Where to Rent a Car Dolly: Your Comprehensive Guide

Moving a vehicle can be a complex task, especially when you need to transport a car without driving it directly. This is where a car dolly becomes an invaluable tool. A car dolly, also known as a tow dolly, is a specialized trailer designed to tow a vehicle by supporting two of its wheels while the other two remain on the ground. If you’re planning a move, relocating a vehicle, or need to transport a non-operational car, understanding Where To Rent A Car Dolly and how to do it correctly is essential.

As your trusted automotive expert from cars.edu.vn, we’re here to guide you through the process of renting a car dolly. This guide will cover everything you need to know, from finding rental locations to understanding the terms and conditions, ensuring you make an informed decision and have a smooth towing experience.

Understanding Car Dollies and Their Uses

Before diving into rental options, let’s clarify what a car dolly is and why it might be the right choice for your vehicle transportation needs. A car dolly is a two-wheeled trailer equipped with ramps and straps to secure the front or rear wheels of a vehicle. The other set of wheels rolls freely on the road, allowing for efficient towing behind a moving truck or another suitable vehicle.

Car dollies are particularly useful in several situations:

Local Moves: For short-distance moves, especially when you’re already renting a moving truck, a car dolly can be a cost-effective and convenient way to transport your car.
Relocating Non-Operational Vehicles: If you have a car that isn’t currently running but needs to be moved, a car dolly is an ideal solution, avoiding the need for expensive flatbed towing.
Saving Mileage and Wear: Towing your car on a dolly prevents putting extra miles on its odometer and reduces wear and tear compared to driving it long distances.
Emergency Vehicle Recovery: In situations where a vehicle breaks down and needs to be moved to a repair shop or home, a car dolly can be quickly rented to facilitate the transport.

Alt Text: Car dolly connected to Budget moving truck, preparing for vehicle towing.

Why Rent a Car Dolly Instead of Other Options?

When considering vehicle transport, you might wonder if a car dolly is the best option compared to other methods like flatbed trailers or auto transport services. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:

Car Dolly vs. Flatbed Trailer: Flatbed trailers transport the entire vehicle off the ground, offering maximum protection and are suitable for all-wheel-drive vehicles that cannot be towed with two wheels on the ground. However, flatbed trailers are generally more expensive to rent and require more experience to operate and maneuver due to their size and weight. Car dollies are more affordable, lighter, and easier to handle, making them suitable for front-wheel or rear-wheel drive vehicles.
Car Dolly vs. Auto Transport Services: Auto transport services involve hiring a professional company to ship your vehicle. This is convenient for long distances or when you prefer not to handle the towing yourself. However, it is significantly more expensive than renting a car dolly and towing the vehicle yourself. Renting a car dolly offers more control over your timeline and can be much more economical for those comfortable with DIY towing.
Car Dolly vs. Towing with a Rope or Chain: Towing with just a rope or chain is generally unsafe, illegal in many areas, and can cause damage to both vehicles. Car dollies are designed specifically for safe and legal towing, providing secure attachment and braking systems.

For many DIY movers and individuals needing to transport a vehicle short to medium distances, renting a car dolly strikes a good balance between cost, convenience, and ease of use.

Where to Rent a Car Dolly: Exploring Your Options

Now, let’s get to the core question: where to rent a car dolly? Several rental companies specialize in moving equipment and offer car dollies as part of their fleet. Here are some of the most common places to consider:

1. Budget Truck Rental

Budget Truck Rental is a leading name in the moving and truck rental industry, and they also offer car dollies and auto transport equipment as additional services. Renting from a well-established company like Budget provides several advantages:

Wide Availability: With numerous locations across the United States, finding a Budget Truck Rental near you is usually straightforward. This extensive network makes it convenient to pick up and return your car dolly.
Reliable Equipment: Budget Truck Rental maintains a fleet of well-maintained car dollies, ensuring that you get dependable equipment for your towing needs.
Clear Rental Terms: As a reputable company, Budget Truck Rental provides clear terms and conditions, outlining your responsibilities and the company’s liabilities. Understanding these terms is crucial for a smooth rental experience.

According to Budget Truck Rental’s Rental Terms and Conditions, they rent “vehicle and other property and accessories listed on the Rental Document (collectively the “Truck”). Such property may include a tow dolly, car carrier, auto transport equipment or other towing devices provided by us under this agreement at additional charge.” This confirms that car dollies are indeed part of their rental offerings.

Key Considerations When Renting from Budget Truck Rental (Based on their Terms and Conditions):

Prohibited Uses: Be aware of the prohibited uses of the towing equipment as outlined in their agreement. For instance, you cannot use the tow dolly to tow anything other than “Budget Towing Equipment” or use “Budget Towing Equipment on your own or anyone else’s vehicle”. Violating these terms can void liability protections and optional services you might have accepted.
Authorized Drivers: Ensure that anyone who will be operating the towing equipment is an authorized driver as per the rental agreement. This typically includes the person who signs the rental document and potentially additional drivers added to the agreement for an extra charge.
Truck Condition and No Warranties: Budget Truck Rental states that they make “NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY AS TO ANY MATTER WHATSOEVER. THIS INCLUDES, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE CONDITION OF THE TRUCK, OR THE TRUCK’S MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE.” While they ensure the equipment is in “good and useable condition,” it’s important to inspect the car dolly yourself upon pickup and note any pre-existing damage.
Fuel is Not Included: Rental rates do not include fuel. If you are renting a moving truck along with the car dolly, remember that you are responsible for the fuel for the truck. However, this is not directly applicable to car dolly rental alone, unless it’s bundled with a truck rental.
Return Policy: Return the car dolly to the specified location on the due date and time to avoid late return fees. Returning it to a different location than agreed upon can also incur extra charges.

How to Rent a Car Dolly from Budget Truck Rental:

Visit their website or call: Go to Budget Truck Rental’s website (budgettruck.com) or call their customer service to inquire about car dolly rentals.
Specify your needs: Indicate that you want to rent a car dolly and specify the dates you need it. You’ll likely need to provide information about the vehicle you intend to tow to ensure compatibility.
Check availability and reserve: Confirm the availability of car dollies at your desired pickup location and reserve it in advance, especially during peak moving seasons.
Review rental terms: Carefully read through the rental agreement, paying close attention to the terms and conditions related to towing equipment, liability, and return policies.
Pick up the car dolly: On your rental day, go to the designated Budget Truck Rental location to pick up your car dolly. Inspect the equipment for any damage before leaving the premises and ensure you understand how to properly attach and use it.

Alt Text: Sign for Budget Truck Rental location, advertising vehicle rental services.

2. U-Haul

U-Haul is another major player in the moving equipment rental industry, well-known for its trailers, trucks, and moving supplies. They also offer car tow dollies for rent.

Extensive Network: Similar to Budget, U-Haul has a vast network of locations, making it easy to find a rental spot in most areas.
Variety of Towing Options: U-Haul offers different types of tow dollies and trailers, catering to various vehicle towing needs.
Online Resources and Support: U-Haul provides helpful online resources, including guides and videos on how to hook up and use their car dollies.

Considerations for U-Haul Car Dolly Rentals:

Specific Vehicle Requirements: U-Haul has specific requirements regarding the vehicles that can be towed with their dollies. You’ll need to provide details about your tow vehicle and the vehicle being towed to ensure compatibility.
Insurance and Protection Plans: U-Haul offers various insurance and protection plans. Review these options to understand what is covered and if you need additional protection beyond their basic coverage.
Reservation Policies: U-Haul’s reservation policies, including cancellation and modification terms, should be clearly understood to avoid any unexpected fees.

Renting a Car Dolly from U-Haul:

Visit U-Haul’s website or location: Go to uhaul.com or visit a U-Haul location to inquire about car dolly rentals.
Enter your details: Provide information about your pickup location, dates, and the vehicles involved to check for available car dollies.
Review equipment and options: Explore the types of car dollies U-Haul offers and choose the one that best fits your needs. Consider any optional protection plans.
Make a reservation: Reserve your car dolly online or at a U-Haul center.
Pickup and inspect: On the rental day, pick up your car dolly, carefully inspect it, and ask U-Haul staff for any instructions or clarifications on usage and safety.

3. Local Tool and Equipment Rental Stores

Beyond the big national companies, local tool and equipment rental stores can also be excellent sources for car dolly rentals.

Personalized Service: Local stores often provide more personalized customer service and can offer tailored advice based on your specific towing needs.
Competitive Pricing: Local rental shops may have competitive pricing and sometimes offer better deals than larger corporations.
Community Support: Renting locally supports small businesses in your community.

Finding Local Rental Stores:

Online Search: Use search engines like Google or Bing and search for “car dolly rental near me” or “tool rental [your city]” to find local options.
Yellow Pages or Local Directories: Check online yellow pages or local business directories.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask friends, neighbors, or local mechanics if they know of any reliable tool rental stores in your area.

Renting from Local Stores:

Contact local stores: Call or visit local tool and equipment rental stores in your vicinity.
Inquire about car dollies: Ask if they rent car dollies, and if so, inquire about their types, rental rates, and terms.
Compare options: Compare the offerings, prices, and terms from different local stores to find the best deal and service.
Reserve and pickup: Once you choose a store, reserve your car dolly and arrange for pickup. Ensure you understand their rental agreement and inspect the equipment upon pickup.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Car Dolly Rental

Regardless of where you decide to rent, consider these crucial factors to ensure you choose the right car dolly and have a safe towing experience:

1. Rental Costs and Fees

Daily Rental Rate: The base cost is usually a daily rate. Compare rates from different rental locations.
Mileage Fees (if applicable): Some rentals might include mileage fees, especially if bundled with a truck rental. Clarify if there are any mileage restrictions or charges.
Security Deposit: Most rental companies require a security deposit, which is refunded when you return the car dolly in good condition.
Taxes and Additional Fees: Factor in any taxes, environmental fees, or other surcharges that might be added to the rental cost.
Late Return Fees: Be aware of the fees for returning the car dolly late. Plan your schedule to avoid these charges.
Cancellation Fees: Understand the cancellation policy. Some companies charge a fee if you cancel your reservation close to the pickup date.

2. Rental Terms and Conditions

Read the Agreement: Always thoroughly read the rental agreement before signing. Pay attention to clauses about liability, prohibited uses, damage responsibility, and insurance options.
Liability Protection: Understand the base liability protection provided by the rental company. Determine if it’s sufficient for your needs or if you should consider supplemental liability insurance (SLI) or other protection options.
Damage Waivers: Explore Physical Damage Waiver (PDW), Limited Damage Waiver (LDW), or Commercial Damage Waiver (CDW) options. These waivers can limit or waive your responsibility for damage to the car dolly, but they usually come at an additional cost. Note the exclusions; for example, Budget Truck Rental’s waivers often exclude tire damage from curbing and overhead damage.
Prohibited Uses: Be very clear on what is considered prohibited use. Violating these terms can void your liability protection and make you responsible for all damages and associated costs.
Geographical Restrictions: Some rental agreements may have geographical restrictions on where you can use the equipment. For example, Budget Truck Rental’s terms mention restrictions to the contiguous United States, excluding Alaska, Canada, or Mexico.

3. Types of Car Dollies Available

Fixed vs. Swivel Pan Dollies: Fixed pan dollies require you to steer the dolly by turning the tow vehicle, while swivel pan dollies allow the car on the dolly to pivot, making turning easier. Swivel pan dollies are generally preferred for easier maneuverability, especially for less experienced towers.
Braked vs. Unbraked Dollies: Larger, heavier dollies often come with brakes, which are essential for safe towing, especially with heavier vehicles or in hilly terrain. Ensure the dolly you rent is appropriate for the weight of the vehicle you plan to tow and consider braked dollies for added safety.
Adjustable Straps and Security Features: Check the quality and condition of the straps and security mechanisms that hold the towed vehicle in place. Ensure they are in good working order and easy to use.

4. Towing Vehicle Compatibility

Towing Capacity: Verify that your tow vehicle (truck, SUV, etc.) has sufficient towing capacity for the combined weight of the car dolly and the vehicle you intend to tow. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for towing capacity information.
Hitch Compatibility: Ensure your tow vehicle has the correct type of hitch receiver and ball mount that is compatible with the car dolly’s coupler. Common sizes are 2-inch ball hitches, but confirm the requirement with the rental company.
Lighting and Electrical Connections: Car dollies require proper lighting (brake lights, turn signals) for legal and safe towing. Check that the dolly has functioning lights and that your tow vehicle has the appropriate electrical connector to power them. Most commonly, this is a 4-pin flat connector, but some may require a 7-pin connector with a brake controller.

Step-by-Step Guide to Renting and Using a Car Dolly

To make your car dolly rental process as smooth as possible, here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Reservation and Booking

Plan Ahead: Reserve your car dolly in advance, especially if you need it during a peak moving season or weekend.
Online or Phone Reservation: Use the rental company’s website or call their customer service to make a reservation.
Provide Necessary Information: Be ready to provide details about your tow vehicle and the vehicle you’ll be towing (make, model, year, weight).
Confirm Details: Double-check the pickup date, return date, location, rental rate, and any included or optional services.

2. Pickup and Inspection

Arrive on Time: Arrive at the rental location on time for your scheduled pickup.
Bring Required Documents: Bring your driver’s license, proof of insurance (if required), and the credit card used for the reservation.
Inspect the Dolly: Thoroughly inspect the car dolly before leaving the rental location. Check for any visible damage, tire condition, strap condition, and working lights. Note any pre-existing damage on the rental agreement to avoid being charged for it later.
Ask for Instructions: If you’re not familiar with car dollies, ask the rental staff for a demonstration on how to properly attach the dolly to your tow vehicle and how to load and secure the vehicle being towed.

3. Loading and Securing the Vehicle

Position the Dolly: Position the car dolly in a safe, level area.
Align the Vehicle: Carefully align the vehicle you’re towing with the dolly ramps.
Drive or Push Vehicle onto Dolly: Slowly drive or push the vehicle onto the dolly ramps until the designated wheels are positioned on the dolly platform.
Secure with Straps: Use the provided straps to securely fasten the vehicle’s wheels to the dolly. Follow the instructions provided by the rental company or watch instructional videos if available. Ensure the straps are tight and properly positioned.
Double-Check Security: Before towing, double-check that the vehicle is securely fastened to the dolly and that all straps are tight.

4. Safe Towing Practices

Drive Slowly and Smoothly: When towing, drive at a slower speed than you normally would, especially when turning or braking. Avoid sudden stops and starts.
Allow Extra Braking Distance: Towing increases your stopping distance. Allow significantly more space between you and the vehicle ahead.
Wider Turns: Make wider turns than usual to accommodate the length of the dolly and towed vehicle.
Regular Checks: Stop periodically (every 50-100 miles) to check the straps, tire pressure of both the tow vehicle and the dolly, and the hitch connection.
Be Aware of Height and Width: Be mindful of the height and width of your combined setup, especially when going under bridges, through tunnels, or in narrow lanes.

5. Returning the Car Dolly

Clean the Dolly (if required): Some rental agreements may require you to return the dolly in a clean condition.
Return on Time: Return the car dolly to the agreed-upon location by the specified return date and time to avoid late fees.
Inspect Upon Return: Walk around the dolly with the rental staff upon return to ensure there are no new damages and to finalize the rental agreement.
Get a Receipt: Obtain a final receipt confirming the return and any charges. Keep this receipt for your records.

Conclusion: Renting a Car Dolly for Efficient Vehicle Transport

Renting a car dolly can be a practical and cost-effective solution for moving vehicles in various situations. By understanding where to rent a car dolly—whether from major companies like Budget Truck Rental and U-Haul, or from local rental stores—and by carefully considering factors like rental terms, costs, and safety practices, you can ensure a successful and stress-free towing experience.

As your automotive resource at cars.edu.vn, we encourage you to choose a reputable rental provider, thoroughly understand the rental agreement, and always prioritize safety when towing. With the right preparation and knowledge, renting and using a car dolly can simplify your vehicle transportation needs significantly.

Remember to visit Budget Truck Rental, U-Haul, and local rental stores to explore your options and find the best car dolly rental solution for your specific requirements. Happy towing!