U-Haul is one of the most recognized names in the do-it-yourself moving industry. With thousands of locations across North America, it provides a flexible and cost-effective way to transport belongings without the high price tag of professional movers.
Planning a move requires careful coordination of timing, budget, and equipment. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about U-Haul moving, from selecting the right truck size to understanding the final bill.
Choosing the Right U-Haul Vehicle
The first step in a successful move is selecting a vehicle that fits your items. Choosing a truck that is too small may require multiple trips, while a truck that is too large can lead to items shifting during transit.
Pickup Trucks and Cargo Vans
For small jobs, such as moving a single piece of furniture or transporting items to a storage unit, a pickup truck or cargo van is ideal. These vehicles are easy to drive and park in residential areas.
Cargo vans are particularly popular for studio apartments or dorm rooms. They offer protection from the weather and are more fuel-efficient than larger box trucks.
Small to Medium Box Trucks
The 10-foot truck is the smallest box truck available and is designed for studio or small one-bedroom apartments. It is often used by individuals moving out of a shared living space.
The 15-foot truck is a versatile option for one-to-two bedroom homes. It features a low deck for easier loading and a wide ramp to help move heavy appliances and furniture.
Large Box Trucks
For larger households, U-Haul offers 20-foot and 26-foot trucks. The 20-foot model is generally sufficient for a two-to-three bedroom home.
The 26-foot truck is the largest in the fleet and is designed for four or more bedrooms. These larger trucks often include a “Mom’s Attic,” which is a compartment located above the cab for fragile items.
Understanding U-Haul Pricing and Fees
U-Haul uses a two-tiered pricing structure depending on whether your move is local or one-way. Understanding these costs upfront helps you avoid surprises when you return the vehicle.
Local Moves
For local moves, where you pick up and drop off the truck at the same location, you typically pay a flat base rate. This rate often starts as low as $19.95 for small vehicles.
In addition to the base rate, you will be charged a fee for every mile driven. You are also responsible for replacing the gasoline used during your trip.
One-Way Moves
One-way moves involve picking up the truck in one city and dropping it off in another. These rates are usually determined by the size of the truck, the point of origin, and the destination.
One-way pricing usually includes a set number of days and a specific mileage allowance. If you exceed these limits, additional daily fees and mileage charges will apply.
How to Make a Reservation
Booking your rental in advance is essential, especially during peak moving seasons like summer or the end of the month. You can reserve a vehicle online, through the mobile app, or by calling a local dealer.
- Online Reservations: Visit the official website to enter your dates and locations to see real-time availability.
- U-Haul App: The app allows you to manage your reservation and use the “Truck Share 24/7” feature for contactless pickup.
- In-Person: You can visit a local U-Haul center to speak with a representative and inspect the equipment before renting.
When reserving, you will need to provide a valid driver’s license and a form of payment. Most locations require a credit card, though some may accept cash with a substantial deposit.
Rental Requirements and Documentation
To rent a U-Haul truck, you must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid government-issued driver’s license. You do not need a special commercial license to drive their largest trucks.
If you are renting a trailer, the minimum age requirement is 16. You must ensure your personal vehicle has the proper hitch system and lighting connections to safely tow the trailer.
During the check-out process, U-Haul will ask if you want to purchase optional damage protection. While your personal auto insurance might cover some rentals, many policies exclude box trucks, making these protection plans a popular choice.
Trailer and Towing Options
If you have a vehicle capable of towing, renting a trailer can be a more affordable alternative to a truck. U-Haul offers two main types: cargo trailers and utility trailers.
Cargo trailers are enclosed and lockable, making them perfect for protecting household goods from the elements. Utility trailers have open tops, which are better for tall items or landscaping materials.
U-Haul also provides vehicle trailers, such as tow dollies and auto transports. These allow you to tow your personal car behind a U-Haul truck during a long-distance move.
Moving Supplies and Add-On Services
U-Haul operates as a one-stop shop for moving needs beyond just the vehicle. They sell a wide variety of specialized boxes, including wardrobe boxes and dish-saver kits.
You can also rent moving blankets (furniture pads) and dollies. A utility dolly is helpful for boxes, while an appliance dolly is necessary for refrigerators and washers.
If you need extra help, U-Haul offers a service called “Moving Help.” This is an online marketplace where you can hire local laborers to help you load or unload your rental truck.
The U-Box Container Option
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, U-Box containers are portable storage units. U-Haul drops the container at your home, you pack it at your convenience, and then they ship it to your destination.
This service is particularly useful if there is a gap between your move-out and move-in dates. The containers can be stored at a secure U-Haul facility until you are ready for delivery.
Tips for a Smooth Moving Day
Proper preparation can prevent stress and physical strain on the day of the move. Follow these steps to ensure everything goes according to plan.
- Inspect the Truck: Before leaving the lot, check the truck for existing damage and ensure the fuel level matches the contract.
- Load Heavy Items First: Place heavy appliances and furniture toward the front of the truck (near the cab) to maintain balance.
- Use Tie-Downs: Most U-Haul trucks have interior rub rails. Use straps or rope to secure items so they don’t slide during turns.
- Check Your Clearance: Remember that box trucks are much taller than passenger cars. Be mindful of low-hanging branches and bridge clearances.
When returning the truck, clean out the cab and the cargo area to avoid cleaning fees. Ensure you park the truck in the designated area and follow the mobile return prompts if the office is closed.
Final Thoughts on U-Haul Moving
U-Haul offers a flexible, accessible solution for anyone looking to manage their own move. By choosing the right vehicle size and understanding the fee structure, you can stay within your budget and move your belongings safely.
Taking the time to plan your route and pack the truck efficiently will make the entire process more manageable. For more tips on organizing your home or managing life’s big transitions, explore our other helpful articles on SearchAndHelp.com.