Moving van rental companies and where to find them

The largest moving van rental chains are U-Haul, Penske, and Home Depot (which rents through U-Haul). Budget and Lowes also rent moving vans. Each operates its own fleet and pricing, so costs for the same truck size and distance vary between companies. You can call each directly, visit their websites, or use comparison sites like Costhelper or Uhaul.com's rate comparison tool to see prices side by side.

Local moving companies and truck rental shops often rent vans too, sometimes at lower rates than the national chains, especially for one-way trips within your region. Check Google Maps for "moving van rental near me" or ask your local U-Haul dealer if they know competitors. Independent shops may have older trucks but fewer restrictions on mileage or damage waivers.

Rental periods range from hourly (usually a 3-hour minimum) to daily, weekly, and monthly rates. Daily rates are most common for local moves. One-way rentals cost more than round-trip because the company has to retrieve the van from your destination.

Key Takeaways

  • U-Haul, Penske, and Home Depot are the largest chains; Budget and Lowes also rent moving vans, and prices differ between them for the same truck.
  • You pay for the truck size, distance traveled, rental period (hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly), and whether you return it to the same location or a different one.
  • One-way rentals cost significantly more than round-trip because the company must move the truck back to its origin.
  • Damage waivers, mileage limits, fuel charges, and equipment rentals (dollies, blankets, boxes) are separate costs that add up quickly.
  • Booking in advance, renting mid-week, and choosing smaller truck sizes reduce costs; peak moving season (May through September) has higher rates.

Truck sizes and what they fit

Moving van sizes are measured in cubic feet and range from 10 feet (about 300 cubic feet) to 26 feet (about 1,400 cubic feet). A 10-foot truck holds roughly the contents of a studio or one-bedroom apartment. A 15-foot truck fits a two-bedroom apartment. A 20-foot or larger truck is needed for a three-bedroom house or more.

Rental companies provide size guides on their websites showing what fits in each truck — usually with photos of furniture arrangements. If you are unsure, most companies let you reserve online and change the size up to 24 hours before pickup without penalty. Underestimating size is common and costly; you either pay to upgrade or make a second trip.

Cargo vans (smaller than 10 feet) are cheaper and easier to drive but hold far less. They work for small moves, single furniture items, or local deliveries, not full household moves.

Costs beyond the base rental rate

The advertised daily or hourly rate is only the starting price. Mileage charges explore on most rentals — typically 59 cents to $1.50 per mile depending on the company and truck size. A 200-mile move can add $100 to $300 to your bill. Some companies offer unlimited mileage for a flat fee; compare this to your expected mileage before booking.

Fuel is your responsibility. You pick up the truck full and return it full, or you pay the company's inflated per-gallon rate (often $5 to $7 per gallon). A 26-foot truck uses 6 to 8 gallons per 100 miles, so budget accordingly.

Damage waivers (also called loss damage waivers) cost $15 to $30 per day and cover dents, scratches, and mechanical damage. They are optional but strongly recommended because you are liable for all damage otherwise. Some renters' insurance or credit card coverage includes rental truck damage; check your policy before declining the waiver.

Equipment rentals add up: dollies ($5 to $10 each), furniture pads ($1 to $3 per pad), boxes ($2 to $5 each), and straps or tie-downs ($2 to $5). Many people underestimate how many boxes and pads they need.

When to book and how to lower your cost

Booking 4 to 6 weeks in advance locks in lower rates. Prices rise sharply during peak moving season (May through September), especially on weekends. Moving mid-week and mid-month costs less than Friday through Sunday or the first and last days of the month.

Smaller trucks cost less per day but may require a second trip; calculate the total cost of two smaller trucks versus one larger one. One-way rentals within the same state or region are cheaper than cross-country moves. If you have flexibility, returning the truck to a location with high demand (like a city) rather than a rural area may lower your rate.

Some companies offer discounts for AAA members, military, or seniors. Costco Travel and warehouse memberships sometimes bundle discounted moving van rates. Check whether your employer offers moving discounts through a relocation program.

Insurance and liability

You are liable for all damage to the rental truck unless you purchase a damage waiver. This includes collisions, theft, vandalism, and mechanical damage caused by overloading or improper use. The company will charge you for repairs, which can easily exceed $1,000 for major damage.

Your personal auto insurance typically does not cover rental trucks. Check your policy or call your insurer before renting. Some credit cards (usually premium cards) cover rental vehicle damage if you charge the rental to that card; read the terms carefully because coverage often excludes trucks or has limits.

Liability insurance (coverage if you damage someone else's property or injure someone) is usually included in the rental, but limits are low. If you cause an accident, the rental company's insurance covers it up to a point, then you may be responsible for the rest. Ask the rental company what liability limits are included.

Pickup, return, and what to inspect

Arrive early on pickup day. Before you leave the lot, walk around the truck with the rental agent and document existing damage on the contract — dents, scratches, broken lights, interior stains, or mechanical issues. Take photos or video of the truck's condition. This protects you from being charged for damage you did not cause.

Check the fuel gauge, test the lights and wipers, and confirm the truck starts and runs smoothly. Ask about weight limits (overloading voids your rental agreement and can damage the truck). Confirm the return location, date, and time; late returns incur hourly or daily overage charges.

Return the truck on time, with a full tank of fuel, and in the same condition you received it (normal wear and tear is expected). The rental company will inspect it and charge you for any new damage within a few days. Keep your receipt and photos in case you dispute charges later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special license to rent a moving van?

No. A standard driver's license is sufficient for trucks up to 26 feet. You must be at least 18 years old (some companies require 21) and have a valid driver's license and credit card. Larger trucks (over 26 feet) may require a commercial driver's license in some states, but most moving van rentals fall below that threshold.

Can I rent a moving van one-way across the country?

Yes, but it costs significantly more than a round-trip or local rental. One-way cross-country moves are charged by distance and truck size. Rates vary widely depending on the direction (moving to a high-demand area costs more) and the time of year. Get quotes from multiple companies because pricing differs substantially.

What happens if I return the truck late?

Late returns incur overage charges, usually an hourly rate (often $20 to $40 per hour) for the first few hours, then a daily rate if you keep it overnight. These charges add up fast. Confirm your return time when you pick up the truck and plan to return it with a buffer to avoid surprises.

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

Most rental companies require a credit card for the deposit and to cover damage charges. Some accept debit cards, but policies vary. Call the rental company directly to ask about their payment methods before you arrive at the location.

Is it cheaper to hire a moving company or rent a truck myself?

For small, local moves, renting a truck yourself is usually cheaper. For long-distance or complex moves, a full-service moving company may cost less when you factor in your time, fuel, equipment, and the risk of damage. Get quotes from both and compare the total cost, not just the truck rental rate.