Compare dimensions to find out what U-Haul® truck size you need

It can be difficult to imagine packing up your entire home into the space of a U-Haul truck. Sure, they give general recommendations for home and truck sizes, but you don't want to get the wrong sized equipment because you'll either be paying for extra space or running out of room. And beyond space, you also have to consider that each type of U-Haul has different seating arrangements, fuel usage and loading equipment.

With the information below, you can determine the right option for your move (and see if U-Haul is the best choice after all).

What size trucks does U-Haul have?

According to their website, U-Haul has five truck sizes for long-distance moves: 10-foot, 15-foot, 17-foot, 20-foot and 26-foot.

However, the truck sizes aren't as cut and dry as their names would suggest. For example, the 20-foot truck is actually around 26 feet in total length. So, take a look at the most important dimensions to help you decide which size equipment might work for your move.

Note: U-Haul also offers pickups and cargo vans. They also previously offered 14-foot, 22-foot and 24-foot trucks, but those sizes are no longer listed.

Determine which U-Haul you need

If looking at that chart still has you wondering which size truck is best for you, consider these crucial factors:

Loading space

While U-Haul gives general estimates for different home sizes, you might need to size up for several reasons:

• Your home is heavily furnished — increase a truck size
• You have additional storage spaces, like attics, basements or storage units — increase one or two sizes, depending on how big the storage space is
• You have large pieces of furniture or appliances — make sure the item will fit on the loading deck; if not, size up

For every truck except the 10-foot U-Haul, the loading space is not one big open area. Instead, it includes the deck plus the Mom's Attic®, which is a small space above the cab (and is a part of the loading space dimensions). It's designed to hold items that you don't want to stack with everything else, and while that can be handy, it can make it difficult to estimate the actual space inside.

Ramps

The 10-foot truck doesn't have a ramp, so you'll need to lift your belongings 2'5" to the deck. If you're moving just a few things, that may not be a big deal, but it's can definitely be a lot of work for a fully furnished apartment. It may be worth it to pay for a bigger U-Haul for the ramp.

Gas mileage

Bigger trucks use more fuel. The estimates above are for empty trucks, and the weight of your items and the driving conditions can decrease those numbers even more. Find out how the gas costs can affect your U-Haul rental price to make sure you're prepared for the additional expense that comes with renting a larger-sized truck.

Seats

If you're planning on riding with your family or pets, then the seating arrangements matter. Make sure you have enough space for everyone who intends to ride in the truck with you.

Driving and parking

The overall dimensions tell you how big the entire vehicle is, so you can understand what kind of equipment you'll be driving. While the length is important, because a 26-foot truck will be about two car lengths long (and there’s not a rearview mirror to help you change lanes or backup), you'll also need to pay attention to the height. For example, you may have to avoid low bridges, hanging wires or overhangs at restaurants or parking garages on a long road trip.

Not sure what size U-Haul to rent (or even if you want to drive one)?

You can move without choosing the right sized equipment and without having to drive an unfamiliar bulky truck. U-Pack® is an excellent solution for both of those concerns. First, U-Pack delivers your belongings door to door, so you don't have to drive. Second, space is flexible. You can load into as much room as you need in a moving trailer (down to a five-foot minimum) or use as many ReloCube containers as you need. Then, you only pay for the space you use.

We've taken the top concerns about moving with U-Haul and compared them to U-Pack, so you can see which moving option is the right fit.

Want to know how prices compare or estimate the space you'll need with U-Pack? Get a free moving quote online or by calling 844-362-5303844-594-3077.

U-Haul^® is a registered trademark of U-Haul International, Inc. Use of third-party trademarks or registered trademarks does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by such third-party.