U-Haul Advice Needed
July 1, 2013 8:58 PM Subscribe
On Saturday I am driving a 14 foot UHaul truck 11 hours between 2 cities in the West. Good times! Do you have advice for me (a novice) as I embark on my maiden journey?
I'm also going to be towing my car (a little Toyota Matrix) behind me on the two wheels raised tower. Do you have any advice for me? I've never driven a UHaul before- will be accompanied by my partner but what do I need to know going in? I'm particularly nervous about towing the car. Thanks in advance.
I'm also going to be towing my car (a little Toyota Matrix) behind me on the two wheels raised tower. Do you have any advice for me? I've never driven a UHaul before- will be accompanied by my partner but what do I need to know going in? I'm particularly nervous about towing the car. Thanks in advance.
Response by poster: Yes- we plan to drive it in two days... overnighting Saturday.
posted by timpanogos at 9:06 PM on July 1, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by timpanogos at 9:06 PM on July 1, 2013 [1 favorite]
Get a Ryder (Budget) and a trailer. Really. I've heard many stories of UHauls breaking down halfway. Also, you can't back up a dolly, this can make for problems in tight gas stations. Both the width and the length will make it nessesary to make wide turns (so your back wheels don't run up on a curb).
posted by 445supermag at 9:09 PM on July 1, 2013 [3 favorites]
posted by 445supermag at 9:09 PM on July 1, 2013 [3 favorites]
Is your matrix awd? Some awd cars can't be towed on a dolly so check. Other than that just go slow, give yourself a lot more time to change lanes break etc and don't worry too much that's not a huge rig, you'll be ok.
Have your partner hop out and spot you on tight turns etc and parking and make sure your hotel is trailer friendly and you'll be fine!
posted by fshgrl at 9:22 PM on July 1, 2013
Have your partner hop out and spot you on tight turns etc and parking and make sure your hotel is trailer friendly and you'll be fine!
posted by fshgrl at 9:22 PM on July 1, 2013
It sounds like you have the U-Haul reserved already, which is too bad, because like 445supermag, my advice is "rent from anyone but U-Haul". Especially if it's a one-way-rental (which is a magical way for a U-Haul office has to get rid of that bad one that they don't want to have to fix).
If you are stuck with U-Haul I would say plan to drive the truck around the block to check out that it works properly first. I have been in two U-Haul trucks that were really not even safe to drive long distances (one shook like crazy - eventually the headlight started falling off from it, until I zip-tied it back on. The other fell out of gear now and then). If anything like that seems wonky, ask them to give you a new one. But we all know you don't have much leverage here, so be polite and even if giving you a safe working vehicle is basically something you're entitled to, treat it like they're doing you a favor.
Even if it's not just a crappy truck, it's possible that it will take diesel. That's not terrible, but be check for it from the start, because it sucks to stop at a gas station that doesn't have the kind of fuel you need.
posted by aubilenon at 9:22 PM on July 1, 2013 [2 favorites]
If you are stuck with U-Haul I would say plan to drive the truck around the block to check out that it works properly first. I have been in two U-Haul trucks that were really not even safe to drive long distances (one shook like crazy - eventually the headlight started falling off from it, until I zip-tied it back on. The other fell out of gear now and then). If anything like that seems wonky, ask them to give you a new one. But we all know you don't have much leverage here, so be polite and even if giving you a safe working vehicle is basically something you're entitled to, treat it like they're doing you a favor.
Even if it's not just a crappy truck, it's possible that it will take diesel. That's not terrible, but be check for it from the start, because it sucks to stop at a gas station that doesn't have the kind of fuel you need.
posted by aubilenon at 9:22 PM on July 1, 2013 [2 favorites]
A general piece of advice for big vehicles is don't back out of spots. If you need to park somewhere that you'd have to, back into it instead. Since you're towing something, best is to find spots where you can pull through to park, but if that's not available: back in to the spot, with a helper on the ground waving through the rear view mirrors.
posted by aubilenon at 9:25 PM on July 1, 2013
posted by aubilenon at 9:25 PM on July 1, 2013
Check your tire pressures when you start and as you go, usually when getting gas. The ability of the tire to carry the heavy truck on it is determined by the air pressure. It is hot out this week in the west and you do NOT want a blown tire on a moving truck. When you are checking your tires if they are too warm to hold your hand on they are too warm and tires that get hot separate and blow out (that is the origin of those tire carcasses you see along the highway). They will be warm and maybe even a little too warm, but if you pull your hand away because it is burning, slow down, air them up or just wait for cooler temperatures.
When you get to half a tank a gas and see a truck stop, pull off and gas up. These things get really, really, really bad mileage and trying to find a gas station in some unknown town in a moving truck with a dolly is how you run into stuff, and crack up the towed car. Truck stops are designed for big, long vehicles and you can park, turn around, air up your tires and they always have big bathrooms and are usually very easy to get on and off the interstate. IF you are on the blue highways use the same advice but choose the stop on the right side so you are not crossing traffic. plan ahead and watch that gas gauge!
time any crossing of big cities around rush hour. Jockeying a big truck through traffic is NOT fun (i had the pleasure of transiting Vegas at sundown in rush hour in a very overloaded penske truck once. Not happening twice).
take it easy and stay in the slow lane. it aint a race. The harder you push the truck the more likely it is to break. I would also make sure I had a couple of gallons of water (in case it overheats and you need to refill the radiator) and a good chair and sunshade in case you have to wait on the side of the road for your tow truck. some food would also be nice...and maybe a good book to read...you get the idea. plan for a break down and if it happens it won't ruin your trip or threaten your life (possible if you are transiting the backwoods of Nevada or Arizona this week).
load the heavy stuff first in the front of the truck and lighten as you go up and back if you can. IF you can't load that way then at least keep the heavy stuff low and forward of the back wheels. and check the tires before you start.
posted by bartonlong at 9:27 PM on July 1, 2013 [3 favorites]
When you get to half a tank a gas and see a truck stop, pull off and gas up. These things get really, really, really bad mileage and trying to find a gas station in some unknown town in a moving truck with a dolly is how you run into stuff, and crack up the towed car. Truck stops are designed for big, long vehicles and you can park, turn around, air up your tires and they always have big bathrooms and are usually very easy to get on and off the interstate. IF you are on the blue highways use the same advice but choose the stop on the right side so you are not crossing traffic. plan ahead and watch that gas gauge!
time any crossing of big cities around rush hour. Jockeying a big truck through traffic is NOT fun (i had the pleasure of transiting Vegas at sundown in rush hour in a very overloaded penske truck once. Not happening twice).
take it easy and stay in the slow lane. it aint a race. The harder you push the truck the more likely it is to break. I would also make sure I had a couple of gallons of water (in case it overheats and you need to refill the radiator) and a good chair and sunshade in case you have to wait on the side of the road for your tow truck. some food would also be nice...and maybe a good book to read...you get the idea. plan for a break down and if it happens it won't ruin your trip or threaten your life (possible if you are transiting the backwoods of Nevada or Arizona this week).
load the heavy stuff first in the front of the truck and lighten as you go up and back if you can. IF you can't load that way then at least keep the heavy stuff low and forward of the back wheels. and check the tires before you start.
posted by bartonlong at 9:27 PM on July 1, 2013 [3 favorites]
It will likely take significantly longer than you anticipate. Trucks are slow, a truck towing a car is even slower. Hills and wind can also slow you down more noticeably than in a car.
You will probably average @50mph - take this into account when calculating drive time.
posted by gnutron at 9:28 PM on July 1, 2013 [1 favorite]
You will probably average @50mph - take this into account when calculating drive time.
posted by gnutron at 9:28 PM on July 1, 2013 [1 favorite]
You're towing your car?
PRACTICE BACKING UP.
Seriously, practice it. It'll save your life. Backing up while towing a trailer is mind-boggling the first time.
Or, plan very carefully to never have to back up. Think ahead before making moves as you drive around gas stations, restaurants and stuff.
posted by Cool Papa Bell at 9:31 PM on July 1, 2013 [2 favorites]
PRACTICE BACKING UP.
Seriously, practice it. It'll save your life. Backing up while towing a trailer is mind-boggling the first time.
Or, plan very carefully to never have to back up. Think ahead before making moves as you drive around gas stations, restaurants and stuff.
posted by Cool Papa Bell at 9:31 PM on July 1, 2013 [2 favorites]
Former longterm UHaul corporate office employee.
Check the truck yourself before you go, yes. There's a number you can call if it breaks down, but you really don't want to have to. There are ancient trucks and new ones; you want the latter.
I do not recommend backing up with a tow dolly AT ALL. Just don't. Unless you do this for a living.
The guys at the center/dealer should help you hook up the dolly and show you how to do it if you have to do it yourself. It's not a big deal and it's not hard at all. I'm a totally non-technically-inclined girl and I can do it. It'll put wear on the tires but otherwise you'll be fine. Drive slower than you think you should. Don't change lanes rapidly, and watch passing distances (good lord, the number of times I've nearly been side-swiped by some dumbass who doesn't realize that he's not driving his compact when he's towing a trailer or a dolly).
Most importantly though: Spend the extra $60 or whatever and buy the Safemove. The rental itself only includes minimum liability: if anything happens to the truck, or to you, you're SOL if you don't get the add-on insurance. Buy it. I cannot even tell you how much I emphasize this to every customer. UHaul has an entire floor in a skyrise dedicated to their legal department. You will not win a lawsuit against UHaul.
posted by celtalitha at 9:36 PM on July 1, 2013 [5 favorites]
Check the truck yourself before you go, yes. There's a number you can call if it breaks down, but you really don't want to have to. There are ancient trucks and new ones; you want the latter.
I do not recommend backing up with a tow dolly AT ALL. Just don't. Unless you do this for a living.
The guys at the center/dealer should help you hook up the dolly and show you how to do it if you have to do it yourself. It's not a big deal and it's not hard at all. I'm a totally non-technically-inclined girl and I can do it. It'll put wear on the tires but otherwise you'll be fine. Drive slower than you think you should. Don't change lanes rapidly, and watch passing distances (good lord, the number of times I've nearly been side-swiped by some dumbass who doesn't realize that he's not driving his compact when he's towing a trailer or a dolly).
Most importantly though: Spend the extra $60 or whatever and buy the Safemove. The rental itself only includes minimum liability: if anything happens to the truck, or to you, you're SOL if you don't get the add-on insurance. Buy it. I cannot even tell you how much I emphasize this to every customer. UHaul has an entire floor in a skyrise dedicated to their legal department. You will not win a lawsuit against UHaul.
posted by celtalitha at 9:36 PM on July 1, 2013 [5 favorites]
Eh, I rarely drive but I've driven UHauls quite a trek. You'll be fine.
Check online for rest stops along 5 before you take off. Rest stops are awesome places for you to ease into a parking situation.
The cabins of UHauls tend to be awfully appointed. Consider bringing a portable speaker if you want to listen to your own music. Be ready to switch off, since the seats are often bumpier than you expect.
Consider practicing normal utility vehicle safety steps any time you're getting ready to put the key in the ignition-- walk all the way around the car and get your bearings, check your hitch, check your brake lights.
Before you take off, do some practice runs in a parking lot where you back up and turn and get your bearings on how to drive a with a car in tow.
posted by samthemander at 9:39 PM on July 1, 2013
Check online for rest stops along 5 before you take off. Rest stops are awesome places for you to ease into a parking situation.
The cabins of UHauls tend to be awfully appointed. Consider bringing a portable speaker if you want to listen to your own music. Be ready to switch off, since the seats are often bumpier than you expect.
Consider practicing normal utility vehicle safety steps any time you're getting ready to put the key in the ignition-- walk all the way around the car and get your bearings, check your hitch, check your brake lights.
Before you take off, do some practice runs in a parking lot where you back up and turn and get your bearings on how to drive a with a car in tow.
posted by samthemander at 9:39 PM on July 1, 2013
Even if it's not just a crappy truck, it's possible that it will take diesel.
UHaul doesn't own diesel trucks.
Seriously, if you want a number for someone who still works there and knows what's what, memail me.
posted by celtalitha at 9:41 PM on July 1, 2013
UHaul doesn't own diesel trucks.
Seriously, if you want a number for someone who still works there and knows what's what, memail me.
posted by celtalitha at 9:41 PM on July 1, 2013
I drove a 12 foot truck from NH to CO back in February. I had one really windy day and it was horrible, slow down if it gets windy.
The truck will also be very noisy so don't expect to have much conversation. I wish I'd brought earplugs.
My truck had a governor so it was really hard to pass big trucks. It required a bunch of planning so I didn't anger people in cars going normal speeds.
Stop every few hours to stretch your legs and maybe swap drivers. The off driver should try to nap as much as possible, the whole will be incredibly tiring.
After spending a day in a moving vehicle expect your inner ear to not settle down for a while, you'll still feel like you're moving for a few hours. It'll be especially disconcerting if you lie down.
posted by Confess, Fletch at 9:43 PM on July 1, 2013
The truck will also be very noisy so don't expect to have much conversation. I wish I'd brought earplugs.
My truck had a governor so it was really hard to pass big trucks. It required a bunch of planning so I didn't anger people in cars going normal speeds.
Stop every few hours to stretch your legs and maybe swap drivers. The off driver should try to nap as much as possible, the whole will be incredibly tiring.
After spending a day in a moving vehicle expect your inner ear to not settle down for a while, you'll still feel like you're moving for a few hours. It'll be especially disconcerting if you lie down.
posted by Confess, Fletch at 9:43 PM on July 1, 2013
I'd note, as someone whose driven several large vehicles on the highway for hours(i own an old decommissioned city transit bus, heh) that everyone saying above that you'll end up going slower and taking longer... this isn't some "slow down and be careful" thing*, but rather what will more than likely be a mechanical limitation. As in, you'll be doing 55-58 because even if you put your foot flat to the floor all you do is disengage the OD and rev the engine up a bit. the towed car could also plausibly start fishtailing at higher speeds. And don't even get me started on stopping a big ass vehicle that weighs 5-6x what a normal car would.
Another comment i'd have is just do not let yourself get in a situation where you need to back up. And similarly, don't put yourself in a position where you're forced in to tight spaces or very tight turns. Made a wrong turn and see a side street you could turn around on that's narrow and might not widen up? fuck it, drive as far as it takes down Big Main Road until you see a nice giant office park/strip mall/walmart parking lot you can just do a big lazy loop in and pull back out of.
I'd almost go so far as to say drive like your reverse gear is blown out and plan every move you make accordingly. You only use reverse if it's an emergency or a specifically planned/unavoidable part of the trip like pulling in to an awkwardly shaped part of the parking lot closest to your new house/unit/etc.
Backing up is like the "expert mode" in a videogame. If driving a big truck is a skill, and pulling a trailer is a skill, and driving the combination on the freeway is another one... Then backing up that unit is like some final boss fight they would only make you do after you'd kicked the ass of all the other ones. It's tricky, just don't.
*although yes, that too.
On preview, celtalitha nails it with similar don't-back-up points to mine..
Honestly, if you haven't actually reserved the thing i'd be pricing out PODs type stuff between the two towns Vs the cost of this. I have only rented a truck once and not had it to be 2-3x the "estimate" even when my mileage and such was realistic. And those were all in town. For city to city moves i'd be seriously considering other services especially if they didn't involve me having to tow my vehicle behind a crappy truck.
posted by emptythought at 9:43 PM on July 1, 2013 [3 favorites]
Another comment i'd have is just do not let yourself get in a situation where you need to back up. And similarly, don't put yourself in a position where you're forced in to tight spaces or very tight turns. Made a wrong turn and see a side street you could turn around on that's narrow and might not widen up? fuck it, drive as far as it takes down Big Main Road until you see a nice giant office park/strip mall/walmart parking lot you can just do a big lazy loop in and pull back out of.
I'd almost go so far as to say drive like your reverse gear is blown out and plan every move you make accordingly. You only use reverse if it's an emergency or a specifically planned/unavoidable part of the trip like pulling in to an awkwardly shaped part of the parking lot closest to your new house/unit/etc.
Backing up is like the "expert mode" in a videogame. If driving a big truck is a skill, and pulling a trailer is a skill, and driving the combination on the freeway is another one... Then backing up that unit is like some final boss fight they would only make you do after you'd kicked the ass of all the other ones. It's tricky, just don't.
*although yes, that too.
On preview, celtalitha nails it with similar don't-back-up points to mine..
Honestly, if you haven't actually reserved the thing i'd be pricing out PODs type stuff between the two towns Vs the cost of this. I have only rented a truck once and not had it to be 2-3x the "estimate" even when my mileage and such was realistic. And those were all in town. For city to city moves i'd be seriously considering other services especially if they didn't involve me having to tow my vehicle behind a crappy truck.
posted by emptythought at 9:43 PM on July 1, 2013 [3 favorites]
There's a lot of good tips in this thread, particularly about driving technique. The one that almost got me in trouble a few times was underestimating the turn radius--the worst that happened to me was I bumped a curb but making right turns in traffic could get dicier if you don't know how much space you need to make a turn.
I did this with my Dad a few years ago, in a UHaul, over five days from the East Coast to the West, and it was fine. It was actually pretty fun and even though I'd never driven anything that big before (we towed my car too) it was totally doable. Good luck, safe travels, have fun!
posted by stellaluna at 9:47 PM on July 1, 2013
I did this with my Dad a few years ago, in a UHaul, over five days from the East Coast to the West, and it was fine. It was actually pretty fun and even though I'd never driven anything that big before (we towed my car too) it was totally doable. Good luck, safe travels, have fun!
posted by stellaluna at 9:47 PM on July 1, 2013
Adjust your mirrors, particularly the passenger side mirror, before you start driving. Stand outside the truck behind the passenger door with your head on the plane of the side of truck's box. Adjust the mirror so you can see the headrest of the driver's seat. Get in the truck. Look at the mirror and make sure you can see plenty of road alongside the truck but also make sure the right rear corner of the truck is visible in the mirror. If you have to lean forward a little bit to see it that's ok because you have more side view that way. Get out and adjust as necessary. The driver's side is a little easier because you can open the window to do it from the driver's seat.
Signal for a nice long time before you change lanes, and then lean forward and back to scan as much of the lane as you can before you do change lanes. Then change lanes nice and slow. It's amazing how many car drivers will just fall in right in a truck's blind spot and just cruise along there completely unaware of what the truck driver can and cannot see. Give them as much of a chance as you can to get their dumb asses out of the way.
Check the mirrors each time you get into the truck. They get bumped, and if the U-Haul is maintained as poorly as U-Hauls generally are, they may move just from the airflow of driving. Have a pair of pliers handy to tighten the nuts if that is the case. Your side mirrors are incredibly important when driving a truck, because you cannot just turn your head to see.
Take care to corner nice and slowly, especially at lower speeds and on hills. Your cargo will shift if you're not careful, and that big thunk and crash can be distressing.
Nthing the suggestion to plan so you don't have to back up, since you'll be towing a car. But still practice it a little bit in a parking lot if you can. Everything seems backwards from what it should be when you're backing up with a trailer, but once you get the hang of it it's not so hard to think a couple steps ahead and get everything pointed in the direction you want it to go, then straighten out to finish the maneuver. A little bit of practice will save your butt if you get into a situation where you have to back up.
You'll be fine. Have fun!
posted by Balonious Assault at 10:02 PM on July 1, 2013
Signal for a nice long time before you change lanes, and then lean forward and back to scan as much of the lane as you can before you do change lanes. Then change lanes nice and slow. It's amazing how many car drivers will just fall in right in a truck's blind spot and just cruise along there completely unaware of what the truck driver can and cannot see. Give them as much of a chance as you can to get their dumb asses out of the way.
Check the mirrors each time you get into the truck. They get bumped, and if the U-Haul is maintained as poorly as U-Hauls generally are, they may move just from the airflow of driving. Have a pair of pliers handy to tighten the nuts if that is the case. Your side mirrors are incredibly important when driving a truck, because you cannot just turn your head to see.
Take care to corner nice and slowly, especially at lower speeds and on hills. Your cargo will shift if you're not careful, and that big thunk and crash can be distressing.
Nthing the suggestion to plan so you don't have to back up, since you'll be towing a car. But still practice it a little bit in a parking lot if you can. Everything seems backwards from what it should be when you're backing up with a trailer, but once you get the hang of it it's not so hard to think a couple steps ahead and get everything pointed in the direction you want it to go, then straighten out to finish the maneuver. A little bit of practice will save your butt if you get into a situation where you have to back up.
You'll be fine. Have fun!
posted by Balonious Assault at 10:02 PM on July 1, 2013
UHaul doesn't own diesel trucks.
Ah. Well, they used to. Which was an annoying surprise the first time I stopped to fuel up! But that was 10 years ago, so if they switched over to gas since then, great!
posted by aubilenon at 10:25 PM on July 1, 2013
Ah. Well, they used to. Which was an annoying surprise the first time I stopped to fuel up! But that was 10 years ago, so if they switched over to gas since then, great!
posted by aubilenon at 10:25 PM on July 1, 2013
We've done the cross-country U-Haul thing a couple of times and found it much easier to have one person drive the truck and the other person drive the car. This avoided the dreaded need to back up with a trailer, of course, but it also made it easier on the truck driver (my husband) since I could maneuver the car to help him change lanes for exits and such. It's hard to tell in the truck how much space you have or whether there's a car in a blind spot, so I'd change lanes with the car and blink my lights to signal that he had room. I don't know if your partner could drive the car, but I'd seriously consider that option.
With separate drivers, the U-Haul only stopped at rest stops and truck stops. I would pull the car off at an exit to get lunch and then meet my husband/the truck at the next rest stop for a lunch break, and he didn't have to worry about getting a U-Haul into a smaller parking lot. It was also nice to be able to leave the truck at the hotel parking lot and take the car to get dinner in the evening.
On truck stops/gas stations--don't be afraid to assess the situation before pulling in. Since the U-Haul is gas, you'll go where the cars go. The non-diesel parts of some truck stops (including many Flying J's) aren't designed with gas-powered trucks in mind and there isn't much room to turn around. We found it better to pull off outside of major population areas since the stations often had larger lots.
The gas station is likely to put a limit on how much gas you can charge in one transaction. Sometimes it's as little as $50. If your card stops at a nice round number like $50 or $75, your tank may not be full and you may need to make a second transaction to fill it up. That's particularly important if you're in an unpopulated area (like Wyoming) with few service stops.
If you think you need more miles than U-Haul is estimating for your trip because of different routing or extra miles to return truck to a rental place that's open at a certain time or on Sunday or something, just ask for them. Both times, we had the extra miles given at no charge up front. We had fairly new trucks both times.
Get more moving blankets than you think you'll need. They seem like an extra expense, but you'll use a lot of them if you pack well. A couple of rolls of stretch wrap (like saran wrap on a stick) will help you wrap furniture. Pack everything as tightly as possible so things don't shift in the truck. After it's loaded, drive it around the parking lot/block and hit the brakes fairly hard at least once so you get a feel for the weight of the truck and make sure everything is secure. The weight of the truck means you can't stop on a dime, so increase your following distance and slow down if someone cuts in front of you too closely.
My husband had never driven a big truck, and he handled our 26' truck great for our trips. I didn't envy the cab noise or bad radio, but he was a trooper! Your short days sound like a great plan, but think about whether your partner can drive the car separately.
posted by BlooPen at 10:38 PM on July 1, 2013 [4 favorites]
With separate drivers, the U-Haul only stopped at rest stops and truck stops. I would pull the car off at an exit to get lunch and then meet my husband/the truck at the next rest stop for a lunch break, and he didn't have to worry about getting a U-Haul into a smaller parking lot. It was also nice to be able to leave the truck at the hotel parking lot and take the car to get dinner in the evening.
On truck stops/gas stations--don't be afraid to assess the situation before pulling in. Since the U-Haul is gas, you'll go where the cars go. The non-diesel parts of some truck stops (including many Flying J's) aren't designed with gas-powered trucks in mind and there isn't much room to turn around. We found it better to pull off outside of major population areas since the stations often had larger lots.
The gas station is likely to put a limit on how much gas you can charge in one transaction. Sometimes it's as little as $50. If your card stops at a nice round number like $50 or $75, your tank may not be full and you may need to make a second transaction to fill it up. That's particularly important if you're in an unpopulated area (like Wyoming) with few service stops.
If you think you need more miles than U-Haul is estimating for your trip because of different routing or extra miles to return truck to a rental place that's open at a certain time or on Sunday or something, just ask for them. Both times, we had the extra miles given at no charge up front. We had fairly new trucks both times.
Get more moving blankets than you think you'll need. They seem like an extra expense, but you'll use a lot of them if you pack well. A couple of rolls of stretch wrap (like saran wrap on a stick) will help you wrap furniture. Pack everything as tightly as possible so things don't shift in the truck. After it's loaded, drive it around the parking lot/block and hit the brakes fairly hard at least once so you get a feel for the weight of the truck and make sure everything is secure. The weight of the truck means you can't stop on a dime, so increase your following distance and slow down if someone cuts in front of you too closely.
My husband had never driven a big truck, and he handled our 26' truck great for our trips. I didn't envy the cab noise or bad radio, but he was a trooper! Your short days sound like a great plan, but think about whether your partner can drive the car separately.
posted by BlooPen at 10:38 PM on July 1, 2013 [4 favorites]
Nthing rent elsewhere if you can. That number you call if you break down? They'll put you on perpetual hold, disconnect you, do it five more times for good measure, finally say they're on their way to assist, never show up, and then charge you for the extra time you had the truck no matter the circumstances. Don't forget extra hotel night costs or the extreme discomfort you'll be in if you are lucky enough to break down in summer heat. Fun times.
posted by moira at 11:57 PM on July 1, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by moira at 11:57 PM on July 1, 2013 [1 favorite]
We did a 9 to 11 hour 2 day move, with a 14 foot Uhal, with a car-tow, less than a year ago. (Note my husband drove the whole way as I was sick, but I helped with the directions/car tow.)
-ALWAYS LOCK THE DOOR FROM THE OUTSIDE! This means you won't lock the key in the cab, which would be a major pain.
- Getting the car on the tow can be sketchy depending on the type of tow. The Uhal person should give you a quick how-to for getting your car on it and strapping it down. You also will need to check the straps/chains when you stop to see if they need tightening. They should also check the rear lights when they hook you up.
-Depending on your vehicle/style of tow, you may need some extra effort to get on/off the tow. It looks like you will be on a different tow than we had. Just line your wheels up properly on the ramps and then slowly go up, making sure you are centered, and then you may need to tap the gas a bit to get up onto the tow.
-Mirrors and know where all the controls are. Our cab was very nice but as is started to get dark my husband realized he didn't know where the headlight controls were so he had to fumble around a bit to find them. So figure out what all the buttons do first.
-Buy a big lock for the back. Get the one with the key. We got a huge one for like $10 at Walmart.
-DO NOT BACK UP! Someone mentioned doing it above, but we were specifically told NO backing up as you will jack-knife the tow and get stuck. We were told this can damage the Uhaul, the tow, and potentially your vehicle. (I think it may also violate usage of the vehicle but I'm unsure.)
-To avoid backing up, you may need to plan your trip by google maps/street view to check if there are any areas that you may get stuck. You want to make sure you can make a loop in a parking lot too, so don't get into any small parking lots that don't have 2 clear exits. (Same goes for gas stations, try to look for truck stop gas stations, also grocery stores and Walmarts for food, etc.)
-Watch your side mirrors. The Uhal with the tow is very wide so you might want to hug the side of the road a bit with passing cars. It may get a little scary on crowded highway traffic.
-Watch your top clearance. You should't have a problem on main roads at all, but be careful for things like carports which may have lower clearance than the top of your Uhaul. (Your clearance height will be displayed on your dashboard.)
-If you can, get the car off the tow and drop off the tow before unloading. It makes it way easier to pull into your new housing area without fear of getting stuck, and easier to unload the Uhaul.
-You will be going slower, I think with the tow it says not to exceed 65mp. That means your trip may run longer than expected with having to drive slower and plan stops a bit more. Ours ran about an hour more each day we drove than what we expected.
-We also had an ipod audio jack and a CD player in our cab, along with multiple cigarette lighter inputs for charging things. Keep that in mind for entertainment/music.
posted by Crystalinne at 12:13 AM on July 2, 2013
-ALWAYS LOCK THE DOOR FROM THE OUTSIDE! This means you won't lock the key in the cab, which would be a major pain.
- Getting the car on the tow can be sketchy depending on the type of tow. The Uhal person should give you a quick how-to for getting your car on it and strapping it down. You also will need to check the straps/chains when you stop to see if they need tightening. They should also check the rear lights when they hook you up.
-Depending on your vehicle/style of tow, you may need some extra effort to get on/off the tow. It looks like you will be on a different tow than we had. Just line your wheels up properly on the ramps and then slowly go up, making sure you are centered, and then you may need to tap the gas a bit to get up onto the tow.
-Mirrors and know where all the controls are. Our cab was very nice but as is started to get dark my husband realized he didn't know where the headlight controls were so he had to fumble around a bit to find them. So figure out what all the buttons do first.
-Buy a big lock for the back. Get the one with the key. We got a huge one for like $10 at Walmart.
-DO NOT BACK UP! Someone mentioned doing it above, but we were specifically told NO backing up as you will jack-knife the tow and get stuck. We were told this can damage the Uhaul, the tow, and potentially your vehicle. (I think it may also violate usage of the vehicle but I'm unsure.)
-To avoid backing up, you may need to plan your trip by google maps/street view to check if there are any areas that you may get stuck. You want to make sure you can make a loop in a parking lot too, so don't get into any small parking lots that don't have 2 clear exits. (Same goes for gas stations, try to look for truck stop gas stations, also grocery stores and Walmarts for food, etc.)
-Watch your side mirrors. The Uhal with the tow is very wide so you might want to hug the side of the road a bit with passing cars. It may get a little scary on crowded highway traffic.
-Watch your top clearance. You should't have a problem on main roads at all, but be careful for things like carports which may have lower clearance than the top of your Uhaul. (Your clearance height will be displayed on your dashboard.)
-If you can, get the car off the tow and drop off the tow before unloading. It makes it way easier to pull into your new housing area without fear of getting stuck, and easier to unload the Uhaul.
-You will be going slower, I think with the tow it says not to exceed 65mp. That means your trip may run longer than expected with having to drive slower and plan stops a bit more. Ours ran about an hour more each day we drove than what we expected.
-We also had an ipod audio jack and a CD player in our cab, along with multiple cigarette lighter inputs for charging things. Keep that in mind for entertainment/music.
posted by Crystalinne at 12:13 AM on July 2, 2013
If you use truck stops for gassing up, you can drive straight through without having to back up, which you do NOT want to do. When you turn a corner, turn it a bit wide and slowly. You already know your rig is very long, but keep in mind it's wide, too - and a tight turn can jackknife your tow bar with the back of the truck. If you have any long or steep hills to climb, stay in the right lane and be prepared to go so slowly that you're worried that you'll come to a complete stop - you won't, but it's freaky scary.
I've driven the largest U-Haul trucks at least ten times between AZ, CA, CO, UT, MT and WA and loved every minute of it - and on many of those trips I was towing a car or trailer behind the truck. I've driven Ryder once, but the truck was stiff, klunky and uncomfortable compared to the U-Haul. I've had excellent luck with U-Hauls, though not so much with the lot attendants, who really don't do well with women driving big trucks; at least that's the way it used to be - I could count on it (I found it necessary to take a friend's husband, or just a man off the street, I suppose, with me to pick up the truck - worked like magic).
Keep to highways and large arterials as much as possible, stay in the right lane because it's not easy to change into the right lane for an upcoming exit when you're driving that big an outfit, don't listen to the radio (hah! "the radio"! - shows how old I am) or do anything else that will compromise your attention span until you're completely comfortable with the truck and out on the open highway. Also, WalMarts are a good place to park overnight.
Oh yes - one other thing. When you're in traffic, you must watch the vehicles ahead of you and memorize who's where before you move into the crowd - you really should always be aware of all the other cars around you because there's always at least one idiot who is determined to drive right alongside you in your blind spot or else so closely behind your towed car you don't know he's there. Watch cars in your rearview mirror as they enter the freeway and see where they go - that way you're less likely to be surprised by a driver who seems to come out of nowhere (chatting on a cell-phone, usually).
Have fun - wish I were going with you.
posted by aryma at 12:45 AM on July 2, 2013
I've driven the largest U-Haul trucks at least ten times between AZ, CA, CO, UT, MT and WA and loved every minute of it - and on many of those trips I was towing a car or trailer behind the truck. I've driven Ryder once, but the truck was stiff, klunky and uncomfortable compared to the U-Haul. I've had excellent luck with U-Hauls, though not so much with the lot attendants, who really don't do well with women driving big trucks; at least that's the way it used to be - I could count on it (I found it necessary to take a friend's husband, or just a man off the street, I suppose, with me to pick up the truck - worked like magic).
Keep to highways and large arterials as much as possible, stay in the right lane because it's not easy to change into the right lane for an upcoming exit when you're driving that big an outfit, don't listen to the radio (hah! "the radio"! - shows how old I am) or do anything else that will compromise your attention span until you're completely comfortable with the truck and out on the open highway. Also, WalMarts are a good place to park overnight.
Oh yes - one other thing. When you're in traffic, you must watch the vehicles ahead of you and memorize who's where before you move into the crowd - you really should always be aware of all the other cars around you because there's always at least one idiot who is determined to drive right alongside you in your blind spot or else so closely behind your towed car you don't know he's there. Watch cars in your rearview mirror as they enter the freeway and see where they go - that way you're less likely to be surprised by a driver who seems to come out of nowhere (chatting on a cell-phone, usually).
Have fun - wish I were going with you.
posted by aryma at 12:45 AM on July 2, 2013
Lotsa good advice above, and I'll emphasize the braking distances.
I've driven my share of trucks that size or bigger, am among those who had moments of cruising along normally at a safe speed, found myself in the mode of being conditioned to think driving vehicle = driving a car, with car-like braking distances.
(Life got a little adrenaline-filled in those couple moments, but I didn't hit anything.)
posted by ambient2 at 1:56 AM on July 2, 2013
I've driven my share of trucks that size or bigger, am among those who had moments of cruising along normally at a safe speed, found myself in the mode of being conditioned to think driving vehicle = driving a car, with car-like braking distances.
(Life got a little adrenaline-filled in those couple moments, but I didn't hit anything.)
posted by ambient2 at 1:56 AM on July 2, 2013
I've driven several large rental trucks, but never further than about 4 hours. The height clearance was the least intuitive thing for me; I forgot that there were three or four feet of truck above my head, and bent over a "Clearance X feet" sign when pulling up to a drive-through ATM. So, whenever you're tempted to do something like use a fast-food drive through, just park the thing and walk in instead.
posted by jon1270 at 3:02 AM on July 2, 2013
posted by jon1270 at 3:02 AM on July 2, 2013
I think one thing that shouldn't be underestimated is the mental toll. You're going to be driving a big unfamiliar truck with extra length on the back for long distances, and you won't be able to cruise around people on the highway. Don't worry about getting there fast. Don't stress about people who want to go faster than you on the highway; that's why they have passing lanes. Go the speed that's comfortable for you, give yourself plenty of time and room. Be zen about it and let all the little-car driving stresses roll off your back. You're going to have enough on your mind as it is.
posted by specialagentwebb at 5:20 AM on July 2, 2013
posted by specialagentwebb at 5:20 AM on July 2, 2013
I drove a rental truck from MD to MA, 12 hours, one day.
Box trucks do not go as fast as cars.
Especially uphill.
On some uphill areas, there may be a special "truck lane" all the way to the right. Use it. It's for you! I felt bad about using them at first, as I thought of them as being got tractor trailer trucks, but I could not get my uhaul truck to go over 50 uphill, and it was slowing down other people. Just move to the right and use the truck lane.
Also, on exit ramps, you know how the speed limit seems super low when you're in a car, and you can safely go 5-10 mph higher? Not in a truck. Those signs are for you, too. The center of gravity is different. Just suck it up and slow down to the speed limit.
posted by Adridne at 6:37 AM on July 2, 2013
Box trucks do not go as fast as cars.
Especially uphill.
On some uphill areas, there may be a special "truck lane" all the way to the right. Use it. It's for you! I felt bad about using them at first, as I thought of them as being got tractor trailer trucks, but I could not get my uhaul truck to go over 50 uphill, and it was slowing down other people. Just move to the right and use the truck lane.
Also, on exit ramps, you know how the speed limit seems super low when you're in a car, and you can safely go 5-10 mph higher? Not in a truck. Those signs are for you, too. The center of gravity is different. Just suck it up and slow down to the speed limit.
posted by Adridne at 6:37 AM on July 2, 2013
We did have to call the U-Haul roadside assistance number on one of our trips when an alarm started going off. We pulled off at the next exit (rural Nebraska), called, and didn't have to wait too long (maybe 30-45 min. ?). They fixed the sensor (a minor known issue, they said) in less than 10 min, and we were back on our way.
We've rented from other companies recently, too, but the U-Haul trucks were much better maintained than the others for us. The Budget truck we rented had many more issues (gas cap rattled off, very loose mirrors we fixed with duct tape, etc.), so just be smart when you pick up the truck and make sure everything is ok. Mark anything that isn't on the rental agreement, and don't let them rush you through that process.
posted by BlooPen at 7:09 AM on July 2, 2013 [1 favorite]
We've rented from other companies recently, too, but the U-Haul trucks were much better maintained than the others for us. The Budget truck we rented had many more issues (gas cap rattled off, very loose mirrors we fixed with duct tape, etc.), so just be smart when you pick up the truck and make sure everything is ok. Mark anything that isn't on the rental agreement, and don't let them rush you through that process.
posted by BlooPen at 7:09 AM on July 2, 2013 [1 favorite]
Response by poster: Among other things, I think this thread has cleared up that we're *not* going to tow the car behind the truck! Too much drama. Thank you, folks, for your detailed answers. There's a world of knowledge I now have access to- UHaul style. Thanks everyone!
posted by timpanogos at 7:10 AM on July 2, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by timpanogos at 7:10 AM on July 2, 2013 [1 favorite]
Check your planned route carefully for places where trucks are prohibited. U-Hauls are often of a size included in that prohibition. Many a person moving to Chicago has been greeted with a ticket on Lake Shore Drive because they didn't notice the truck prohibition or didn't think it applied to U-Hauls larger than a panel van.
posted by crush-onastick at 8:38 AM on July 2, 2013
posted by crush-onastick at 8:38 AM on July 2, 2013
(I got my lean forward/back mirror reference mixed up above, posting from my comfy chair with a couple beers in me, many years removed from when I drove trucks for a living. Hopefully it made sense though.)
One other thing: Your U-Haul truck will trigger the Newbie Alert in most other truck drivers on the road, and that's a good thing. Most of them will give you a wide berth expecting you to drive somewhat erratically. But truck drivers are cool and they'll also help you out if they can. If you pass a truck on the highway and are signalling to get back over to the right, you might see the truck flick its lights in your mirror. This means "I see that you want over, and I know it can be hard to tell if there is room, and yes there is room, go for it." It is perfectly ok to reciprocate when other trucks pass you. It will be appreciated because the driver that just passed you will expect you to be an oblivious newbie, speeding up when you're being passed without even thinking about it, like oblivious car drivers do.
posted by Balonious Assault at 9:57 AM on July 2, 2013 [1 favorite]
One other thing: Your U-Haul truck will trigger the Newbie Alert in most other truck drivers on the road, and that's a good thing. Most of them will give you a wide berth expecting you to drive somewhat erratically. But truck drivers are cool and they'll also help you out if they can. If you pass a truck on the highway and are signalling to get back over to the right, you might see the truck flick its lights in your mirror. This means "I see that you want over, and I know it can be hard to tell if there is room, and yes there is room, go for it." It is perfectly ok to reciprocate when other trucks pass you. It will be appreciated because the driver that just passed you will expect you to be an oblivious newbie, speeding up when you're being passed without even thinking about it, like oblivious car drivers do.
posted by Balonious Assault at 9:57 AM on July 2, 2013 [1 favorite]
You car insurance most likely certainly DOES NOT pay for the UHaul. Call them and ask. Otherwise, you're basically driving without insurance on the truck, so you're going to need to buy the their supplemental insurance.
Turn wide. Like aim the tire on the outside of the turn for way out on the edge of its lane and generally, the rest will follow.
Drive slow. Generally obey the speed limit and stay in the two right lanes. If it says 55, you really don't want to go over 60 in a loaded truck. This is not a car. It won't stop short.
Long following distance. Way, way longer than you think you need. People do stupid stuff that's easy to avoid in a car and harder to avoid in a big truck.
Use your gears. If you have a big downhill, don't ride your breaks. That's what the lower gears are for. Get someone to help you understand this if you're not familiar.
A lot of this is easier if you get a newer truck. They tend to ride smoother, have better brakes and stop faster than older ones, at least in my limited experience.
posted by cnc at 1:29 PM on July 2, 2013
Turn wide. Like aim the tire on the outside of the turn for way out on the edge of its lane and generally, the rest will follow.
Drive slow. Generally obey the speed limit and stay in the two right lanes. If it says 55, you really don't want to go over 60 in a loaded truck. This is not a car. It won't stop short.
Long following distance. Way, way longer than you think you need. People do stupid stuff that's easy to avoid in a car and harder to avoid in a big truck.
Use your gears. If you have a big downhill, don't ride your breaks. That's what the lower gears are for. Get someone to help you understand this if you're not familiar.
A lot of this is easier if you get a newer truck. They tend to ride smoother, have better brakes and stop faster than older ones, at least in my limited experience.
posted by cnc at 1:29 PM on July 2, 2013
Use your gears. If you have a big downhill, don't ride your breaks. That's what the lower gears are for. Get someone to help you understand this if you're not familiar.
A cool thing about the newer uhauls(i think it's a ford E series/F series feature in their truck automatics actually) is that there's a button on the end of the shift knob which engages "haul mode". It's on by default, and if you just lightly tap the brakes it'll downshift to the next available gear for engine braking. If you brake harder, it downshifts another gear if it can for serious engine braking. Sometimes it'll actually shift down pretty damn hard to avoid you having to ride the brakes.
The difference between this function being off and on is stark. It's like turning off overdrive on a modern car in reverse, and makes slowing down easy as pie while still being fairly smooth. It'll definitely surprise you the first few times it downshifts hard though, especially with a loaded truck. I think there was a note on the gauge cluster saying something like "FOR FUCKS SAKE: turn off haul mode with the little button on the shifter when it's raining so you don't die" or something like that.
But yea, that's how you avoid brake fade or ruining/igniting your brakes, none of which you want. I'm betting you've never driven a loaded down heavy vehicle that just descended a steep hill and feels like it has next to no brakes(and maybe it does! fun times!) but yea, you want to avoid that.
posted by emptythought at 2:00 PM on July 2, 2013
A cool thing about the newer uhauls(i think it's a ford E series/F series feature in their truck automatics actually) is that there's a button on the end of the shift knob which engages "haul mode". It's on by default, and if you just lightly tap the brakes it'll downshift to the next available gear for engine braking. If you brake harder, it downshifts another gear if it can for serious engine braking. Sometimes it'll actually shift down pretty damn hard to avoid you having to ride the brakes.
The difference between this function being off and on is stark. It's like turning off overdrive on a modern car in reverse, and makes slowing down easy as pie while still being fairly smooth. It'll definitely surprise you the first few times it downshifts hard though, especially with a loaded truck. I think there was a note on the gauge cluster saying something like "FOR FUCKS SAKE: turn off haul mode with the little button on the shifter when it's raining so you don't die" or something like that.
But yea, that's how you avoid brake fade or ruining/igniting your brakes, none of which you want. I'm betting you've never driven a loaded down heavy vehicle that just descended a steep hill and feels like it has next to no brakes(and maybe it does! fun times!) but yea, you want to avoid that.
posted by emptythought at 2:00 PM on July 2, 2013
Not sure if this is still relevant or not: you need some sort of padlock for the back of the truck. If this is still true (and I think you can pretty easily check with uhaul about this) get it ahead of time so you don't end up driving around to buy a lock when you should be driving to your new place.
Nthing making sure you have chargers and something that will let you listen to music. Make some good playlists - music as well as something like This American Life. If the darn thing doesn't have any way to play music other than radio - I'd even consider stopping at a big box store and buying a speaker you can plug your ipod or other music device into.
posted by sciencegeek at 3:12 PM on July 2, 2013
Nthing making sure you have chargers and something that will let you listen to music. Make some good playlists - music as well as something like This American Life. If the darn thing doesn't have any way to play music other than radio - I'd even consider stopping at a big box store and buying a speaker you can plug your ipod or other music device into.
posted by sciencegeek at 3:12 PM on July 2, 2013
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Any chance you can split this into two 6 hour days of driving?
posted by mollymayhem at 9:05 PM on July 1, 2013 [1 favorite]