What you need to rent from U-Haul

U-Haul requires a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and you must be at least 18 years old to rent most vehicles (some locations require 21 for certain truck sizes). You'll provide your license and card at the rental location or during online booking, and U-Haul will place a hold on your card for the security deposit — typically $50 to $100 depending on the vehicle size.

You can reserve online at uhaul.com, through their mobile app, or by calling 1-800-468-4285. Online booking lets you lock in rates and pick your exact vehicle type before you arrive. When you book, you'll select your pickup location, return location, and rental dates. U-Haul will show you available trucks and vans with their daily rates, mileage charges (if any), and equipment add-ons like dollies or furniture pads.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid driver's license, credit card, and must be at least 18 years old; some locations require 21 for larger trucks.
  • Rates vary by vehicle size, distance, and season — summer moves cost more than winter moves, and one-way rentals typically cost more than round-trip.
  • U-Haul charges by the day plus mileage on most rentals, though some local moves offer unlimited mileage for a flat daily rate.
  • You can book online, through the app, or by phone, and you should reserve at least a few days ahead during peak moving season (May through September).
  • Damage waivers and additional insurance are optional but recommended if you don't have coverage through your personal auto or renters insurance.

How U-Haul pricing works

U-Haul charges a daily rental rate plus mileage, though the structure changes based on distance and vehicle type. A local move — typically under 40 miles — may have a flat daily rate with unlimited mileage included. A long-distance move charges a daily rate (usually $20 to $40 for a cargo van, $30 to $60 for a 10-foot truck, and $40 to $80 for a 20-foot truck) plus per-mile charges that range from $0.79 to $1.29 per mile depending on the vehicle.

One-way rentals (picking up in one city and returning in another) cost significantly more than round-trip rentals because U-Haul has to reposition the vehicle. A one-way rental from New York to Florida, for example, will cost roughly double a round-trip rental in the same area. Peak season (May through September) has higher rates than winter months. If you book a week or more in advance, you may see lower rates than same-week bookings.

The final bill includes the rental charge, mileage (if applicable), fuel surcharge (if you don't fill the tank before returning), equipment rentals (dollies, furniture pads, blankets), and any damage waiver or insurance you purchased. U-Haul does not charge a booking fee, but your credit card company may charge a foreign transaction fee if you're renting outside the United States.

Choosing the right vehicle size

U-Haul offers cargo vans (smallest, holds roughly one bedroom's worth of furniture), 10-foot trucks (holds two to three bedrooms), 15-foot trucks (holds three to four bedrooms), 20-foot trucks (holds four to five bedrooms), and 26-foot trucks (holds five or more bedrooms). The company's website includes a "truck size calculator" where you enter the number of rooms you're moving and it recommends a vehicle.

If you're unsure, rent slightly larger than you think you need — an oversized truck costs less than making a second trip or renting two vehicles. Cargo vans are cheapest and work for studio apartments or small loads. If you're moving a house full of furniture, a 15-foot or 20-foot truck is usually the right choice. U-Haul also rents trailers (5x8, 6x12, and enclosed options) if you want to use your own vehicle to tow.

Pickup, return, and damage policies

When you arrive for pickup, a U-Haul employee will walk you through the vehicle's condition, pointing out any existing damage on a checklist. Take photos or video of the truck's exterior and interior before you leave the lot — this protects you if U-Haul later claims you caused damage you didn't. Fill the fuel tank before returning, or U-Haul will charge you a fuel surcharge (usually $3 to $5 per gallon above market rate).

Return the vehicle on your scheduled date and time. Late returns incur additional daily charges. When you return, U-Haul will inspect the truck for new damage. Minor wear is normal and not charged, but dents, scratches, broken equipment, or interior stains may result in damage charges ranging from $50 to several hundred dollars depending on severity. If you purchased a damage waiver at rental time, you won't pay for accidental damage (though intentional damage or mechanical failure from misuse may still be charged).

Insurance and damage waivers

U-Haul offers two protection options: a damage waiver (usually $15 to $30 per day) and roadside information coverage (usually $5 to $10 per day). The damage waiver covers accidental damage to the truck itself — dents, scratches, broken mirrors — but does not cover your belongings inside the truck or liability if you hit someone else's property.

Before buying U-Haul's waiver, check whether your personal auto insurance or renters insurance already covers rental trucks. Many policies do, which means you'd be paying twice. Call your insurance company before you rent and ask specifically whether you're covered for damage to a rental truck and whether your belongings are covered while in transit. If you have no coverage, U-Haul's damage waiver is worth the cost.

What to do before and during your rental

A few days before your rental, confirm your reservation by logging into your U-Haul account or calling the location directly. Confirm the pickup time, vehicle size, and return location — mistakes here can result in surprise charges or unavailable vehicles on moving day. If you need equipment like dollies, furniture pads, or blankets, add them to your reservation online; they may not be available if you wait until pickup.

On moving day, arrive at least 15 minutes early. Bring your driver's license and the credit card you used to book. If you're moving with a second driver, that person should have their own valid license — U-Haul allows additional drivers for a fee (usually $5 to $10 per person). Drive carefully and obey weight limits posted on the truck; overloading can damage the vehicle and void your rental agreement. If you break down, call U-Haul roadside information at the number on your rental agreement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a U-Haul if I don't have a credit card?

U-Haul requires a credit card for the security deposit and final payment. Debit cards are not accepted. If you don't have a credit card, you may be able to work with a U-Haul location directly by phone to discuss alternatives, but this is not may provide and varies by location.

What happens if I return the truck late?

Late returns are charged at the daily rate for each additional day or partial day. If you're running late, call the return location as soon as you know — some locations may waive a small grace period if you notify them in advance. Returning more than a few hours late will result in a full additional day charge.

Can I book a U-Haul for someone else to use?

The person whose name is on the rental agreement must be present at pickup with a valid driver's license. U-Haul does not allow rentals under one person's name for another person to use. If someone else will be driving, they can be added as an additional driver at pickup for a fee.

Are U-Haul prices negotiable?

U-Haul prices are set by the company and do not vary by negotiation. However, booking further in advance, moving during off-peak season (October through April), or choosing a round-trip rental instead of one-way can lower your rate. Checking the website multiple times before your move date may also show price drops.

What if the truck breaks down during my move?

Call the roadside information number on your rental agreement when ready. U-Haul will send a tow truck or mechanic to help. If the vehicle cannot be repaired quickly, U-Haul will provide a replacement truck at no additional charge. You are not responsible for mechanical failure unless the damage was caused by misuse on your part.