U-Haul truck rental prices depend on truck size, distance, and season

U-Haul charges by the day, mile, or a combination of both depending on your move. A local one-way rental of a 10-foot truck might run $20 to $40 per day plus mileage, while a 26-foot truck costs $30 to $50 per day. Long-distance moves use a flat rate that bundles distance into the daily price — a 500-mile move in a 10-foot truck could be $200 to $400 total, while the same distance in a 26-foot truck runs $400 to $700. Prices shift based on demand: summer months (May through September) cost significantly more than winter, and moving toward major cities costs more than moving away from them.

The final bill includes the base rental, mileage overages if you exceed included miles, fuel (you return it empty), equipment fees for dollies or furniture pads, and any damage waiver you purchase. U-Haul's damage waiver typically costs $15 to $30 per day and covers accidental damage to the truck. Without it, you are responsible for all repairs, which can easily exceed $1,000 for significant damage.

Key Takeaways

  • Local one-way rentals charge a daily rate plus per-mile cost, while long-distance moves use a flat rate that includes mileage.
  • A 10-foot truck costs roughly half what a 26-foot truck costs for the same distance, so choosing the right size saves hundreds of dollars.
  • Summer moves cost 30 to 50 percent more than winter moves, and moving toward major cities costs more than moving away.
  • The damage waiver ($15 to $30 per day) is optional but protects you from repair bills that often exceed $1,000.
  • You return the truck with a full fuel tank, so budget for gas based on the truck's fuel economy and your distance.

How U-Haul calculates the rental price

U-Haul uses two pricing models depending on distance. For local moves (typically under 40 miles), you pay a daily rate plus a per-mile charge. A 10-foot truck might be $19.95 per day plus $0.99 per mile, while a 26-foot truck is $39.95 per day plus $1.99 per mile. The daily rate covers the first 100 miles; beyond that, you pay the per-mile rate. If you rent for multiple days, each day resets the 100-mile allowance.

For long-distance moves, U-Haul quotes a flat rate based on truck size and the route. This rate includes all mileage, so there are no per-mile surprises. A 10-foot truck from Chicago to Denver might be quoted at $450 flat; a 26-foot truck on the same route might be $850. The flat rate is fixed when you book, so fuel prices and traffic do not change your cost.

U-Haul's website and phone reservations show the price breakdown before you commit. The quote includes the base rental, estimated fuel (based on the truck's MPG and your distance), and any add-ons you select. Prices are not locked until you complete the reservation.

Truck sizes and what they cost

U-Haul offers five main truck sizes, each priced differently. The 10-foot truck (smallest) holds roughly one to two rooms of furniture and costs the least — expect $20 to $40 per day locally or $200 to $500 for a long-distance move. The 15-foot truck fits two to three rooms and runs $25 to $50 per day locally or $300 to $700 long-distance. The 20-foot truck handles three to four rooms and costs $30 to $60 per day or $400 to $900 long-distance.

The 26-foot truck (the largest standard option) holds four to five rooms and costs $40 to $70 per day locally or $500 to $1,200 long-distance. U-Haul also rents cargo vans (smallest option) for $15 to $30 per day, suitable for small loads or one-room moves. Choosing one size smaller than you think you need saves hundreds of dollars; many people overestimate how much space they actually need.

Seasonal pricing and demand surcharges

U-Haul prices fluctuate based on demand. Summer (May through September) is peak moving season, and rental prices reflect that — expect to pay 30 to 50 percent more than winter rates for the same truck and distance. Moving on a weekend costs more than a weekday move. Moving toward a major city (New York, Los Angeles, Chicago) costs more than moving away from one, because U-Haul has to position empty trucks back to where demand is high.

If you have flexibility, moving in winter (November through March), on a weekday, and away from major metros can cut your rental cost by a third or more. U-Haul's website shows real-time pricing for your specific dates and route, so you can compare costs across different days to find the cheapest option.

Mileage, fuel, and hidden costs

For local moves, mileage overages are the biggest hidden cost. If you rent a 10-foot truck for one day with 100 included miles and drive 150 miles, you pay $0.99 per mile for the extra 50 miles — that is $49.50 added to your bill. Measure your route carefully before booking. U-Haul's website has a mileage calculator, or you can use Google Maps to estimate distance.

Fuel is your responsibility. U-Haul trucks return empty, meaning you fill the tank before returning it. A 26-foot truck gets roughly 6 to 8 miles per gallon; a 500-mile move burns 60 to 85 gallons of fuel. At current gas prices, budget $200 to $350 for fuel on a long-distance move. Keep your receipt — if you return the truck with fuel still in it, U-Haul charges a refueling fee (typically $5 to $8 per gallon) that is much higher than pump prices.

Equipment rentals add up quickly. A furniture dolly costs $5 to $10 per day, furniture pads run $10 to $15 per day, and a hand truck is $5 per day. If you rent multiple items for a multi-day move, these fees can exceed $100. Many people find it cheaper to buy cheap dollies at a hardware store and donate them after the move.

Damage waivers and insurance

U-Haul's damage waiver (sometimes called a protection plan) costs $15 to $30 per day and covers accidental damage to the truck — dents, scratches, broken mirrors, or mechanical issues caused by your use. It does not cover intentional damage, pre-existing damage, or damage from improper loading. The waiver has a deductible, usually $0 to $500 depending on which plan you choose.

Without a waiver, you are liable for all repairs. A dent in the side of a truck can cost $500 to $1,500 to repair. A broken transmission or engine damage can cost $3,000 to $10,000. If you have comprehensive auto insurance, check whether it covers rental trucks — some policies do, which means you may not need U-Haul's waiver. Call your insurance company before you book.

U-Haul also offers roadside information ($10 to $15 per day), which covers towing and lockout service if you break down. This is worth considering if you are driving a long distance in an unfamiliar truck.

How to get the best price

Book as early as possible. U-Haul prices rise as your move date approaches, especially during peak season. Booking two to four weeks ahead typically saves 10 to 20 percent compared to booking one week before. Use U-Haul's website to compare prices across different dates — moving your move date by even one day can save $50 to $200.

Choose the smallest truck that fits your load. A 15-foot truck costs roughly 25 percent less than a 20-foot truck for the same distance. If you are unsure, rent the smaller size and make two trips if needed — it is often cheaper than renting a larger truck. U-Haul's website lets you estimate truck size based on the number of rooms you are moving.

Consider one-way rentals if you are moving a long distance. One-way rentals sometimes cost less than round-trip because U-Haul needs to position trucks in certain markets. Compare one-way and round-trip prices on the same route — the difference can be significant.

Avoid peak season if you can. Moving in November, December, January, or February saves thousands of dollars compared to summer. If your move is flexible, shifting it by a few months can be your biggest savings opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pay a deposit when I book a U-Haul truck?

U-Haul does not require a deposit to reserve a truck. You pay the full rental cost when you pick up the truck, using a credit or debit card. You will also need to provide a valid driver's license and proof of insurance.

What happens if I return the truck late?

U-Haul charges an additional daily rate for each day the truck is late, calculated at the same rate as your original rental. If you rent a truck for one day at $30 and return it two days late, you pay an extra $60. Call U-Haul as soon as you realize you will be late — they may waive or reduce the fee if you notify them early.

Can I book a U-Haul truck online and pick it up at a different location?

Yes. U-Haul allows you to book online and pick up at any U-Haul location. You can also arrange to pick up at certain partner locations like Home Depot. Confirm the pickup location when you book, because some locations have limited truck availability.

What if the truck breaks down during my move?

U-Haul provides roadside information through their 24/7 customer service line (1-800-468-4285). If you purchased the roadside information add-on, towing is covered. Without it, you pay for towing out of pocket. U-Haul will provide a replacement truck if the breakdown is their fault, but this can take several hours.

Is there a cheaper alternative to U-Haul for small moves?

Penske and Home Depot truck rentals are often cheaper for local moves, especially for smaller trucks. For very small moves (one room or less), renting a cargo van from Home Depot or a local rental company can cost $20 to $30 per day. Compare quotes across all three before booking.