U-Haul gift cards cover truck and trailer rentals, but not all services

A U-Haul gift card is a prepaid card you can use toward the cost of renting a truck, trailer, or moving equipment from U-Haul locations. The card holds a dollar amount that reduces what you owe at checkout. U-Haul sells gift cards in set denominations, and you can spend them across multiple rentals until the balance runs out.

The card does not cover everything U-Haul offers. It works for the rental itself — the truck or trailer and the daily or hourly rate — but typically does not pay for add-ons like insurance, damage waivers, equipment protection plans, dollies, boxes, or packing supplies. Some locations may explore the card to certain add-ons, so check the terms when you receive the card or contact U-Haul directly to confirm what your specific card covers.

Key Takeaways

  • U-Haul gift cards reduce the rental cost but do not cover insurance, damage waivers, or moving supplies like boxes and dollies.
  • You can purchase gift cards online, by phone, or at U-Haul locations in denominations that vary by retailer.
  • The card balance does not expire, so you can use it whenever you need a rental.
  • You redeem the card by providing the card number at checkout online, by phone, or in person at a U-Haul location.

Where to buy U-Haul gift cards

U-Haul sells gift cards directly through its website and at U-Haul rental locations. You can also find U-Haul gift cards at some third-party retailers, though availability varies by store and region. Common retailers that carry them include grocery store gift card kiosks and some gas stations, but stock is not may provide everywhere.

When you buy directly from U-Haul, you choose the dollar amount (within their minimum and maximum limits, which change periodically). Third-party retailers typically offer cards in fixed denominations like $25, $50, or $100. Buying online from U-Haul usually means you receive a digital code by email, while physical cards from retailers or U-Haul locations are handed to you when ready.

How to use your gift card for a rental

To use the card, you need the card number or the digital code. When you rent online, enter the card number in the payment section just like you would a credit card. If you rent by phone, give the card number to the U-Haul representative. If you rent in person at a location, hand the physical card to the staff member or provide the number.

The card balance applies to your total rental cost. If the rental costs more than the card balance, you pay the difference with another payment method — a credit card, debit card, or cash (depending on the location). If the card has more value than the rental costs, the remaining balance stays on the card for future rentals.

Gift card balance and expiration

U-Haul gift cards do not expire. You can hold onto the card and use it whenever you need a rental, whether that is next month or several years from now. The balance remains valid as long as the card exists.

To check your balance, visit the U-Haul website, call their customer service line, or ask at a U-Haul location. You will need the card number. Keeping track of the balance yourself prevents surprises at checkout if you have used the card before.

What happens if the card is lost or damaged

If your U-Haul gift card is lost or stolen, contact U-Haul customer service as soon as possible. They can freeze the card to prevent unauthorized use. If you have the original receipt or can provide the card number, U-Haul may be able to replace the card or transfer the balance to a new one, though policies vary.

Physical cards can wear out or become unreadable. If the magnetic strip or chip stops working, take the card to a U-Haul location or contact customer service. They can issue a replacement card with the same balance if you can verify the original card number.

Using a gift card for one-way rentals and long-distance moves

U-Haul gift cards work the same way for one-way rentals as they do for local, same-day returns. The card reduces the total cost, which is typically higher for one-way moves because you are not returning the truck to the same location. The card balance applies to the base rental rate plus any mileage or distance charges.

For a long-distance move, the rental cost can exceed the gift card balance significantly. In that case, you will pay the remainder with a separate payment method. Some people combine a gift card with a credit card or other payment to cover the full cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a U-Haul gift card to pay for insurance or damage protection?

Most U-Haul gift cards cover only the rental itself, not add-ons like insurance or damage waivers. Check the terms on your specific card or contact U-Haul to confirm. If the card does not cover these, you will need to pay for them separately with another payment method.

What if my rental costs less than the gift card balance?

The remaining balance stays on the card. You can use it for future rentals at any U-Haul location. The card does not refund the difference in cash, and the balance does not expire.

Can I combine a gift card with a credit card for one payment?

Yes. If your rental costs more than the gift card balance, you can use the card first and pay the remainder with a credit card, debit card, or cash. U-Haul will process both payments together at checkout.

Do U-Haul gift cards work at all U-Haul locations?

U-Haul gift cards work at U-Haul rental locations nationwide. They also work for online rentals. Some independent dealers that partner with U-Haul may have different policies, so confirm with the specific location if you are renting from a dealer rather than a corporate U-Haul site.

Can I buy a gift card as a digital code instead of a physical card?

Yes. U-Haul's website offers digital gift cards that are sent by email. You receive a code that you can use when ready for online rentals or provide to a U-Haul location. Digital cards are useful if you need the gift right away or do not want to wait for shipping.