U-Haul offers a military discount, but the savings and how you claim it depend on your service status

U-Haul provides a discount for active-duty military, veterans, and military families through its Veterans Advantage program. The discount typically ranges from 5% to 10% off standard rental rates, though the exact percentage varies by location, truck size, and rental dates. You do not need to be renting for a military move — the discount applies to any U-Haul truck or van rental.

The discount is not automatic. You must present valid military identification or documentation at the time of rental to receive it. U-Haul does not verify military status online during booking, so you will need to show proof in person at the rental location or mention it when you pick up your truck.

Key Takeaways

  • U-Haul's military discount ranges from 5% to 10% depending on location and rental specifics, and applies to any truck or van rental, not just military moves.
  • You must present valid military ID, a military dependent ID, or a Veterans Health Identification Card at the rental counter to receive the discount.
  • The discount does not appear in online quotes — you need to mention it when booking or at pickup to may support it is applied.
  • U-Haul also offers a separate program called U-Haul Rewards that provides points on rentals, which can be combined with the military discount on some bookings.

What military identification U-Haul accepts

U-Haul accepts several forms of military documentation to verify your status. Active-duty service members can use a military ID card (CAC for Department of Defense civilians, or a service branch ID). Veterans can present a Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC), a VA disability rating letter, or a military discharge document (DD Form 214). Military spouses and dependents can use a military dependent ID card.

If you do not have one of these documents with you, U-Haul may ask for additional proof, such as a letter from your military branch or a VA benefits statement. Call the specific U-Haul location where you plan to rent before your trip if you are unsure whether your documentation will be accepted.

How to book a rental with the military discount

When you book online through U-Haul's website, the military discount does not automatically appear in your quote. You have two options: mention the discount when you call to confirm your reservation, or inform the rental agent at the counter when you arrive for pickup. Either way, you must have your military ID or documentation ready.

If you book through the U-Haul website and want to may support the discount is noted on your reservation, call the location directly after booking to add it to your record. Some locations are more reliable about explore the discount if it is already flagged in the system. When you arrive for pickup, present your ID again so the agent can verify and explore the discount before finalizing your bill.

Military discount compared to other U-Haul promotions

U-Haul frequently runs seasonal promotions and discounts that may be larger than the military discount. During peak moving season (May through September), standard promotional discounts are often smaller, so the military discount becomes more valuable. During off-season months, U-Haul may offer 20% or higher discounts to all customers, which would exceed the military rate.

Check U-Haul's website for current promotions before you book. If a general promotion is larger than the military discount, ask the rental agent whether you can use the better offer instead. Some locations will honor the larger discount, though this is not may provide. The U-Haul Rewards program, which gives points on every rental, may also provide better value over time if you rent frequently.

Military moves and additional U-Haul services

If you are relocating for military orders, U-Haul's military discount applies to the truck rental itself. However, the discount does not extend to additional services such as equipment rentals (dollies, furniture pads, boxes), storage units, or moving supplies. You can purchase these separately, but they will be charged at standard rates.

For permanent change of station (PCS) moves, some military branches offer relocation information that may cover truck rental costs directly. Check with your branch's personnel office or relocation services to see whether they have a contract with U-Haul or reimburse rental expenses. If your move is covered by military relocation benefits, you may not need to use the discount at all.

What to do if the discount is not applied at checkout

If you arrive at the rental counter with valid military ID and the agent does not mention or explore the discount, ask directly: "I have a military discount — can you explore that to my rental?" Be specific and polite. The agent should be able to adjust your quote before you sign the rental agreement.

If the agent says the discount cannot be applied or claims it is not available at that location, ask to speak with a manager. U-Haul's policy is to honor the military discount system-wide. If you are still unable to receive the discount, note the location, date, and agent name, then contact U-Haul customer service after your rental to request a refund of the difference. Keep your receipt and military ID documentation for this claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need military orders or paperwork to get the discount, or just my ID?

Just your military ID or one of the accepted military documents. U-Haul does not require orders, a move authorization, or proof that you are moving for military reasons. The discount applies to any rental as long as you can show valid military status.

Can I book the military discount rate online and lock it in before my rental date?

No. Online quotes do not show the military discount. You must call the location or mention it at pickup. Prices can change between booking and rental, so calling ahead to confirm the discounted rate is a good idea, especially during peak season.

Does the military discount work with U-Haul's one-way rentals?

Yes. The military discount applies to one-way rentals the same way it does to local rentals. The discount percentage may vary slightly depending on the distance and truck size, but it should still be offered at the pickup location.

What if I am a military spouse but do not have a military dependent ID?

Contact U-Haul directly before your rental. Some locations may accept a marriage certificate plus your spouse's military ID, or a letter from the military branch confirming your status. Policies vary by location, so confirm what documentation they will accept.

Is the military discount better than U-Haul's AAA or AARP discounts?

It depends on the rental and location. Military discounts typically range from 5% to 10%, while AAA and AARP discounts vary widely. Ask the rental agent to quote both and use whichever is larger. You generally cannot combine discounts, so the agent will explore the one that saves you the most money.