If you’re moving, you’re probably shopping around for the cheapest moving truck. And whether you’re relocating just across town or across the country, all of the options to compare can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry — we did the math so you don’t have to.
We researched and compared 7 top rental truck companies using actual price quotes, base rates, mileage fees, and add-ons like insurance. Our rankings are based on each company’s total cost at different move distances.
Ranked: The Cheapest Rental Moving Trucks of 2025
For this guide, we evaluated each brand across local, interstate, and long-distance moves in two truck sizes (typically 15 ft and 26 ft). We compared base rates, mileage charges, insurance, and other common fees to rank the cheapest moving trucks. Here is an overview of our findings:
| Rank | Company | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Budget | Best Overall Value for Local Moves |
| 2 | U-Haul | Most Affordable One-Way Option |
| 3 | Penske | Best Long-Distance Option |
| 4 | Enterprise | Best Daily Flat Rate Pricing |
| 5 | Home Depot | Best for Short, Hourly Moves |
| 6 | Ryder | Best for Business or Large Moves |
| 7 | Hertz | Best Cargo Van for Light Moves |
What We Compared to Rank the Cheapest Moving Trucks
Saying a truck ranks first in affordability is all well and good, but it’s only one part of the story. There are a lot of factors that go into pricing, and each moving truck company has different policies. Here are the major points we compared:
| Company | Local Base Rate | One-Way Mileage Fee | Insurance (Basic) | Add-On Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $19.99–$29.99 | $0.79/mile | $20/day | Low |
| U-Haul | $19.95+ | $0.89–$1.09/mile | $14–$28/day | Medium |
| Penske | $39.95+ | Flat or unlimited | $25–$35/day | Low |
| Enterprise | $89.99/day flat | $0.79/mile | $10–$20/day | Medium |
| Home Depot | $29/hour | N/A (per hour) | $15–$25/day | High |
| Ryder | $50–$95/day | $0.79+/mile | $20–$35/day | Medium |
| Hertz | $89–$99/day | N/A (cargo vans only) | $12–$20/day | Low |
How Moving Truck Rental Pricing Works
As mentioned earlier, different companies have different policies when it comes to pricing, and several factors influence the total cost, including:
- Base rental rate: Flat fee for reserving the truck, typically charged per day. Rates can vary by truck size and rental duration.
- Per-mile fees: Mileage on top of the base rate. Some companies offer unlimited mileage for one-way rentals.
- Truck size: A 10 ft truck costs less than a 26 ft truck, but a bigger size also means more fuel and less availability.
- Fuel costs: Most companies require that you refill the gas tank before returning the truck. Truck size and distance greatly impact this cost.
- Insurance and protection plans: You might need or want to opt for optional coverage for damage, cargo, or liability. This can add $10–$40/day, depending on the level of protection you choose.
- Equipment rentals and add-ons: Hand trucks, furniture pads or moving blankets, tie-downs, and moving boxes.
- One-way vs. round-trip pricing: One-way moves have a higher flat rate (often with mileage included), while round-trip rentals cost less per day but require you to return the truck to the same location.
- Peak season and weekend rates: Prices tend to spike during the summer, on weekends, and near the first or last days of the month.
Is a Cheaper Rental Truck Better?
The cheapest price doesn’t always mean the best experience or features. While the most budget-friendly option may be great for local moves or light loads, you could end up with an older truck with a higher chance of breaking down. You may also have to pay more for insurance, equipment rentals, and mileage. Here are some other things to consider about opting for the lowest price:
- No-frills: You get what you pay for, basic transportation with fewer upsells.
- Extra fees add up: If you have to pay for extras just to get what you need, it potentially erases your initial savings.
- Less support or fewer locations: Especially for one-way moves.
Pro Tip: Prioritize safety. Choose a company with good reviews, well-maintained vehicles, and clear rental terms.
The 7 Cheapest Moving Trucks of 2025
Below are our ranked picks for the cheapest moving truck rentals, based on price analysis across local (~30 miles), mid-range (~100 miles), and long-distance (400+ miles) moves.
1. Budget Truck Rental – Best Overall Value for Long Moves
Budget Truck Rental tops our list thanks to its consistently low prices, especially for long-distance moves. Budget’s promo codes, low mileage rates, and frequent discounts make it one of the most affordable options — even after you add insurance and fees.
If your move involves 100+ miles or crossing state lines, Budget often delivers the best value without sacrificing important features, such as round-the-clock roadside assistance or vehicle availability. Just be aware of extra charges for equipment add-ons or insurance upgrades.
Budget Truck Rental: Cost Breakdown
| Move Type | Base Rate | Mileage Fee | Insurance (Basic) | Other Fees | Total Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local (30 mi) | $59.99 | $0.79/mi | $14 | $10 env. + $5 admin | ~$113 |
| Regional (100 mi) | $89.99 | $0.72/mi | $14 | $10 env. + $5 admin | ~$191 |
| Cross-Country (450+ mi) | $1,050 flat | Included | $70 | ~$80 taxes & fees | ~$1,200 |
Pricing based on 16 ft truck for local/regional and 26 ft truck for long-distance. Prices will vary by location. “Env.” represents environmental fees.
Budget Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lowest mileage fees in category | Limited same-day availability |
| Frequent online discount codes | Smaller fleet vs. U-Haul |
| Strong value for long-distance | Higher insurance tiers add up fast |
What to Know Before Renting From Budget
- Truck Sizes: 12 ft, 16 ft, 26 ft available
- Mileage Rates: Lowest per-mile cost among competitors
- One-Way Rentals: Heavily discounted with advance booking
- Booking Tip: Use promo codes found on Budget’s website or partner sites to cut costs by 15–20%
- Insurance Options: Safemove and Safemove Plus are available; roadside assistance is included with either
- Towing Equipment: Available for most vehicles but limited in rural areas
2. U‑Haul – Most Affordable for Short Moves
U-Haul lands in our #2 spot, primarily due to its competitive local rental rates and unmatched availability. While its base prices are attractive, U-Haul’s variable mileage rates and long-distance fees can stack up quickly, especially when you add equipment or insurance.
Still, U-Haul’s massive fleet, multiple truck sizes, and convenient pickup/drop-off locations across the country make it ideal for short moves or renters who want flexibility. It’s often the most accessible choice in rural areas or smaller towns where competitors may not operate.
U-Haul: Cost Breakdown
| Move Type | Base Rate | Mileage Fee | Insurance (Basic) | Other Fees | Total Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local (30 mi) | $19.95 | $0.89/mi | $14 | ~$10 | ~$71 |
| Regional (100 mi) | $29.95 | $0.89/mi | $14 | ~$15 | ~$148 |
| Cross-Country (450+ mi) | $1,150 flat | Mileage incl. | $70 | ~$75 taxes/fees | ~$1,295 |
Prices pulled for 15 ft and 26 ft trucks. U-Haul prices vary significantly by location and availability.
U-Haul Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lowest local base rates | Variable mileage fees can add up |
| Widest location network | Older fleet and inconsistent upkeep |
| Tons of size/equipment options | Higher fees for one-way rentals |
What to Know Before Renting from U-Haul
- Truck Sizes: 10 ft, 15 ft, 17 ft, 20 ft, 26 ft
- Mileage Policy: Local = per mile; One-way = mileage often included
- Fleet Quality: Mixed condition; older trucks are more common
- Insurance Options: Safemove, Safemove Plus, SafeTrip
- Equipment Rentals: Dollies, pads, tow hitches, trailers
- Booking Tip: Prices fluctuate by demand, so book early
3. Penske – Best Option for Reliability on Long Hauls
Penske earns 3rd place for its transparent pricing, high-quality fleet, and generous discounts for military members, students, and AAA members. While base rates can be slightly higher than Budget’s, Penske’s trucks include unlimited mileage for one-way rentals. This makes them one of the cheapest options for longer distances if you factor in the total cost.
If you prioritize reliability and less wear-and-tear on the truck, Penske delivers. The vehicles are newer, well-maintained, and available in multiple sizes. However, insurance and add-on costs can quickly increase your total if you’re not careful.
Penske Truck Rental: Cost Breakdown
| Move Type | Base Rate | Mileage Fee | Insurance (Basic) | Other Fees | Total Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local (30 mi) | $69.99 | $1.09/mi | $23 | $9 env. + $5 admin | ~$140 |
| Regional (100 mi) | $99.99 | $1.04/mi | $23 | $9 env. + $5 admin | ~$241 |
| Cross-Country (450+ mi) | $1,200 flat | Unlimited mileage | $95 (Limited Damage Waiver) | ~$80 taxes & fees | ~$1,375 |
Pricing based on 16 ft for short distances, 26 ft for long-distance moves.
Penske Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unlimited mileage for one-way | Higher base rates than Budget |
| Newer, well-maintained fleet | Insurance costs more than competitors |
| Great discounts for AAA, students | Limited availability in rural areas |
What to Know Before Renting from Penske
- Truck Sizes: 12 ft, 16 ft, 22 ft, 26 ft
- Mileage Policy: Local = per mile; One-way = unlimited mileage
- Fleet Quality: Industry-leading with newer models
- Insurance Options: Limited Damage Waiver, Cargo Insurance, Towing Insurance
- Customer Support: Round-the-clock roadside assistance included
- Booking Tip: Call to apply discounts if not shown online
4. Enterprise – Best Flat-Rate Local Alternative
Enterprise Truck Rental ranks #4 for its low base rates on local moves. It also offers well-maintained vehicles and strong customer service. However, Enterprise drops in the rankings due to limited one-way options and fewer rental locations compared to national competitors such as U-Haul or Budget.
Enterprise is ideal for in-town moves or short-distance relocations. The professional-grade fleet often appeals to businesses and contractors. While the rates are great, Enterprise doesn’t include mileage in its flat fees, and you’ll typically need to return the truck to the original rental location.
Enterprise: Cost Breakdown
| Move Type | Base Rate | Mileage Fee | Insurance (Basic) | Other Fees | Total Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local (30 mi) | $89.99 | $0.29/mi | $15 | ~$5 | ~$119 |
| Regional (100 mi) | $109.99 | $0.29/mi | $15 | ~$10 | ~$164 |
| Cross-Country (450+ mi) | One-way rentals not typically available | — | — | — | — |
Rates pulled for 15 ft and 24 ft box trucks. Enterprise’s website encourages direct quote requests.
Enterprise Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very affordable for local moves | Limited one-way rental availability |
| Well-maintained commercial fleet | Fewer locations than major competitors |
| Business-friendly service | Must return truck to same location |
What to Know Before Renting from Enterprise
- Truck Sizes: 15 ft, 16 ft, 24 ft, 26 ft
- Mileage Policy: Per-mile charges apply to all trips
- Fleet Quality: Newer trucks, often better than competitors
- Insurance Options: Damage waiver, SLP, and personal effects
- Booking Tip: Ideal for short hauls; call for quotes instead of booking online
5. Home Depot – Best Choice for Small or Hourly Jobs
Home Depot Truck Rental lands at #5 on our list because it’s not the cheapest for full-day or long-distance rentals, but it offers unbeatable rates for short hauls, DIY projects, and hourly rentals. Its pricing structure is ideal for people moving short distances or transporting a few large items across town.
“Rental insurance is important, but don’t assume the rental company’s plan is the cheapest. Check if your auto or home insurance already covers rentals.”
Home Depot partners with Penske for larger trucks and long-distance moves, but its in-house Load ‘N Go vehicles are perfect for quick tasks. Just note that the hourly billing model can get pricey if you’re not efficient.
Home Depot: Cost Breakdown
| Move Type | Base Rate | Mileage Fee | Insurance (Basic) | Other Fees | Total Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local (30 mi) | $19 for 75 minutes (Load ‘N Go) | $0.00 (first 75 min) | ~$14 (damage waiver) | ~$5 | ~$38 |
| Regional (100 mi) | $139/day (Penske 16 ft) | $0.99/mi | ~$20 | ~$15 | ~$273 |
| Cross-Country (450+ mi) | $1,075 (Penske 26 ft) | Included | ~$70 | ~$25 | ~$1,170 |
Pricing includes both Load ‘N Go and Penske truck quotes from a metropolitan Home Depot location.
Home Depot Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best for hourly or short-term use | Not ideal for long-distance without Penske |
| Load ‘N Go trucks available on-site | Hourly pricing adds up quickly if delayed |
| Easy pickup at many store locations | Limited truck size options in-house |
What to Know Before Renting from Home Depot
- Truck Sizes: Load ‘N Go (F250/F350), 12 ft, 16 ft, 22 ft, 26 ft (Penske)
- Mileage Policy: Flat rate for Load ‘N Go; per-mile for Penske
- Booking: Walk-in for Load ‘N Go; reservations available for Penske trucks
- Fuel Policy: Return with the same fuel level
- Use Tip: Use for same-day or one-item moves to maximize value
6. Ryder – Best for Commercial or Budget-Conscious Movers
Ryder places 6th on our list of cheapest moving trucks because its services are best suited for commercial customers or specific DIY movers needing cargo vans or box trucks without frills. Ryder offers competitive daily rates for local moves, especially if you’re renting a cargo van or medium-duty box truck. However, fewer locations, limited long-distance availability, and more business-focused rental terms make it less ideal for most residential moves.
That being said, if you’re relocating locally and want a solid, no-nonsense truck, Ryder can be a cost-effective option, especially for weekend projects or studio-sized moves.
Ryder: Cost Breakdown
| Move Type | Base Rate | Mileage Fee | Insurance (Basic) | Other Fees | Total Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local (30 mi) | $69/day (box truck) | $0.39/mi | ~$18 | ~$10 | ~$109 |
| Regional (100 mi) | $89/day | $0.39/mi | ~$25 | ~$10 | ~$163 |
| Cross-Country (450+ mi) | Limited availability | — | — | — | Not widely available |
Pricing pulled from Ryder’s online reservation system and phone quotes from local rentals.
Ryder Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great for local business or DIY use | Not ideal for long-distance residential moves |
| Lower per-mile cost than most | Fewer locations than other national providers |
| Good selection of cargo vans & trucks | Limited online booking and availability |
What to Know Before Renting from Ryder
- Truck Sizes: Cargo van, 16 ft, 26 ft box trucks
- Mileage Policy: Per-mile charges; some flexibility with business accounts
- Booking: Online and phone reservations (less robust than competitors)
- Fuel Policy: Must return full
- Tip: Best value if you’re in a metro area and moving the same day
7. Hertz – Best for Light Moves and Cargo Vans
Hertz ranks 7th on our list of cheapest moving trucks because its rental truck options are limited in size and scope. Hertz is a car rental company first. Its truck selection largely consists of cargo vans and small box trucks (up to 16 ft). This means it’s a decent, low-cost option for local or studio-sized moves but not suitable for long hauls or whole-house moves.
Hertz shines in short-term local rentals, though. It offers low daily base rates, occasional discount codes, and decent fuel economy for its smaller trucks. Just don’t expect to find availability for long-distance one-way moves.
Hertz: Cost Breakdown
| Move Type | Base Rate | Mileage Fee | Insurance (Basic) | Other Fees | Total Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local (30 mi) | $39.99/day (cargo van) | $0.45/mi | ~$19 | ~$10 | ~$82.50 |
| Regional (100 mi) | $49.99/day | $0.45/mi | ~$22 | ~$10 | ~$127 |
| Cross-Country | Not supported | — | — | — | Not available |
Rates pulled from Hertz Truck & Van Rental portal and phone quotes. Availability varies by region.
Hertz Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lowest daily rates for cargo vans | No 20–26 ft box trucks available |
| Frequent discounts and promo codes | No long-distance or one-way rentals |
| Great for same-day or short local trips | Limited vehicle inventory outside metro areas |
What to Know Before Renting from Hertz
- Truck Sizes: Cargo van, 12 ft, and 16 ft box trucks (varies by location)
- Mileage Policy: Per-mile charge, unlimited mileage not standard
- Booking: Easy online reservations
- Fuel Policy: Return with a full tank
- Best For: In-town errands, Craigslist pickups, college moves
Comparing Moving Truck Costs by Move Type
The total cost of a rental truck largely depends on how far you’re going. While some brands offer lower upfront pricing, mileage charges or other fees can greatly shift the balance, depending on your move distance.
“While the most budget-friendly option may be great for local moves or light loads, you could end up with an older truck with a higher chance of breaking down…and pay more for insurance, equipment rentals, and mileage.”
To help demonstrate this, we ran cost comparisons across short (30 miles), medium (100 miles), and long (400+ miles) move lengths. The data below reflects average pricing for a 26 ft moving truck (or the brand’s largest equivalent), including base rates, insurance, and average add-on fees. All prices are estimates as of 2025 and may vary by location or date.
Total Cost Structure by Brand & Mileage
| Brand | How Total Cost is Calculated (26 ft Truck Estimate) | Truck Size Used |
|---|---|---|
| U-Haul | Base: $39.95 + Insurance: $28 + Fees: $7.95 + $0.99/mi | 26 ft |
| Penske | Base: $89.99 + Insurance: $40 + Fees: $10 + $0.79/mi | 26 ft |
| Budget | Base: $69.99 + Insurance: $30 + Fees: $8.50 + $0.89/mi | 26 ft |
| Enterprise | Base: $129.99 + Insurance: $35 + Fees: $15 + $0.59/mi | 26 ft |
| Home Depot | Flat Daily Rate: $139 (unlimited miles) + $30 Insurance + $15 Fee | 26 ft |
| Ryder | Flat Daily Rate: $89 + Insurance: $35 + Fees: $15 (business accounts only) | 26 ft |
| Hertz | Base: $99 + Insurance: $20 + Fees: $10 + Not Always Mileage-Based | 16 ft-20 ft (Max) |
Moving Truck Companies vs. Distance Traveled
The graph below shows when one rental company becomes more cost-effective than another. For instance:
- U-Haul is cheap for short, low-mileage moves but becomes costly over long distances due to its high per-mile fee.
- Home Depot’s unlimited mileage rate may be unnecessary for local moves, but wins big for cross-county relocations.
- Penske and Budget are strong middle-ground options, especially for medium-distance relocations.
When choosing your moving truck, check this graph to align your total cost with how far you’re traveling. A brand that’s cheapest at 30 miles may not be the winner at 300 miles.
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Tips to Get the Lowest Price on a Moving Truck
Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, you can trim your moving truck rental costs without cutting corners.
- Book Early (Especially in Summer): Prices surge in peak moving season (May–September). Reserve weeks in advance to lock in a better rate.
- Choose Mid-Week or Mid-Month Dates: Avoid end-of-month weekends, when demand and prices are highest.
- Look for Promo Codes and Discounts: Many rental companies offer discounts for AAA members, students, and military personnel, or through partner organizations.
- Return the Truck with a Full Tank: Most rental contracts require trucks be returned with the same fuel level. If not, expect highly inflated refueling fees.
- Downsize Your Truck if Possible: Don’t overestimate. Choosing the right-sized truck can reduce both base rental costs and fuel consumption.
- Declutter Before You Move: Fewer items = smaller truck = lower cost. Donate or sell bulky items before the big day.
- Avoid One-Way Rentals (If Possible): Round-trip rentals are often cheaper because they don’t include vehicle relocation fees.
- Compare Insurance Options: Rental insurance is important, but don’t assume the rental company’s plan is the cheapest. Check if your auto or home insurance already covers rentals.
- BYO Equipment: Bringing your own dolly, blankets, and rope can eliminate pricey rental add-ons.
Always confirm whether your rate is guaranteed or subject to change. Some companies tack on hidden fees or bump up the rate when you’re ready to book. The quote you receive may not be the rate you get when you’re ready to reserve.
Pro Tip: If you’re flexible on timing, ask the rental company if it offers any one-way “relocation specials.” These steeply discounted rates are available when a company needs a truck driven to a specific location.
Alternatives to Renting a Moving Truck
Renting a truck isn’t your only option when it comes to tackling a move. Depending on your budget, timeline, and how much help you need, these alternatives might save you money.
Moving Container Companies
Best For: Long-distance or delayed moves
Brands such as PODS, U-Pack, and 1-800-PACK-RAT deliver portable containers to your driveway. You pack at your pace, and the company picks it up and delivers it to your new address.
- Estimated cost: $1,500–$4,000+ (pricing varies depending on distance and container size)
- Pros: No driving; flexible packing/unpacking; secure, weatherproof units
- Cons: More expensive than a truck rental for local moves
Check out this comparison guide for more details.
Hiring Local Movers With a Truck
Best For: People who are moving locally and want to skip the heavy lifting
This full-service approach means a moving crew handles the loading, driving, and unloading, typically charging by the hour for local moves.
- Estimated cost: $300–$1,200 (depending on hours and crew size)
- Pros: Less stress; professional help; no truck rental needed
- Cons: Higher cost than DIY
Car-Sharing or Van Rentals
Best For: Small, local moves
Services such as Zipcar, Turo, or Home Depot’s hourly rentals let you access cargo vans or pickup trucks without the cost of a full-day rental.
- Estimated cost: $20–$60 per hour
- Pros: Affordable for short moves; easy to find; fuel-efficient
- Cons: Limited space; time constraints; usually local only
Methodology: How We Chose the Cheapest Moving Trucks
We reviewed publicly available pricing data, secured quotes directly from brand websites, and referenced existing third-party analyses to compare rental truck costs across:
- Short, midrange, and long-distance moves
- Varying truck sizes (from 10 ft to 26 ft)
- Add-ons such as insurance, mileage fees, equipment, and one-way fees
We streamlined the data using a 26 ft truck as the standard for consistency across brands. Where available, we also verified prices using customer service reps or pricing tools.
Why Trust HireAHelper?
We’ve helped over 500,000 people move and have written extensively about real-world moving costs, truck rental tips, and pros/cons of every method out there. Our research is unbiased and based on direct comparisons — not paid promotions.