Why do uhaul trailers say 55 mph

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: U-Haul trailers display 55 mph speed recommendations primarily for safety and legal reasons. This speed limit helps prevent trailer sway, reduces tire wear, and complies with state laws that often require lower speeds for towed vehicles. The recommendation dates back to the 1970s when the national speed limit was 55 mph, and it has been maintained as a safety standard. U-Haul's official policy states that customers should not exceed 55 mph when towing their trailers to ensure safe operation.

Key Facts

U-Haul recommends towing trailers at 55 mph maximum for safety reasons
The 55 mph guideline originated during the 1970s national speed limit era
Trailer sway becomes more likely at speeds above 55 mph
Many states have laws requiring lower speeds for towed vehicles
U-Haul's rental agreement specifies the 55 mph towing speed limit

Overview

U-Haul trailers prominently display 55 mph speed recommendations on their sides, a practice that dates back to the 1970s when the National Maximum Speed Law established 55 mph as the national speed limit. This regulation was implemented in 1974 primarily to conserve fuel during the oil crisis, and U-Haul adopted this speed as their standard recommendation for trailer towing. The company, founded in 1945 by Leonard Shoen, has grown to become North America's largest do-it-yourself moving and storage company with over 176,000 trucks and 127,000 trailers in its fleet. The 55 mph recommendation has persisted even after the national speed limit was repealed in 1995, becoming an industry safety standard. U-Haul's distinctive orange and white trailers are now recognized across North America, with the speed recommendation serving as both a safety guideline and a recognizable brand element.

How It Works

The 55 mph speed limit on U-Haul trailers works through a combination of engineering principles and safety protocols. At higher speeds, trailers become more susceptible to dangerous swaying motions caused by crosswinds, uneven road surfaces, or improper loading. This phenomenon, known as trailer sway or fishtailing, occurs when the trailer begins oscillating from side to side, potentially leading to loss of control. The 55 mph limit provides a safety margin that reduces these risks while also decreasing tire wear and improving fuel efficiency. U-Haul designs their trailers with specific weight distributions and hitch systems that perform optimally at or below this speed. Additionally, many state laws require lower maximum speeds for vehicles towing trailers, typically ranging from 55-65 mph depending on the jurisdiction. U-Haul's rental agreements explicitly state that customers must adhere to the 55 mph recommendation, and exceeding this speed could void insurance coverage in case of accidents.

Why It Matters

The 55 mph recommendation matters significantly for public safety and legal compliance. Each year, thousands of accidents involve trailers, many caused by excessive speed or improper towing techniques. By maintaining this clear, visible speed guideline, U-Haul helps reduce accident rates among their customers, many of whom are inexperienced with trailer towing. The policy also has legal implications, as most states have specific speed limits for vehicles towing trailers, and following U-Haul's recommendation helps customers avoid traffic violations. From an insurance perspective, adhering to the 55 mph limit is crucial for maintaining coverage validity during rentals. The consistent application of this standard across U-Haul's massive fleet has established an industry benchmark that other rental companies often follow, contributing to overall road safety standards for towed vehicles nationwide.