U-Haul does rent pickup trucks at most locations
U-Haul offers pickup truck rentals through its standard fleet at thousands of locations across North America. You can rent a pickup truck for a one-way move, a local job, or anything in between. The trucks are available in different sizes — typically 6-foot bed, 8-foot bed, or longer — and you reserve and pay through U-Haul's website, phone line, or in person at a rental location.
The availability and specific truck models vary by location and season. Summer months and weekends tend to have higher demand, which can mean fewer trucks available or higher prices. If you need a pickup truck for a specific date, booking ahead gives you better odds of getting the size and bed length you want.
Key Takeaways
- U-Haul rents pickup trucks in multiple bed sizes at most of its locations, and you can book online, by phone, or in person.
- Prices vary based on truck size, distance, season, and demand — a local one-day rental costs less than a long-distance move.
- You need a valid driver's license and a credit card to rent, and U-Haul requires you to be at least 18 years old (some locations require 21).
- Damage waivers and insurance coverage are optional add-ons that protect you against repair costs if the truck is damaged during your rental.
- Peak moving season (May through September) means higher prices and less availability, so booking early matters if you need a specific truck size.
What sizes and bed lengths U-Haul offers
U-Haul's pickup truck lineup typically includes 6-foot bed trucks, 8-foot bed trucks, and sometimes longer options depending on the location. A 6-foot bed is more maneuverable in tight spaces and parking lots, while an 8-foot bed holds more cargo. Some locations also stock specialty trucks like flatbeds or trucks with higher payload capacity for heavier loads.
When you search for a rental on U-Haul's website or call a location, you see what truck sizes are available for your specific dates and location. The system shows you the bed length, cab style (regular or extended), and the estimated price. If a particular size is not available, you can either choose a different date or check nearby locations.
How pricing works for pickup truck rentals
U-Haul charges based on the truck size, the distance you are traveling, how many days you keep it, and current demand. A local one-day rental of a 6-foot bed truck costs significantly less than a 500-mile one-way move in the same truck. Prices also climb during peak moving season (May through September) because demand is higher and trucks are scarcer.
The base rental fee covers the truck itself. Mileage is either included in the price (for some local rentals) or charged per mile (for longer distances). You can add optional coverage like a damage waiver or insurance, which increases the total cost. U-Haul's website shows you the full price breakdown before you confirm the reservation, so there are no hidden charges at pickup.
Insurance and damage coverage options
U-Haul offers two main types of protection: a damage waiver and rental truck insurance. The damage waiver limits your financial responsibility if the truck is damaged — you typically pay a deductible (often $0 to $300) and U-Haul covers the rest. Rental truck insurance works differently: it covers damage to the truck up to its actual cash value, and you pay a daily premium.
Your personal auto insurance or credit card may already cover rental trucks, so check your policy before buying U-Haul's coverage. If you are not covered elsewhere, the damage waiver is usually the simpler choice for a short-term rental. For longer moves or high-value cargo, rental insurance gives you more comprehensive protection.
What you need to bring to rent a pickup truck
You need a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name to rent from U-Haul. The driver's license must be current and match the name on the credit card. U-Haul requires the driver to be at least 18 years old; some locations require 21, particularly for larger trucks or one-way rentals across state lines.
If you are renting under a business name or for a company, bring a business license or tax ID along with your personal ID. U-Haul will run a credit check and may place a hold on your card for the rental amount plus a deposit. The deposit is released after you return the truck in good condition and settle any charges.
One-way versus local rentals
A local rental means you pick up and drop off at the same U-Haul location, usually within 24 hours or a few days. A one-way rental means you pick up at one location and drop off at another, often hundreds of miles away. One-way rentals cost more because U-Haul has to move the truck back to balance its fleet, but they are the only option if you are moving to a different city.
One-way rentals also have stricter age requirements and may require a larger deposit. If you are moving locally — say, across town or to a nearby city — a local rental is cheaper and simpler. For long-distance moves, a one-way rental is your only choice, and booking it early locks in a better price.
What to expect at pickup and return
When you arrive to pick up your truck, a U-Haul employee will walk you through the vehicle's condition, pointing out any existing damage and documenting it on a form. You inspect the truck, confirm the odometer reading, and check that the fuel tank is full. This inspection protects you because any damage noted at pickup is not your responsibility.
At return, the employee repeats the inspection, checks the odometer to confirm mileage, and notes any new damage. If you damaged the truck during the rental, U-Haul charges you for repairs. If you bought a damage waiver, you pay only the deductible. Return the truck on time to avoid late fees, and return it clean — U-Haul charges cleaning fees if the interior or bed is excessively dirty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a U-Haul pickup truck if I do not have a credit card?
U-Haul requires a credit card for the reservation and deposit. If you do not have one, call your local U-Haul location to ask about alternative payment methods — some locations may accept a debit card with a larger deposit, but this varies.
What happens if I return the truck late?
U-Haul charges a late fee, usually calculated hourly or daily depending on how long you keep the truck past the return time. The fee is added to your final bill. If you think you will need the truck longer, call U-Haul before the return time to extend the rental — this is cheaper than paying a late fee.
Can I tow a trailer with a U-Haul pickup truck?
Some U-Haul pickup trucks have towing capacity, but U-Haul does not allow you to tow a trailer behind a rental truck. If you need to move a trailer, rent a truck and trailer separately from U-Haul, or use a different rental company that permits towing.
Is fuel included in the rental price?
You pick up the truck with a full tank and return it full. If you return it with less fuel, U-Haul charges you for the missing gas at a per-gallon rate that is usually higher than local gas prices. Refueling the truck yourself before return is cheaper than letting U-Haul do it.
Can I book a pickup truck online and pick it up the same day?
Yes, if the truck is available at your location. Book online or call ahead to confirm availability, then pick up as soon as the location opens. Same-day bookings are possible but not may provide, especially during peak moving season, so calling first reduces the risk of disappointment.