U-Haul rental prices depend on truck size, distance, and season—not a fixed rate

U-Haul does not charge a single price for truck rentals. Instead, the cost changes based on what size truck you rent, how far you move it, what time of year you rent it, and local demand. A one-way rental of a 10-foot truck might cost $30 in January but $150 in July. A 26-foot truck moving across the country could run anywhere from $800 to $2,500 depending on the route and season.

The only way to know what you will actually pay is to enter your pickup location, drop-off location, and moving date into U-Haul's website or call a local U-Haul dealer. The price you see is the price you pay—there are no hidden fees added at checkout, though you will see separate charges for equipment (dollies, furniture pads, boxes) if you add those.

Key Takeaways

  • U-Haul charges by truck size, distance traveled, and demand on your specific moving date, so prices vary widely even for the same truck type.
  • Summer months (May through September) are peak season and cost significantly more than winter or early spring.
  • One-way rentals (pickup in one city, drop-off in another) often cost less per mile than round-trip rentals because U-Haul needs trucks in certain locations.
  • You can see the exact price before you commit by entering your dates and locations on the U-Haul website or calling a local dealer.
  • Damage waivers, equipment rentals, and boxes are charged separately and will increase your total cost beyond the base truck rental.

How truck size affects the base rental cost

U-Haul offers trucks in five main sizes: 10-foot, 15-foot, 20-foot, 26-foot, and 26-foot with a power lift gate. The 10-foot is the smallest and cheapest; the 26-foot is the largest and most expensive. A 10-foot truck holds roughly the contents of a one-bedroom apartment. A 26-foot truck holds the contents of a three- to four-bedroom house.

On the same route and date, a 10-foot truck will always cost less than a 15-foot, which will cost less than a 26-foot. But the difference is not always proportional to size. If U-Haul has many 26-foot trucks available in your area and few 10-foot trucks, the smaller truck might actually cost more because of local supply. This is why checking the actual quote matters—you cannot assume the smallest truck is the cheapest option.

Distance and one-way versus round-trip pricing

U-Haul charges based on the actual miles you travel. A local move of 50 miles costs far less than a 1,000-mile move. The per-mile rate varies by truck size and demand, but generally ranges from $0.50 to $1.50 per mile for the truck itself, plus a base rental fee that covers the first day or first 100 miles.

One-way rentals (picking up in one city and dropping off in another) often cost less than round-trip rentals because U-Haul needs to position trucks in high-demand areas. If you are moving from a rural area to a major city, a one-way rental may be cheaper than renting round-trip and driving back. If you are moving from a major city to a rural area, the one-way rental will likely cost more because U-Haul has to move the truck back to where it is needed.

Seasonal pricing and peak moving times

U-Haul prices are highest from May through September, when most people move. July and August are the most expensive months. Prices drop significantly from October through April, with January and February usually the cheapest. If you have flexibility in your moving date, moving on a weekday in winter can save hundreds of dollars compared to a weekend in summer.

Holiday weekends (Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day) also drive prices up because demand spikes. If you must move during peak season, booking as far in advance as possible sometimes locks in a lower rate, though U-Haul's pricing is dynamic and can change even after you reserve.

What is and is not included in the base rental price

The base rental price covers the truck itself, unlimited mileage (within your route), and basic liability coverage. You get the truck with a full tank of gas and must return it with a full tank, or you pay U-Haul's fuel surcharge, which is higher than the local gas price.

The base price does not include a damage waiver (optional insurance that covers damage to the truck), equipment rentals (dollies, furniture pads, hand trucks), boxes and packing supplies, or tolls. If you drive through a toll road, you pay that separately. If you want to protect yourself against damage charges, you can add a damage waiver at checkout, which typically costs $15 to $30 per day depending on truck size.

Equipment and supplies that add to your total cost

Beyond the truck rental itself, U-Haul sells moving equipment and supplies. A furniture dolly rents for roughly $5 to $10 per day. Furniture pads cost $1 to $2 per pad. A hand truck is $5 to $10 per day. Boxes range from $1 to $3 each depending on size. Tape, bubble wrap, and other packing materials are sold separately.

If you are moving a large household, these add-ons can easily add $100 to $300 to your total cost. Many people find it cheaper to buy boxes at a grocery store or liquor store (often free) and borrow or buy dollies elsewhere. U-Haul's convenience comes at a premium.

How to get an accurate quote before you commit

Visit uhaul.com and enter your pickup location, drop-off location, and moving date. The site will show you available truck sizes and the exact price for each. You can also call a local U-Haul dealer (search "U-Haul near me" to find one) and give them the same information over the phone. Either way, you will see the full price before you reserve.

The quote is good for a limited time—usually a few days—but U-Haul's dynamic pricing means the price can change if you wait. If you see a price you like, reserving it locks it in for that date and location. Canceling a reservation typically has no penalty if you cancel at least 24 hours before your rental date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to return the truck to the same location I rented it from?

No. One-way rentals let you drop off the truck at a different U-Haul location. Round-trip rentals require you to return it to the same location. One-way is often cheaper because U-Haul needs trucks distributed across the country, but it depends on your specific route and the direction of demand.

What happens if I return the truck late?

U-Haul charges an additional day's rental fee for each 24-hour period (or part of it) that you keep the truck past your return time. If you reserve a truck for one day and return it 25 hours later, you pay for two days. Plan your return time carefully, especially if you are renting on a weekend when the next business day might be a holiday.

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

Yes, but U-Haul charges an additional fee for drivers under 25—typically $20 to $30 per day. You must have a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name. Some locations may have additional age restrictions, so call ahead if you are under 25.

Is the damage waiver worth buying?

That depends on your risk tolerance and the truck size. A damage waiver costs $15 to $30 per day and covers most damage to the truck. If you are an inexperienced driver, renting a large truck, or driving in heavy traffic, the waiver may be worth it. If you are confident in your driving and renting a small truck for a short distance, you might skip it. Read the waiver terms carefully—some damage (like damage from towing) may not be covered.

What if I need the truck for longer than I planned?

Call U-Haul as soon as you know you need extra time. If the truck is available at your drop-off location, they can extend your rental and charge you for the additional days at the rate for that date. If the truck is already reserved by another customer, you may need to return it on time and rent a different truck for the remaining days.