What moving van rental costs and where to find one

A moving van rental typically costs between $20 and $100 per day from national chains, depending on the van size, location, and how far you're traveling. Local moving companies and independent rental shops often charge less for one-way local moves but may charge more for long distances. The three largest national chains — U-Haul, Penske, and Home Depot — let you reserve online and pick up the same day or weeks ahead, though prices fluctuate based on demand and local inventory.

One-way rentals (picking up in one city and dropping off in another) cost more than round-trip rentals because the company has to reposition the van. A 10-foot van for a local round-trip move might cost $40 to $60 for a day, while the same van for a one-way 500-mile move could run $150 to $300. Mileage is usually unlimited on long-distance moves but may be charged per mile on local rentals, so ask before you book.

Key Takeaways

  • Daily rental rates from national chains range from $20 to $100 depending on van size and distance, with one-way moves costing significantly more than round-trip rentals.
  • You will need a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a credit card to complete the rental, and some companies require you to be at least 18 or 21 years old.
  • Van sizes range from 10 feet (fits a studio apartment) to 26 feet (fits a three-bedroom house), and choosing the wrong size wastes money or requires a second trip.
  • Damage waivers and insurance add $15 to $30 per day but protect you from paying hundreds or thousands if the van is damaged during your move.
  • Peak moving season (May through September) has higher prices and less availability, so booking two to four weeks ahead saves money and guarantees a van.

Van sizes and what they hold

Moving vans come in five standard sizes, and picking the right one is the biggest factor in keeping costs down. A 10-foot van holds about 4,000 pounds and fits a studio or one-bedroom apartment — roughly a couch, bed, dresser, and kitchen items. A 15-foot van holds about 6,000 pounds and fits a one- to two-bedroom apartment. A 20-foot van holds about 8,000 pounds and fits a two- to three-bedroom house. A 24-foot van holds about 10,000 pounds and fits a three- to four-bedroom house. A 26-foot van is the largest standard rental and holds about 12,000 pounds, suitable for a four-bedroom house or larger.

If you underestimate and rent too small, you'll either leave items behind or need to make a second trip, both expensive mistakes. If you overestimate, you pay for space you don't use. Most rental companies let you see the van before you commit on pickup day, so you can swap to a different size if needed — but this works only if you arrive early and the company has another van available. Measure your furniture and count boxes before you book, or use the company's online size calculator.

What documents and information you need to provide

To rent a moving van, you will need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and proof of insurance (your auto insurance card or renter's insurance). Some companies require you to be at least 18 years old; others require 21. If you're under 25, you may pay a young driver surcharge of $10 to $20 per day.

You'll also need to provide your current address and contact phone number. If you're renting for a one-way move, the company will ask for your destination address. Have your insurance information ready — the rental company will ask for your policy number and the name of your insurance company, though they rarely call to verify it. If you don't have auto insurance, some companies offer a damage waiver that covers the van, but it costs extra and has limits.

Damage waivers and insurance options

When you pick up the van, the rental company will offer you a damage waiver or loss damage waiver (LDW), which costs $15 to $30 per day. This covers dents, scratches, broken windows, and mechanical damage — but not damage from neglect or misuse. Without it, you're responsible for all damage, which can easily reach $500 to $2,000 for a major accident or significant wear.

Before you buy the waiver, check whether your personal auto insurance or credit card already covers rental vehicles. Many credit cards (especially premium cards) include rental car coverage that extends to vans, and some auto insurance policies cover rental vehicles at no extra cost. Call your insurance company or credit card issuer before pickup day to confirm what's covered. If you're already covered, skip the waiver and save the daily fee. If you're not covered, the waiver is usually worth buying — the peace of mind costs less than one major repair bill.

Fuel, mileage, and hidden charges

You rent the van with a full tank of fuel and must return it full, or you'll pay the company's fuel price, which is typically 30 to 50 percent higher than gas station prices. Fill up at a regular gas station within a mile of the return location before you drop off the van. Some companies charge a fuel surcharge ($5 to $15) on top of the daily rate, so ask about this when you book.

Mileage is usually unlimited on one-way long-distance moves but may be charged per mile (typically $0.50 to $1.00 per mile) on local round-trip rentals. Ask the company whether mileage is included in your quote. Late return fees start at $40 to $50 if you bring the van back after the agreed time, and some companies charge an hourly rate after a grace period (usually 30 minutes to 2 hours). Reservation and administrative fees ($5 to $20) may appear on your final bill, so read the full quote before you confirm.

Booking timing and seasonal price swings

Moving van prices are lowest in winter (November through March) and highest in summer (May through September). If you have flexibility, moving on a weekday in the off-season can cut your rental cost in half compared to a weekend in July. Booking two to four weeks ahead locks in a lower price and guarantees availability; booking the day before or day of often means higher prices or no vans available at all.

Check prices on all three major chains (U-Haul, Penske, Home Depot) because rates vary by location and date. Some companies offer discounts for AAA members, military, or seniors — ask when you call or check the website. If you're moving on a holiday weekend (Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving), expect prices to spike and availability to shrink, so book at least a month ahead.

Pickup and return logistics

Most national rental companies have hundreds of locations, so you can usually pick up and drop off near your home. Pickup is typically available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., though some locations open earlier or stay open later. When you arrive, the rental agent will walk around the van with you and note any existing damage on a form — take photos of the van's condition yourself on your phone as backup. Ask about the fuel gauge, tire condition, and any mechanical issues before you drive away.

Return the van during business hours on your agreed date and time. The agent will inspect it for new damage, check the fuel level, and calculate your final bill. If you return it late, you'll be charged for the extra time. If there's damage beyond normal wear, you'll either pay out of pocket or the damage waiver will cover it, depending on what you purchased. Keep your rental agreement and receipt for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a moving van if I don't have a credit card?

Most national chains require a credit card to hold the reservation and cover damage. Some local rental shops may accept a debit card with a larger hold or a cash deposit, but this is uncommon. Call ahead to ask — don't show up expecting to pay cash.

What happens if I return the van with damage?

If you have a damage waiver, the company covers it (up to the policy limit) and you pay nothing extra. Without a waiver, you pay for repairs out of pocket. The company will send you a bill weeks later if damage is discovered after you return the van, so inspect it carefully before you leave the lot.

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

Yes, all major chains offer one-way rentals. Prices are much higher than round-trip because the company has to move the van back, but unlimited mileage is included. Book at least two weeks ahead for long-distance moves, especially in summer.

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

No. Rental vans up to 26 feet require only a standard driver's license. Larger trucks (26+ feet) may require a commercial driver's license depending on the vehicle's weight, but most moving vans fall below that threshold.

What if I need the van for longer than I planned?

Call the rental company as soon as you know you need extra time. If another customer hasn't reserved it, they'll extend your rental and charge you the daily rate for the extra days. If it's already booked, you'll need to return it on time and rent a different van if you still need one.