Moving a vehicle across state lines can be a daunting task. When facing relocation or simply needing to transport a car over a long distance, many options come to mind. U-Haul, a well-known name in moving and self-service solutions, often enters the conversation. But do U-Haul companies ship cars to other states in the way that professional auto transport companies do? This article will delve into U-Haul’s auto transport services, compare them to professional car shipping, and help you determine the best approach for your interstate vehicle move.
Is u-haul auto transport expensive?
U-Haul primarily operates on a self-service model. When it comes to car transport, U-Haul provides the equipment for you to transport your vehicle yourself. This typically involves renting a U-Haul trailer, such as an auto transport trailer or a tow dolly, which you then attach to your own vehicle or a U-Haul moving truck. This DIY approach can be suitable for local moves or for individuals comfortable with towing a car. U-Haul’s appeal lies in its accessibility and upfront low costs, with trailer rentals starting from as little as $19 per day.
However, it’s crucial to understand the requirements and limitations of U-Haul’s self-transport service, especially when considering moving a car across state lines. Successfully and safely towing a vehicle requires a certain level of driving expertise and preparedness. Before opting for U-Haul auto transport, consider whether you are confident in your ability to:
- Maneuver with a Trailer: Accurately judge turns and allow extra space for the added length and reduced maneuverability of a trailer.
- Braking and Acceleration: Understand how towing a heavy load affects braking distances and acceleration, particularly in varying road conditions.
- Towing Experience in Adverse Conditions: Handle towing a car trailer in challenging weather like rain, snow, or wind.
- Emergency Preparedness: React effectively to potential road hazards and emergencies while towing a vehicle.
Key Considerations: U-Haul for Interstate Car Transport
- Self-Service Nature: U-Haul does not “ship” your car in the traditional sense. You are renting equipment to transport the vehicle yourself.
- Cost Structure: While daily rental rates appear low, long-distance, interstate towing can accumulate costs. These costs include not only the trailer rental but also increased fuel consumption for your towing vehicle and potential overnight expenses if the journey takes more than a day.
- Trailer Availability and Suitability: U-Haul offers various trailers, including tow dollies and auto transport trailers. Tow dollies are generally for front-wheel-drive vehicles, while auto transport trailers can accommodate most cars. Availability of specific trailer types, especially for long-distance, one-way rentals, can vary by location and time of year. It’s essential to confirm the availability of suitable equipment for your vehicle and route well in advance.
- Vehicle Compatibility and Trailer Capacity: U-Haul trailers have weight and size limitations. It’s critical to ensure your vehicle is compatible with the chosen trailer type and that the combined weight does not exceed the trailer’s capacity or the towing capacity of your vehicle. For example, U-Haul’s tow dolly has a maximum load of 3,450 lbs, while their auto transport trailer can handle up to 5,290 lbs. Always verify your vehicle’s weight and dimensions against the trailer specifications.
- Safety and Responsibility: When you opt for U-Haul auto transport, the responsibility for the safe loading, towing, and unloading of your vehicle rests entirely with you. Any damage to your vehicle, the trailer, or other property during transport is your liability.
U-Haul Trailer Options: Sizes and Capacities
To better understand if U-Haul is a viable option for your interstate car move, let’s look at the trailer types they offer:
- Tow Dolly: Designed for towing front-wheel-drive vehicles. The maximum load capacity is 3,450 lbs. U-Haul typically does not provide precise dimensions for tow dollies.
- Auto Transport Trailer: A full trailer designed to carry most vehicles. It has a maximum load capacity of 5,290 pounds and deck dimensions of approximately 148″ x 79.25″ x 19″ (LWH). It includes loading ramps for easier vehicle loading.
- Motorcycle Trailer: For transporting motorcycles, with inside dimensions around 7’8″ x 3’9.5″ (LW) and a weight capacity of 1,600 pounds.
It’s important to note that U-Haul states that all measurements are approximate. Trailer availability and specific models may vary at each location.
Safety First: DIY Towing vs. Professional Car Shippers
While U-Haul offers a DIY solution, it’s crucial to honestly assess your towing experience and comfort level, especially for long-distance, interstate moves.
Experienced Towers: If you have substantial experience towing trailers, including backing up, maneuvering in tight spaces, and handling various road conditions, U-Haul might be a feasible option. However, even for experienced towers, long interstate drives with a car trailer can be physically demanding and require significant time. Remember, you are solely responsible for any incidents during transport.
Inexperienced Towers: For those with little to no experience towing, attempting to transport a car across state lines using a U-Haul trailer can be risky. Towing involves skills that require practice and understanding. Simple maneuvers like reversing can become significantly challenging with a trailer, and misjudgments can lead to accidents and damage.
Considering Professional Auto Shippers: For many individuals, especially those moving cars across state lines, using a professional auto transport company offers a safer, more convenient, and often surprisingly cost-competitive alternative.
Benefits of Using Professional Car Shippers:
- Door-to-Door Service: Professional car shippers handle everything from pickup at your origin to delivery at your destination, eliminating the need for you to drive or tow.
- Reduced Risk and Liability: Licensed and insured car transport companies assume responsibility for your vehicle during transport.
- Time Savings and Convenience: You save significant time and effort by not having to drive the vehicle yourself over a long distance.
- Potentially Comparable Costs: When considering all costs associated with DIY towing (trailer rental, increased fuel, time, potential risks), professional car shipping can be surprisingly affordable and sometimes even comparable in price.
- Expertise and Equipment: Car shipping companies have specialized equipment and experienced drivers who are trained in safely transporting vehicles over long distances.
When is Professional Car Shipping the Better Choice?
While U-Haul can seem like a budget-friendly option at first glance, professional car shipping often emerges as the superior choice for interstate moves, particularly when:
- Moving Long Distance: The longer the distance, the more demanding and potentially risky DIY towing becomes.
- Lack of Towing Experience: If you are not confident in your towing abilities, professional shipping is the safer and smarter choice.
- Value of Time and Convenience: If you value your time and prefer a hassle-free move, door-to-door car shipping is significantly more convenient.
- Vehicle Safety is Paramount: Professional car shippers are equipped to handle vehicles with care and minimize the risk of damage during transport.
How AutoStar Transport Express Can Assist You
Instead of the DIY approach with U-Haul, consider the ease and reliability of professional car shipping with AutoStar Transport Express. We provide:
- Door-to-door vehicle transport: We pick up your car from your specified location and deliver it directly to your destination, whether you’re moving across the state or across the country.
- Comprehensive service: We handle all logistics, so you don’t have to worry about trailer rentals, driving long distances, or potential towing mishaps.
- Transparent car shipping rates: Our rates are competitive and based on factors like distance, vehicle type, and transport timeframe. Get a free quote online or call us at 855-881-6629 to learn more.
Edward Larrivee, Car Shipping Expert
Sol Abril, Auto Transport Specialist
