Can I transport a golf cart with a U-Haul? Yes, you can transport a golf cart with a U-Haul, but the best method depends on the size of your cart and the U-Haul equipment you rent, often requiring a golf cart transport trailer or using the cargo space of a large box truck.
Moving a golf cart can seem tricky. You need to keep it safe from damage during the move. This guide shows you the best ways to use U-Haul services to get your cart where it needs to go. We cover trailers, truck options, and how to secure your vehicle well. This information helps make your move easy and safe.
Choosing the Right U-Haul Equipment
Not all U-Haul rentals are the same. You must pick the right truck or trailer for your golf cart. Size matters a lot here.
Assessing Your Golf Cart Size
Golf carts come in different shapes and sizes. Most standard electric carts are small. Larger, customized, or utility carts take up more space.
- Standard Golf Carts: Usually fit easily on a small trailer or inside certain trucks. They are light, making them easier to handle.
- Utility Carts (UTVs/Side-by-Sides): These are bigger and heavier. They often need an open trailer or a very large truck. Be sure to check the weight and size limits of any trailer.
Examining U-Haul Golf Cart Dimensions and Capacity
When planning, you must know what fits. U-Haul golf cart dimensions are key for fitting the cart inside a truck box. If you use a trailer, you need to look at the trailer’s bed size and capacity.
| U-Haul Option | Typical Bed Length (Approx.) | Weight Capacity (Varies by model) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10’ Truck | 9’ 10” | 3,000 lbs | Small, disassembled carts or very small utility carts. |
| 15’ Truck | 14’ 8” | 4,100 lbs | Standard golf carts, often room to spare. |
| 20’ Truck | 19’ 6” | 4,400 lbs | Most standard and some larger utility carts. |
| 26’ Truck | 26’ 5” | 5,650 lbs | Larger UTVs or multiple smaller carts. |
| 5’ x 8’ Cargo Trailer | 8’ | 2,200 lbs | Standard golf carts when you cannot fit one in a truck. |
| 6’ x 12’ Utility Trailer | 12’ | 3,500 lbs | Larger carts or those needing open access for loading golf cart onto U-Haul style trailers. |
Always check the specific rental unit’s specs on the U-Haul website. The listed capacities are maximums.
Transporting Via a U-Haul Cargo Truck
For many people, placing the golf cart inside a closed box truck is the safest route. It shields the cart from weather and road debris.
Is Loading Golf Cart Onto U-Haul Trucks Possible?
Yes, it is often possible, especially with 15-foot trucks or larger. The main challenge is getting the cart up the loading ramp.
Preparing the Cart for Entry
- Clear Obstructions: Remove anything loose from the cart. This includes golf bags, coolers, keys, and loose accessories.
- Battery Check (Electric Carts): Turn the key off. If possible, disconnect the main battery cable. This stops the cart from accidentally turning on during the move.
- Tire Pressure: Make sure tires are inflated correctly. Under-inflated tires can shift or damage the wheel well during transport.
Using Ramps Safely
U-Haul trucks usually come with loading ramps. These ramps are strong but require careful handling.
- Placement: Position the ramp firmly against the truck floor. Check that the metal feet are on solid ground.
- Driving Up: Have one person guide the cart driver. Move slowly and steadily up the ramp. Use low gear if driving, or if it is electric, maintain a slow, constant speed.
- Manual Loading: If the cart is small, you might move it by hand with a few helpers. Roll it slowly onto the lift gate or ramp.
Positioning the Golf Cart Inside the Truck
Once inside, the cart must be centered and stable.
- Center of Gravity: Place the cart near the middle of the truck bed, close to the front wall (the cab side). This helps keep the weight balanced over the truck’s axles.
- Space Management: If you have a larger truck, leave space around the cart. This prevents side-to-side swinging if the driver has to brake hard.
Utilizing a U-Haul Trailer for Golf Cart Transport
If your golf cart is too big for the truck, or if you need to move it with a smaller truck or van, a golf cart transport trailer is the answer. This is a form of golf cart shipping options that offers flexibility.
Selecting the Correct Trailer Type
U-Haul offers a few trailer types. The right choice prevents accidents and keeps your cart secure.
Open Utility Trailers
These trailers are open on the top and sides. They are excellent for transporting utility vehicle with U-Haul needs because they offer easy access for loading and securing.
- Weight Rating: Confirm the trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) easily supports the cart’s weight plus any needed tie-downs.
- Deck Size: Measure your golf cart (length, width). Ensure the trailer deck provides several inches of clearance on all sides. A 6’ x 12’ trailer is often a good fit for a standard two-seater.
Flatbed Trailer for Golf Cart
Sometimes, a dedicated flatbed trailer for golf cart use is necessary, especially for lifted or custom carts that might be too wide or tall for standard enclosed trailers. U-Haul utility trailers often function like flatbeds.
Towing a Loaded Trailer with U-Haul
If you choose the trailer route, you must check the towing capacity of the rental truck. This is where towing a loaded trailer with U-Haul requires careful checks of the U-Haul truck trailer hitch capacity.
Hitch Capacity Check
Every U-Haul truck has a maximum towing weight. This capacity includes the weight of the trailer AND everything loaded onto it (your golf cart, ramps, straps).
Important Rule: Never exceed the lowest weight rating among these three:
- The hitch rating.
- The trailer’s GVWR.
- The truck’s maximum towing capacity listed on the door jamb sticker.
If you rent a 15’ truck, check its manual for the hitch rating. Many smaller U-Haul trucks are rated to tow around 3,500 lbs. A typical golf cart weighs between 800 and 1,200 lbs. A utility trailer might weigh 1,000 lbs empty. Add these up to ensure you stay safely below the limit.
Connecting and Testing
- Ball Mount: Ensure the hitch ball size matches the trailer coupler.
- Safety Chains: Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer. This prevents the trailer from diving under the truck if the coupler fails.
- Brakes and Lights: Test the trailer lights (brake lights, turn signals) before leaving the lot. Most U-Haul utility trailers do not have their own electric brakes; rely on the truck’s brakes.
Securing the Golf Cart for Towing and Transit
This is the most critical step for safe travel. A loose golf cart can cause serious damage to the truck, the trailer, or other vehicles on the road. Proper securing golf cart for towing relies on strong tie-downs.
Required Equipment for Securing
You will need high-quality straps. Do not use bungee cords—they are not strong enough for vehicle transport.
- Ratchet Straps: These are essential. Use at least four heavy-duty ratchet straps rated for 1,000 lbs working load each.
- Wheel Chocks (Optional but Recommended): These wedge against the tires to stop rolling while you secure the straps.
Tie-Down Techniques for Trailers
The goal is to remove all ability for the cart to move forward, backward, or sideways.
- Positioning: Drive the cart straight onto the trailer. If possible, center the weight.
- Front Tie-Downs (Pulling Forward): Attach two straps from the front frame or axle of the golf cart to the front anchor points on the trailer. Pull these straps tight so the suspension compresses slightly. This stops forward and upward movement.
- Rear Tie-Downs (Pulling Backward): Attach two more straps to the rear frame or axle. Pull these tight as well.
- Side-to-Side Security: Check that the cart does not rock left or right. If it does, use the existing straps at an angle, or add side straps connecting the frame to the trailer rails.
Securing Inside a U-Haul Box Truck
Even inside a truck, the cart must be tied down because sudden stops can send it sliding.
- Anchor Points: U-Haul trucks have rings or slots built into the metal E-track system along the floor rails. Use these.
- Placement: Use straps to anchor the cart’s frame or axles to the rails on both sides. Aim for straps running diagonally front-to-back on each corner.
- Compression: Pull the straps firmly. You want the cart firmly planted on the floor, not bouncing.
Driving Safety and Compliance When Using U-Haul
Safe driving practices are vital when towing a loaded trailer with U-Haul or driving a large box truck with a heavy load inside.
Speed and Distance
A U-Haul truck loaded with a golf cart handles differently than your daily driver.
- Slower Speeds: Drive significantly slower than normal, especially on curves or highway off-ramps. Tall trucks and trailers have a high center of gravity and can tip if taken too fast.
- Increased Stopping Distance: Remember that you have more weight. Allow much more space between you and the vehicle in front. Your U-Haul truck trailer hitch capacity dictates how much stopping power you have.
- Checking in Regularly: Every 50–100 miles, pull over safely. Re-check all straps, connection points, and tire pressures (on both the truck and the trailer). Straps can loosen due to road vibration.
Legal Requirements and Weight Limits
Ignorance of the law is not an excuse. Check local laws regarding trailer dimensions and weight.
- License Requirements: For small golf carts on small utility trailers, standard licenses usually suffice. However, if you use an oversized trailer or move a very heavy UTV (which might approach maximum towing weights), check if you need a specific commercial or non-commercial trailer endorsement on your license.
- Insurance: Ensure your U-Haul rental coverage includes liability for any trailer you pull. Standard U-Haul rental for vehicle transport insurance packages should cover this, but always confirm.
Alternative: Professional Golf Cart Shipping Options
If towing seems too risky or complicated, you might consider professional services. While this guide focuses on U-Haul, knowing alternatives is helpful.
Professional golf cart shipping options involve specialized carriers.
- Enclosed Transport: These services use enclosed trailers, similar to what is used for high-end cars. This offers maximum protection from weather and theft.
- DIY Transport vs. Pro Shipping:
- DIY (U-Haul): Cheaper, flexible scheduling, but requires physical labor and knowledge of towing safety.
- Professional: More expensive, but they handle all loading, driving, and securing. Less stress for you.
If your golf cart is highly valuable or customized, professional transport might justify the higher cost.
Final Checklist Before Hitting the Road
Use this quick reference before leaving the U-Haul location or your home driveway.
Truck Interior Check (If using a Box Truck)
- [ ] Golf cart is centered over the axle line.
- [ ] Four heavy-duty straps are used (front and back corners).
- [ ] Straps are tight; suspension is slightly compressed.
- [ ] Key is out, and the power is completely off.
- [ ] All loose items are removed from the cart body.
Trailer Check (If using a Trailer)
- [ ] Trailer hitch coupler is locked onto the ball.
- [ ] Safety chains are crossed underneath the tongue.
- [ ] Trailer lights (brake, turn) are working correctly.
- [ ] Golf cart is secured using at least four ratchet straps.
- [ ] Weight distribution is good (cart is centered left-to-right).
- [ ] U-Haul truck’s towing limit is not exceeded.
By following these steps, you greatly reduce the risk of problems. Safe transport means arriving with your golf cart ready to use, not damaged from the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do U-Haul box trucks have ramps for loading heavy items?
A: Yes, U-Haul box trucks (10′, 15′, 17′, 20′, 26′) come standard with aluminum loading ramps that slide out from the back of the truck. These ramps are designed to handle vehicle weight, but you must use caution when loading golf cart onto U-Haul.
Q: Can I tow a U-Haul trailer with a standard SUV or minivan?
A: Only if your vehicle has a factory-installed tow package and the U-Haul truck trailer hitch capacity rating for that specific trailer is safely within your SUV’s maximum towing limit. Most standard minivans cannot handle the weight of a trailer plus a golf cart. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for your specific towing limit.
Q: Are there size limitations for transporting utility vehicle with U-Haul equipment?
A: Yes. If your utility vehicle (UTV) is too wide or too tall to fit through the rear opening of the truck or is too heavy for the trailer’s GVWR, you must use a larger trailer or a 26′ truck. Always measure your UTV’s height and width against the truck door openings listed on the U-Haul site.
Q: What if I cannot find a golf cart transport trailer available?
A: If utility trailers are booked, your next best option is to rent the largest enclosed truck possible (like the 26′) to fit the cart inside. If the cart does not fit inside any truck, you will need to explore other golf cart shipping options outside of the U-Haul system, such as dedicated auto transport companies.
Q: Do I need special insurance when securing golf cart for towing with a U-Haul trailer?
A: You need to confirm your coverage. The basic U-Haul rental coverage often extends to the trailer you pull. However, it’s wise to purchase the supplemental coverage offered by U-Haul, often called Safemove or Safetstrip, which provides damage coverage for the cargo (your golf cart) while it is being towed.