U-Haul Truck Sizes and Prices: Your Comprehensive Guide to a Seamless Move

U-Haul Truck Sizes and Prices: Your Comprehensive Guide to a Seamless Move cars.truckstrend.com

Moving can be one of life’s most exciting, yet daunting, endeavors. Amidst the packing, decluttering, and planning, one of the most critical decisions is choosing the right moving vehicle. For millions, U-Haul stands as the quintessential solution, offering a diverse fleet of trucks designed to accommodate moves of all scales. However, navigating the various U-Haul truck sizes and understanding their intricate pricing structures can be a puzzle in itself. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the process, providing you with the knowledge and insights needed to select the perfect U-Haul truck at the most favorable price, ensuring your next move is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Understanding U-Haul’s offerings isn’t just about picking the biggest truck you can afford; it’s about optimizing space, minimizing costs, and ensuring the safety of your belongings. From compact cargo vans ideal for studio apartments to massive 26-foot trucks built for multi-bedroom homes, U-Haul’s fleet caters to every need. Knowing the dimensions, capacities, and pricing nuances of each option is the first step toward a successful relocation.

U-Haul Truck Sizes and Prices: Your Comprehensive Guide to a Seamless Move

Understanding U-Haul’s Fleet: A Size for Every Move

U-Haul boasts a versatile lineup of moving vehicles, each engineered for specific moving scenarios. Familiarizing yourself with these options is crucial for making an informed decision.

1. Pickup Trucks (8 ft. Box)

• Ideal For: Small loads, college dorm moves, hauling materials for DIY projects, or towing small trailers. Not typically used for entire household moves.
• Capacity: Approximately 70 cubic feet. Can carry about 1,800 lbs.
• Features: Open bed, great for quick local errands or supplementing a larger move.
• Best Use: Single items like a sofa, appliances, or a few boxes.

2. Cargo Vans (9 ft. Box)

• Ideal For: Studio apartments, dorm rooms, small office moves, or delivering large items.
• Capacity: Approximately 245 cubic feet. Can carry about 3,880 lbs.



• Features: Enclosed, secure space, easy to drive and park, lower loading deck.
• Best Use: A few pieces of furniture, several boxes, or a small apartment’s worth of belongings.

3. 10 ft. Moving Truck

• Ideal For: Studio to 1-bedroom apartments. U-Haul’s smallest dedicated moving truck.
• Capacity: Approximately 402 cubic feet. Can carry about 3,100 lbs.
• Features: Low deck for easy loading, comfortable cab. No loading ramp.
• Best Use: All the essentials from a small apartment, including a queen-size bed, dresser, and several boxes.

4. 15 ft. Moving Truck

• Ideal For: 1 to 2-bedroom homes or apartments. U-Haul’s most popular moving truck.
• Capacity: Approximately 764 cubic feet. Can carry about 6,150 lbs.
• Features: Patented EZ-Load ramp, low deck, spacious cab.
• Best Use: A two-bedroom apartment or small house, including larger furniture pieces, appliances, and many boxes.

5. 17 ft. Moving Truck

• Ideal For: 2 to 3-bedroom homes or larger apartments.
• Capacity: Approximately 865 cubic feet. Can carry about 6,100 lbs.
• Features: EZ-Load ramp, low deck, more cargo space than the 15 ft.
• Best Use: A moderately sized home, accommodating multiple bedrooms, living room sets, and appliances.

6. 20 ft. Moving Truck

• Ideal For: 2 to 3-bedroom homes or larger multi-level apartments.
• Capacity: Approximately 1,015 cubic feet. Can carry about 5,900 lbs.
• Features: EZ-Load ramp, low deck, dedicated space for appliances.
• Best Use: A larger family home with several rooms of furniture, appliances, and numerous boxes. Often preferred for cross-town moves where space is critical.

7. 26 ft. Moving Truck

• Ideal For: 4+ bedroom homes, large family moves, or extensive commercial moves. U-Haul’s largest rental truck.
• Capacity: Approximately 1,612 cubic feet. Can carry about 9,500 lbs.
• Features: EZ-Load ramp, low deck, large capacity, often includes a "Mom’s Attic" for fragile items.
• Best Use: Transporting an entire large household, including all furniture, appliances, and extensive box counts.

Decoding U-Haul Pricing: How Much Does it Really Cost?

U-Haul pricing is dynamic and depends on several factors. Understanding these components is key to accurately budgeting for your move.

1. Base Rate (Daily vs. One-Way)

• Local Moves: Typically involves a low daily base rate (e.g., $19.95, $29.95, or $39.95 depending on truck size) plus a per-mile charge. You pick up and return the truck to the same U-Haul location.
• One-Way Moves: Prices are generally higher and are calculated based on the distance of your move, the demand for trucks along that route, and the specific pick-up and drop-off locations. The mileage is usually included in the one-way rate, but exceeding the allotted mileage will incur additional fees. One-way rates fluctuate significantly by day of the week, time of year, and even time of day.

2. Mileage Charges

For local rentals, you’ll pay a per-mile charge, which can range from $0.69 to $1.09 per mile. This adds up quickly, so estimate your total driving distance accurately. For one-way moves, a set number of miles is usually included, with extra charges for exceeding that limit.

3. Additional Costs to Consider

• Fuel: You are responsible for refueling the truck to the level it was at when you picked it up. U-Haul trucks typically run on unleaded gasoline.
• Environmental Fee: A small, non-negotiable fee added to most rentals.
• Taxes: Applicable sales taxes will be added to your total.
• Insurance Options: U-Haul offers various protection plans like Safemove, Safemove Plus, Safetrip, and Safetow. These are optional but highly recommended to cover potential damages to the truck, your belongings, or third-party property. Prices vary based on the truck size and coverage level.
• Equipment Rentals: Dollies (utility, appliance), furniture pads, and towing equipment (car dollies, auto transport) are available for an extra fee.
• Cleaning/Damage Fees: If the truck is returned excessively dirty or damaged beyond normal wear and tear, you could incur additional charges.

Choosing the Right Size: A Strategic Decision

Selecting the appropriate truck size is paramount. Too small, and you’ll need multiple trips or have to leave items behind. Too large, and you’ll pay for unused space and potentially struggle with maneuvering.

• Estimate Your Belongings: A good rule of thumb is to calculate approximately 150-200 cubic feet per fully furnished room.
  • Studio/Small 1 BR: Cargo Van or 10 ft. truck.
  • 1-2 BR Apartment/Small House: 15 ft. truck.
  • 2-3 BR Home: 17 ft. or 20 ft. truck.
  • 4+ BR Home: 26 ft. truck.
• Consider Large Items: Account for bulky items like refrigerators, washing machines, king-size beds, and large sofas. Measure these items if possible.
• Declutter First: The less you move, the smaller the truck you’ll need, and the less you’ll pay. Sell, donate, or discard items you no longer need before estimating your truck size.
• When in Doubt, Go a Size Up: It’s often better to have a little extra space than not enough. The cost difference between a 15 ft. and 17 ft. truck might be minimal compared to the hassle and potential extra trip costs of an undersized truck.

Booking Your U-Haul: Tips for a Smooth Rental

1. Book in Advance

Especially for one-way moves, during peak seasons (summer, end of month), or holidays, book your truck several weeks in advance to ensure availability and potentially better rates.

2. Online vs. Phone

U-Haul’s website is user-friendly for quotes and reservations. Booking online often provides a slight discount. You can also call your local U-Haul dealer for personalized assistance.

3. Required Documents

You’ll need a valid driver’s license (U-Haul requires drivers to be 18 years old, though some locations may prefer 21 for certain vehicles) and a major credit card for the rental and security deposit.

4. Pick-up and Drop-off

• Confirm: Call your U-Haul location a day or two before pick-up to confirm your reservation and pick-up time.
• Inspect: Before driving off, thoroughly inspect the truck for any existing damage and ensure it’s noted on your contract. Take photos or videos for your records. Check the fuel level.
• Return: Return the truck clean, refueled to the correct level, and on time to avoid extra charges. For one-way rentals, ensure you return it to the specified drop-off location.

Maximizing Value: Saving Money on Your U-Haul Rental

• Move During Off-Peak Times: Weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) and off-season months (fall/winter, excluding holidays) typically offer lower rates.
• Compare One-Way Rates: If you’re flexible with your moving date, check rates for different days or even weeks. Sometimes shifting by a day or two can save you hundreds.
• Estimate Mileage Accurately (Local): Plan your route beforehand to minimize unnecessary driving.
• Pack Efficiently: Utilize every inch of space to avoid needing a larger truck or making multiple trips. Disassemble furniture where possible.
• Fuel Wisely: Drive efficiently to save on gas. Avoid hard acceleration and braking.
• Decline Unnecessary Add-ons: While insurance is recommended, assess if you truly need every single extra. Do you have your own moving blankets? Can you get a dolly from a friend?
• Check for Discounts: Students, military personnel, or AAA members might be eligible for discounts. Always ask!

Potential Challenges and Solutions

• Availability Issues: If your desired truck size isn’t available, U-Haul might offer a larger truck at the same price (upgrade). If you’re offered a smaller truck, negotiate a lower rate.
• Unexpected Costs: Always get a detailed quote and understand all potential fees upfront. Factor in fuel, insurance, and equipment.
• Damage/Insurance Claims: If damage occurs, report it immediately to U-Haul. Having a protection plan can save you significant out-of-pocket expenses.
• Fuel Return Policy: Always return the truck with the same fuel level as when you picked it up. U-Haul charges a premium for their staff to refuel.

U-Haul Truck Sizes and Estimated Prices

Please note: All prices are estimates and can vary significantly based on location, demand, time of year, and the specifics of your rental (local vs. one-way). Mileage charges for local rentals are typically extra. One-way rentals include a base mileage, with additional charges for exceeding it.

Truck Size	Ideal Use Case	Approx. Cubic Feet	Local Daily Rate (Estimate)	Per-Mile Charge (Local)	One-Way Rate (Highly Variable)	Key Features
Pickup Truck	Small loads, DIY projects	70 cu. ft.	$19.95 – $29.95	$0.69 – $0.99	Not common for one-way, but possible (higher rate)	Open bed, good for small hauls, can tow.
Cargo Van	Studio/dorm, large item delivery	245 cu. ft.	$19.95 – $29.95	$0.69 – $0.99	$150 – $400+	Enclosed, easy to drive, low loading deck.
10 ft. Truck	Studio to 1-BR apartment	402 cu. ft.	$19.95 – $29.95	$0.69 – $0.99	$200 – $600+	Smallest dedicated moving truck, low deck, no ramp.
15 ft. Truck	1 to 2-BR home/apartment	764 cu. ft.	$29.95 – $39.95	$0.79 – $0.99	$300 – $900+	Most popular, EZ-Load ramp, low deck.
17 ft. Truck	2 to 3-BR home/larger apartment	865 cu. ft.	$29.95 – $39.95	$0.79 – $1.09	$400 – $1200+	More space than 15 ft., EZ-Load ramp, low deck.
20 ft. Truck	2 to 3-BR home/large apt.	1,015 cu. ft.	$39.95 – $49.95	$0.89 – $1.09	$500 – $1500+	Larger capacity, EZ-Load ramp, Mom’s Attic (sometimes).
26 ft. Truck	4+ BR home, large moves	1,612 cu. ft.	$39.95 – $49.95	$0.99 – $1.09	$700 – $2000+	Largest truck, EZ-Load ramp, Mom’s Attic, most spacious.

Note: One-way rates are highly variable and depend on distance, demand, time of year, and specific routes. These are broad ranges. Always get a direct quote from U-Haul for accurate pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How far in advance should I book my U-Haul truck?
A1: For local moves during non-peak times, a week or two is usually sufficient. For one-way moves, especially during peak season (summer, end of month), book 3-4 weeks or even a month in advance for better availability and potentially lower rates.

Q2: Can I return my U-Haul truck early?
A2: Yes, you can typically return your U-Haul truck early without penalty. However, you will still be charged for the full rental period you initially booked, especially for one-way rentals where the price is fixed.

Q3: What if the U-Haul truck size I want isn’t available?
A3: U-Haul may offer you a larger truck at no extra cost (an "upgrade") or a smaller truck with a price adjustment. If neither option works, you might need to adjust your pick-up date or location.

Q4: Do I need special insurance to rent a U-Haul truck?
A4: While your personal auto insurance policy might offer some coverage, it’s highly recommended to purchase U-Haul’s supplementary coverage (e.g., Safemove or Safetrip). These plans provide specific coverage for the rental truck, your cargo, and liability, which personal policies often lack for rental trucks.

Q5: How does U-Haul calculate mileage for local rentals?
A5: For local rentals, U-Haul tracks the mileage from when you pick up the truck to when you return it. You are charged a set rate per mile, in addition to the daily base rate.

Q6: What is "Mom’s Attic" in U-Haul trucks?
A6: "Mom’s Attic" is an elevated, enclosed storage space located above the truck’s cab in larger U-Haul trucks (20 ft. and 26 ft.). It’s ideal for fragile items, lamps, or boxes that you want to keep separate and secure from the main cargo area.

Q7: Can I tow my car behind a U-Haul truck?
A7: Yes, U-Haul offers various towing options, including car dollies (two wheels on the ground) and auto transports (all four wheels off the ground). You can rent these along with your truck, provided your truck is rated for the weight of your vehicle.

Conclusion

Navigating U-Haul truck sizes and prices doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding the diverse fleet, deciphering the pricing structure, strategically choosing the right size, and leveraging smart booking and saving tips, you can transform a potentially stressful task into a manageable and even cost-effective part of your moving journey. Remember to plan ahead, confirm all details, and prioritize safety and efficiency. With this comprehensive guide in hand, you’re well-equipped to make informed decisions and embark on a smooth, successful move with U-Haul.