Need to move a vehicle but don’t own a car hauler?

Whether you’re transporting a project car, moving a classic vehicle, or heading to a motorsports event, renting a car trailer may be more practical than purchasing one for occasional use.

Before searching for car haulers for rent near you, it’s important to understand trailer types, towing requirements, equipment compatibility, and rental costs.

Here’s what to know before booking.

What Is a Car Hauler?

A car hauler is a trailer designed to transport vehicles.

Car haulers are available in different lengths, widths, weight capacities, and configurations.

Choosing the right trailer depends on the vehicle you’re transporting, the tow vehicle, and the equipment’s rated capacities.

Open vs. Enclosed Car Hauler Rentals

Open Car Haulers

Open car haulers typically feature an exposed deck designed to support a vehicle during transportation.

They are commonly used for transporting passenger vehicles, project cars, and other vehicles that fit within the trailer’s specifications.

Enclosed Car Haulers

Enclosed car haulers provide a covered space for vehicle transportation.

They may be useful for classic cars, specialty vehicles, and situations where additional protection from weather and road debris is desirable.

Enclosed trailers can be heavier than comparable open trailers, so towing requirements deserve particular attention.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car Hauler?

Car hauler rental prices vary by location, trailer type, rental duration, equipment features, and individual owner.

When comparing rentals, look beyond the advertised daily price.

Ask whether the quoted amount includes applicable fees and whether additional charges apply for delivery, late returns, equipment, or other services.

Also confirm whether a security deposit is required.

Can Your Truck Tow a Car Hauler?

Before renting, verify that your towing setup is suitable for the fully loaded trailer.

Important considerations include:

Tow vehicle rating: The vehicle must be rated to tow the trailer’s actual loaded weight.

Payload and tongue weight: Trailer tongue weight contributes to the load carried by the tow vehicle. Passenger and cargo weight also count toward applicable limits.

Trailer capacity: The vehicle being transported must fit within the trailer’s rated payload and axle capacities.

Hitch compatibility: Confirm the correct coupler, hitch-ball size, hitch rating, and required connections.

Braking equipment: Confirm that the trailer braking system is compatible with your tow vehicle and meets applicable requirements.

Vehicle dimensions: Check the transported vehicle’s length, width, ground clearance, and weight against the trailer’s specifications.

Do not rely on a truck’s advertised maximum towing capacity alone.

What Equipment Do You Need to Load a Vehicle?

Loading requirements depend on the trailer and vehicle.

Ask whether the rental includes suitable ramps, tie-down equipment, and any other required accessories.

Use securement equipment appropriate for the vehicle and follow the trailer manufacturer’s instructions and applicable requirements.

Improper loading or weight distribution can create serious towing hazards.

Five Questions to Ask Before Renting a Car Hauler

1. What Is the Trailer’s Rated Capacity?

Confirm that the trailer can safely accommodate the vehicle being transported.

2. Will My Vehicle Fit?

Verify deck dimensions, tire placement, loading clearance, and any other relevant dimensions.

3. What Equipment Is Included?

Ask about ramps, tie-downs, winches, and other accessories. Do not assume they’re included.

4. What Insurance Arrangements Apply?

Confirm the required coverage with the equipment owner and your insurer before accepting the rental.

5. What Are the Rental Terms?

Review the rental period, pickup and return requirements, permitted uses, and potential additional charges.

Is Renting a Car Hauler Better Than Buying One?

If you transport vehicles regularly, owning a car hauler may be practical.

If you only need one occasionally, renting can eliminate the need to purchase and store a trailer year-round.

Ownership also involves registration, maintenance, insurance considerations, and depreciation.

The right financial choice depends on how often you need the equipment and the total costs of renting versus owning.