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Route 66 Auto Repair in Upland rents the U-Haul equipment that moves one vehicle behind another: tow dollies, auto transport trailers and motorcycle trailers. The right pick depends on what is being towed, what is doing the towing, and how far it is going. This page walks through those questions. You reserve on uhaul.com, and every unit gets a free hookup check here.
Questions that pick the equipment
- What is being towed? A front-wheel-drive car, a rear-wheel or all-wheel-drive vehicle, or a motorcycle.
- What is towing it? Your own pickup or SUV, or a U-Haul moving truck on the same reservation.
- How far and how steep? An in-town hop is different from a one-way move over the Cajon Pass.
- Can you pull through at every stop? If not, a dolly is the wrong choice.
- Who is loading? Two people make car and bike loading far safer.
Can a U-Haul moving truck tow my car?
Often, yes. Many moves pair a moving truck with a dolly or an auto transport trailer, so one driver moves the household and the car together. The reservation on uhaul.com checks which trucks and towing equipment work together. Our combined truck and trailer rental page explains how pickup works when both units leave together.
Using your own vehicle to tow
If your pickup or SUV does the pulling, three things matter: a towing rating that covers the equipment plus the vehicle on it, a hitch that meets U-Haul requirements, and working trailer lights. Read the trailer hitch and tow package page before you book. A car behind you is heavy. Brakes, tires, the cooling system and the transmission all work harder, so be honest about their condition.
Moving-day towing checklist
Checklist
- 01Reservation confirmation and license in hand
- 02Ball mount and correct ball installed on the tow vehicle
- 03Trailer light plug tested at home
- 04Towed vehicle tires inflated
- 05Loose items removed from the towed car
- 06Towed car's keys in your pocket, not inside it
- 07A helper and a flat place to load
Our towing equipment pickup process
Step 1: Review both vehicles
We match the tow vehicle and towed vehicle to the equipment on the reservation.
Step 2: Walk the unit
Ramps, straps, tires, fenders and lights are checked and photographed.
Step 3: Hookup check
Ball size, coupler latch, pin and crossed chains are set at no charge.
Step 4: Light test
Brake, turn and running lights are verified with a helper.
Step 5: Final questions
We cover loading and stop planning, then you roll out slowly.
What's included with towing equipment
Included on the work order
- 01Equipment matched to your reservation
- 02Walk-around with checkout photos
- 03Free hookup check
- 04Trailer light test
- 05Tire strap and ramp orientation
- 06Hitch rating and tongue weight review
Need-now or need-later on the tow vehicle?
Need now: call
- A vehicle that runs hot because of a cooling fan or thermostat problem
- Uneven braking or a pull under hard stops
- A slipping or overheating transmission
Need later: book
- A transmission cooler upgrade for future towing
- Tires with good tread that are getting old
- A slightly rough idle with no warning light
How pricing and timing work
U-Haul sets rates for each towing unit, and the price appears on uhaul.com once both vehicles, the route and the dates are entered. The hookup check is free. If your tow vehicle would benefit from transmission cooler installation or another repair, you get a written estimate first, and the job is scheduled when the board allows.
After the tow
After unloading, stow the straps, secure the ramps and photograph the unit. If you towed a long way, watch the tow vehicle for leaks, new smells or a brake pedal that feels different. Compare the dolly and the trailer side by side on the auto transport and towing hub.
Frequently asked questions
What equipment do I need to tow a car behind a moving truck?
Usually a tow dolly or an auto transport trailer, depending on the car. The uhaul.com reservation shows which options fit the truck and the car you enter.
Is a dolly or a trailer easier for a first-time tower?
Many first-timers find the trailer more forgiving, since all four wheels are off the road and it is easier to reposition. A dolly cannot be backed up. Your car's drivetrain may decide for you.
Can I tow my car on a one-way move?
Often, yes. Enter your route on uhaul.com, and the listing shows which towing equipment is available one-way for your dates.
Will you inspect my tow vehicle before a long tow?
As paid work, yes. A vehicle safety inspection covers brakes, tires, cooling and more, with the fee stated first. The free hookup check covers only the connection.