If you're moving around Delta, Vancouver, Richmond, or anywhere in the Lower Mainland, renting a trailer from Ride On Rentals can save you a ton of hassle. We're based in Delta, so you pick up the trailer here and hook up. The practical difference is you get a solid, weatherproof box on wheels that you load on your own schedule, not a moving company's. Here's how to plan it right, from the first phone call to unloading at your new place.
What's the smart timeline for a trailer move?
Start planning at least two weeks out. That gives you time to book the trailer for the exact days you need, especially if you're moving on a weekend. Weekends go fast in the summer, so call or email early. Tell us the dates and what you're hauling, and we'll confirm availability and pricing before you book. You don't want to be scrambling for a trailer the week of your move.
A few days before pickup, start packing the stuff you won't need right away. Load the trailer the day before or the morning of the move, not the night before when you're tired and making bad decisions about what to toss. If you're moving out of an apartment, book the elevator for a two-hour window on moving day. That's often the tightest part of a Lower Mainland move, so don't leave it to chance. Call the building manager early and get it locked in.
How do loading zones and parking work near your new place?
In Vancouver and Burnaby, street parking can be brutal. Check if your new building has a loading zone or a spot where a trailer can sit for a few hours. If not, you might need to park a block away and use a hand truck. That's fine, but it adds time, so factor it in. Walk the route ahead of time if you can, and note any tight corners or one-way streets that could be a pain with a trailer.
For houses in Surrey or Langley, you usually have a driveway, but watch for low-hanging branches or a narrow gate. In the Tri-Cities, hillside lots can mean a sloped driveway that's tricky to back a trailer into. Take a look at the approach before you commit. If you're moving into a condo downtown, ask the building manager about their loading rules ahead of time. Some buildings have specific hours for moves, and you don't want to show up and find out you can't unload until evening.
Two trips vs one: what actually works?
One trip sounds great, but it means packing everything at once and hauling a fully loaded trailer through traffic. For a small apartment, a 7x16 open flatbed or an enclosed cargo trailer can usually handle it in one go. For a house with a garage full of tools and garden stuff, two trips might be more realistic. Think about the size of your place and how much you've actually accumulated, not just what you think you own.
Think about what you're moving. If it's furniture and boxes, an enclosed trailer keeps everything dry and lockable. If you're also moving a car or ATV, you'll need a car hauler, and that might mean two trips anyway. Be honest about how much you can load in a day. Renting for an extra day is cheaper than rushing and breaking something. A second trip also gives you a chance to clean the old place properly before you hand over the keys.
What should you know about towing in the Lower Mainland?
Most standard trucks and SUVs with a Class 3 hitch can tow our trailers. When you book, tell us what you're driving, and we'll confirm the hitch and wiring work. You'll need a 4-pin or 7-pin connector, depending on the trailer. We'll sort that out before you pick up, so there are no surprises on moving day. If your vehicle has a hitch but you've never used it, now's the time to check that it's not rusted or loose.
Driving a loaded trailer through the Massey Tunnel or over the Port Mann Bridge takes a bit of care. Keep your speed steady, leave extra room for braking, and watch for crosswinds on the Alex Fraser. If you're not used to towing, practice backing up in an empty parking lot before you get to your narrow street. It's not hard, but it's different. Give yourself extra time for traffic, especially if you're moving on a weekday during rush hour.
What about rain and weather?
It rains here a lot, so plan for it. An enclosed cargo trailer is your best bet for keeping furniture and boxes dry. If you're using an open flatbed, get a tarp and tie it down properly. Even on a sunny day, a sudden shower can soak a mattress in minutes. Pack a few bungee cords and a tarp in the cab so you're ready no matter what the sky does.
Check the forecast the day before, but don't trust it completely. Have a backup plan for loading in the rain, like a tarp over the trailer or a covered area at your old place. And if you're moving in the winter, remember the days are short. Start early so you're not unloading in the dark. A headlamp or work light in the trailer can save you a lot of frustration if you end up finishing after sunset.
Quick questions
How far in advance should I book a trailer for a move?
Try to book at least two weeks ahead, especially for weekends. We take bookings by phone or email, and we'll confirm availability and pricing before you commit. If you're moving in the summer, give us even more notice.
Can I rent a trailer for just one day?
Yes, we offer daily and weekly terms. For a local move, a day or two usually works. Just tell us your dates when you call, and we'll figure out what makes sense for your timeline.
What if my tow vehicle doesn't have the right hitch?
When you book, tell us the make and model of your truck or SUV. We'll confirm if a Class 3 hitch works and what wiring you need, like a 4-pin or 7-pin connector. If there's an issue, we'll let you know before you pick up.
Do you help with loading?
No, we're a trailer rental place, not movers. You do the loading, but we'll make sure the trailer is ready to go when you pick it up in Delta. We'll also answer any questions about hooking up or driving with it.
If you're planning a move and need a trailer, give us a call at (604) 767-7977 to check availability and talk through what fits your vehicle and your stuff. We'll get you set up with the right trailer for your move.