“I recently needed to rent a cargo trailer for a cross-country move, and the first question that popped into my head was—how much does a cargo trailer rental actually cost? Turns out, prices can vary widely depending on size, distance, and rental duration. After digging into quotes from multiple companies, I realized a few key factors make all the difference in getting the best deal.”
“When I started comparing cargo trailer rental prices, I was surprised by how many options were out there—from small utility trailers to massive enclosed haulers. Local rentals for a weekend might run as low as $50, while long-distance moves could cost $200 or more per day. The type of trailer (open vs. enclosed) and added fees like insurance or mileage caps also played a big role in the final price.”
“So, what’s the real cost of renting a cargo trailer? Based on my experience, budgeting $100–$300 per day is a safe estimate, but you’ll want to get quotes early—peak moving seasons often mean higher rates. I learned that booking in advance and avoiding one-way rentals (when possible) saved me nearly 30%. Here’s how to break down the costs without overpaying.”
U-Haul Cargo Trailer Rental Prices
From my experience, U-Haul trailers offer great flexibility for both local and one-way moves. Let me walk you through their pricing and features.
U-Haul Cargo Trailer Rental Rates
In-Town Rental Rates: Prices begin at $14.95 for one day. The final cost depends on the trailer size and your location.One-Way Rental Rates: The rate is set by the trailer size, your moving route, and the date you choose. These prices can change, so I suggest booking ahead to lock in a better rate.Rate Per Day: A typical rate is $20. If you need the trailer longer, each extra day will cost about $20. You should always check your rental agreement for the exact cost.
Mileage Fees: I really like this feature. All rentals come with unlimited mileage. You won’t pay extra per-mile fees for local or one-way trips.
What You Need for a Deposit
- Credit Card: If you pay with a major credit card, you won’t need a deposit. I find this to be the simplest option.
- Cash Payments: For local rentals paid with cash, a deposit is necessary at pickup. You will pay either $100 or the total estimated rental charges, whichever is higher.
Popular U-Haul Trailer Models and Features
- This is the largest covered trailer U-Haul has.
- Capacity: It holds up to 2,500 lbs and has about 400 cubic feet of storage.
- Features: I appreciate the low deck for simple loading. It also has a smooth floor, a wide access door, and includes surge brakes for safety.
- I recommend this model because it’s the most affordable and popular choice.
- Capacity: It carries up to 1,800 lbs and is large enough to fit a queen-size bed.
- All cargo trailers have a hard top and a lockable door to keep your items secure.
U-Haul Trailer Rental Cost Quick View
| Trailer Size | In-Town Rate (starting at) | Typical Rate Per Day | One-Way Rate | Deposit (cash) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5×8 Enclosed | $14.95 | $20 | Varies by route | $100 or estimated charges | Fits queen bed, 1,800 lbs capacity |
| 6×12 Enclosed | $14.95 | $20 | Varies by route | $100 or estimated charges | 2,500 lbs capacity, 400 cu ft, surge brakes |
More Details I Think are Useful
- Every U-Haul trailer is built to handle the weather. They also come with many tie-down points and secure locks to protect your belongings.
- Here’s a safety tip I always follow: Your trailer ball height needs to be between 18½ to 18¾ inches to tow safely. U-Haul sells adjustable ball mounts if you need one.
- One-way rates can change without much notice. I recommend confirming your reservation as soon as you can to get the best price.
Home Depot Cargo Trailer Rental Prices
From my experience, renting a cargo trailer from Home Depot is straightforward. Their prices are clear and depend on the trailer’s size, how long you need it, and your local store. I’ve found that rentals range from $20 to $190 per day. Smaller trailers are cheaper. The bigger or more specialized ones, like dump trailers, will cost you more.
| Trailer Type | Rental Cost (4 Hours) | Rental Cost (Per Day) | Rental Cost (Per Week) | Rental Cost (Four Weeks) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5’x8′ Solid-Wall Trailer | $42 | $42 | $168 | $504 |
| 5’x8′ Channel Frame Trailer | $39 | $39 | $156 | $468 |
| 3’x5′ Lawn & Garden Trailer | $21 | $20 | $80 | $240 |
| Dump Trailer: 5’x8′ | $149 | – | – | – |
| Dump Trailer: 6’x10′ | $164 | – | – | – |
| Dump Trailer: 7’x14′ | $179 | – | – | – |
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What I Find Notable
I really appreciate that Home Depot is clear about its pricing. I have not found any hidden fees. My main advice is to return your trailer on time. This helps you avoid late penalties and protects your deposit.Prices and what’s available can change from store to store. For this reason, I suggest you check with your local Home Depot. You can call them or look at their online rental site before you finalize your plans.
Lowe’s Cargo Trailer Rental Prices
Thinking about renting a trailer or truck from Lowe’s? I’ve looked into their rental options and costs. Here’s what I found out.
Lowe’s Cargo Trailer & Vehicle Rental Rates
- 90-minute pickup truck rental: $19
- 4-hour rental: $89
- 24-hour rental: The price isn’t listed online. I suggest you ask in the store for details.
- Multi-day options: You can rent for multiple days. The price changes, so I’d recommend calling your local Lowe’s to be sure.
- Cargo trailer rental prices: I’ve noticed they don’t advertise these prices all the time. The cost and whether they have one depends on your local store and the specific trailer model.
Deposit and Payment Requirements
- Deposit: You need to pay a $200 deposit before you can rent any vehicle or equipment.
- Credit card prepayment: You must prepay with a credit card to get your rental started.
- ¾-ton rental trucks: These have an 8-foot bed and a cab for three people. They can carry up to a ton, which I think is great for big hauls or moving.
- Carry-On Trailer 5×8 enclosed trailer: In my experience, Lowe’s usually sells these trailers instead of renting them. Still, they give you a good idea of size. They can carry up to 2,130 lbs. That’s usually enough for most things you need to move at home.
Lowe’s Rental Terms and Conditions
- Local returns: You have to return all rental gear to the same Lowe’s store you rented it from.
- Return condition: I recommend bringing the rental back clean. You also need to fill up the gas tank to avoid extra fees.
- Towing policy: As a rule, you can’t use a Lowe’s truck to tow your own things. You can only use it to tow equipment you rent from them.
- Rental periods: You have a few options for how long you rent. You can choose a 4-hour, 24-hour, week-long, or month-long (four-week) period.
- Damage protection: You can buy optional damage coverage for an extra fee. I’d consider this for peace of mind.
- Pickup & drop-off: You will pick up and drop off your rental in special parking spots at Lowe’s.
- Equipment range: I’ve found that not every Lowe’s has cargo trailers for rent. However, they do have a lot of other things. You can usually rent trucks, power tools, and even landscaping equipment.
Typical Rental Example
For example, let’s say I need to move furniture for half a day. I would expect to pay $89 for a 4-hour truck rental. I’d also have to put down a $200 deposit and pay for gas. If my store has a 5×8 enclosed trailer, I know it can carry up to 2,130 lbs. From my perspective, that’s perfect for bulky furniture or other big items.
A final tip: From what I’ve seen, Lowe’s rental prices and what they offer can be different from store to store. I strongly suggest you call your local Lowe’s first. This will help you get the latest prices and see what they have before you plan your trip.
Penske Cargo Trailer Rental Prices
In my opinion, Penske is a go-to choice if you need a professional-grade cargo trailer. They focus on business customers and offer several trailer types. You can rent a dry van, refrigerated, or flatbed trailer. I’ve found their common sizes are quite large, like 43 or 53 feet, which is great for big jobs.
Penske Cargo Trailer Rental Options & Features
Trailer Types Available: You can choose from dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed trailers.Sizes: They offer 43 ft or 53 ft trailers. I find these are perfect for large loads or business use.Flexible Rental Terms: I like their flexibility. You can rent by the day, week, or choose a monthly plan for longer projects.Maintenance Included: A huge plus for me is that all rentals come with full-service maintenance.24/7 Roadside Assistance: You get professional support at any hour during your rental.Real-Time Tracking: This feature adds extra security and helps with logistics.Available Tractors: If you need one, you can add a day cab or sleeper tractor to your rental.
Penske Cargo Trailer Rental Pricing Details
Pricing Transparency: Penske does not show exact rental prices on its website. From my experience, each price is customized. It is based on the trailer type, size, rental time, and pickup location.How to Get a Price: I suggest you speak with a Penske representative for a precise quote. You can visit a Penske location, call their hotline at 1-844-906-3404, or fill out a form on their website.Leasing Option: For businesses that need a trailer long-term, Penske offers leasing with a fixed rate each month. I think this makes budgeting simple, as the fee includes all maintenance and support.No Hidden Fees: I appreciate their clear cost structure. Everything is included in the quote, so you won’t find surprise charges.Special Offers: You might find seasonal discounts for truck rentals. I have not seen these offers apply to trailer-only rentals.
Summary Table: Penske Cargo Trailer Rental Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Trailer Types | Dry Van, Refrigerated, Flatbed |
| Common Sizes | 43 ft, 48 ft, 53 ft |
| Rental Terms | Daily, Weekly, Monthly Leasing |
| Maintenance | Full-service included |
| Roadside Assistance | 24/7 support included |
| Pricing | Custom quote needed; fixed rates for leasing |
| Customer Focus | Business and commercial customers |
| How to Get a Quote | Contact Penske by phone, website, or in person |
My Take
Based on my experience, I recommend Penske if you need a heavy-duty trailer for your business or a large move. Their full-service maintenance and 24/7 roadside help provide great peace of mind. This is a big deal for longer trips or extended projects. Since prices are based on a quote, I suggest you contact Penske with your requirements ahead of time. This will help you get the most accurate estimate for your cargo trailer rental.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_qO5C3z6s8
Regional & Local Trailer Rental Company Prices
Based on my research, prices for local cargo trailer rentals change quite a bit. The final cost depends on your location, the size of the trailer, and how long you need to rent it. After looking into several companies in different places, here is what I discovered:
- Average Daily Rates: I found that most local companies charge $50 to $100 per day. The typical price I saw was around $70/day. Your exact price will change based on the trailer’s type and size. For instance:
- 4×8 trailers: $20–$40/day
- 5×8 trailers: $20–$90/day
- 6×10 trailers: $30–$50/day
- 6×12 trailers: $30–$80/day
- 7×14 trailers: $70–$100/day
- 8.5×24 trailers: $70–$180/day
- Rental Duration and Discounts:
- Half day: $20–$80
- Full day: $20–$190
- 1 week: $70–$420
- 4 weeks: $240–$880
In my experience, you usually get a lower per-day rate when you rent for a longer time.
Example: Houston Regional Trailer Companies
- Texas Trailer Country (Houston):
- You must rent for at least 2 days.
- You have to pick up and return the trailers to their yard.
- They offer rates for the day, weekend, week, or month.
- They replace their trailers every 1 to 1.5 years and keep them maintained for good reliability.
- Lonestar Trailer Rentals (Houston):
- It costs $80/day for a standard cargo trailer or car hauler.
- Their Lamar Car Hauler (102″x22′) is $140/day plus tax and has a 7,000 lb weight limit.
- They offer flexible and contactless options for pickup and drop-off.
- Be aware, they have a 2-day minimum and specific insurance and vehicle rules.
- Trailer City (Houston):
- They only rent for local use; you cannot take their trailers outside the service area.
- A rental period is for exactly 24 hours.
- As the customer, you are responsible for all fees and damages.
Common Regional/Local Rental Policies
- Requirements:
- A rental agreement and a damage insurance form
- A valid driver’s license (like a Texas driver’s license)
- Current insurance for the towing vehicle
- A credit card on file
- Your towing vehicle must have the proper equipment
- Limitations:
- You must return the trailer to the same place you picked it up. One-way rentals are not an option.
- Some companies do not allow their trailers to leave the state or country.
- It’s common to have a minimum rental period, which is often 2 days.
- I found that some providers have weekend or after-hours choices for pickup and return.
Popular Trailer Sizes & Use Cases
In my opinion, the 6×12 enclosed trailers are one of the most popular choices. They hold up to 2,500 lbs and offer about 400 cubic feet of space. I find them great for both local moves and long hauls. Many local providers have these sizes since they are perfect for moving furniture or other large items.
In summary:
From what I’ve seen, local cargo trailer rentals start as low as $20/day for a small trailer. Larger models can cost more than $180/day. Prices, rules, and what’s available can change a lot between companies. I recommend calling local businesses directly to get a quote for your specific needs. You should always ask about their insurance, vehicle requirements, and rules for taking the trailer out of the area.
Understanding Extra Fees (Insurance, Deposits, Tolls, and More)
When I rent a cargo trailer, I know the daily or weekly rate isn’t the whole story. You need to account for other fees. These include insurance, deposits, toll processing, and maybe even damage claims. All of these can raise your total rental cost.
Insurance Fees
Some rental companies require you to buy insurance, while others offer it as an option. For instance, Budget Truck Rental has a Complete Protection Package for $59.18 per day. This plan covers damage to you and the truck you rent.On peer-to-peer sites like Towlos, you may need to show proof of insurance. Sometimes you have to purchase an extra policy. This is common if the trailer has a VIN or is a high-value item.
Deposit Requirements by Company
U-Haul: You often don’t need a deposit if you pay with a credit card. If you use cash, you will pay a deposit of $60 for in-town rentals or $75 for towing equipment. For one-way rentals, the deposit is $60 or $75 plus the rental rate; you pay whichever amount is greater. All expected charges are due when you pick up the trailer.Home Depot: I find their policy is straightforward. They require a $100 credit card deposit for all trailer rentals at pickup. They will not accept cash for a deposit.Towlos: Security deposits are different for each rental because the host sets the price. These deposits can cover damage, loss, or toll costs from your rental period.
Toll Processing & Administrative Fees
Some companies make you handle your own toll charges. For example, if a trailer goes through a toll without payment, the company may deduct the charge from your security deposit. This happens after you return the trailer. Florida’s SunPass system is a good example; hosts must register their trailers. This system makes it easy to process tolls and bill them to the renterFrom my experience on platforms like Towlos, renters are responsible for any physical loss or damage to the trailer. You should be very careful during your rental.The company might keep part of your security deposit to cover repairs or lost equipment. If you disagree with a claim, there is usually a specific process to resolve the dispute.
Examples of Extra Fees from Different Rental Companies
U-Haul: You might pay a cash deposit of $60–$75+. You also have to pay all the estimated charges at the start of your rental.Budget Truck Rental: They offer an optional protection package at $59.18/day. I suggest checking your own policy, as you may be responsible for damage that isn’t covered.Home Depot: You will pay a flat $100 deposit by credit card. Their insurance information isn’t always specified, so you should ask about it.Towlos: The security deposit amount varies, and you often have to pay one. The host may also require insurance and can bill you for tolls or damages.
My Key Tips to Avoid Surprise Charges
I recommend you always confirm the required insurance coverage. Ask what the policy includes.Be sure you know the deposit amount. Check which payment methods are accepted (credit card, cash) and the refund policies.Ask if the company will deduct tolls, damage, or late fees from your deposit or bill you later.Review the rental agreement. Look for a breakdown of all upfront charges, like the base rate, deposit, and any protection plans you selected.Before you reserve your trailer, I suggest you check with the rental company. Ask for their latest policies on fees and deposits. This planning helps you prepare for the real cost, not just the advertised price.
Cargo Trailer Rental Cost Comparison Table
I’ve created this cargo trailer rental cost comparison table. It should help you compare providers, trailer types, sizes, and price details.
| Trailer Type / Size | Typical Use | Rental Rate Per Day | Cargo Capacity / Space | Example Providers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4×8 Enclosed Cargo Trailer | Studio/box moves, small furniture | $15–$24 | 1,650 lbs / 142 cu. ft | U-Haul, Local, National |
| 5×8 Enclosed Cargo Trailer | 1-bedroom, furniture + boxes | $19–$28 | 1,800 lbs / 208 cu. ft | U-Haul, Local |
| 6×12 Enclosed Cargo Trailer | 2-bedrooms, large furniture, appliances | $29.95–$40 | 2,480 lbs / 396 cu. ft | U-Haul, Local |
| 4×7 Utility Trailer | Yard debris, small tools | $14.95–$15 | 1,770 lbs / 26 sq. ft | U-Haul |
| 5×8 Utility Trailer | Gardening, small mowers | $19 | 1,890 lbs / 38 sq. ft | U-Haul |
| 5×9 Utility w/ Ramp | Motorcycles, riding mowers | $25 | 1,650 lbs / 43 sq. ft | U-Haul |
| 6×12 Utility Trailer | Heavy/large items, home renovations | $30–$35 | 2,670–3,710 lbs / 74 sq. ft | U-Haul |
| Open Utility Trailer | Oversized, irregular loads | $30–$50 | Varies by model | Home Depot, Regional |
| Dump Trailer | Construction debris, gravel, landscaping | $60–$130 | Varies by size | Home Depot, Local |
| Livestock Trailer | Animals: horses, cattle, sheep | $50–$140 | Varies by type | Regional |
| Flatbed Trailer | Vehicles, equipment, machinery | $30–$190 | Varies by length/load | Penske, Regional |
A Quick Look at Rental Prices
I found the national average cost per day is around $70. Most rentals are between $50 and $100 per day.The lowest rate I could find was $14.95 per day for a 4×7 utility trailer.From my experience, a specialty trailer for large equipment can cost $190 or more each day.Here are some sample local rates I found from U-Haul:
- 4×8 Enclosed: $24/day
- 5×8 Enclosed: $28/day
- 6×12 Enclosed: $40/day
What I Suggest You Watch For: Extra Costs
An insurance add-on will cost you $14–$28 per day. The price depends on the plan you choose.For local rentals, you might pay $0.59–$0.99 per mile. One-way trips often have mileage included.I estimate that a 500 to 1,000-mile move with a 5×8 trailer can cost $645–$1,191. A hitch installation and other add-ons will increase your total.You can also rent accessories. In my opinion, these are useful:
- Furniture pads: $10/dozen
- Hand truck: $7/day
- Tow dolly: $44.95/day
- Auto transport: $54.95/day
My Final Recommendations
Based on my experience, larger trailers or renting for more days will increase your total cost a lot.Rental rates and availability can change. This depends on your location, the time of year, and how high the demand is.I recommend you always check for extra charges. These can include insurance, mileage, deposits, and accessories.If you book in advance and compare local options, I believe you can get a lower rate.
summary
Based on my experience researching and comparing cargo trailer prices, I learned an important lesson. The key is not just about finding the cheapest rate. It’s about understanding the total cost before you rent.You might pick U-Haul because it’s easy, or Home Depot for a short, local move. You may also find a regional provider for special needs. I suggest you carefully compare these options. Always read the contract details. Taking this time will save you money and prevent stress. I’ve found that a little planning helps the move go smoothly and keeps costs predictable.
FAQs
1. How much does it cost to rent a cargo trailer for a day?
Daily rates typically range from $50 to $150 for small utility trailers and $100 to $300 for larger enclosed trailers. Prices depend on size, location, and rental duration—weekend or weekly rentals often come with discounts.
2. What’s cheaper: an open or enclosed cargo trailer?
Open trailers (like flatbeds) are usually 30–50% cheaper than enclosed ones since they offer less protection. However, enclosed trailers are worth the extra cost if you’re hauling fragile or weather-sensitive items.
3. Are there hidden fees when renting a cargo trailer?
Watch out for mileage limits, insurance fees, and cleaning charges. Some companies charge extra if you exceed a daily mileage cap (e.g., 100–200 miles). Always ask for a full breakdown before booking.
4. Is it cheaper to rent a cargo trailer one-way or round-trip?
Round-trip rentals are almost always more affordable because one-way rentals often include drop-off fees (sometimes $100+). If possible, return the trailer to the same location.
5. Can I save money by renting a cargo trailer long-term?
Yes! Weekly or monthly rentals often come with discounted rates—sometimes up to 30% off the daily price. If you need the trailer for more than 3–4 days, ask about extended rental discounts.
These FAQs should help you budget smarter and avoid surprises when renting a cargo trailer. Need a quote? Compare prices from local and national rental companies for the best deal.
