What you need to rent a U-Haul truck

To rent a U-Haul truck, you need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and you must be at least 18 years old (though some locations require 21 for larger trucks). U-Haul will run a background check and driving record review as part of the rental process. You'll also need to know roughly how much you're moving — the truck size you choose affects the price, and picking the wrong size costs you money either way.

U-Haul operates through its website (uhaul.com), by phone at 1-800-468-4285, and at physical locations nationwide. You can reserve a truck online and pick it up at a U-Haul center, a U-Haul dealer (often a hardware store or gas station), or sometimes at a third-party location. Availability and pricing vary by location and date, so booking early usually saves money.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid driver's license, credit card, and proof of age (18 or older) to rent; U-Haul checks your driving record before approval.
  • Truck sizes range from 10 feet to 26 feet, and the price depends on distance, truck size, and current demand — booking early typically costs less.
  • You pay for the truck rental, mileage (if not unlimited), fuel, and optional equipment like dollies or furniture pads; damage waivers are sold separately.
  • One-way rentals (picking up in one city and dropping off in another) cost more than round-trip rentals from the same location.
  • U-Haul's damage policy holds you responsible for any harm to the truck unless you purchase their damage waiver coverage.

Truck sizes and what they fit

U-Haul offers trucks in five main sizes: 10-foot, 15-foot, 20-foot, 26-foot, and 26-foot with a hydraulic lift gate. The 10-foot truck holds roughly one to two rooms of furniture and is common for small moves or storage runs. The 15-foot fits a three-bedroom apartment, and the 20-foot handles a four-bedroom house. The 26-foot is the largest standard truck and is used for five-bedroom homes or commercial moves.

Picking the wrong size costs you. Too small and you make multiple trips or leave things behind. Too large and you pay for space you don't use. U-Haul's website has a size estimator tool where you enter what you're moving, and it suggests a truck. You can also call a location directly and describe your move to a staff member who can recommend a size.

How pricing works

U-Haul charges three separate costs: the truck rental (a base fee that varies by truck size and location), mileage (charged per mile unless you purchase unlimited mileage), and fuel. The base rental price is higher during peak moving season (May through September) and lower during off-season. One-way rentals cost significantly more than round-trip rentals because U-Haul has to move the truck back to its original location.

You can see the full price breakdown before you confirm your reservation online. The quote includes the rental fee, estimated mileage charges, and any optional add-ons you select. Fuel is not included in the quote — you return the truck with a full tank or pay U-Haul's fuel surcharge, which is typically higher than local gas prices.

Optional equipment and damage coverage

U-Haul sells equipment rentals separately: furniture dollies, hand trucks, moving blankets, rope, and boxes. These are cheaper to rent from U-Haul than to buy new, but you can also bring your own equipment. The company also offers a damage waiver (called a "damage waiver" or "loss damage waiver") that limits your financial responsibility if the truck is damaged during your rental. This is optional but recommended, especially if you're not confident in your driving or parking skills.

Without a damage waiver, you are responsible for the full cost of any damage — dents, scratches, mechanical problems, or interior stains. U-Haul inspects the truck before you leave and again when you return, documenting any damage with photos. If damage is found, U-Haul charges your credit card. The damage waiver typically costs $15 to $30 per day, depending on truck size.

Pickup, return, and fuel requirements

When you pick up your truck, U-Haul staff will walk you through the vehicle condition, point out any existing damage, and explain the controls. You'll sign paperwork confirming the truck's condition and your rental agreement. The rental period starts at pickup and ends when you return the truck to the same location or a different U-Haul location (if you booked one-way).

You must return the truck with a full tank of fuel. U-Haul provides a fuel gauge reading when you pick up the truck. If you return it without a full tank, U-Haul charges you for the missing fuel at a per-gallon rate that is usually higher than local gas prices. Some U-Haul locations have a fuel pump on-site; others require you to fill up at a nearby gas station before returning.

One-way versus round-trip rentals

A round-trip rental means you pick up and return the truck at the same location. A one-way rental means you pick up at one U-Haul location and drop off at a different one. One-way rentals are more expensive because U-Haul has to transport the truck back to its original location or redistribute it to meet demand elsewhere.

If you're moving across the country, one-way is often your only option. If you're moving locally, round-trip is cheaper. Some one-way routes are cheaper than others depending on whether U-Haul has high demand in your destination city — moving to a popular destination (like a college town in August) costs more than moving away from one.

What happens if you're late returning the truck

Your rental agreement specifies a return time (usually the same time of day you picked up the truck). If you return the truck late, U-Haul charges an hourly late fee. The fee varies by location but is typically $40 to $60 per hour for the first few hours, then a full-day charge if you're more than a few hours late. This can add up quickly, so plan your move timeline with buffer time built in.

If you realize you need the truck longer, call U-Haul before your return time and ask to extend the rental. Extending in advance is usually cheaper than paying late fees, and availability permitting, U-Haul will adjust your reservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

U-Haul requires a credit card for the reservation and to hold the security deposit. Debit cards are not accepted. If you don't have a credit card, you may be able to call a U-Haul location directly to discuss payment options, but this is not standard practice.

What if the truck breaks down during my rental?

U-Haul provides roadside information 24/7. Call the number on your rental agreement or U-Haul's main line (1-800-468-4285) and report the problem. U-Haul will dispatch a mechanic or tow truck to help you. You are not responsible for mechanical failures that occur during the rental.

Can I rent a U-Haul truck for someone else to drive?

No. The person whose name is on the rental agreement must be the primary driver. Additional drivers can be added to the rental for a fee (usually $10 to $15 per person), and they must provide their own valid driver's license at pickup.

Do I need insurance to rent a U-Haul truck?

Your personal auto insurance may cover a rental truck, but you should call your insurance company before renting to confirm. If your policy doesn't cover rentals, U-Haul's damage waiver is the main protection available. Some credit cards also offer rental truck coverage — check your card's benefits.

What's the difference between U-Haul and other truck rental companies?

U-Haul is the largest truck rental company in North America with the most locations. Competitors like Penske and Home Depot also rent trucks, and prices vary by company and location. It's worth comparing quotes from multiple companies for your specific move date and route.