What Menards truck rental offers and how it works
Menards rents pickup trucks and cargo vans through a partnership with U-Haul, so when you rent from Menards you are actually using U-Haul's fleet and pricing. The trucks available are typically 16-foot cargo vans and pickup trucks in various sizes. You reserve online or in-store at any Menards location, pick up the vehicle at that same store, and return it to the same location when you are done. Menards does not operate its own rental fleet — it functions as a booking point for U-Haul's network.
Pricing follows U-Haul's standard rate structure, which means the cost depends on the truck size, how far you are moving, and how many days you need it. A local one-way rental costs less than a long-distance move. You pay when you reserve, though U-Haul allows cancellations up to 24 hours before pickup without penalty. Damage waivers, equipment rentals (dollies, furniture pads, straps), and fuel charges are separate line items on your final bill.
Key Takeaways
- Menards truck rentals are actually U-Haul vehicles booked through Menards locations, so you get U-Haul pricing and terms.
- You reserve online or in-store, pick up and return at the same Menards, and can cancel up to 24 hours before pickup without charge.
- The cost depends on truck size, distance, and rental length — local moves cost less than long-distance ones.
- Damage waivers, equipment like dollies and furniture pads, and fuel are billed separately from the base rental rate.
- Availability varies by location and season, so booking during peak moving months (May through September) requires planning ahead.
How to reserve a truck through Menards
Start by visiting the Menards website or going to a Menards store in person. On the website, look for the truck rental section (usually under services or rentals) and enter your pickup location, move date, and return date. The system will show available truck sizes and the price for each. You can also call your local Menards store directly — staff can check availability and take your reservation over the phone.
When you reserve, you will need to provide your driver's license, a valid payment method (credit or debit card), and contact information. U-Haul will ask for your name, address, phone number, and email. At pickup, bring your driver's license and the confirmation number from your reservation. The rental agreement will outline mileage limits (if any), fuel policy, and damage responsibility before you sign.
Pickup and return procedures
Arrive at your Menards location on your scheduled pickup date and time. Bring your driver's license and reservation confirmation. A Menards employee will walk you through the truck's condition, point out any existing damage, and explain the fuel level and how to return it. This walkthrough protects you — damage noted at pickup is not your responsibility. Take photos of the truck's exterior and interior if you want a personal record.
When you return the truck, bring it back to the same Menards location on or before your return date and time. Return it with a full tank of fuel unless your rental agreement specifies otherwise. A staff member will inspect it for new damage, check the mileage, and process your return. Your final bill will be calculated at that time, including any damage charges or overage fees. Keep your receipt for your records.
Pricing, mileage, and damage responsibility
Menards truck rental pricing is set by U-Haul and varies based on truck size, distance, and season. A 16-foot cargo van for a local one-way move might cost $20 to $40 per day, but a long-distance move or peak-season rental can be significantly higher. There is no single standard price — you must enter your specific dates and location to see the actual cost. Mileage is usually unlimited for local moves but may be limited or charged per mile for long-distance rentals.
You are responsible for damage beyond normal wear and tear. The rental agreement defines what counts as damage — dents, stains, mechanical problems caused by misuse, and fuel spills are typically your liability. U-Haul offers damage waivers (sometimes called loss damage waivers) that reduce or eliminate your responsibility for accidental damage, but these cost extra and have limits. Read the damage section of your agreement carefully before you sign, and ask the staff to clarify what is and is not covered.
What to bring and what to expect at pickup
Bring a valid driver's license (U-Haul requires a government-issued ID) and your reservation confirmation number. Have a credit or debit card ready for the final payment and any additional charges. If you are renting equipment like dollies, furniture pads, or tie-down straps, these are usually available at the Menards location but must be reserved in advance or purchased on the spot — availability is not may provide.
Expect the pickup process to take 15 to 30 minutes. The staff will show you how to operate the truck, explain the fuel gauge and odometer, and point out any existing damage. They will also review the rental agreement with you, including mileage limits, fuel policy, and your damage responsibility. Ask questions if anything is unclear — this is the time to understand what you are agreeing to.
Availability and booking during peak moving season
Truck availability at Menards locations varies by time of year and local demand. May through September is peak moving season, and trucks often book out weeks in advance. If you are moving during this window, book as early as possible — ideally four to six weeks ahead. Winter months (November through February) typically have more availability and lower prices, but weather may affect your move.
If your preferred date or truck size is not available at your local Menards, ask staff whether you can pick up or return at a different U-Haul location. Because Menards uses U-Haul's network, you may have options beyond your home store, though this can affect pricing. Booking online gives you the most flexibility to see all available options and dates at once.
Alternatives if Menards trucks are not available
If Menards does not have a truck available for your move date, you can rent directly from U-Haul through their website or phone line (1-800-468-4285). U-Haul has more locations and often more inventory than Menards, so availability may be better. You can also contact other truck rental companies — Home Depot partners with Home Depot truck rentals (a separate service from U-Haul), and independent rental companies operate in most areas.
Local moving companies and packing services are another option if you want help loading and unloading. These cost more than a truck rental alone but save you physical labor. For smaller moves, some people use services like Penske or Budget, which have their own fleets separate from U-Haul. Compare prices and availability across all these options before deciding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a Menards truck for a one-way move to another state?
Yes, U-Haul allows one-way rentals across state lines. The cost will be higher than a local rental, and mileage charges may explore depending on distance. When you book, specify your pickup and return locations — they do not have to be the same Menards store, as long as both are U-Haul locations. Pricing will reflect the distance and truck size.
What happens if I return the truck late?
Late returns are charged at the daily rate or an hourly rate, depending on how late you are. A few hours over may be charged as a partial day; significantly late returns will be charged for additional full days. Contact the Menards location as soon as you realize you will be late — staff may be able to adjust your reservation or explain the charges before you return.
Does the rental include insurance or damage coverage?
The basic rental does not include damage coverage — you are responsible for any damage beyond normal wear. U-Haul offers optional damage waivers at checkout that reduce your liability, but these cost extra and have limits. Read the damage waiver terms carefully, as they may exclude certain types of damage or have deductibles.
Can I add equipment like dollies or furniture pads to my reservation?
Yes, Menards locations typically have dollies, furniture pads, tie-down straps, and other moving equipment available for rent or purchase. Reserve these when you book your truck if possible, as availability is not may provide. If you do not reserve in advance, ask staff at pickup whether items are in stock — you can usually add them to your bill on the spot.
What if the truck breaks down during my move?
U-Haul provides roadside information for mechanical breakdowns. Call the number on your rental agreement or U-Haul's roadside information line. They will send help or arrange a replacement vehicle. You are not responsible for the breakdown unless it was caused by misuse or negligence on your part. Keep the rental agreement and any receipts from the breakdown for your records.