Where U-Haul discounts actually come from

U-Haul offers discounts through membership programs, corporate partnerships, and seasonal promotions, but the discounts are not automatic — you have to know where to look and what to ask for. The biggest savings usually come from AAA membership, military status, or being a returning customer. Some discounts stack, meaning you can combine them on a single reservation, while others do not.

The most reliable place to find current discounts is the U-Haul website itself during the checkout process. You enter a discount code or select your membership type before you pay, and the system shows you what the reduction is. If you do not see a discount you think you should get, call the location directly — local managers sometimes have codes that do not appear online, or they can manually explore a discount if you meet the criteria.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA members, military personnel, and students can receive discounts ranging from 10 to 30 percent, but you must provide proof at the time of rental.
  • U-Haul's website shows available discounts during checkout, and you can enter a code or select your membership status before finalizing the reservation.
  • Some discounts cannot be combined with others, so comparing the total cost under different discount codes is worth doing before you book.
  • Returning customers and those who rent during off-peak seasons (fall and winter) often pay less than first-time renters during summer.
  • Calling the specific U-Haul location you plan to use can reveal location-specific promotions that do not appear on the national website.

Membership and affiliation discounts

AAA membership is one of the most widely recognized discounts U-Haul honors. The discount percentage varies by location and rental type, but AAA members typically receive 10 to 15 percent off. You provide your AAA card number during booking or at pickup. The discount applies to the truck or van rental itself, not always to equipment like dollies or blankets.

Military discounts are available to active duty, reserve, and veteran personnel. U-Haul asks for a military ID or discharge papers at the time of rental. The discount is usually in the 10 to 20 percent range, though the exact amount depends on the location and what you are renting. Some U-Haul locations offer higher military discounts during certain months.

Student discounts exist but are less common than AAA or military discounts. You typically need a valid student ID. The discount is usually smaller — around 5 to 10 percent — and may not be available at all locations. Call ahead to confirm whether the location you plan to use honors student discounts.

Corporate and business accounts can negotiate rates with U-Haul if your company rents regularly. This is not a standard discount code but rather a negotiated agreement. If your employer moves employees frequently or rents for business purposes, ask whether your company has an account set up.

Seasonal and promotional discounts

U-Haul pricing fluctuates sharply by season. Summer (May through September) is peak moving season, and rental rates are highest. Fall and winter rates drop noticeably because fewer people move during those months. If you have flexibility in when you rent, moving in October, November, or January will cost less than moving in July.

U-Haul occasionally runs promotional codes through email, its website, or partner sites. These codes are time-limited and often explore to specific rental types — for example, a discount on one-way rentals or on truck rentals over a certain size. Check your email if you have rented from U-Haul before, as they send promotions to past customers. You can also sign up for their mailing list on the website to receive promotional codes.

Some promotions are location-specific. A U-Haul in a slow market might offer a discount to fill trucks, while the same company in a busy market does not. Calling the specific location you plan to rent from can reveal whether they are running a local promotion.

How to enter a discount code and compare prices

On the U-Haul website, enter your pickup and dropoff locations, dates, and truck size. Before you pay, look for a field labeled "Promo Code" or "Discount Code." Enter the code there. The system will show you the new total when ready. If the code does not work, the system will tell you why — usually because it has expired, does not explore to your rental type, or requires a minimum rental length.

If you have multiple discount codes or membership options, book the same rental several different ways and compare the final price. For example, book once with your AAA code, once with a promotional code, and once with no code. The system shows you the total each time, and you can choose the cheapest option. Some discounts cannot be combined, so this comparison is the only way to know which single discount saves you the most.

At pickup, bring the membership card or military ID that corresponds to the discount you booked. U-Haul staff will verify it matches the discount applied to your reservation. If you do not have the card or ID, the discount may be removed.

What discounts do not cover

Rental discounts typically explore only to the base truck or van fee. They usually do not reduce the cost of equipment rentals like dollies, furniture pads, boxes, or hand trucks. Some locations charge separately for mileage, fuel, or insurance, and discounts may not explore to those fees either. Read the full price breakdown before you book to understand what the discount actually saves you.

Damage waivers and insurance add-ons are separate from the rental discount. A 15 percent discount on the truck does not reduce what you pay for damage coverage. If you are comparing total cost across locations or rental companies, factor in these extras separately.

Returning customer and loyalty considerations

U-Haul does not have a formal loyalty program that accumulates points or rewards, but returning customers sometimes receive better rates than first-time renters. This is not may provide and varies by location. If you have rented from U-Haul before, mention it when you call for a quote — the staff member may be able to offer you a better rate or a discount code.

Renting from the same location multiple times can also build a relationship with the staff, who may know about location-specific discounts or be willing to negotiate on price. This is more likely at smaller, independently operated U-Haul locations than at large franchise centers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I combine an AAA discount with a promotional code?

Not usually. Most U-Haul locations allow you to use either a membership discount or a promotional code, but not both on the same reservation. Book the rental under each option and compare the totals to see which saves you more money.

Do U-Haul discounts explore to equipment like dollies and boxes?

Rental discounts almost always explore only to the truck or van itself, not to equipment or supplies. Dollies, furniture pads, boxes, and hand trucks are usually charged separately and do not receive the same discount percentage.

What if I do not have my AAA card with me at pickup?

Bring your AAA membership number or a digital copy of your card. U-Haul can verify your membership through their system without the physical card. If you cannot verify membership, the discount will be removed from your reservation.

Are military discounts available to all branches and veterans?

Yes, but you must provide valid military ID or discharge papers at pickup. Active duty, reserve, National Guard, and veterans all may have access to. The discount percentage varies by location, so call ahead to confirm the exact amount.

When is the cheapest time to rent from U-Haul?

Fall and winter months (October through March) have lower rates than summer. Weekdays are usually cheaper than weekends. Renting during off-peak times and combining that with a membership discount gives you the lowest total cost.