Perhaps you’re thinking of moving cross-country and need a cargo trailer to haul your ‘stuff.’ Or, you want to partake in an outdoor adventure and would rather rent a cargo trailer than a utility trailer.
Lucky for you, there are places that provide this service. Right now, you may be asking yourself, ‘how much does it cost to rent a trailer?’ Well, let’s answer that question (and a few other you may have) in this article!
The price to rent a cargo trailer depends upon many factors including the size of unit, the distance (or mileage) required and the length of time needed.
As well, you must consider additional costs such as taxes, insurance, security deposit and environmental fees. Some units are very affordable whereas others can be quite expensive, therefore, you must inquire (in advance) online, by phone or in person.
Now that you know the typical cost of renting a trailer, let’s take a closer look at this in more detail below. We’ll discuss what the largest unit you can rent is, which companies to go through and how much it costs, on average!
We’ll also break it down further (by size) so you can determine which unit is best for your travel needs.
And now, if you’re ready to learn more about renting a cargo trailer for your next cross-county move or adventure, then let’s get started!
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Cargo Trailer?
Renting a cargo trailer differs in cost, depending on the size of the unit. Travel trailers on average cost about $50 to $125 per night, if the unit is more than 10 years old. Newer models range from $125 to $200 per night.
Most owners or rental companies will set prices based on a daily, weekly or monthly rate. This amount could change or fluctuate, depending on the season and/or location.
A tax amount is also added to the base rental price, according to the state.
Want to rent a cargo trailer one way?
Some owners may also charge an insurance fee
Also, most owners set limits on mileage and if you go over, you pay extra for each additional mile incurred (N/A for trailers). There’s also usually a security deposit tacked on, which is refunded upon the safe return of the trailer.
Other environmental fees may be included in the rental agreement as well.
What Size of Cargo Trailers are There?
Cargo trailers come in a variety of sizes, depending on your specific transport needs. There are typically 4 sizes to choose from. These include the following:
4’ X 8’ Cargo Trailer
This unit is lightweight and easily towed by even a small car. It’s the smallest enclosed trailer you can rent and can carry up to 1,600 pounds of cargo weight!
Its versatility works great for both short and long-distance travel. This unit is usually the cheapest to rent and costs around $15 per day.
5’ X 8’ Cargo Trailer
This unit is the most popular choice. It comes equipped with a hard top and lockable door, for the safety and protection of your belongings.
Weather-resistant, it can support up to 1,800 pounds of cargo weight and is easily towed by almost any vehicle. This unit is priced between $15 and $20 per day to rent.
5’ X 10’ Cargo Trailer
This unit is lightweight and great for smaller moves. It comes equipped with low-load decking, padded rub rails and automatic breaks.
It can support up to 2,000 pounds of cargo weight and is easily towed by most mid-sized vehicles, such as a Jeep or SUV. The rental price for this unit is about $30 per day.
6’ X 12’ Cargo Trailer
This unit is ideal for larger moves and must be towed by a mid-sized to large vehicle. It can carry up to 2,500 pounds of cargo weight and provides a smooth ride, great for long distance travel.
It’s the biggest do-it-yourself moving trailer available. The rental cost for this unit is upwards of $30 to $40 per day.
^ Base Prices Only ^
Don’t forget, the amounts listed above are base prices only and do not include other incidentals, such as fuel, mileage, taxes, insurance, security deposit and environmental fees.
As well, these examples are just estimated costs and each company will set its own rates. Fluctuations in price could also depend upon other factors, including the season and location in which you rent.
What is the Largest Cargo Trailer You Can Rent?
One of the largest trailers you can rent is the 6 by 12-foot unit, which can transport almost 2,500 pounds of cargo weight.
The U-Haul version, for example, comes fully equipped with additional safety features, including smooth floors, rub rails and numerous tie-downs.
This unit is designed for long distance travel and can carry several rooms worth of furniture in a single trip.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a U-Haul Trailer?
U-Haul trailers start at approximately $15 per day to rent for smaller units. Larger units are usually more, around $20 (or higher) per day, depending on the trailer’s size and capacity.
Additional costs for fuel and mileage are also factored in. Taxes, insurance, security deposit and environmental fees are also included in the overall rental price.
Where Can I Rent a Trailer Other Than U-Haul?
While U-Haul is the name that usually comes to mind when you think of trailer rentals, other companies such as Budget and Penske rent them as well.
Budget is by far the most affordable option, coming in at almost $150 less for a one-way move using a 26-foot trailer, for example, than both Penske and U-Haul.
Check online for more information regarding where and how to rent a cargo trailer near you! Also see our State Listings Page!
Does Enterprise Rent Trailers?
Enterprise Rent-a-Car doesn’t rent cargo trailers. However, they do allow you to hitch or tow a cargo trailer to one of their rental trucks.
You must inquire either online, by phone or in person beforehand to see if what they offer is appropriate for your personal travel needs.
Does Budget Rent Trailers?
Unfortunately, Budget doesn’t rent cargo trailers, however, they do have towing equipment for rent, such as car carriers and dollies.
Your best bet is to call ahead or send an email in advance and request rental information based on your individual travel needs.
Does Penske Rent Trailers?
Again, like Budget, Penske doesn’t rent cargo trailers. However, they do rent a variety of moving trucks, allowing you to haul your cargo while towing your car safely behind the vehicle.
If this is something that appeals to you, a phone call or email in advance asking for additional rental information will be required.
Does Home Depot Rent Trailers?
Unfortunately, Home Depot doesn’t rent cargo trailers, but does rent transport trucks. For local moves, the price is calculated per hour and ranges from $19 to $29, depending on the size of the vehicle.
For every additional 15 minutes of use, another $5 is added to the initial hourly rate. Be wary, however, as those extra 15 minutes of time can start to add up quickly!
The Home Depot Small Trailer Rentals
Conclusion:
To conclude, there are many factors used to determine the rental price of a cargo trailer.
The size and capacity of the unit, the distance or mileage incurred as well as the duration of time needed all affect the overall cost to rent. And, don’t forget about taxes, insurance, security deposit and environmental fees as well!
Some units are very affordable whereas others can be quite expensive so you must do research online, by phone or in person beforehand.
Local companies like U-Haul and Hertz provide many different rental options, depending on your travel needs. If you choose to forgo rent, you can buy used cargo trailers at reasonable prices through websites such as eBay, Craigslist and Amazon.
Good luck and safe travels!