U-Haul charges by truck size, distance, and season — not by the hour

U-Haul's base rental cost depends on three things: the size of the truck you rent, how far you're moving it, and what time of year you're moving. A local one-way rental of a 10-foot truck might cost $20 to $40, while the same truck moved 500 miles could run $300 to $500. Peak moving season (May through September) costs more than winter moves. U-Haul does not charge by the hour — you pay a flat rate for the truck, then pay separately for mileage if it's a one-way rental, or a flat rate if you return it to the same location.

The company also charges for equipment you add on: dollies, furniture pads, boxes, tape, and mattress covers all cost extra. A dolly rental might add $5 to $15 to your bill. If you need to keep the truck past your reservation time, U-Haul charges an hourly overage fee, typically $20 to $40 per hour depending on truck size and location.

Key Takeaways

  • U-Haul's base price covers the truck for one calendar day; mileage is separate on one-way rentals, or included in a flat rate for local moves.
  • Equipment like dollies, boxes, and pads are rented separately and add to your total cost.
  • Returning the truck late triggers hourly overage charges that can add $20 to $40 per hour.
  • Prices vary significantly by season, with summer moves costing 30 to 50 percent more than winter moves in many markets.
  • Damage waivers and insurance are optional but recommended, and cost roughly 10 to 15 percent of your truck rental on top of the base price.

How to get a price quote before you book

U-Haul's website and app let you enter your pickup location, destination, and moving date to see a price when ready. You'll need to choose a truck size first — the company offers 10-foot, 15-foot, 20-foot, and 26-foot trucks, plus cargo vans. The quote shows the base truck rental, mileage cost (if one-way), and any equipment you've added. The quote is good for a limited time, usually 24 hours, so prices can shift if you wait.

Calling a U-Haul location directly can sometimes reveal local deals or discounts that don't show online, but the website quote is usually accurate. Many U-Haul locations are franchised, so prices and availability vary by area. If your preferred truck size is unavailable on your date, U-Haul will suggest alternatives and show you the price difference.

One-way versus local rentals and what each costs

A local rental means you pick up and return the truck to the same U-Haul location. You pay a flat daily rate — typically $20 to $60 for a 10-foot truck, depending on your area and season — and mileage is included. You have the truck for one calendar day (usually 24 hours from pickup time). If you need it longer, you pay an additional daily rate plus overage hours.

A one-way rental means you pick up at one location and drop off at another. U-Haul charges a base truck rental (similar to the daily rate) plus a mileage charge. The mileage rate varies by truck size and route demand. A 10-foot truck might cost $0.50 to $1.50 per mile, so a 500-mile move could add $250 to $750 to your base rental. One-way rentals are often cheaper than renting locally and driving back, but only if your destination is far enough away.

What damage waivers and insurance cover

U-Haul offers two types of damage protection. The damage waiver (also called a damage waiver or loss damage waiver) reduces your liability if the truck is damaged during your rental. Without it, you're responsible for all damage, which can run into thousands of dollars for major repairs. With the waiver, your out-of-pocket cost is typically capped at $0 to $300, depending on the plan you choose. The waiver costs roughly 10 to 15 percent of your truck rental.

U-Haul also offers rental truck insurance through third-party providers, which works like car insurance — it covers damage and liability up to a limit you choose. This is separate from the damage waiver and costs more, but may be worth it if you're renting a large truck or moving valuable items. Check your personal auto insurance policy first; some policies extend to rental trucks, which could save you money.

Hidden costs and fees to watch for

Beyond the base rental and mileage, U-Haul charges for fuel if you return the truck with less fuel than you picked it up with. The company charges a premium per gallon — typically 20 to 40 percent above local gas prices — so fill up before you return it. Late return fees start after your 24-hour rental window closes; most locations charge $20 to $40 per hour, and some charge a daily rate if you keep the truck overnight.

Equipment rentals add up quickly. A furniture dolly costs $5 to $15, a hand truck $3 to $8, and a box of packing supplies $10 to $30. If you're moving a long distance, these extras can easily add $100 to $300 to your bill. Some U-Haul locations also charge a drop-off fee for one-way rentals if you're returning to a location that's not a major U-Haul hub, though this is less common.

Discounts and ways to lower your U-Haul bill

U-Haul offers discounts for AAA members, military personnel, and seniors — typically 10 to 15 percent off the truck rental. The company also runs seasonal promotions, especially in winter months when demand is low. Booking online usually costs less than calling, and booking further in advance can lock in lower rates before peak season pricing kicks in.

Moving on a weekday instead of a weekend can save money, since weekend demand is higher. If you're flexible on your moving date, checking prices for different days can reveal significant savings. Some employers and organizations have partnerships with U-Haul that offer discounts to members; it's worth asking your HR department or checking your membership cards.

What to do if your move costs more than expected

If you discover during your rental that you need the truck longer than you booked, call U-Haul when ready. Extending your reservation before the 24-hour window closes is cheaper than paying hourly overage fees. If you need a larger truck than you reserved, U-Haul can sometimes swap you at the pickup location, though you'll pay the price difference.

If you're charged for damage you believe you didn't cause, document the condition of the truck with photos before you return it. Take pictures of the odometer, fuel gauge, and any existing damage. Keep your rental agreement and receipt. If a charge appears on your bill that you dispute, contact U-Haul customer service within 30 days with your documentation; the company will review the claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book a U-Haul truck and pay when I pick it up?

U-Haul requires a credit card to reserve a truck, but you can pay the full amount at pickup if you prefer. The credit card holds a deposit to find the reservation. If you cancel before your pickup date, the hold is released.

What happens if I return the truck early?

If you return the truck before your 24-hour rental window closes, you don't get a refund on the daily rate. You pay for the full day regardless. However, returning early does save you from overage charges if you would have kept it past 24 hours.

Does U-Haul charge a fee if I pick up the truck late?

No, pickup delays don't trigger fees. Your 24-hour rental window starts when you actually pick up the truck, not when your reservation was scheduled. If the truck isn't ready when you arrive, U-Haul may offer you a discount or upgrade.

Can I add equipment to my reservation after I book?

Yes, you can add equipment at pickup or through the U-Haul website or app before your rental date. Adding it online before pickup sometimes shows lower prices than adding it at the location, so check both options.

What if I need to keep the truck overnight?

Keeping the truck past your 24-hour window triggers hourly overage charges, typically $20 to $40 per hour. If you know you'll need it longer, it's cheaper to book an additional day when you make your reservation than to pay hourly rates.