What cargo vans cost and where to find them

Cargo van rental prices depend on the size you need, how long you rent it, and where you pick it up. A standard cargo van (like a Ford Transit Connect or similar) typically costs between $30 and $60 per day from national chains, though local rental shops sometimes undercut that. Weekly rates usually work out cheaper per day — expect $120 to $250 for a week. Mileage may be unlimited or charged per mile; read the quote carefully before you commit.

National chains like Home Depot, U-Haul, Penske, and Budget all rent cargo vans. Local moving companies and independent rental shops often have competitive rates and may offer better terms for longer rentals. Comparison shopping between at least two or three sources takes 15 minutes and can save you $50 or more. Call ahead rather than booking online if you need the van on short notice — availability changes fast, especially on weekends.

Size matters for price. A compact cargo van (like a Ford Transit Connect) holds roughly 150 cubic feet and costs less than a full-size van (like a Ford Transit 250), which holds around 250 cubic feet. If you are moving a studio apartment or making regular deliveries, the compact size may be enough. If you are moving a two-bedroom or hauling pallets, you need the full-size.

Key Takeaways

  • Cargo van rental rates range from $30 to $60 per day depending on size and location, with weekly rates offering better per-day pricing.
  • You will need a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a credit card to reserve and pick up a cargo van from any major rental company.
  • Compact cargo vans hold about 150 cubic feet and cost less, while full-size vans hold 250+ cubic feet and suit larger moves or commercial use.
  • Mileage limits vary by company and rental length — some offer unlimited miles while others charge per mile, so confirm this before you book.
  • Damage waivers and insurance add $10 to $25 per day but protect you from paying out-of-pocket if the van is damaged during your rental.

What you need to bring to pick up a cargo van

Every rental company requires a valid driver's license in your name. If you are renting in the United States, a state ID or passport works if you do not have a license, but most companies prefer a license. You must be at least 18 years old; some companies charge extra if you are under 25.

Bring a credit card in your name. The rental company will place a hold on your card for the full rental cost plus a damage deposit (usually $200 to $500). This hold is not a charge — it releases when you return the van on time and in good condition. Debit cards sometimes work, but credit cards are safer because the hold does not tie up your actual money.

You will also need proof of insurance. This can be your personal auto insurance card, your renter's insurance policy (if it covers rental vehicles), or the rental company's damage waiver. Call your insurance company before you book to confirm that your policy covers rental vans — many do, but some exclude commercial use. If your insurance does not cover rentals, buy the company's damage waiver at pickup.

Damage waivers, insurance, and what happens if something goes wrong

A damage waiver (also called Loss Damage Waiver or LDW) costs $10 to $25 per day and protects you from paying for dents, scratches, or mechanical damage to the van. Without it, you pay the full repair cost out of your pocket. If the van is damaged in an accident, the waiver typically covers it — but intentional damage or damage from illegal activity is not covered by any waiver.

Your personal auto insurance may already cover rental vans. Check your policy or call your agent before you rent. If you are covered, you do not need to buy the rental company's waiver — your insurance will handle the claim. If you are not covered, buy the waiver. The $15 per day is cheap insurance against a $2,000 repair bill.

If you damage the van, report it to the rental company when ready — do not wait until you return it. Take photos of the damage and get a written statement from the employee who inspects it. If the damage is minor and you have the waiver, the company absorbs the cost. If you do not have the waiver, the company will charge your credit card for repairs. Disputes over damage charges can take weeks to resolve, so documentation matters.

Fuel, mileage, and return policies

Most rental companies require you to return the van with a full tank of gas. If you do not, they charge you for fuel at a rate higher than what you would pay at a gas station — sometimes $5 to $7 per gallon. Fill up at a regular gas station before you return the van, not at the rental location.

Mileage policies vary. Some companies offer unlimited miles; others charge $0.25 to $0.50 per mile over a daily limit. A 100-mile daily limit sounds generous until you realize a round trip across a city can eat 80 miles. Read the mileage terms in your quote before you book. If you are making a long-distance move, unlimited mileage is worth paying extra for.

Return the van on time. Late fees start when ready and usually run $40 to $75 per hour, with a daily rate kicking in after a few hours. If you think you will need the van longer, call the rental company and extend your reservation before the due date — extending is cheaper than paying late fees. Return the van clean; some companies charge $50 to $150 for excessive dirt or debris inside.

Cargo van sizes and what fits in each

A compact cargo van (Ford Transit Connect, Nissan NV200) holds about 150 cubic feet and weighs 4,000 to 5,000 pounds. It fits a studio apartment's worth of furniture, a small business's inventory, or several pallets. Fuel economy is better than larger vans, and it is easier to park and drive in tight spaces. Compact vans cost $30 to $45 per day.

A full-size cargo van (Ford Transit 250, Mercedes Sprinter) holds 250 to 350 cubic feet and weighs 6,000 to 8,000 pounds. It fits a two-bedroom apartment, a full pallet of goods, or a small business's entire inventory. It requires more fuel and is harder to maneuver, but it moves more in one trip. Full-size vans cost $45 to $75 per day.

A box truck (also called a cube truck or straight truck) holds 400 to 600 cubic feet and has a separate cargo area you can walk into. It is the right choice for a three-bedroom move or a commercial delivery route. Box trucks cost $60 to $100 per day and require a commercial driver's license in some states if they exceed a certain weight. Check your state's requirements before you book.

One-way rentals and long-distance moves

If you are moving from one city to another, you can rent a van one-way instead of returning it to the pickup location. One-way rentals cost more than round-trip rentals because the company has to move the van back. The extra charge depends on distance — moving a van 50 miles might add $50, while moving it 500 miles might add $300 or more.

For long-distance moves, compare one-way cargo van rental against full-service moving companies and truck rental companies that specialize in moves. U-Haul, Penske, and Budget all offer one-way rentals. Local moving companies sometimes rent vans one-way too. Get quotes from at least two sources; the cheapest option is not always obvious.

One-way rentals require a credit card hold just like round-trip rentals. You also need to confirm the drop-off location is open when you plan to arrive — some rental locations close at 5 p.m. or do not open on Sundays. Call ahead to confirm hours.

Commercial use and business rentals

If you are renting a cargo van for business use — deliveries, contractor work, or inventory transport — tell the rental company when you book. Some companies charge extra for commercial use or require a commercial driver's license. Others do not distinguish between personal and commercial use. Clarifying this upfront prevents disputes when you return the van.

Commercial rentals may have different insurance requirements. Your personal auto insurance might not cover business use, so you may need to buy the rental company's commercial liability waiver or provide proof of commercial insurance. Ask about this when you call for a quote.

If you rent a cargo van regularly for work, ask about weekly or monthly rates. Many companies offer discounts for long-term rentals. Some also offer fuel cards or fuel discounts for frequent business renters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a cargo van if I do not have a credit card?

Most major rental companies require a credit card because they need to place a hold for the rental cost and damage deposit. Some local rental shops accept debit cards or cash deposits, but this is rare. Call ahead to ask — do not show up expecting to rent without a credit card.

What if I get into an accident with the rental van?

Report the accident to the rental company and police when ready. Take photos of all damage, get the other driver's insurance information, and file a police report if anyone is injured. The rental company's damage waiver covers accidents, but only if you have purchased it. If you do not have the waiver and your personal insurance does not cover rentals, you pay for repairs.

Can I rent a cargo van for a one-way trip if I am under 25?

Yes, but most companies charge an extra $15 to $25 per day for drivers under 25. Some companies have a minimum age of 21 for cargo vans, while others require 25. Call the rental company to confirm their age policy before you book.

Do I need a commercial driver's license to rent a cargo van?

For most cargo vans and compact box trucks, no — a regular driver's license is enough. Larger box trucks (over 26,000 pounds) require a commercial driver's license in most states. Ask the rental company about the specific van's weight when you book.

What happens if I return the van late?

Late fees typically start when ready and run $40 to $75 per hour, with a daily rate after a few hours. If you think you will be late, call the rental company and extend your reservation before the due time — extending is much cheaper than paying late fees.