What U-Haul trucks cost depends on truck size, distance, and season

U-Haul charges by the day and by the mile, so your total cost depends on how far you're moving and which truck you rent. A one-way local move in a 10-foot truck might run $20 to $40 per day plus mileage, while a cross-country move in a 26-foot truck can easily exceed $1,500 to $3,000 total. The company doesn't publish fixed rates—prices change based on demand, time of year, and availability in your specific area.

U-Haul's pricing model charges a daily rental fee plus a per-mile charge. The daily rate covers the truck itself; the mileage charge is separate. During peak moving season (May through September), prices rise significantly. Moving on a weekday costs less than moving on a weekend. If you're moving from a high-demand area to a low-demand area, U-Haul may offer a lower rate because they need trucks repositioned in that direction.

Key Takeaways

  • U-Haul charges a daily rental rate plus a per-mile fee, and both vary based on truck size, distance, season, and local demand.
  • Peak moving season (May through September) and weekend moves cost significantly more than off-season weekday moves.
  • One-way moves to low-demand areas sometimes cost less because U-Haul needs trucks repositioned there.
  • You can get a price quote on U-Haul's website or by phone without committing, and rates lock in when you reserve.
  • Additional costs like insurance, equipment rental (dollies, blankets), and fuel add to your base rental price.

How truck size affects your daily rate

U-Haul offers trucks ranging from 10 feet to 26 feet, and the daily rental rate increases with size. A 10-foot truck (holds about one bedroom's worth of furniture) costs less per day than a 15-foot truck (about two bedrooms), which costs less than a 20-foot or 26-foot truck (three to four bedrooms). The difference in daily rate between sizes is usually $10 to $20 per day, but that compounds over a multi-day rental.

Mileage charges also vary by truck size. Larger trucks cost more per mile because they use more fuel. A 10-foot truck might charge $0.99 per mile, while a 26-foot truck could charge $1.29 per mile or higher. If you're moving 500 miles, that difference in per-mile rate adds up quickly. Choosing the smallest truck that fits your belongings saves money on both the daily rate and mileage charges.

Why distance and direction matter for pricing

U-Haul's one-way pricing reflects supply and demand across regions. If you're moving from a city where many people are leaving (like a declining industrial area) to a city where many people are arriving (like a tech hub), U-Haul charges less because they need trucks in that direction anyway. The reverse move—from a high-demand destination back to a low-demand origin—costs more because U-Haul has to reposition an empty truck.

Local moves (same city or nearby) are priced differently than one-way moves. A local move charges a daily rate plus mileage for the actual distance traveled. A one-way move charges a daily rate plus mileage for the full distance, but the daily rate structure may differ. Round-trip rentals (you return the truck to the same location) are usually cheaper per mile than one-way moves because U-Haul doesn't have to reposition the truck.

Seasonal pricing and timing your move

Summer (May through September) is peak moving season, and U-Haul prices reflect that demand. Renting a truck in July costs significantly more than renting the same truck in January. Weekend moves cost more than weekday moves year-round. If you have flexibility, moving on a Tuesday or Wednesday in November or February will be your cheapest option.

Holiday weekends and the end of the month also drive up prices because many people move during those times. If you're moving on a specific date you can't change, check U-Haul's website a few weeks in advance to see the trend. Prices sometimes drop a few days before your move date if demand softens, so checking back can occasionally save you money.

Additional costs beyond the base rental

The daily rate and mileage charge are only part of your total cost. U-Haul offers optional damage waiver insurance (usually $15 to $30 per day) that covers damage to the truck beyond normal wear. You're responsible for any damage not covered by the waiver if you decline it. Some credit cards and renters insurance policies cover rental trucks, so check your coverage before paying for U-Haul's waiver.

Equipment rentals add to your bill: dollies, hand trucks, furniture pads, and moving blankets each cost extra. A furniture dolly might be $5 to $10 per day; moving blankets run $1 to $3 each. Fuel is your responsibility—you return the truck with a full tank or pay U-Haul's fuel surcharge, which is typically higher than gas station prices. Some locations charge a drop-off fee for one-way rentals, though many don't.

How to get an accurate quote

U-Haul's website lets you enter your pickup location, drop-off location, truck size, and move date to see a price quote. The quote shows the daily rate, mileage charge, and estimated total. You can also call U-Haul at 1-800-468-4285 to speak with a representative who can answer questions about your specific move. Quotes are not binding until you complete a reservation.

When you get a quote, note the truck size, daily rate, per-mile rate, and any fees included or excluded. Compare quotes for different truck sizes to see if a larger truck with a higher daily rate might actually cost less overall if it means fewer trips or a more efficient packing arrangement. Once you reserve, your rate is locked in for that date and truck size, even if prices rise later.

Comparing U-Haul to other rental companies

Penske, Home Depot, and Budget also rent moving trucks, and their pricing structures are similar: a daily rate plus mileage. Prices vary by location and date, so getting quotes from multiple companies for your specific move is the only way to compare. U-Haul is the largest truck rental company and often has more locations, which can matter if you need to pick up or drop off in a less populated area.

Some moving companies (not truck rentals) offer full-service moves where they pack, load, transport, and unload for you. Those services cost more than renting a truck yourself but eliminate the labor. For a local move, hiring day laborers to load and unload a rented truck is sometimes cheaper than a full-service mover but more expensive than doing it yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a U-Haul price without providing a credit card?

Yes. U-Haul's website shows quotes without requiring payment information. You only enter payment details when you complete a reservation. Calling U-Haul also gives you a quote over the phone without committing to anything.

What happens if I return the truck late?

U-Haul charges an additional daily rate for each day (or partial day) the truck is late. The charge is the same daily rate you paid for the original rental. Returning the truck on time is important because late fees add up quickly, especially for larger trucks.

Do I pay for gas, or does U-Haul include it?

You pay for gas. You pick up the truck with a full tank and return it with a full tank. If you return it with less fuel, U-Haul charges a per-gallon surcharge that's usually higher than local gas prices. Filling up at a gas station before returning the truck is cheaper.

Is U-Haul's damage waiver worth buying?

That depends on your existing coverage. Check your renters insurance policy and credit card benefits—many cover rental truck damage. If you have no other coverage and are worried about damage, the waiver costs $15 to $30 per day and may be worth it. Read the waiver terms carefully because it doesn't cover everything.

Can I reserve a truck now and pay later?

U-Haul requires payment when you complete your reservation. You can hold a reservation with a credit card, but the card is charged at that time. If you need to cancel, U-Haul's cancellation policy determines whether you get a refund.