U-Haul charges per mile on most truck rentals, but the rate depends on the truck size, your location, and the time of year

U-Haul's pricing model splits into two parts: a base daily rate and a mileage charge. The mileage component is what most renters ask about, and the answer is straightforward — yes, you pay per mile — but the actual cost varies. A one-way rental of a 10-foot truck might cost $0.99 per mile in one state and $1.29 in another. Larger trucks (15-foot, 20-foot, 26-foot) have higher per-mile rates. U-Haul does not publish a single national rate; instead, the price is calculated when you enter your pickup and drop-off locations into their website or call their reservation line.

The mileage charge applies whether you drive 10 miles or 500 miles. There is no daily mileage allowance included in the base rate — every mile costs money. This is different from some car rental companies, which bundle mileage into the daily rate. Understanding this structure matters because a 300-mile move will cost significantly more than a 50-mile one, even if both are one-day rentals.

Key Takeaways

  • U-Haul charges a per-mile rate on top of the daily rental fee, with rates varying by truck size, location, and season.
  • You can see the exact per-mile rate and total mileage cost before you book by entering your pickup and drop-off addresses on U-Haul's website or calling 1-800-468-4285.
  • One-way rentals (where you pick up and drop off at different locations) typically have higher per-mile rates than in-town moves.
  • Peak moving season (May through September) usually means higher per-mile rates than winter months.
  • U-Haul's mileage charges are calculated based on the actual route distance, not straight-line distance, so plan for real road miles.

How the per-mile rate is calculated and quoted

When you search for a U-Haul rental, the website shows you three numbers: the daily rate, the per-mile rate, and the total estimated cost. The per-mile rate is multiplied by the distance between your pickup and drop-off locations. For example, if U-Haul quotes $0.89 per mile and your move is 200 miles, the mileage portion of your bill will be $178, plus whatever the daily rate is.

The per-mile rate U-Haul shows you is the rate for that specific rental on that specific date. If you search again tomorrow for the same move, the rate might be different. Rates fluctuate based on demand, local inventory, and seasonal factors. During summer months (May through September), rates are typically higher because more people move during that window. Winter rates are often lower.

U-Haul calculates distance using actual driving routes, not the straight-line distance between two points. If your move requires you to take a longer highway route, you will pay for those extra miles. The website's distance estimate should match what you will actually drive, but it is worth checking the route yourself if the quoted mileage seems high.

One-way rentals versus local moves

U-Haul distinguishes between one-way rentals (pickup and drop-off at different locations) and local rentals (pickup and drop-off at the same location). One-way rentals almost always have a higher per-mile rate because U-Haul has to account for repositioning the truck back to a location where it is needed. A 100-mile one-way rental will cost more per mile than a 100-mile local rental where you return the truck to where you picked it up.

Local rentals are charged differently — you pay a daily rate plus mileage, but the per-mile rate is usually lower than one-way. If you are moving within the same city or region and returning the truck to the same location, you will see this reflected in the quote. The savings can be meaningful on shorter distances, though the daily rate may be higher to compensate.

Truck size and how it affects mileage cost

Larger trucks have higher per-mile rates. A 10-foot truck might be $0.89 per mile, while a 20-foot truck could be $1.19 per mile for the same route. This reflects the higher fuel consumption and wear on larger vehicles. The difference compounds over distance — on a 300-mile move, that $0.30 difference per mile adds up to $90 in additional mileage charges.

When comparing truck sizes, factor in both the daily rate and the per-mile rate. A larger truck might have a lower daily rate but a higher per-mile rate, or vice versa. The website will show you the total estimated cost for each truck size, so you can compare the full picture rather than just the per-mile number in isolation.

What is included and what costs extra

The per-mile charge covers the truck rental itself and the mileage. It does not cover fuel — you return the truck with a full tank, or U-Haul charges you for the fuel at their rate (usually higher than gas station prices). It also does not cover equipment rentals like dollies, furniture pads, or hand trucks, which are billed separately. Insurance and damage waivers are optional add-ons with their own cost.

Tolls are your responsibility. If your route includes toll roads, you will pay those at the time you drive them. Some states have toll roads that are difficult to avoid, so factor that into your budget if you are moving through areas like the Northeast or parts of Texas and Florida.

How to estimate your total mileage cost before booking

Go to uhaul.com and enter your pickup location, drop-off location, and the date you need the truck. Select the truck size you are considering. The website will show you the per-mile rate and calculate the total mileage cost based on the distance. Write down the per-mile rate and the estimated total cost. Repeat this for any other truck sizes you are considering so you can compare.

Call U-Haul at 1-800-468-4285 if you want to confirm the rate or discuss your specific move. Their reservation agents can answer questions about whether the quoted distance is accurate for your route and whether there are any factors that might change the price between now and your rental date.

Remember that the quote you see is an estimate. The final mileage charge will be based on the actual miles driven, which you can see on your receipt after you return the truck. If you drive fewer miles than estimated, you will pay less. If you drive more, you will pay more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I negotiate the per-mile rate?

U-Haul's per-mile rates are set by their pricing algorithm and are not negotiable. However, you can sometimes find discounts through AAA membership, military service, or promotional codes. These discounts typically reduce the daily rate rather than the per-mile rate, but they lower your overall cost.

What happens if I drive more miles than I estimated?

You will pay for the actual miles driven. U-Haul tracks mileage using the odometer reading when you pick up and drop off the truck. If you estimated 200 miles but drove 250, you will be charged for the extra 50 miles at the per-mile rate quoted to you.

Do I have to pay for miles if I return the truck early?

Yes. You pay for the miles you actually drive, regardless of how long you keep the truck. If you pick up a truck for a 300-mile move but only drive 200 miles, you pay for 200 miles. The daily rate may be adjusted if you return it early, depending on U-Haul's policy at that location.

Is the per-mile rate the same for all U-Haul locations?

No. Rates vary by region, local demand, and inventory. A one-way rental from New York to Florida will have different per-mile rates than a one-way rental from Denver to Kansas City. Always get a quote for your specific route and dates.

What if I take a longer route than the one U-Haul estimated?

You will pay for the extra miles. U-Haul's estimate is based on the most direct driving route, but if you take a detour or a longer highway, the odometer will reflect those additional miles and you will be charged accordingly.