7 Things You Should Know About U-Haul Before Renting a Truck

Making an out-of-state move in a U-Haul rental truck 

Renting a truck from U-Haul® might seem cheap and easy for a long-distance move, but that’s not always the case. By the time you add in fuel for a fully loaded U-Haul truck, it’s often more expensive than other options like U-Pack® where you can get the savings of a DIY move without having to drive or purchase fuel. Here are some things to consider about U-Haul before making a decision. 

Reservations don’t guarantee the truck size 

For long-distance moves, U-Haul offers 5 truck sizes ranging from 10 ft to 26 ft. You can choose a size based on the size of your home, but it can be difficult to exchange the truck if you need more space. Plus, making a reservation (even in advance) doesn’t guarantee the equipment will be available. 

With U-Pack, you can reserve space in a moving trailer and adjust the size up or down to fit your needs (down to a minimum of 5 linear feet), or order ReloCube® moving containers and only pay for the ones you use. 

Wondering what you need to make a reservation? Check out the requirements for renting a U-Haul. 

U-Haul rentals won’t comfortably hold a family

Rental trucks typically seat 2-3 people, which can make traveling with children or pets uncomfortable (or impossible).  

U-Pack handles moving belongings so your family can travel together in the comfort of a personal vehicle. 

You have a time limit for picking up and returning trucks

U-Haul prices include a set number of days to use the truck, and extra days cost more money. While reserving a truck, you’ll have to select locations for pickup and return — so make sure you’re choosing dates and locations wisely to avoid those extra costs.  

You don’t have to worry about picking up or returning the equipment with U-Pack, and you’ll get three business days for loading or unloading. 

Long-distance rentals are more expensive than daily rates

Daily rates for a local move are often inexpensive, but U-Haul rates can get pricey fast for out-of-state moves, especially when you add the cost of fuel and liability coverage.  

U-Pack includes fuel and liability coverage in every quote. 

U-Haul trucks have low gas mileage 

The average gas mileage of U-Haul trucks is typically 10-12 MPG, but this can vary based on the terrain and the weight of your belongings. Customers can maximize gas mileage by following U-Haul’s recommended speed limits and practicing good driving techniques like avoiding fast acceleration or heavy braking. 

Traveling in a personal vehicle while letting U-Pack transport your things will save you money in fuel since you’ll get better gas mileage during the drive. 

Discounts are rare for U-Haul rentals

Occasionally, there are discounts on U-Haul truck rentals, but it’s often cheaper to move with a company like U-Pack that consistently offers coupon codes for moves. 

Equipment inventory varies per location 

U-Haul also has other rental equipment besides moving trucks, but not all locations will carry the same inventory. They rent pickup trucks, cargo vans, trailers (cargo, utility and motorcycle/ATV) and U-Box® portable storage containers.  

Learn how U-Box compares to U-Pack’s ReloCube. 

There’s an easier way to move long distance

U-Pack services moves all over the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, so you don’t have to worry about driving a U-Haul. See how we compare to truck rental and then get a free online quote today. Or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant.  

If you have any questions, give us a call or let us know in the comments. We look forward to hearing from you! 

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