U-Haul & Hitch Installations: 8 Quick Questions (Answered) | Motor & Wheels (2024)

Of the many problems you’re faced with when needing to move, you shouldn’t be worrying about hitch installations. Nonetheless, it is one of the things that comes up when you need to move.

First of all, you’re worried about whether your car is compatible with the hitch installation from the moving company.

When using U-Haul as your moving company, it’s easy to find out all about hitch installations and if your car will accept it. U-Haul has a variety of hitch installations for different cars and conditions.

In this article, we are taking a look at some common questions people ask regarding hitch installations. We also answer some questions you might have if you’re looking at moving using U-Haul.

With that said, let’s jump right in.

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U-Haul & Hitch Installations: 8 Quick Questions (Answered) | Motor & Wheels (1)

Do All U-Haul Departments Do Hitch Installations?

With over 1,500 locations all across North America, it is safe to say that most U-Haul departments have hitch installations. Depending on the car model you have, U-Haul will provide matching trailer hitches you’ll need.

Different car makes and models will have different towing equipment needs. A call to your nearest U-Haul branch will help with identifying the kind of equipment you’ll need.

With over 1,500 locations and departments spread out all over North America, you are sure to find one that is nearest to you.

When you give them a call or visit your nearest department or branch, you’ll have to go through a questionnaire. It is designed to determine what your needs are and what kind of towing equipment you will use.

The questionnaire is also made to determine how long your trip will be and whether you need extra equipment. Extra equipment can be in the form of tarps or protective boxing for your valuables.

To offer convenience and quick installations for customers, most U-Haul departments will offer hitch installations.

Does U-Haul Have a Good Reputation for Installing Hitches?

U-Haul prides itself in being North America’s no.1 hitch installer, and this has been proven throughout recent years. It is also the biggest rental truck company, with locations all over the country.

One thing that U-Haul does well is that they make sure that they always have the best equipment available. It is important because people are in stressful situations when moving and need to get the best equipment.

Customers also need to feel safe that their vehicles are in working order when hitched up to a trailer. U-Haul representatives will make sure that you have peace of mind about the equipment provided.

U-Haul is a huge name in the vehicle rental industry and as such, has a great reputation built up. You can also see great reviews online if you are still unsure about their reputation.

U-Haul will also appoint you a trailer professional that will assist you in choosing the right trailer and package. The trailer professional will go through safety tips and tricks for you so that your trip is safer.

What Brand of Hitch Does U-Haul Offer?

U-Haul has decades of experience in hitch system installations and works with multiple vendors and suppliers. With such a long history in the industry, U-Haul works with the best hitch equipment brands to give you the best installation.

A hitch installation appointment will need to be made in order to determine the best equipment and costs.

Customers have different cars, SUVs, and trucks which will need different hitch systems. An appointment sets the time to determine the best hitch set up for your vehicle and trip needs.

There is also a wide variety of hitch setups for biking, boats, ATVs, and haulers. These are readily available at a U-Haul branch near you.

Can You Have U-Haul Install Your Own Hitch?

It is possible for U-Haul to install your own hitch system that you own and brought with you. However, a certified hitch professional will have to test the integrity and wiring of your hitch system and installation.

If you choose to make the hitch installation appointment online, you are eligible for a 10% discount. You not only save money, but you get peace of mind that the installation is done correctly.

What Wiring Does U-Haul Offer for Hitch?

To make sure vehicle lighting corresponds with trailer lighting, U-Haul trailers use a 4-way flat connection.

Most full-size cars will have a 7-way round connection for trailer lighting and this should work well.

Because not all vehicles are the same, not every connection will work the same on every car. A hitch professional should be able to find the right connectors and wiring for your car’s make and model.

A 7-way plug is different from a 4-way plugin in that it has a circuit for electric trailer brakes and reverse lighting. Another great benefit is that it enables circuit charging for the trailer.

The four flat plug or 4-way plug on the other hand only has the electric circuit for lighting, signal, and turn brakes. Unlike the 7-way plug, this one does not have an electronic brake controller.

Most people opt for the 7-way plug because of its versatility and it works well with a wide variety of attached vehicles.

A 7-way plug is also great for long trips that require a hitch for towing bikes, ATVs, and camping vehicles.

Related:What Does U-Haul Charge For? (12 Things Checked)

How Much Do Hitch Installations Cost At U-Haul?

Typically, you can expect to pay around $100 to $150 for a hitch consultation and installation from U-Haul. This amount does not include any purchased equipment such as wiring and the actual tow hitch.

Costs for the hitch installation are typically the same from one location to another location. However, you might find that the prices for different tow hitch equipment vary from one branch to the other.

There are also vehicles that are quite hard to fit a hitch installation on and require some custom installation. In some rare cases, you might find that the cost rises to about $100 to $250 because of the equipment and installation.

Another important factor you have to consider is that U-Haul can provide you with a lifetime guarantee to replace your hitch in case of damage.

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How Much Does It Cost At a Mechanic?

If you choose to go to a mechanic for your hitch installation, you might expect to pay around $50 to $250. However, you have to keep in mind that the mechanic does not always have all the necessary hitch equipment and parts for your vehicle.

A U-Haul center also uses the best brands when it comes to hitching installations and this offers peace of mind.

Moreover, U-Haul centers have certified professional hitch installers who will know exactly the type of hitch equipment needed.

It might be cheaper to go to your nearest mechanic, but the peace of mind you get from a U-Haul-certified professional is the best.

Some big competitor hitch installers include PEP Boys and Amazon, which both offer competitive prices. You might find that these competitors offer slightly better or worse pricing depending on the location of the branch.

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How Long Does It Take?

On average, it can take a U-Haul hitch installation about 30 minutes to 2 hours to complete. The amount of time taken depends on the car model and the types of connection and equipment needed.

In some rare cases, customers were asked to wait until a trailer was returned so that the connection and hitch are available for them.

The level of expertise of the installer and the type of hitch installed are the most time-consuming.

In every U-Haul center, you can wait in the comfortable waiting area if the installation takes longer than usual.

With that said, for a typical car that does not require any special or custom equipment, the average wait time is about 30 minutes.

A hitch installation is best performed under low-pressure situations so as to make sure each is connected properly. Not only is this safe for the customer, but it also means that the hitch company does a great job on the installation.

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U-Haul & Hitch Installations: 8 Quick Questions (Answered) | Motor & Wheels (2024)

FAQs

How long does it take to install a tow hitch? ›

Hitch installation can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours or more, depending on the level of expertise of the installer, the tools being used, the condition of the vehicle and so on.

What kind of hitch does U-Haul use? ›

The 2" hitch ball is the standard size required to rent a U-Haul trailer, whether it be the 5x9 Utility Trailer or 6x12 Cargo Trailer. The 2" hitch ball fits most class 3 receivers, which is typically the most common trailer hitch.

Can I install a trailer hitch myself? ›

Yes, you can install a trailer hitch by yourself.

Is installing a hitch worth it? ›

Regardless of which installation method you choose, towing a trailer behind your vehicle is handy when planning a move. Since most long-distance movers charge based on size, weight, and distance, you can save money by installing a trailer hitch and transporting some of your belongings yourself.

How fast can you drive with a hitch? ›

California. Maximum speed for any vehicle towing another vehicle is 55 mph.

Do I need wiring for a hitch? ›

Any vehicle towing a trailer requires a trailer wiring harness to safely connect the taillights, turn signals, brake lights and other necessary electrical systems.

What is the difference between a hitch and a hitch receiver? ›

A tow hitch refers to the physical receiver hitch mounted to the rear of a towing vehicle. It includes the hitch receiver, where you attach the trailer hitch ball or other towing accessories. The tow hitch is the part of the vehicle that provides the connection point for towing a trailer or other loads.

What class hitch is the best? ›

The best hitch for travel trailers is a class 3, class 4 or class 5. These hitches offer the capacity to safely tow a variety of larger trailers, particularly travel trailers. Most of these receiver hitches are also compatible with a weight distribution hitch, a device typically needed for towing travel trailers.

What is the difference between a Class 2 and Class 3 trailer hitch? ›

Class 2 vs Class 3 Hitch

Class 2 hitches have a 1-1/4" receiver and generally only go up to 3,500 lbs. GTW. On the other hand, class 3 hitches have a 2" receiver and can range up to 8,000 lbs. gross trailer weight.

What is included in towing package? ›

The contents of a towing package vary, but towing packages generally include a tow hitch, electrical connections or wiring harnesses, and additional driver-assistance systems. High-end packages will also include suspension and brakes, cooling systems, and a battery and alternator.

Is installing a hitch difficult? ›

With the right tools and expertise, installing a trailer hitch can be a straightforward process: First, your mechanic will clear rust and debris off the mounting frame at the back of your vehicle. Next, they use professional-grade tools to attach a compatible trailer hitch to your vehicle's frame.

Do you need a ball for a trailer hitch? ›

Depending on what you will use your trailer hitch for, it will require the correct ball mount and tow ball depending on the class of trailer coupler required.

Which is better steel or aluminum hitch? ›

If you want the strongest material possible and don't mind the possibility of rust, steel is an affordable choice. If you live in a humid environment and want a long-lasting hitch that's lighter and easy to carry, aluminum will be the best bet.

Are tow hitches expensive? ›

1 hitch installer, the average cost to install a trailer hitch is $100–$600, depending on the parts' price and availability. AutoZone cites a price range of $250–$1,300 or more.

How long does a tow bar fitting take? ›

Generally, towbar fitting takes between two and four hours depending on the vehicle and the parts being fitted. (This includes installing and fitting the electrics.) How much weight can my vehicle tow? You can find this information in your vehicle handbook.

Is it hard to drive with a trailer hitch? ›

You have to make wider turns or risk clipping things. You have to be careful driving into places where it will be impossible to back out. Backing up takes some practice. It can be very difficult to see around or through the trailer, especially if it is wide or boxy.

How long does it take to install a fifth wheel hitch? ›

How long does it take to install a fifth wheel hitch? Installing a fifth wheel hitch can take anywhere from 1 hour to 2.5 hours, depending on your level of expertise. Installing the custom brackets typically takes anywhere from 40 to 90 minutes.

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