final decision is the best after considering the pros and cons of the various companies that are equipped to relocate your car. Each company will have its own ways to charge for the following:
- Vehicles, wherein the bigger you hire, the more it will cost you
- Services rendered
- Administrative charges
- Time slot where you can employ on a 6-hour, 12-hour, and 24-hour basis
- Equipment available for the move such as ramps, tire straps, and security chains
The Known Deal
There are fixed rates with U Haul Auto Transport, which are standardized throughout the country so that you do not have to worry about being taken for a ride. On a 24-hour hire, a 10’-14’ vehicle will cost $19.95, while you can expect to pay $29.95 for a 17’ one and $39.95 for a 24’-26’ one. A car shipping company may allow for a bit of bargaining and, sometimes, may even give you a discount, mainly if the move is during slower business months. When you know you are in for a move, you can also start looking out for discount coupons. Also, some haulers may be willing to match or even give lower rates just to beat the competition while providing the same professional-level services.
The Truck for the Job
U Haul has made things easy by dividing its fleet into:
- “in-town,” which can only be rented for in-town moving
- “one-way” is only for the moves that are one-way.
So, even if you see many trucks sitting in the yard, you might not get a one-way vehicle if they are all “in-town” ones, and you will just have to wait for the truck for the job to become available. Another slight hitch you can expect is that the pricing depends on the size of the vehicle available, so a tiny move can cost more as only the available trucks will be given for the move. So be sure to ask about the availability of the right size moving truck before you sign on the dotted line, or else look around for another shifter if you cannot wait.
When Service Matters
For your most precious possession to arrive at the destination in the same condition that it was loaded, you must be sure of the company you hire. U Haul has made a name for itself by providing reasonable on-road assistance should any unforeseen mishaps occur. When you hire other companies, be sure to find out about their services and assistance available while on the move. You can also be sure of the fleet's condition at U Haul as they constantly upgrade their vehicles. You might not find such an updated fleet at other haulers.
Time is Money
Find out whether you will have to pay for the whole pizza or just the time you need, as most companies like U Haul Auto Transport charge for 24 hours even if the destination is only around 10 hours away. Smaller companies may charge you for smaller time slots that can benefit your pocket.
Consider every aspect before loading your car on that truck, and inspect both your vehicle and the hired truck before you start your journey. Ensure that all the safety features are in working condition and that you start right on time, as you may have to pay for another day if you are late returning the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is U-Haul auto transport cheaper than using a car shipping company?
Sometimes, but not always. Renting a U-Haul auto transport trailer can cost $60–$120 per day, plus fuel, insurance, and extra mileage costs. For long distances, those expenses often push the total above $700–$1,200. Professional carriers typically charge $600–$1,500 depending on distance, vehicle size, and route demand. The difference is that a shipping company handles the logistics and driving for you. You can compare estimated pricing using the car shipping rates guide.
How much does a U-Haul auto transport trailer cost to rent?
The typical U-Haul auto transport trailer price ranges from $55–$100 per day, while a tow dolly may cost $45–$70 per day depending on location and demand. However, the real cost includes fuel consumption from towing, rental insurance, taxes, and possible mileage fees. When transporting a car hundreds or thousands of miles, these expenses can quickly exceed $800–$1,200, especially with larger trucks or SUVs pulling the trailer.
Does U-Haul ship cars across the country?
No. U-Haul does not ship cars as a transport service. Instead, it rents auto transport trailers or tow dollies so you can haul the vehicle yourself behind a moving truck or another vehicle. That means you are responsible for driving, fuel, insurance coverage, and route planning. In contrast, professional carriers handle the pickup, loading, and delivery of the vehicle. Most nationwide carriers provide direct logistics through services such as interstate car shipping.
What is the difference between a tow dolly and an auto transport trailer?
A tow dolly lifts only the front wheels of the vehicle while the rear wheels remain on the road. This option works for many front wheel drive cars but may not be suitable for all wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. An auto transport trailer carries the entire vehicle off the ground, offering better stability and protection during long-distance moves. Professional carriers use specialized trailers similar to those used in open trailer auto transport.
When does using U-Haul auto transport make more sense than hiring a car shipping company?
Renting a U-Haul auto transport trailer can make sense for short moves under 200–300 miles, especially if you are already renting a moving truck. It may also be convenient when transporting a car locally or during a household relocation. However, for longer distances such as cross-country routes of 800–2,500 miles, professional transport services are often more practical because they reduce fuel costs, driving time, and mechanical strain on the towing vehicle.
Is it safer to use a car shipping company instead of towing a car with U-Haul?
For many drivers, yes. Professional auto transport companies use licensed carriers, DOT compliant equipment, and cargo insurance coverage designed for vehicle shipping. With a U-Haul trailer, the driver assumes responsibility for towing safety, braking distance, and road conditions. Long-distance towing also increases the risk of fatigue or trailer sway. Professional services often include insured vehicle handling and scheduling options such as door-to-door auto transport.
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