How to Rent a U-Haul: Your Comprehensive Guide to a Smooth Move

1 day ago

Moving can be one of life’s most stressful events, but it doesn’t have to be. For millions, the solution lies in a familiar orange and white fleet: U-Haul. Renting a U-Haul gives you the power and flexibility to control your moving timeline, budget, and precious belongings. Whether you’re relocating across the country, moving furniture across town, or just need to haul a large item, understanding how to rent a U-Haul is the first step towards a successful, do-it-yourself move. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every aspect of the U-Haul rental process, from choosing the right equipment to understanding costs and ensuring a smooth return, empowering you to tackle your next move with confidence.

Understanding Your Moving Needs: Choosing the Right U-Haul Equipment

The cornerstone of a successful U-Haul rental is selecting the appropriate equipment. U-Haul offers a diverse range of vehicles and trailers designed to meet virtually any hauling need. Misjudging your requirements can lead to multiple trips, wasted time, or even a vehicle too small or large for your comfort.

Moving Trucks: Sizes and Uses

U-Haul’s truck fleet is categorized by cubic feet, roughly correlating to the size of the home or apartment they can typically move.

8′ Pickup Truck: Ideal for small loads, college dorm moves, DIY projects, or hauling supplies. Not suitable for full apartment moves.
10′ Box Truck: Perfect for studio or 1-bedroom apartments. Can typically hold a queen-size bed, dresser, sofa, and several boxes.
15′ Box Truck: The most popular size, suitable for 1-2 bedroom apartments or small homes. Accommodates two-to-three rooms of furniture and boxes.
20′ Box Truck: Designed for 2-3 bedroom homes. Can handle larger items like a king-size bed, dining room set, and multiple appliances.
26′ Box Truck: The largest option, ideal for 3-4+ bedroom homes. Capable of moving an entire household, including large appliances and extensive furniture.

Key Consideration: When in doubt, it’s often better to go slightly larger than you think you need. An under-filled larger truck is less problematic than an over-filled smaller one.

Trailers: For Specific Hauling Tasks

Beyond trucks, U-Haul offers various trailers that can be towed by your personal vehicle (if it meets towing requirements) or by a U-Haul moving truck.

Cargo Trailers: Enclosed trailers (4×8, 5×8, 6×12) for protecting items from weather and securing them during transit. Great for small apartment moves, excess boxes, or valuable items.
Utility Trailers: Open-bed trailers (4×7, 5×9, 6×12) designed for landscaping materials, appliances, or items that don’t need protection from the elements.
Car Trailers (Auto Transports & Tow Dollies):
- Auto Transport: Full trailer designed to carry your entire car off the ground. Ideal for longer distances or vehicles with specific towing restrictions.
- Tow Dolly: Lifts only the front wheels of your car off the ground. More economical for shorter distances or front-wheel-drive vehicles.

Key Consideration: Ensure your personal vehicle is properly equipped for towing, including a hitch receiver, wiring harness, and sufficient towing capacity. U-Haul will verify this during the reservation process.

Moving Supplies and Equipment

Don’t forget the essentials that make loading and unloading easier and safer:

Dollies: Appliance dollies for heavy items (refrigerators, washers), and utility dollies (hand trucks) for stacks of boxes or smaller furniture.
Furniture Pads/Moving Blankets: Essential for protecting furniture from scratches and dings during transit.
Moving Boxes: U-Haul offers a wide range of box sizes, including specialty boxes for dishes, wardrobes, and TVs.
Tie-Downs/Rope: Crucial for securing your load inside the truck or trailer to prevent shifting.

The U-Haul Rental Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Renting a U-Haul is straightforward, but knowing the steps will save you time and potential headaches.

Step 1: Making Your Reservation

You have several options for reserving your U-Haul:

Online (UHaul.com): The most common method. Enter your pickup/drop-off locations, dates, and desired equipment. The system will guide you through available options.
Phone: Call U-Haul directly or your local U-Haul dealer. This can be helpful if you have specific questions or unique requirements.
In-Person: Visit a U-Haul location. This allows you to speak with a representative and potentially see the equipment firsthand.

Information You’ll Need:

Pickup and Drop-off Locations: Even for local rentals, you specify both.
Dates and Times: Be as accurate as possible.
Equipment Type: Based on your needs assessment.
Personal Information: Full name, address, phone number, email.
Driver’s License Information: You’ll need a valid driver’s license.
Payment Method: A major credit card is typically required for reservation and payment.

Confirmation: After reserving, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details. Review it carefully!

Step 2: Picking Up Your U-Haul

What to Bring:
- Valid Driver’s License (the one used for the reservation).
- Payment Method (the credit card used for the reservation, or another valid card).
- Confirmation Number.
- Your Smartphone (for easy check-in/out and photos).
Arrival: Arrive on time, or even a few minutes early. U-Haul locations can be busy.
Check-In: A U-Haul representative will process your paperwork. You’ll sign the rental agreement, which outlines terms, conditions, and liability. Read it thoroughly!
Vehicle Inspection: Before driving off, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any existing damage (scratches, dents, dings, cracked mirrors). Point out any issues to the staff and ensure they are noted on your contract. Take photos or videos with your phone as documentation.
Fuel Level: Note the fuel level. You’ll be expected to return it with the same amount.
Familiarization: Take a moment to adjust mirrors, understand the dashboard, and locate critical controls (lights, wipers, horn). If you’re unfamiliar with driving a larger vehicle, ask the staff for quick tips.

Step 3: Driving and Using Your U-Haul

Driving Safely: Remember that U-Haul trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger cars.
- Allow More Braking Distance: Especially when loaded.
- Take Wide Turns: The turning radius is significantly larger.
- Watch for Overhead Clearances: Especially with the larger trucks.
- Reduce Speed: Drive slower than you would in a car, especially on highways, during turns, and in adverse weather.
Loading: Distribute weight evenly, with heavier items towards the front (cab) of the truck. Secure everything with tie-downs to prevent shifting.
Fueling: U-Haul trucks typically run on unleaded gasoline. Be mindful of the fuel gauge to avoid running out.

Step 4: Returning Your U-Haul

On Time: Return the equipment by the agreed-upon time to avoid late fees. If you anticipate a delay, contact U-Haul immediately.
Fuel Level: Refill the gas tank to the level it was when you picked it up. Failure to do so will result in a refueling charge, which is typically higher than pump prices.
Cleanliness: Remove all your belongings and any trash. While a full cleaning isn’t usually expected, excessive dirt or debris can incur cleaning fees.
Final Inspection: Upon return, inspect the vehicle again for any new damage. The U-Haul representative will also do an inspection.
After-Hours Drop-off: If returning after hours, follow the specific instructions provided (usually involving parking in a designated area, locking the vehicle, and dropping keys in a secure box). Take photos of the parked truck, the fuel gauge, and the odometer as proof of condition and return time.

Pricing and Costs: What to Expect

U-Haul rental costs can vary significantly based on several factors. Understanding the components will help you budget effectively.

Base Rental Fee: This is the initial charge for the equipment.
- Local Rentals: Typically a low daily rate (e.g., $19.95, $29.95) plus a per-mile charge.
- One-Way Rentals: A flat fee for the entire trip, which covers a set number of days and miles. Exceeding these limits incurs additional charges.
Mileage Charges: For local rentals, you pay per mile driven (e.g., $0.59-$0.99/mile). This is a significant cost, so estimate your mileage accurately.
Fuel Costs: You are responsible for the fuel consumed.
Environmental Fee: A small, non-negotiable fee typically applied to rentals.
Sales Tax: Applies to all charges.
Optional Add-ons:
- Damage Protection (Safemove® / Safemove Plus®): Highly recommended. Your personal auto insurance often does not cover rental trucks. Safemove covers damage to the U-Haul equipment, while Safemove Plus adds cargo protection and medical coverage.
- Moving Supplies & Equipment: Dollies, furniture pads, boxes, etc., are extra.
Deposit: While U-Haul often doesn’t charge a separate "deposit" upfront for credit card rentals, they do place a hold on your card for the estimated rental amount.
Potential Additional Charges:
- Late Return Fees: If you return the equipment past the agreed-upon time.
- Refueling Charges: If you don’t return the truck with the correct fuel level.
- Cleaning Fees: If the truck is excessively dirty.
- Damage Charges: If you opted out of damage protection and the truck sustains damage.

U-Haul Estimated Price Table (Illustrative)

Please note that these are estimated starting prices and can vary significantly based on location, demand, duration of rental, specific equipment, and current promotions. Always obtain a direct quote from U-Haul for accurate pricing. Mileage fees apply to local rentals. One-way rates typically include a set number of miles and days.

U-Haul Equipment Type	Estimated Local Daily Rate (Base)	Estimated One-Way Rate (Base, per trip)	Typical Use	Additional Considerations
Moving Trucks
8′ Pickup Truck	$19.95 – $29.95	N/A (Local Only)	Small loads, DIY, dump runs	Mileage fee applies.
10′ Box Truck	$19.95 – $29.95	$100 – $300+	Studio/1-bedroom apartment	Mileage fee applies for local.
15′ Box Truck	$29.95 – $39.95	$150 – $450+	1-2 bedroom apartment/small home	Most popular size.
20′ Box Truck	$39.95 – $49.95	$200 – $600+	2-3 bedroom home	Good for larger households.
26′ Box Truck	$39.95 – $49.95	$250 – $800+	3-4+ bedroom home	Largest truck, requires careful driving.
Trailers				Requires a towing vehicle.
Cargo Trailer (4×8, 5×8, 6×12)	$14.95 – $29.95	$50 – $200+	Small loads, furniture, boxes, weather protection	Various sizes, enclosed.
Utility Trailer (4×7, 5×9, 6×12)	$14.95 – $29.95	$50 – $200+	Open bed, hauling appliances, landscaping	Requires tie-downs.
Car Trailer/Dolly	$39.95 – $69.95	$100 – $300+	Transporting a vehicle	Requires a towing vehicle, specific hitches.
Optional Add-ons	Estimated Daily/Per Rental	Description
Safemove® Insurance	$15 – $35+	Covers damage to rental equipment		Varies by coverage level.
Safemove Plus® Insurance	$25 – $50+	Enhanced coverage, includes cargo protection		Varies by coverage level.
Appliance Dolly	$7 – $10	Moving heavy appliances		Hand truck also available.
Utility Dolly	$7 – $10	Moving boxes, lighter furniture
Furniture Pads (1 doz)	$5 – $10	Protecting furniture		Bulk discounts often available.
Moving Boxes	$1 – $5+ (each)	Various sizes		Packs available.
Other Potential Costs	Description
Mileage Fee	$0.59 – $0.99 per mile (local)	Applies to local rentals only		Varies by location and demand.
Fuel	Market price	Return with same fuel level or pay surcharge		Factor into total cost.
Environmental Fee	$1 – $5	Standard charge		Non-negotiable.
Taxes	Varies by state/locality	Standard sales tax
Late Return Fee	Daily rate + penalty	Avoid by returning on time		Communicate if delayed.
Cleaning Fee	$25 – $100+	If vehicle is returned excessively dirty

Important Considerations and Tips for a Smooth Rental

Book Early: Especially during peak moving seasons (summer, end of month), holidays, or weekends. Popular equipment can be scarce.
Local vs. One-Way: Understand the difference. Local rentals are typically cheaper for short distances, while one-way rentals are essential for inter-city or interstate moves.
Understand Insurance Options: Your personal auto insurance often doesn’t cover large rental trucks. U-Haul’s Safemove and Safemove Plus offer peace of mind by covering damage to the truck and your belongings. It’s a small investment that can save you a huge headache.
Fuel Policy: Always return the truck with the same amount of fuel you started with. Take a photo of the fuel gauge at pick-up and drop-off.
Inspect Thoroughly: Before driving off, walk around the truck with the U-Haul representative and note any existing damage on the contract. Take your own photos. Do the same at drop-off.
Test Drive (if possible): If you’re nervous about driving a large truck, ask if you can do a quick loop in the parking lot.
Load Smart: Distribute weight evenly, place heavier items on the bottom and towards the cab, and secure everything tightly to prevent shifting.
Pack Essentials Separately: Keep important documents, medications, and a "first-night" bag in your personal vehicle.
Communicate: If you anticipate any issues (late return, mechanical problem), contact U-Haul customer service immediately.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Availability Issues: During peak times, your requested truck size or location might not be available.
- Solution: Book well in advance. Be flexible with your pickup date, time, or even a slightly different pickup location. U-Haul may offer a discount if you accept a different size or location.
Unexpected Costs: Mileage fees, fuel, and optional add-ons can make the final bill higher than expected.
- Solution: Get a detailed quote upfront. Carefully estimate your mileage. Factor in fuel costs. Understand what each optional service covers before accepting it.
Driving Difficulty: Maneuvering a large truck, especially with a trailer, can be intimidating.
- Solution: Take it slow. Practice in an empty parking lot if possible. Use your mirrors frequently. Ask for help backing up. Consider using a spotter.
Damage or Accidents: Accidents happen, even to careful drivers.
- Solution: Invest in damage protection. Report any incidents to U-Haul and the authorities immediately. Document everything with photos.
Mechanical Issues: While rare, a breakdown can derail your moving plans.
- Solution: U-Haul offers 24/7 roadside assistance. Keep their number handy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What documents do I need to rent a U-Haul?
A: You’ll need a valid driver’s license (from any U.S. state, Canadian province, or an international license with a passport) and a major credit card.

Q: Do I need a special driver’s license to drive a U-Haul truck?
A: No, for their standard moving trucks (up to 26 feet), a regular driver’s license is sufficient. A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is not required.

Q: How old do I need to be to rent a U-Haul?
A: You must be at least 18 years old to rent a U-Haul moving truck. For trailers, the minimum age is 16.

Q: What is U-Haul’s fuel policy?
A: You are generally required to return the truck with the same amount of fuel it had when you picked it up. Failure to do so will result in a refueling charge.

Q: Should I get U-Haul’s insurance (Safemove/Safemove Plus)?
A: It is highly recommended. Your personal auto insurance often does not cover rental trucks, especially for liability or cargo damage. U-Haul’s protection plans offer coverage for the equipment, your belongings, and sometimes medical expenses.

Q: Can I change my reservation details after booking?
A: Yes, you can usually modify your reservation online or by contacting U-Haul directly. However, changes are subject to availability and may affect pricing.

Q: What if I return the truck late?
A: Returning a truck late can result in additional charges, including an extra day’s rental fee and potentially a penalty. If you anticipate being late, call U-Haul as soon as possible to avoid or mitigate fees.

Q: Are U-Haul trucks automatic or manual transmission?
A: Most U-Haul moving trucks are equipped with automatic transmissions, making them easier to drive for most individuals.

Q: Can I tow my car behind a U-Haul moving truck?
A: Yes, U-Haul offers car trailers (auto transports) and tow dollies specifically for this purpose. You can reserve them along with your moving truck, but ensure your vehicle is compatible with the towing equipment.

Conclusion

Renting a U-Haul provides a practical and cost-effective solution for moving and hauling needs, putting you in control of your logistics. By carefully assessing your needs, understanding the reservation and rental process, and familiarizing yourself with potential costs and safety considerations, you can transform a daunting task into a manageable and even empowering experience. Planning, preparation, and attention to detail are your best allies for a smooth U-Haul rental and a successful move.