Need advice quick. Alternatives to Uhaul.

[chaska]

I need a trailer (5x8ish) for a cross country move. Uhaul just quoted me $840. I nearly fainted. It only cost me $250-275 to make the same trip from the opposite direction less than three years ago. Do any of you know of a cheaper alternative?

[MrCoffee]

1. What kind of car do you have? You could buy a cheaper trailer.

If you can tow it.

[chaska]

3. '93 plymouth grand voyager w/ the big engine...

Destined for the want ads as soon as I get to my destination. I pulled the same load with the same van three years ago.

I could buy one cheaper??? Tell me more.

[MrCoffee]

8. Check the local classified rag...

$840 for an 8x5 is insane. I'd look in whatever local classified papers you have. I don't know where you live, but you should be able to find something cheaper than that. Then dump it when you get there.

If you're getting rid of the van anyway, go right ahead and tow.

I bought an Econoline van for $950 to move from Ohio to Texas. I pulled the seats out, filled it waaayy up with oil, said a novena, and hit the road...the thing died a horrible death, but not before it got me where I needed to go. Saved $1500 (!!!) over what U-Haul wanted.

[chaska]

10. I hear ya. I'm looking at ebay and Craigs list right now.

[NewWaveChick1981]

2. I have no idea about prices, but Ryder and Penske also rent

trucks. There may also be cheaper non-chain movers in your area too.

Good luck with it. I hate moving. :(

[chaska]

4. Yeah, I've been checking with those guys and others, but....

they only rent trucks and the price is double or more.

[Blue-Jay]

5. A very large backpack?

[chaska]

6. Hmm, I'd need some very large muscles....

I better get me to a gymnasium ... and quick.

[Opusnone]

7. Check your local Auto Trader

or Pennysaver for trailers for sale. You can always buy one and sell it when you reach your destination.

[yewberry]

9. Last time I moved, I went with Ryder.

You have to get quotes from one or two, and then haggle. Don't go with online quotes.

[achtung_circus]

11. Even if you got an in-person quote from U-Haul

go to another outlet and get a quote there.

2 years ago I was quoted $1,900 and $5,300 for the same truck for the same trip.

[chaska]

12. Thanks, everybody. Going out to see if I can find one to buy. Later!