U-Haul Auto Transport - Should I Do it Myself?

Using U-Haul for auto transport is simply done by renting trailer (or truck and trailer) to self-transport of your vehicle. This can be locally or to another state.

U-Haul is great for the do-it-yourself-er, because they make it very easy. Since you can turn the equipment in at any authorized U-Haul location, it's a good option. Pricing is also low, at only $19 for the first day.

You must assess if you are ready to pull your car safely yourself for this to work.

You should be able to:

  • Make a left or right turn that will clear room for the trailer and car.
  • Know much room you need to slow down with extra weight
  • Have experience bad with conditions while towing a car
  • Be prepared to respond to road hazards and emergency situations.

How Much Does U-Haul Auto Transport Cost ?

OK, let's say you can make the drive  a day, a trailer able to pull up to 14’ vehicle. This will cost $19.95 ,$29.95 for a 15-17’ long vehicles, and $39.95 for a max of 26 feet. This of course is a pretax price.

Keep in mind, if you pass 24 hours, you pay more. That low rate is for the first day only and then increases per day.  Depending on your situation, you may not be saving a ton of money by moving it yourself.

Is it Safe to U-Haul My Car ?

The answer is that it depends. If you have been pulling a trailer for while, you could very well be a master at pulling anything.

U-Haul is pretty reliable and are known for taking care of their equipment. That is even though you are paying that small 19 dollar price tag. Know that not all the vehicles at a location can be used for one way moves. Many are for only local use. This means they belong to that area only and cannot be dropped off anywhere except that location. So be sure to check. During certain times of the year, availability can be scarce. Be sure to call ahead and reserve head of time.

If You Have Experience

For those that have been pulling stuff with a trailer for while, you could very well be a master. That could be pulling anything along the trickiest roads, backing up, and angling perfectly every time.

But even then you are 100% responsible, anything that can happen on the road. And after it is all said and done, it doesn't have to be you that makes the mistake. One that ruin your vehicle and your move.

If You Don't Have Experience

If you have zero experience you are taking a much bigger risk. Much of towing anything has a lot to do with common sense. But, simple things can be problematic. Like reversing can be a challenge where the trailer can veer in a different direction. The hitch acts like a hinge.  In these cases it's advisable to use an auto transport company.

It's Safer to Use an Auto Shipper

Using an auto shipper in most cases can save a lot of time and eliminate the risks. Anything can happen on the road. With an auto transport company you get it picked up at your door, and then delivered the same way. You don't need to worry about making the trek yourself. Simply know that your car will arrive safely and professionally for perhaps not much more.

For more information on U-Haul and renting a trailer, visit U-Haul's Auto Transport Rental page.

Need help deciding on using U-Haul to transport your vehicle or using an auto transport company? Call us today at 800-284-7177 or use our car shipping calculator today.

Carl has a decade of experience in the car shipping industry. He has worked in nearly every aspect of the transport business since 2014, taking charge of various roles in the company such as dispatching, sales, and customer service.

During those years, Carl amassed an invaluable amount of experience which has contributed to his writing of every article and and guide on NX since taking over content in 2015.