Updated July 2025
Moving can be stressful enough without worrying about finding the right rental truck at a fair price. Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, U-Haul remains America’s go-to choice for DIY moves, offering everything from pickup trucks to massive 26-foot moving trucks.
But with fluctuating prices, multiple truck sizes, and various rental options, navigating U-Haul’s system can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about U-Haul rentals in 2025, including current pricing, how to choose the right truck size, and insider tips to save money on your move.
U-Haul Truck Sizes and Capacity Guide
Pickup Trucks and Cargo Vans
U-Haul Pickup Truck
- Cargo space: 8′ x 5’2″ x 1’10”
- Load capacity: Up to 1,900 lbs
- Best for: Small apartments, dorm rooms, large furniture items
- Typical use: College moves, single-room relocations, appliance transport
Cargo Van
- Cargo space: 9’6″ x 5’2″ x 4’8″
- Load capacity: Up to 3,880 lbs
- Best for: Studio apartments, small 1-bedroom moves
- Typical use: Local deliveries, small business moves, fragile items
Small to Medium Moving Trucks
10-Foot Truck
- Cargo space: 9’11” x 6’4″ x 6’2″
- Load capacity: Up to 2,850 lbs
- Best for: 1-2 bedroom apartments, small homes
- Typical use: Local moves, first apartments, small family relocations
15-Foot Truck
- Cargo space: 15′ x 7’8″ x 7’2″
- Load capacity: Up to 6,385 lbs
- Best for: 2-3 bedroom homes, small offices
- Typical use: Family moves, mid-sized relocations, business equipment
17-Foot Truck
- Cargo space: 16’10” x 7’8″ x 7’2″
- Load capacity: Up to 6,160 lbs
- Best for: 2-3 bedroom homes with more belongings
- Typical use: Growing families, furnished apartment moves
Large Moving Trucks
20-Foot Truck
- Cargo space: 19’6″ x 7’8″ x 7’2″
- Load capacity: Up to 5,700 lbs
- Best for: 3-4 bedroom homes, long-distance moves
- Typical use: Whole house moves, cross-country relocations
26-Foot Truck
- Cargo space: 26’5″ x 7’8″ x 8’3″
- Load capacity: Up to 10,000 lbs
- Best for: 4+ bedroom homes, large families, commercial moves
- Typical use: Big house moves, office relocations, maximum capacity needs
Current U-Haul Pricing Structure for 2025
Local Rental Rates (In-Town Moves)
U-Haul’s local pricing includes a base rate plus mileage charges:
Typical daily rates:
- Pickup truck: $29.95 + $1.79/mile
- Cargo van: $29.95 + $1.79/mile
- 10-foot truck: $29.95 + $1.79/mile
- 15-foot truck: $34.95 + $1.79/mile
- 17-foot truck: $34.95 + $1.79/mile
- 20-foot truck: $39.95 + $1.79/mile
- 26-foot truck: $39.95 + $1.79/mile
Example local move costs:
- 10-mile local move with 15-foot truck: $52.85
- 25-mile local move with 20-foot truck: $84.70
- 50-mile local move with 26-foot truck: $129.45
One-Way Rental Pricing
One-way rentals cost significantly more due to demand-based pricing and fleet management needs. Prices vary dramatically based on:
- Origin and destination cities
- Time of year (summer = peak moving season)
- Day of the week (weekends cost more)
- Truck availability at your pickup location
Sample one-way pricing (subject to change):
- Los Angeles to Las Vegas (15-foot): $200-$400
- New York to Atlanta (20-foot): $800-$1,200
- Chicago to Denver (26-foot): $1,000-$1,800
- Miami to Boston (17-foot): $1,200-$2,000
Additional Fees to Consider
Insurance Options:
- SafeMove: $14/day (basic coverage)
- SafeMove Plus: $28/day (comprehensive coverage)
- Damage protection: Varies by truck size
Equipment Rentals:
- Furniture dolly: $7.95/day
- Appliance dolly: $7.95/day
- Moving blankets: $7.95/dozen
- Furniture pads: $7.95/dozen
- Tie-down straps: $2.95 each
Fuel Costs:
- Return with same fuel level as pickup
- Refueling service available at premium rates
- Gas tank sizes vary by truck (13-40 gallons)
How to Choose the Right U-Haul Truck Size
Assess Your Belongings Honestly
Most people underestimate how much stuff they have. Use U-Haul’s online size calculator, but also consider:
Room-by-room inventory:
- Count furniture pieces, not just rooms
- Factor in closets, storage areas, garage items
- Remember appliances, outdoor furniture, tools
Common sizing mistakes:
- Too small: Multiple trips cost more than one larger truck
- Too large: Wasted money and harder to drive/park
- Forgetting basics: Cleaning supplies, moving boxes, miscellaneous items
Size Recommendations by Home Type
Studio/1-bedroom apartment: 10-foot truck
- Typical load: Bed, dresser, small couch, kitchen items, boxes
2-bedroom apartment/small house: 15-foot truck
- Typical load: Bedroom sets, living room furniture, dining table, appliances
3-bedroom house: 17-20-foot truck
- Typical load: Multiple bedroom sets, full kitchen, living areas, some outdoor items
4+ bedroom house: 20-26-foot truck
- Typical load: Large families, full basements/attics, outdoor equipment, workshops
Consider Your Driving Comfort
Larger trucks require more skill and confidence:
- 10-15 foot trucks: Drive like large vans, easier parking
- 17-20 foot trucks: Need more turning radius, height awareness
- 26-foot trucks: Commercial-style driving, wide turns, low clearances
One-Way vs. Round-Trip Rentals: What You Need to Know
When One-Way Makes Sense
Long-distance relocations:
- Moving to a different state or region
- Job transfers or college moves
- Downsizing from large to small cities
Advantages of one-way rentals:
- No return trip required
- Can take your time with the move
- Drop off at convenient destination location
Disadvantages:
- Significantly higher costs
- Limited truck availability
- Less flexibility with pickup/drop-off times
Round-Trip Rental Benefits
Local and regional moves:
- Staying within the same metro area
- Temporary relocations with return plans
- Moving items to storage facilities
Cost savings with round-trips:
- Predictable mileage-based pricing
- No demand-based price fluctuations
- Better availability year-round
Money-Saving Tips for U-Haul Rentals
Timing Your Rental Strategically
Avoid peak moving times:
- Summer months (June-August): Highest demand and prices
- End/beginning of months: Lease changeover periods
- Weekends: Premium pricing for convenience
Best times to rent:
- Mid-week (Tuesday-Thursday): Lower demand
- Off-season (October-March): Better availability and pricing
- Mid-month: Avoid lease renewal rushes
Booking and Reservation Strategies
Book early for better rates:
- Reserve 4-6 weeks ahead for local moves
- Book 2-3 months ahead for one-way summer moves
- Prices can double during peak demand periods
Compare locations:
- Different U-Haul locations may have varying availability
- Suburban locations often have better rates than urban centers
- Consider picking up slightly outside city centers
Use U-Haul’s website directly:
- Avoid third-party booking fees
- Access to real-time inventory and pricing
- Easier modification and cancellation policies
Reduce Additional Costs
Bring your own equipment:
- Use personal blankets instead of renting moving pads
- Gather free boxes from liquor stores, grocery stores
- Borrow dollies from friends if possible
Fuel efficiently:
- Plan your route to minimize driving
- Return with exact fuel level to avoid refueling charges
- Drive steadily and avoid aggressive acceleration
Pack strategically:
- Maximize space to avoid needing larger trucks
- Use soft items (clothes, linens) as padding
- Load heaviest items first, lightest on top
Alternative Moving Truck Companies to Consider
Budget Truck Rental
- Often 10-20% cheaper than U-Haul
- Good availability in most markets
- Similar truck sizes and options
- Less extensive network than U-Haul
Enterprise Truck Rental
- Higher-end trucks with better maintenance
- Excellent customer service reputation
- Limited locations compared to U-Haul
- Premium pricing for quality experience
Penske Truck Rental
- Well-maintained, newer truck fleet
- Good for long-distance one-way moves
- Professional-grade trucks
- Higher prices but reliable service
Home Depot and Lowe’s Rentals
- Convenient for small, local moves
- Competitive hourly and daily rates
- Limited truck sizes (usually smaller options)
- Good for DIY project material transport
What to Inspect Before Driving Off
Pre-Rental Inspection Checklist
Exterior condition:
- Document existing dents, scratches with photos
- Check tire condition and inflation
- Test lights (headlights, taillights, signals)
- Verify license plate and registration
Interior and mechanical:
- Adjust mirrors and seat position
- Test brakes in parking lot
- Check fuel level and note on contract
- Ensure moving equipment functions properly
Documentation:
- Verify rental agreement details
- Confirm return location and time
- Understand mileage allowances
- Review insurance coverage options
Safety Tips for First-Time Truck Renters
Driving considerations:
- Allow extra following distance
- Take turns slower and wider
- Check clearances for bridges, drive-throughs
- Use mirrors frequently, especially when changing lanes
Loading and securing:
- Distribute weight evenly front to back
- Secure all items with straps or rope
- Place heaviest items on bottom
- Keep essentials accessible
Common U-Haul Problems and How to Avoid Them
Availability Issues
The problem: No trucks available at your preferred location or date The solution:
- Book earlier in the process
- Consider multiple pickup locations
- Be flexible with your moving date
- Have backup plans with other rental companies
Unexpected Charges
The problem: Surprise fees for cleaning, damage, or fuel The solution:
- Read all contract terms carefully
- Take detailed photos before and after
- Return clean and with proper fuel level
- Understand insurance coverage limits
Truck Size Miscalculations
The problem: Truck too small for your belongings The solution:
- Overestimate rather than underestimate space needs
- Use U-Haul’s online calculator as a starting point
- Consider making two trips with smaller truck if more economical
- Ask U-Haul staff for sizing advice based on your inventory
Planning Your Move Day Timeline
Day Before Pickup
- Confirm reservation and pickup time
- Gather required documents (driver’s license, credit card)
- Prep belongings and pack essentials separately
- Arrange help from friends or hire movers
Pickup Day
- Arrive early for vehicle inspection
- Allow 30-45 minutes for paperwork and walk-around
- Test drive in parking lot before loading
- Begin loading immediately after pickup
During Your Move
- Take breaks every 2 hours when driving long distances
- Keep rental agreement and insurance info accessible
- Monitor fuel level and plan refueling stops
- Stay in contact with helpers about timing
Return Process
- Allow extra time for return inspection
- Clean out all personal belongings
- Return any rented equipment
- Keep receipt until deposit is refunded
Is U-Haul Right for Your Move?
U-Haul works best for people who want control over their moving timeline and don’t mind doing the physical work themselves. The extensive network of locations makes it convenient for most moves, and the variety of truck sizes accommodates everything from small apartment moves to large house relocations.
U-Haul is ideal when:
- You have help with loading and unloading
- You’re comfortable driving larger vehicles
- You want to save money compared to full-service movers
- You need flexibility with timing and packing
Consider alternatives when:
- You’re moving valuable or fragile items long-distance
- You have physical limitations or health concerns
- Time is more important than money
- You’re moving during peak season and facing high prices
Frequently Asked Questions About U-Haul Rentals
How far in advance should I book a U-Haul truck?
For local moves, booking 2-3 weeks ahead is usually sufficient. For one-way rentals, especially during summer moving season, book 6-8 weeks in advance. Peak times (end of month, weekends, summer) require even earlier booking to ensure availability and better pricing.
What do I need to rent a U-Haul truck?
You’ll need a valid driver’s license, major credit card or debit card, and to meet the minimum age requirement (18 years old). Some locations may require additional documentation for large trucks or one-way rentals. No special license is needed for trucks under 26,000 lbs.
Can I return a U-Haul truck after hours?
Yes, U-Haul offers after-hours return at many locations using their U-Box system. You’ll complete a self-service return process and drop the keys in a secure drop box. However, this option isn’t available at all locations, so confirm when booking.
What happens if I return the truck late?
U-Haul charges $5 per day for late returns on local rentals. For one-way rentals, late fees can be $40+ per day. If you need more time, call U-Haul as early as possible to extend your rental and avoid hefty late charges.
Do I need insurance for a U-Haul rental?
U-Haul offers optional insurance (SafeMove and SafeMove Plus), but it’s not required. Check with your auto insurance provider first – some policies cover rental trucks. Credit cards may also provide coverage. However, standard auto insurance often doesn’t cover large moving trucks.
What if the truck breaks down during my rental?
U-Haul provides 24/7 roadside assistance for mechanical breakdowns. Call the number on your rental agreement immediately. They’ll arrange repairs or provide a replacement truck. Keep all receipts for any expenses – U-Haul typically reimburses reasonable costs caused by their equipment failure.
Can I take a U-Haul truck across state lines?
Yes, but inform U-Haul when booking if you’re crossing state lines with a local rental. Some states have different regulations, and you may need additional permits for very large trucks. One-way rentals automatically account for interstate travel.
How much gas does a U-Haul truck use?
Fuel economy varies by truck size:
- Small trucks (10-15 ft): 8-12 mpg
- Medium trucks (17-20 ft): 6-10 mpg
- Large trucks (26 ft): 6-8 mpg Factor fuel costs into your budget, especially for long-distance moves. Larger trucks have bigger tanks (20-40 gallons) but worse fuel efficiency.
What items can’t I transport in a U-Haul truck?
Prohibited items include hazardous materials (paint, propane, chemicals), perishable food, plants, pets, and illegal items. Firearms must be unloaded and legally transported. Check U-Haul’s complete prohibited items list when booking.
Is it cheaper to rent U-Haul or hire professional movers?
For local moves under 100 miles, U-Haul is typically 50-70% cheaper than full-service movers. For long-distance moves, the gap narrows when you factor in gas, lodging, your time, and physical effort. Get quotes for both options to compare total costs and convenience.
Ready to Book Your U-Haul Rental?
With this comprehensive guide, you’re equipped to make informed decisions about your U-Haul rental. Remember to book early, choose the right size truck for your needs, and factor in all potential costs when budgeting for your move.
Start by visiting U-Haul’s website to check availability and pricing for your specific moving dates and locations. Compare different pickup locations and consider adjusting your moving date if it results in significant savings.
Planning a move in 2025? Use this guide as your reference, but always verify current pricing and availability directly with U-Haul, as rates and policies can change based on demand and market conditions.
Moving doesn’t have to break the bank. With proper planning and the right truck size, U-Haul can be an affordable solution for your relocation needs. Start planning early and compare all your options for the best moving experience.