U-Haul Moving Trucks: Pricing, Reviews, and More | MYMOVE (2024)

U-Haul Moving Trucks: Pricing, Reviews, and More | MYMOVE (1)

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To help make your move easier, companies like U-Haul offer moving services and products that help both short- and long-term moves. U-Haul rental prices vary depending on your needs, but they can be some of the cheapest options for many customers.

What we like

  • Good rates for local moves‌ make it a budget-friendly option
  • Locationsall across the country make pick up and drop off simple
  • Every move includes roadside assistance

What we don’t like

  • The price quote can be confusing
  • Hidden fees can make it pricier than anticipated
  • They do not guarantee their reservations

Our methodology

To review U-Haul’s rental rates, we compared quotes for a variety of truck sizes and distances on 02/24/2023. We found the total cost of the rental by using U-Haul’s listed mileage for each truck size and the average cost of gas at the time of writing ($3.385/gallon). We then added U-Haul’s base prices, mileage costs, and any additional fees to find the total cost.

How‌ ‌much‌ ‌does‌ ‌it cost to rent a U-Haul?‌

The cost of renting a U-Haul moving truck can vary depending on whether you’re planning a local move or a long-distance one. It’s important to understand U-Haul truck rental costs (including hidden fees) upfront, so you can budget accordingly. One of the biggest complaints about U-Haul involves hidden fees.

U-Haul rental costs always include a base price that additional fees are tacked on to. Additional fees may include taxes, environmental fees, damage protection, and insurance, should you choose to purchase it.

U-Haul rental rates: Local move

If you’re moving within the same city or area, you can expect cheaper rates than long-distance moves. U-Haul prices start at a $19.95 flat-rate fee for in-town moves, and you’re also charged per mile. Flat rates go up depending on U-Haul truck sizes. For instance, a pickup truck is the cheapest option, while some U-Haul rentals are trucks big enough for three to four-bedroom homes.

Truck sizeBase priceIncluded mileageTotal cost (100 miles)
8′ Pickup$19.95$1.39 per mile $177
10′ Truck$19.95$1.59 per mile$207
15′ Truck$29.95$1.59 per mile$223
20′ Truck$39.95$1.59 per mile$233
26′ Truck$39.95$1.59 per mile$233

U-Haul rental rates: Long-distance move

For long-distance moves, U-Haul provides estimated rental rates based on the details of your move. Though you’re still charged by distance, U-Haul incorporates your expected mileage from the start rather than tacking on a $1.59 per mile charge. Here is the total cost — including fuel and $5 environmental fee — for a variety of distances.

Truck size500 miles1,000 miles2,000 miles
10′ Truck$691$1,271$3,025
15′ Truck$747$1,381$3,267
20′ Truck$806$1,485$4,560
26′ Truck$891$1,639$5,852

‌Understanding‌ ‌your‌ ‌U-Haul moving ‌quote‌

There are many factors that contribute to the quote you will receive for your U-Haul truck rental. These include the distance of the move, insurance options, environmental fees, and more.

The distance of the move itself can have a huge impact on the prices you see offered. A local move can be advertised at $19.95, but it can easily come out to three times that amount or more depending on how many trips you need to take. The U-Haul rental quote for a long-distance move is a bit more accurate based on distance, but you’ll also need to account for fuel costs on your trip.

Just remember that the quote you receive will be the basic rate of your rental truck. It will not include extras or additional products. If you need U-Haul moving help, there will also be extra fees for service providers and equipment like dollies. You will want to be cautious with your quote and be sure you understand every add-on and extra cost that could be incurred. ‌

Breaking‌ ‌down‌ ‌U-Haul’s‌ ‌fees‌ ‌

If you’re wondering “How much does it cost to rent a U-Haul?” Additional fees are a big factor. The following is a breakdown of some fees that could sneak up on you if you’re not aware of them.

  • Fuel costs factor in greatly: Even a quick run across town could eat up a $60 tank of gas. You will definitely want to use a mileage calculator to plan out your trip.
  • U-Haul offers two types of insurance: SafeMove Plus, and the more basic SafeMove. The SafeMove Plus option is usually about twice as much because it offers substantially better protection.
  • The environmental fee is small but still something to be considered: It usually runs somewhere between $1 to $5 total for the rental.

What‌ ‌size‌ ‌U-Haul‌ ‌truck‌ ‌do‌ ‌I‌ ‌need?‌

The U-Haul rental truck you should choose depends on how much stuff you are moving. The following chart will help you figure out the right size of truck for your needs.

Truck SizeCapacityWeight Limit
10-footStudio to 1 bedroom apt.8,600 lbs. max
15-foot1 bedroom home to 2 bedroom apt.14,500 lbs. max
15′ Truck2 bedroom home to 3 bedroom apt.14,500 lbs. max
26-foot3-4 bedroom home25,999 lbs. max

U-Haul‌ ‌reviews‌ ‌ ‌

ConsumersAffairs (which features unfiltered reviews from U-Haul customers) gives U-Haul four stars out of five. That’s based on 854 reviews received in just the past year. One of the latest reviews boasts about how excellent their customer service is. Yet, another recent reviewer says the truck was not ready when they arrived.

With such varying reviews, it’s important to do your own research. Look up the Better Business Bureau’s review of your local U-Haul location, and read customer comments. Weigh the pros and cons and be sure you are prepared for any unexpected surprises before you make a decision.

The bottom line

U-Haul is one of the biggest U.S. providers for moving equipment and services. While U-Haul offers simple solutions for all types of moves, it’s important for customers to understand what they’re paying for. If you’re considering U-Haul services, be sure to acknowledge all types of fees. Some fees are obvious and quoted upfront, such as costs for vehicles. Other costs are tacked on and easily add up.

Frequently asked questions

Q:

How‌ ‌much‌ ‌does‌ ‌it‌ ‌cost‌ ‌to‌ ‌rent‌ ‌a‌ ‌U-Haul?‌ ‌ ‌

A:

The cost can vary greatly depending on factors such as the mileage amount used, the add-ons you choose, the size of the truck, etc. Make sure you do your research so there are no unexpected fees.

Q:

Is ‌PODS‌ ‌or‌ ‌U-Haul‌ ‌better?‌

A:

PODS have become very popular in recent years. Many people like the concept of shipping their belongings, rather than hauling them on the freeway. Other people want their prized possessions under their control at all times. It all depends on which process you prefer. ‌

Q:

Should I purchase insurance?

A:

Insurance is important. However, if you have your own homeowners or renters plan that will cover the trip, then you might not need to worry about it. Make sure you do your research beforehand.

Q:

How old do I need to be to rent a U-Haul truck?

A:

You need to be 18 to rent a truck, but you can drive one at 16 with a valid driver’s license.

Q:

Can I pick it up and drop it off at different locations?

A:

Yes. This is the beauty of U-Haul having so many locations nationwide. You can pick it up in the city you are moving from and drop it off in the city you are moving to. Simple as that.

Q:

How much does it cost to rent a U-Haul for a day?

A:

Single-day U-Haul rentals start as low as $19.95, though prices vary depending on the type of vehicle you need and the total mileage you’ll be driving.

Q:

Does U-Haul have discounts?

A:

U-Haul offers a variety of discounts and special offers that you can browse on the U-Haul website. Discounts vary and may change from location to location, so be sure to contact your local U-Haul for more information.

Q:

Is Penske cheaper than U-Haul?

A:

In general, Penske costs slightly higher than U-Haul. However, Penske’s prices vary similarly to U-Haul, so costs will depend on your individual needs.

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U-Haul Moving Trucks: Pricing, Reviews, and More | MYMOVE (2024)

FAQs

What is the cheapest company to rent a truck from? ›

Cheapest moving truck rental companies in 2024
  • Budget Truck Rental is our top pick for its low rates and lack of mileage fees.
  • U-Haul's availability and truck size options make it our No. 2 choice.
  • Penske is our No. 3 choice, offering unlimited mileage for all rentals.
Aug 19, 2024

Why is Penske so much more expensive than U-Haul? ›

U-Haul: Cost. You'll typically find that Penske is slightly more expensive than U-Haul. This is because the company maintains a higher quality of trucks. U-Haul adjusts its cost based on the distance of your move and the time required for your move.

How much does a U-Haul cost per mile locally? ›

In-Town Rental Cost Breakdown

Smaller trucks have a lower flat rate and mileage fees. Mileage rates vary based on a number of factors and may change, even daily (rates are lowest Sunday through Thursday). But in general, average mileage fees are between $.59 and $.99 per mile driven.

Will a couch fit in a 10 foot U-Haul? ›

Ten feet may not sound like a long enough truck to fit your whole life into, but you can fit much more than you think. If you have larger items to move, such as couches, mattresses or desks, along with your many boxes, there is plenty of room to do so.

Who is U-Haul's biggest competitor? ›

Here are the top five U-Haul competitors — Budget, Penske, Enterprise, Home Depot, and Hertz. Just because U-Haul is the most popular moving truck rental company doesn't mean they are the best choice for your move.

What is the best day to rent a moving truck? ›

However, if you're looking for the best deal, consider renting a truck from Monday to Thursday. These days are typically less busy, meaning more availability and potentially lower prices, a tip that residential movers and long-distance movers alike might suggest.

How much does U-Haul hold on a credit card? ›

Whether you pay a deposit depends on your method of payment. No deposit is required if you're paying by major credit card. If you're paying with cash, the following is due when you pick up your equipment: In-Town truck - $100 or estimated rental charges (whichever is greater)

What is the most efficient way to pack a U-Haul? ›

Build strong rows using furniture and larger items as the base. Stack boxes on top of your rows; heavier boxes should be at the bottom. Load heaviest items like your washer and dryer into the truck first. Fill gaps using furniture pads and/or smaller items to minimize shifting.

What is Penske known for? ›

Team Penske is one of the most successful teams in the history of professional sports. Cars owned and prepared by Team Penske have produced more than 620 major race wins, over 680 pole positions and 44 championships across open-wheel, stock car and sports car racing competition.

How are U-Haul rates calculated? ›

In-Town move rates include a flat fee for the rental period, plus a per mile charge. One-way move rates are determined by a combination of truck size, point of origin, destination and the date of the move. The price includes an allowed mileage and a set number of days to complete your move.

What is the size of the smallest U-Haul truck? ›

The 10ft truck is our smallest box truck rental available for long distance One-Way moves and local In-Town moves. The 10ft moving truck can easily fit a king sized bed, frame, loveseat, two end tables, and a four piece dining room table with spare room for boxes filled with household items.

Does U-Haul reimburse miles? ›

As a customer, you receive an allowed mileage and a set number of days to complete your move. Allowed days and mileage are calculated to allow you to complete the move with no extra charges. Unused days or mileage are not refunded. Additional days and additional miles are charged at the pre-agreed rate on the contract.

What is the difference between 10 and 15 U-Haul? ›

A 15′ U-Haul truck is perfect for 1-2-bedroom house or apartment moves. Besides being 5′ longer than a 10′ truck, it is wider and taller. There is plenty of room for your furniture, appliances, boxes and fragile items.

What is the gas mileage for a 10 ft U-Haul truck? ›

Did You Know?
Sub CategoryPickup truck10' truck
Unleaded Fuel Tank Size34 Gallons31 Gallons
Miles Per Gallon (up to)1912
Miles Per Fuel Tank (up to)646372

Can a king size mattress fit in a 6x12 U-Haul trailer? ›

Full/Double – Cargo Van, 10′ and up moving trucks, and 5'x8′ cargo trailers and up. Queen – Cargo Van, 10′ and up moving trucks, and 5'x8′ cargo trailers and up. King – 10′ and up moving trucks, and a 6'x12′ cargo trailer.

What is the largest budget rental truck? ›

Cheap Moving Truck & Cargo Van Rentals From Budget Truck

Several vehicle size options: 12-, 16-, and 26-foot trucks. Deals and discounts on already low moving truck rental prices.

What is the biggest Penske truck you can rent? ›

Penske's 26 ft. rental truck is the largest moving truck available for your personal move. The 26 ft. truck moves five to seven rooms and is the right size for moving a three to five bedroom home.

Why is U-Haul so expensive leaving California? ›

With the constant net loss in trucks in California, U-Haul must take efforts to prevent the state from running out of vehicles. That's one of the reasons customers may see higher prices for a one-way move out of the Bay Area, where one into the area may be much cheaper.

Does Penske take debit cards? ›

We accept major credit cards, debit cards, bank or cashier checks, and cash. Please note that Penske does not accept cash payments in excess of $5,000, though transactions can be split between two forms of payment.

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