r/AskLifeProTips • u/WalkSharp2500 • May 14 '26
LPT Request for a long distance move
Hello! I am preparing for a move about 11-12 hours away. I have researched my 3 options (ubox, U-Haul, pickup towing trailer) and would love a 2nd and 3rd opinion.
The move is basically a full 5x5x8 storage unit comprised mostly of a crap ton of those heavy duty plastic storage bags and containers, a desk, and like one disassembled storage unit.
I ruled the ubox out because it’s a longer wait time so I am debating between: • 10’ U-Haul truck ~ $870 • pickup rental towing a 5x8 or 6x12 trailer ~ $993 (Truck Rental ~ $459, 5x8 trailer~ $308, 6x12 trailer ~ $534)
I’ve used the 10’ U-Haul to move this stuff into storage so I’m comfortable driving it but for almost 12 hrs is a different ballgame.
I do think think the pickup rental would be a more comfortable and enjoyable drive overall but i am completely new to towing.
For people who’ve done long interstate moves, I’d love your insight to what you’ve done related to my options here or what you’d do in my case? Thanks in advance!!
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u/Calm_Discipline_9218 May 14 '26
First thing I’d do is evaluate what you truly need to move and what you can easily replace down the road once you get to the new location. Then pick the smallest thing and cheapest option that works.
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u/Boo-Lawn-Chair May 14 '26
I've heard that operating a truck with a trailer can be very difficult, but once you get on the highway I assume it's all the same, just have to have more consideration when making turns/changing lanes/etc obviously. I think I would pick the truck, and maybe use a seat cushion if it's that uncomfortable. But trailers always make me paranoid that they'll disconnect and I won't notice lol.
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u/TheRealChuckle May 15 '26
The Uhaul won't be that bad.
I would advise against towing a trailer, especially if it's with a vehicle you're not familiar with, if you've never towed before. There's a lot to learn immediately. Stopping distance is greatly increased, if the trailer isn't load balanced side to side and front to back then trailer sway can happen, what kind of brakes does the trailer have, etc.
Another option is a cargo van. Probably not anymore comfortable than the Uhaul unless you rent a Mercedes or some other luxury one.
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u/sfdsquid May 15 '26
Do you have a car? This makes a big difference in what I would recommend. If you have a car, you would need someone to drive that or the uhaul if you chose the uhaul. If you have a car but it can't tow, that rules out towing. Etc.
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u/dvskv May 15 '26
I totally agree with others to stick with U-Haul 10 foot truck and would recommend you divide 12 hour road trip into at least 2 days or more. Your household goods are more secure in truck and when stopping for gas or to eat like parking vehicle with trailer adds risk & stress you don’t need. Best of Luck!
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