Why U-Haul Won't Rent a Trailer for a Ford Explorer

Why U-Haul^® won’t rent trailers to some Ford Explorer models

If you’re planning to move a long distance in a Ford Explorer and are considering U-Haul for your move, there is a stipulation you should know about:

In order to rent a U-Haul trailer, the online form requires you to enter the make, model and year of the vehicle you’ll be using. If you state that you’ll be towing with a Ford Explorer, you may receive the following statement:

“U-Haul has chosen not to rent behind this tow vehicle based on our history of excessive costs in defending lawsuits involving Ford Explorer towing combinations. This policy is not related to safety issues. This is an unusual circumstance for U-Haul — we have built our success for over 60 years by saying ‘yes’ to our customers. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and are committed to working with our customers to find alternative options to help with their move.”  

According to a U-Haul representative, the company only prohibits certain models of the Explorer from towing its trailers. 

Towing weight limitations

This regulation is based on the vehicle’s difference in body style. The 2011 and newer models have a lower center of gravity than the 2010 and older models. This means:

• If you’re using a Ford Explorer that is 2011 or newer, you can rent a U-Haul towing dolly or trailer.
• If you’re using a Ford Explorer that is 2010 or older, you can’t rent a U-Haul towing dolly or trailer.

However, the best way to check compatibility is to contact U-Haul directly. This way, you can make sure your vehicle meets other requirements, such as towing capacity. 

Ford Explorer towing capacity

Before you can tow anything with your vehicle, make sure you have enough towing capacity (some Ford Explorers have towing capacities that won’t work for certain loads). The good news for owners of more recent Explorers is that they have a greater towing capacity and can haul trailers. The Ford Explorer towing capacity is 2,000 to 5,000 pounds for 2011 to 2017 models.

What are my other moving options?

Whether you own an older Explorer or a new model, you can still complete an affordable move with U-Pack^®.  Our prices are often comparable to truck rentals when moving long distance, making it a good alternative to U-Haul. 

Instead of towing a trailer behind your newer Explorer with U-Haul (or trying to find a rental truck option that services older models), move with U-Pack! We offer the convenience of riding comfortably in your own vehicle while an experienced driver gets your belongings to your new home. With U-Pack, you don’t have to worry about safety issues, vehicle compatibility or towing — get a free moving quote online or by calling 844-362-5303844-594-3077.

Check out this comprehensive resource on moving trucks to learn about other moving options. Still have questions? Leave us a comment below and we’ll get right back to you.
 

U-Haul^® is a registered trademark of U-Haul International, Inc.  Use of third-party trademarks or registered trademarks does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by such third-party.