A U-Haul tow dolly is a convenient way to tow a front-wheel-drive vehicle behind a moving truck or another tow-capable vehicle. It lifts the front wheels off the ground, reducing wear on your car. Follow these step-by-step instructions to load, secure, and tow a vehicle safely.
1. What You Need
✔ U-Haul Tow Dolly (Ensure proper size for your vehicle)
✔ Tow Vehicle (Check weight capacity & hitch compatibility)
✔ Ratchet Straps & Tire Straps (Included with the dolly)
✔ Safety Chains (For extra security)
✔ Wheel Chocks (Optional for added stability)
📌 Tip: The maximum weight capacity for a U-Haul tow dolly is 3,450 lbs for the front axle.
2. How to Load a Car onto a U-Haul Tow Dolly
Step 1: Park on Level Ground & Position the Dolly
✔ Park the tow vehicle on a level surface.
✔ Align the tow dolly directly behind the tow vehicle.
✔ Engage the parking brake on both vehicles.
📌 Tip: If the dolly has a tilting platform, lower it to make loading easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Tow Dolly
✔ Ensure the wheel straps & safety chains are untangled.
✔ Release the ramp locks and pull out the ramps.
📌 Tip: The ramps must be fully extended before driving onto the dolly.
Step 3: Drive the Vehicle onto the Dolly
✔ Have someone guide you while driving onto the dolly.
✔ Drive slowly and straight until the front wheels are centered.
✔ Engage the vehicle’s parking brake once positioned correctly.
📌 Tip: If the car doesn’t drive onto the dolly, use a winch or extra help to load it.
Step 4: Secure the Front Wheels
✔ Place the tire straps over each front tire.
✔ Tighten the ratchet straps until the wheels are snug.
✔ Lock the ratchets in place.
📌 Tip: Check the straps after 50 miles—they may loosen during the trip.
Step 5: Attach the Safety Chains
✔ Cross safety chains under the car and connect them to the frame.
✔ Make sure the chains are tight but not too restrictive.
📌 Tip: If the chains are dragging, twist them to shorten the slack.
Step 6: Retract the Ramps & Double-Check Everything
✔ Slide the ramps back in and lock them securely.
✔ Ensure the car is stable and does not shift.
📌 Tip: Try pushing the car slightly—if it moves, re-tighten the straps.
3. How to Tow a Vehicle with a U-Haul Tow Dolly
✔ Drive slowly and cautiously, avoiding sharp turns.
✔ Do not exceed 55 mph—faster speeds can cause trailer sway.
✔ Use lower gears when going downhill to prevent brake overheating.
📌 Tip: Check the tow dolly & straps every 100 miles to ensure nothing has come loose.
4. How to Unload a Car from a U-Haul Tow Dolly
✔ Park on a flat, level surface.
✔ Engage the parking brake on the tow vehicle.
✔ Remove the safety chains and wheel straps.
✔ Extend the ramps and slowly back the car off.
✔ Fully retract and lock the ramps when finished.
📌 Tip: Have someone guide you while reversing to avoid hitting obstacles.
5. Common Mistakes & Solutions
6. FAQs
1. Can I tow a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) car on a tow dolly?
✔ Only if you disconnect the driveshaft or load the car backward (check U-Haul’s guidelines).
2. Can I tow an all-wheel-drive (AWD) car?
❌ No, AWD vehicles must be transported on a car trailer, not a tow dolly.
3. How do I know if my car fits on a U-Haul tow dolly?
✔ Use U-Haul’s online towing guide to check compatibility.
4. Does a U-Haul tow dolly have brakes?
✔ Some models have surge brakes, but most rely on the tow vehicle’s brakes.
5. Is a U-Haul tow dolly safe for long distances?
✔ Yes, as long as the car is properly secured, speed is controlled, and regular checks are done.
Final Thoughts
Using a U-Haul tow dolly is an efficient way to transport a front-wheel-drive car, but proper loading, securing, and towing techniques are essential. Always double-check straps, drive safely, and inspect everything during the trip for a smooth and secure move! 🚗🚛✅
Also Check:
• How to Hook Up a U-Haul Trailer Safely
