The fastest way to find a U-Haul near you

Go to uhaul.com and enter your zip code or city in the location search box on the homepage. The site will show you every U-Haul rental location within your area — both company-owned facilities and authorized dealers (independent businesses that rent U-Haul equipment). You can also call 1-800-GO-UHAUL (1-800-468-4285) and a representative will tell you the nearest open location and current availability.

U-Haul has two types of pickup points: full service centers, which are larger facilities with more truck and trailer options, and neighborhood dealers, which are smaller locations (often at hardware stores, gas stations, or auto parts shops) with a limited selection. If you need a specific truck size or trailer type, the website shows what each location has in stock before you book.

Mobile app users can read the U-Haul app for iOS or Android, which includes a location finder with real-time availability and the ability to reserve equipment directly from your phone.

Key Takeaways

  • The U-Haul website and 1-800-GO-UHAUL phone line both show nearby locations, hours, and what equipment is available right now.
  • U-Haul operates full service centers and smaller neighborhood dealer locations, so the closest option may have fewer truck sizes than a larger facility.
  • You can reserve equipment online or by phone before you arrive, which holds your choice for a set time period.
  • Neighborhood dealers often have shorter hours than full service centers, so check the location's hours before driving there.

What to expect when you arrive at a U-Haul location

Bring a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a credit card. U-Haul requires a damage deposit (the amount varies by truck size and location) that is refunded when you return the equipment in the same condition. If you reserved equipment online, have your confirmation number ready.

The rental agent will walk you through the truck or trailer condition, show you how to operate the equipment, and explain the mileage charges and fuel policy. U-Haul charges by the day, week, or month, and most locations offer unlimited mileage on one-way rentals (where you pick up in one city and drop off in another) but charge per mile on local rentals.

The entire check-in process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. If you are renting during peak season (May through September), arrive early or reserve in advance, because popular sizes sell out quickly.

Comparing U-Haul with other rental companies near you

U-Haul is the largest truck rental network in the United States, with the most locations and the widest range of equipment sizes. Penske and Home Depot (which rents U-Haul equipment) are the main competitors, and Budget also rents moving trucks. U-Haul typically has lower daily rates but may charge more per mile on local rentals, while Penske often charges higher daily rates but includes more mileage in the base price.

If you are moving a long distance, U-Haul's one-way rental option is usually cheaper than returning the truck to the original location. For a local move within a few miles, compare the per-mile charges across companies, because the total cost can vary significantly.

Check Google Maps or Yelp for reviews of specific U-Haul locations near you, as customer experience varies by facility. Some neighborhood dealers have reported longer wait times or older equipment than full service centers.

Understanding U-Haul's equipment sizes and what fits where

U-Haul offers cargo vans (smallest, holds about one room of furniture), 10-foot trucks, 15-foot trucks, 20-foot trucks, and larger specialty trucks. They also rent trailers in multiple sizes, from small utility trailers to enclosed cargo trailers and car-hauling trailers. The website shows interior dimensions and weight capacity for each option.

If you are unsure what size you need, use U-Haul's moving calculator on their website — you enter the number of rooms you are moving, and it recommends a truck size. Keep in mind that the calculator tends to recommend larger sizes to avoid customers running out of space, so a smaller size may work if you are flexible about what you take.

Neighborhood dealers may not stock all sizes, so if you need a specific truck, call ahead or check the website to confirm it is available at your preferred location.

Booking online versus in person

Booking online at uhaul.com locks in your rate and holds the equipment for a set time (usually until the end of business that day). You can modify or cancel your reservation up to 24 hours before pickup without penalty. Online booking also lets you compare prices across different dates and locations before you commit.

Booking in person at a location works if you need equipment the same day and do not mind waiting for availability. Walk-in customers sometimes pay higher rates than those who reserved in advance, especially during busy seasons. If you call 1-800-GO-UHAUL, the representative can book you over the phone and email you a confirmation.

If you have a U-Haul rewards account, online booking earns points toward future rentals. The rewards program is free to join and tracks your rental history across all locations.

What to know about fuel, mileage, and damage charges

U-Haul charges for fuel in two ways: you can fill the tank yourself before returning the truck (and pay only for what you used), or you can pay U-Haul's fuel surcharge, which is higher per gallon than retail gas. Most renters find it cheaper to fill the tank themselves at a gas station near the return location.

Mileage charges explore only to local rentals (same-city pickup and return). One-way rentals include unlimited mileage. If you exceed the mileage limit on a local rental, U-Haul charges per mile, and the rate varies by truck size.

Damage charges are deducted from your deposit. Minor dings and dents that do not affect the truck's operation are usually not charged, but dents that require repair, broken mirrors, interior stains, or mechanical damage will result in a bill. Take photos of the truck's condition before you leave the lot, and report any existing damage to the rental agent so it is not charged to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a U-Haul truck if I am under 25?

Yes, but U-Haul charges an additional fee for drivers under 25. The fee varies by location and truck size. You still need a valid driver's license and proof of insurance. Call your nearest location or check the website to see the exact surcharge for your age.

What happens if I return the truck late?

U-Haul charges an additional day's rental fee for each 24-hour period (or partial period) that you keep the truck past the return time. If you think you will be late, call the location as soon as you know — some locations may extend your rental time without charging an extra day if you call ahead.

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

Yes, U-Haul requires proof of insurance before you rent. Your personal auto insurance may cover rental trucks, but call your insurance company first to confirm. U-Haul also offers damage waiver coverage at the time of rental if you want additional protection.

Can I pick up a truck in one city and drop it off in another?

Yes, U-Haul's one-way rental option lets you pick up and drop off at different locations. One-way rentals include unlimited mileage and are often cheaper than renting locally and returning to the same place, especially for long distances. Prices vary based on the route and truck size.

What if the location I want is out of stock?

Check nearby locations on the U-Haul website — you can often pick up from a different facility a few miles away. You can also call 1-800-GO-UHAUL and ask if equipment is available at other nearby locations or if you can reserve one for a later date.