Best Freight Trailers for Moving: Top 5 Options, Key Benefits, and Buying Guide

Understanding Freight Trailers for Moving

What is a Freight Trailer for Moving?

Freight trailers for moving are enclosed, heavy-duty trailers used for transporting household or business items from one location to another, often over long distances. Companies commonly provide these trailers, allowing customers to load their belongings while professionals handle the transport.

Unlike traditional moving trucks, freight trailers offer more space and flexible pricing models, which are particularly beneficial for larger moves or cross-country relocations. Customers pay based on the linear feet of space used, making this option both practical and economical.

Why Choose a Freight Trailer for Your Move

Freight trailers offer many benefits that make them an ideal solution for both residential and commercial moving. Their enclosed design protects your possessions from weather conditions, theft, and damage. These trailers are also spacious enough to accommodate the contents of a 3-4 bedroom home.

Another key advantage is that you’re not responsible for driving the trailer. Once packed, the trailer is picked up and delivered to your new location by professionals. This provides convenience, reduces stress, and lowers the risk of accidents or vehicle damage during the move.

Benefits of Using a Freight Trailer

Safe and Secure Transport

Freight trailers are built with durability and safety in mind. Their heavy-duty construction ensures that your belongings are protected against impact, shifting during transit, and weather extremes. Many companies also offer lockable doors and tracking systems.

These trailers often include tie-down points and a level loading surface, minimizing the risk of breakage. With reinforced walls and metal flooring, they provide peace of mind when moving valuable or fragile items.

Cost Efficiency for Larger Moves

For large-scale moves, freight trailers can be significantly more cost-effective than hiring full-service movers or making multiple trips with smaller rental trucks. You only pay for the space you use, making it easy to manage your budget.

In comparison to renting multiple vehicles or hiring a team of movers, using a freight trailer allows for a single, consolidated move that reduces fuel costs, labor expenses, and overall time spent on the relocation.

Flexibility in Scheduling

Many freight trailer services allow for flexible pick-up and drop-off dates, giving you time to load and unload at your own pace. This is especially helpful for families or businesses that may need extra time to organize and pack.

Some companies provide a three-day window for loading and unloading, which helps accommodate unforeseen delays. This kind of flexibility is not always available with traditional moving services.

Top 5 Freight Trailer Products for Moving

1. U-Pack Moving Trailer

The U-Pack Moving Trailer is a 28-foot enclosed freight trailer designed for long-distance residential moves. It’s ideal for 3-4 bedroom homes and allows customers to pay only for the space used inside the trailer.

You have three business days to load and unload, and U-Pack handles all transportation. Their pricing model is budget-friendly and transparent, making it a top choice for cross-country relocations.

2. Estes SureMove Trailer

The Estes SureMove Trailer service offers access to professional-grade freight trailers. Customers load the trailer at their location, and Estes delivers it to the new address. These trailers are ideal for large household moves or small businesses.

With nationwide availability and durable, weather-resistant construction, Estes SureMove is perfect for those needing reliable and secure long-distance moving options.

3. Old Dominion Household Services Trailer

The Old Dominion Moving Trailer is part of their OD Household Services. Their freight trailers are spacious, durable, and built to protect your belongings during long hauls. They offer tailored scheduling and customer support throughout the process.

Old Dominion is known for its reliability and quality service, making its trailers a strong choice for homeowners who want control without the hassle of driving.

4. U-Haul Cargo Trailer

The U-Haul Cargo Trailer is a compact, enclosed trailer that is ideal for smaller moves or partial loads. These trailers come in various sizes and are towable by most vehicles, making them a flexible solution for DIY movers.

With weather protection, easy towing, and nationwide pick-up and drop-off, U-Haul’s trailers offer affordability and convenience.

5. Enclosed Trailers from Trailer Superstore

The Trailer Superstore Enclosed Trailers are a great option if you’re looking to purchase a trailer for repeated or professional use. Available in multiple sizes, they provide secure and long-term solutions for moving, hauling, and transporting goods.

These trailers are customizable and built with durable materials, suitable for both personal and commercial use.

Use Cases: What Problems Do Freight Trailers Solve?

Large-Scale Home Relocation

Moving a large home can require multiple trips with small vehicles or expensive full-service movers. A single freight trailer accommodates an entire household’s worth of furniture, appliances, and boxes in one haul.

It also simplifies the moving process, reducing the time, effort, and stress involved in coordinating multiple moving resources. You can pack at your pace and rest easy knowing your items will arrive together.

Long-Distance Moves Without Driving

Driving a rental truck for thousands of miles can be stressful and risky. Freight trailers remove that burden by having professionals handle the transportation. This is especially helpful for those moving across the country, relocating for a job, or dealing with tight timelines.

You don’t have to worry about fuel costs, road safety, or navigating unfamiliar highways, giving you more peace of mind during the move.

Commercial and Office Moves

Freight trailers are excellent for moving office equipment, files, and furnishings. Whether you’re relocating a small office or an entire business, trailers provide secure transport and allow you to keep everything organized.

Because you load and unload, you maintain full control over inventory and equipment, which is crucial for businesses that need to minimize downtime.

Where to Buy or Rent Freight Trailers

You can buy or rent freight trailers from the following providers:

Rent from U-Pack Rent from Estes SureMove Rent from Old Dominion Rent from U-Haul Buy from Trailer Superstore

FAQs

How much does a freight trailer cost to move?

Costs vary depending on the provider, distance, and space used. On average, renting a freight trailer for a cross-country move can cost between $1,500 and $4,000.

Do I need a special license to use a freight trailer?

No. When renting from companies like U-Pack or Estes, you don’t drive the trailer—they handle all transport. For smaller cargo trailers like U-Haul’s, a standard driver’s license is sufficient.

Are freight trailers better than moving trucks?

Freight trailers offer more space and flexibility, especially for large or long-distance moves. They’re often more cost-effective and convenient since you don’t need to drive them.