U-Haul's main charges: mileage, truck size, and location fees
U-Haul charges you based on three things: the truck size you rent, how far you drive it, and where you pick it up and drop it off. The base rental price covers the truck for one day, and mileage is charged per mile. If you pick up and drop off at different locations, U-Haul adds a one-way fee that varies by route — moving a truck from a low-demand area to a high-demand area costs more than the reverse.
The per-mile rate depends on the truck size. A 10-foot box truck costs less per mile than a 26-foot truck. U-Haul publishes rates on their website, but the exact price for your move depends on your specific pickup date, truck size, and route. Rates change based on demand, so the same truck on the same route can cost different amounts on different days.
You can see the total cost before you book by entering your pickup location, dropoff location, truck size, and dates into U-Haul's website or calling their reservations line. The quote will show the base rental, mileage estimate, one-way fee (if applicable), and any additional charges.
Key Takeaways
- U-Haul charges a daily rental rate for the truck size you choose, plus a per-mile fee based on actual distance driven.
- One-way moves cost more than round-trip rentals because U-Haul charges a location fee to move the truck to an area with higher demand.
- Insurance, equipment rentals (dollies, furniture pads), and fuel are separate charges added to your base rental cost.
- Rates vary by date and demand, so booking the same truck on different days will show different prices.
- U-Haul's website shows your total estimated cost before you complete the reservation, so you can see all charges upfront.
How mileage charges work and what affects the total
U-Haul charges per mile from the moment you pick up the truck until you drop it off. The per-mile rate is set based on the truck size and current demand. A 10-foot truck might charge $0.99 per mile on a slow day but $1.19 per mile during peak moving season. A 26-foot truck will have a different per-mile rate, usually higher in absolute terms.
Your mileage charge is calculated on actual miles driven, not estimated miles. If U-Haul's website estimates 500 miles for your route but you drive 520 miles, you pay for 520 miles. The odometer reading at pickup and dropoff determines the final mileage.
Some U-Haul locations offer unlimited mileage deals during certain periods, usually around holidays or slow seasons. These are advertised on the website when you search for your dates. If unlimited mileage is available for your move, the quote will show it as an option, and you can compare the total cost of unlimited mileage versus paying per mile.
One-way rental fees and why they vary
A one-way rental means you pick up the truck in one city and drop it off in another. U-Haul charges a one-way fee on top of the daily rental and mileage. This fee reflects the cost of repositioning the truck back to where demand is higher.
If you move from a major city to a rural area, the one-way fee is usually lower because U-Haul trucks naturally flow toward cities. If you move from a rural area to a major city, the one-way fee is higher because U-Haul has to pay to move the truck there. During peak moving season (May through September), one-way fees increase across the board because demand for trucks is high everywhere.
Round-trip rentals (pickup and dropoff at the same location) have no one-way fee, which is why they are often cheaper than one-way moves even if you drive the same distance. If your move allows it, comparing a round-trip rental to a one-way rental on U-Haul's website will show you the price difference.
Insurance, equipment, and fuel charges
U-Haul offers damage waiver insurance that covers the truck if it is damaged during the rental. This is optional but recommended. The cost depends on the truck size and rental length, typically ranging from a few dollars per day to higher amounts for larger trucks. U-Haul also offers roadside information coverage, which is separate.
Equipment rentals are charged separately from the truck rental. Dollies, furniture pads, blankets, and hand trucks are available for rent by the day. A furniture dolly might cost $5 to $10 per day, and a set of furniture pads might cost $10 to $15. These charges add up if you rent multiple items, so factor them into your total cost estimate.
Fuel is your responsibility. U-Haul trucks run on gasoline or diesel depending on the size. You pick up the truck with a full tank and return it with a full tank, or you pay U-Haul's fuel surcharge for any missing fuel. U-Haul's fuel surcharge is usually higher than the local gas price, so filling the tank yourself before returning the truck is cheaper.
How to get an accurate cost estimate before booking
U-Haul's website has a reservation tool where you enter your pickup location, dropoff location, truck size, and rental dates. The tool shows you the estimated total cost broken down by category: base rental, mileage, one-way fee, and any active promotions or discounts. This estimate is based on current rates and is accurate for that date and time.
Rates change frequently, so an estimate from one week may not match an estimate from the next week. If you see a price you like, booking when ready locks in that rate. If you wait, the rate may go up or down depending on demand.
Call U-Haul's reservations line at 1-800-468-4285 if you want to discuss your move with a representative. They can answer questions about truck sizes, routes, and charges, and they can provide a quote over the phone. Some people find it easier to talk through their move with a person rather than using the website.
Discounts and promotions that lower your total cost
U-Haul runs promotions throughout the year, often tied to seasons or holidays. Common promotions include discounts on one-way rentals during slow seasons, percentage discounts on the total rental, or reduced mileage rates. These promotions are advertised on U-Haul's website and appear in your quote if you are may be able to access.
Military members, AAA members, and some other groups receive discounts on U-Haul rentals. You will need to provide proof of membership when you book or pick up the truck. Ask U-Haul about available discounts when you call or check the website for a list of partner organizations.
Booking in advance does not always lower your price — U-Haul's rates are based on demand, not booking timing. A truck booked three months early might cost more than the same truck booked one week before the move if demand drops. However, booking early guarantees truck availability during peak moving season, which is valuable even if the price does not change.
What happens if you return the truck late or with damage
U-Haul charges an hourly rate if you return the truck after your rental period ends. The late fee varies by location but is typically $40 to $60 per hour or a fraction thereof. If you are running late, call the location where you plan to drop off the truck and ask about extending your rental — extending in advance is usually cheaper than paying late fees.
Damage charges depend on what happened to the truck. Minor dents or scratches may not be charged if you purchased damage waiver insurance. Without insurance, U-Haul charges for repairs, which can be hundreds of dollars for significant damage. Take photos of the truck's condition before you pick it up and after you drop it off to document any pre-existing damage.
Fuel charges are assessed if you return the truck without a full tank. U-Haul's fuel surcharge is typically $0.50 to $1.00 per gallon higher than the local gas price, so it is worth filling the tank yourself before returning it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a refund if I cancel my U-Haul reservation?
U-Haul allows cancellations, but refund policies depend on when you cancel and the specific terms of your reservation. Cancellations made well in advance are usually refunded in full. Cancellations close to your rental date may result in a cancellation fee. Check your confirmation email for the specific cancellation policy, or call U-Haul to ask about your reservation.
What is included in the daily rental rate?
The daily rental rate covers the truck itself and basic equipment like a dolly in some cases, depending on the truck size. It does not include mileage, fuel, insurance, additional equipment rentals, or one-way fees. Your quote on the website breaks down what is and is not included in the base rate.
Do I need a credit card to rent a U-Haul truck?
Yes, U-Haul requires a valid credit card to book and pick up a truck. The card is used to hold the reservation and to charge any additional fees or damage after you return the truck. You will also need a valid driver's license and proof of insurance.
Is the mileage estimate on the website accurate?
U-Haul's mileage estimate is based on the most direct route between your pickup and dropoff locations. Your actual mileage may differ if you take a different route or make detours. You pay for actual miles driven, so if you drive more than the estimate, you pay the difference.
What happens if the truck breaks down during my rental?
U-Haul provides roadside information for mechanical breakdowns. Call the number on your rental agreement or U-Haul's main line to report the issue. U-Haul will arrange a repair or replacement truck at no additional cost if the breakdown was not caused by misuse or negligence on your part.