You have definitely seen the orange and white trucks driving around your town with “$19.95” plastered on the side. But if you have ever actually moved by using one yourself, you know that the final receipt rarely looks that small. To help you budget for your upcoming move, we dug into our database of real moves to see what people actually pay at the register when using U-Haul. The quick answers about pricing:
- The average cost of a U-Haul truck is $138 for a local move of a medium-sized house
- The average cost of a U-Haul truck is $1,809 for a long-distance move of a medium-sized house
- The base rate of the truck is $19.95–$39.95 per day, depending on size, plus you typically pay a per-mile fee on top of that
- The biggest factors that influence the cost of a U-Haul are mileage, truck size, and fuel usage
- The famous $19.95 price U-Haul advertises generally only represents the base daily rate of their smallest rentals before you add in mileage fees, taxes, and insurance
While the low sticker price is catchy, the final cost depends heavily on your specific needs. We broke down thousands of real rental transactions to give you a clear picture of what you can expect to pay. Read our full guide on U-Haul trucks here.
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HireAHelper’s Rental Truck Price Database
We gathered data from thousands of real moves to build our Rental Truck Price Database. This is not just a list of advertised prices or online estimates. It is a collection of final receipts from people like you who actually rented a truck and completed a move.
U-Haul’s pricing structure looks simple on its website. But if you have ever rented a vehicle before, you know that fees can pile up fast, and the initial quote rarely matches what comes out of your bank account. Our database accounts for the real-world variables that change your price. We included the mileage fees, the insurance costs, the environmental charges, and even the surprise cleaning fees. This data represents the best look at what you will actually pay when you hand over the keys at the end of the day.
What You’ll Actually Pay: The Average Total Cost of a U-Haul By Distance and Move Size
If you look at the broad averages, a U-Haul rental typically costs around $150 for a local move and roughly $2,500 for a long-distance trip. But as we all know, “average” is a tricky word. The final number on your receipt is highly sensitive to how far you drive, how big your home is, and U-Haul’s own shifting price model.
To get the most accurate information, we utilize HireAHelper’s rental truck price database. This isn’t just a collection of online estimates, but instead is a log of what customers actually paid after their move finished. Because fees and pricing structures vary so wildly — based on location, date, and inventory — looking at a single quote won’t give you the full picture. Our database captures the holistic price, including the mileage fees, insurance, and taxes that tend to show up later.
The table below breaks down these real-world costs by home size. Since everyone packs differently, categorizing by the size of your home is the most accurate way to estimate your budget.
Real-World U-Haul Rental Costs: Total Average Price
(Includes base rate, mileage, fuel, taxes, and fees)
| Local Move (ex. 25 miles) | Long-Distance Move (ex. 1,400 miles) | Cross-Country Move (ex. 2400 miles) | |
| 2 Bedroom House | $130.50 | $1,945.84 | $2,948.55 |
| 3 Bedroom House | $138.02 | $2,110.52 | $3,321.92 |
| 4 Bedroom House | $157.20 | $2,586.38 | $3,458.36 |
| 5 Bedroom House | $173.02 | $3,293.13 | $3,737.16 |
Source: HireAHelper’s rental truck cost database
The $19.95 a Day Myth
We have all seen the “$19.95” stickers plastered on the sides of trucks and vans. It is a great marketing hook, but it is important to know that this price is strictly a base rate.
Think of it like a cover charge at a club. Paying the $19.95 gets you through the door (or in this case, the keys to the vehicle), but it does not cover anything else. You are still on the hook for every mile you drive, the gas you use, the insurance you likely need, and any environmental fees. Realistically, you will never walk out of a U-Haul center having paid just twenty bucks.
If you are strictly hunting for the lowest bottom line, check out our breakdown of the 7 Cheapest Moving Trucks of 2025 to see who currently will save you the most.
Is U-Haul the Cheapest Rental Truck?
The short answer is: yes. Sometimes.
U-Haul is often the most affordable option for local moves because of that low daily base rate, especially if you aren’t driving very far. However, for long-distance or one-way moves, the math changes. Competitors often include unlimited mileage or have newer, more fuel-efficient fleets that save you money at the pump.
To see how U-Haul stacks up against the other big names in the industry, check out our head-to-head comparisons:
How U-Haul’s Pricing Structure Works
One of the most confusing parts of renting a truck is realizing that the price tag changes depending on how far you move. U-Haul uses two completely different math equations to calculate your bill, depending on whether you are moving across town or across the state.
- Local Moves (In-Town): These are priced based on the distance you drive. You pay a flat daily fee for the truck, plus a specific fee for every single mile you drive.
- Long-Distance Moves (One-Way): These use a flat-rate pricing model. You are given a set price that includes a specific number of rental days and a mileage allowance based on the distance between your pickup and drop-off locations.
Because of this, mileage costs are the biggest variable. For a local rental, you pay for every mile; for a long-distance rental, you generally only pay extra if you exceed the mileage limit they set for your trip.
U-Haul Truck Sizes and Price Structure for Local Moves
For short moves, U-Haul’s price structure is simple: a base rate for the truck size plus a fee for every mile you drive. Typically, you will see a base rate between $19.95 and $39.95 per day, plus a mileage fee that often ranges from $0.99 to $1.39 per mile.
While that base rate stays the same, the mileage fee is what really drives up the cost. The bigger the truck, the higher your per-mile fee might be.
The table below breaks down the typical cost structure for a single-day local move, assuming a short trip of 30 miles.
Estimated Cost for a 1-Day Local Move (30 Miles)
| Truck Size | Typical Cost Structure | Total Typical Cost per Day* |
| Pickup Truck | $19.95 base + ~$0.79/mile | ~$43.65 |
| Cargo Van | $19.95 base + ~$0.79/mile | ~$43.65 |
| 10′ Truck | $19.95 base + ~$1.19/mile | ~$55.65 |
| 15′ Truck | $29.95 base + ~$1.19/mile | ~$65.65 |
| 20′ Truck | $39.95 base + ~$1.19/mile | ~$75.65 |
| 26′ Truck | $39.95 base + ~$1.19/mile | ~$75.65 |
Note: These estimates are pre-tax and do not include optional insurance or environmental fees. Mileage rates vary by location.
It is important to remember that this pricing structure generally applies to 1-day rentals. If you need the truck for several days to handle a local move, those daily base charges will multiply.
- The Base Rate: The base rate is determined by the size of the truck and demand in your area. This is the advertised price you see on the side of the truck. It gets you the keys, but that’s it.
- The Mileage Fee: This fee is calculated based on the odometer reading when you return the truck. Unlike some rental car agreements, local U-Haul rentals rarely come with “unlimited mileage”. The rate can fluctuate based on the day of the week, too, and we have seen mileage rates tick up on busy weekends.
- Added Fees: On top of the truck and miles, you will likely see an environmental fee (usually small, around $1–$5), and potentially a cleaning fee if you return the truck dirty.
U-Haul Truck Sizes and Price Structure for Long-Distance Moves
For long-distance moves, U-Haul swaps the math for a flat-rate model. Instead of paying per mile, you pay a lump sum that covers the truck, a set number of rental days, and a specific mileage allowance.
Because this rate is calculated based on your specific route (e.g., Chicago to Atlanta), there isn’t a standard “daily price” like there is for local moves. The price fluctuates between any two cities based on supply and demand.
| Truck Size | Base Rate (1,200 Miles) | Fuel Costs* | Total Estimated Cost |
| 10′ Truck (Studio / 1-Bedroom Apt) | ~$1015 | ~$350 | ~$1365 |
| 15′ Truck (2-Bedroom Apt / Small Home) | ~$1249 | ~$420 | ~$1669 |
| 20′ Truck (2- to 3-Bedroom Home) | ~$1530 | ~$420 | ~$1950 |
| 26′ Truck (3- to 4-Bedroom Home) | ~$1703 | ~$420 | ~$2123 |
How much to drive a U-Haul cross-country?
Typically, you should budget between $2,500 and $4,000. Our data shows that a cross-country move (approx. 2,400 miles) averages around $3,366 total, though this price jumps significantly for larger homes or during peak moving seasons.
Can You Rent a U-Haul for More Than a Day?
Yes, usually! For a local move, extending your rental is often as simple as calling the store before your truck is due back. As long as another customer hasn’t already reserved it, you can generally extend it for as many days as you need at the same daily rate. If the truck is booked, U-Haul might try to offer you a moving container as an alternative, but you may be forced to return the vehicle.
For long-distance, one-way moves, the rules are stricter. U-Haul assigns you a set number of days based on your distance (e.g., a 150-mile trip might get you 1 day, while a 1,200-mile trip might get you 5 days). You can purchase extra days, but you must coordinate this in advance.
Prepaid Fees for Extending a One-Way Rental:
- U-Haul trucks: $40 per day
- U-Haul trailers: $20 per day
- U-Haul towing devices: $20 per day
Note that there is no discount for finishing early. If you drive like a superhero and return the truck two days ahead of schedule, you won’t get any money back—though you will get the peace of mind of having it off your to-do list.
How U-Haul Fees Work
You have your base rate and your mileage estimate, so you might think you know your total. But like a budget airline ticket, U-Haul rentals come with a menu of potential extra charges. Some of these apply to everyone, while others only kick in if you are moving long-distance or need extra time.
Here is the breakdown of the fees that often surprise people at the register.
Standard Fees (Apply to Most Rentals)
- Environmental & Recovery Fees: You will almost always see a small charge — usually between $1.00 and $5.00 — labeled as an environmental fee or vehicle license recovery fee. It is mandatory, so just count on it being there.
- Refueling Service Fee: This is the big one to watch out for. You must return the truck with the same amount of gas it had when you left. If you bring it back lower, U-Haul charges you for the missing fuel plus a “convenience fee.” We’ve seen service fees of around $30.00 just for the privilege of them filling the tank, on top of the price of the gas itself, which they may charge at a premium.
- Cleaning Fee: If you leave a noticeable mess (like mud on the floorboards or trash in the cab), you could be hit with a cleaning fee.
- Damage Fees: If you skip the insurance coverage and something happens to the truck (like a scratch or a dent), you are responsible for the repair costs.
Long-Distance & One-Way Fees
If you are dropping your truck off at a different location than where you picked it up, a few specific fees may apply.
- Mileage Overage Fee: For one-way moves, U-Haul estimates the miles you will need and includes them in your price. If you take a detour and go over that limit, you will typically be charged $1.00 for every extra mile.
- Extra Day Fee: Your long-distance quote includes a set number of days. If you need the truck longer, you have to pay for each additional day. U-Haul Trucks are $40 per extra day. U-Haul Trailers are an $20 per extra day. Towing Devices are about $20 per extra day
- Wrong Destination Fee: Your reservation is for a specific drop-off location. If you return the truck to a different store without clearing it with U-Haul first, you may be charged a “wrong destination” or drop-off fee.
Understanding U-Haul’s Variable Pricing With Real Quotes
On the surface, U-Haul’s pricing looks like a simple equation: Base Rate + Mileage + Fees = Total. But after running countless quotes and renting trucks ourselves, we realized that the math isn’t as fixed as it appears. There is a layer of “behind-the-scenes” variable pricing that shifts based on the particular details of your specific reservation.
“It is a common misconception that booking online pays for your rental. In most cases, your credit card is only used to hold the reservation.”
This unpredictability is exactly why we rely on HireAHelper’s rental truck price database. Instead of guessing how the algorithm might treat your specific Tuesday rental in October, we look at the holistic price real customers actually paid. It remains the most accurate way to see the bottom line, because looking at the pricing model alone often leaves out the fluctuations that happen at the register.
Weekend vs. Weekday Pricing
During our hands-on testing, we found that simply changing the day of the week can significantly alter your mileage rate. U-Haul knows that most people want to move on the weekend when work and school aren’t factors, and their pricing often reflects that demand.
For example, when we quoted a move in Florida, the mileage rate for a truck on a Tuesday was $1.19 per mile. When we switched that same quote to a Saturday, the rate jumped to $1.39 per mile.
We saw this pattern repeat across the country in our testing:
- Los Angeles: Box trucks were quoted at $1.09/mile on a Tuesday, but rose to $1.39/mile on a Saturday.
- Columbus, Ohio: The weekday rate was just $0.99/mile, but the weekend rate bumped up to $1.19/mile.
Even for smaller vehicles like cargo vans and pickups, we saw weekday vs. weekend variances (e.g., rising from $0.89 to $1.09 in Columbus). The base price of the truck might stay the same, but the cost to actually drive it creeps up when demand is high.
Location Differences and Supply and Demand
Our research also highlighted how much your location dictates your rate. Supply and demand algorithms change the pricing structure from city to city, meaning a move in the Midwest might be cheaper per mile than a move on the West Coast.
Comparing the real quotes we pulled for Los Angeles versus Columbus, Ohio, the differences were clear:
- Columbus (Midwest): We found mileage rates as low as $0.99/mile for box trucks during the week.
- Los Angeles (West Coast): For the exact same truck on the same day, the rate was $1.09/mile.
While ten cents might not sound like much, it adds up over a 50-mile move. And interestingly, for cargo vans, the base mileage rate was consistent between the two cities ($0.89/mile on weekdays), but the weekend surge hit harder in Columbus (jumping 20 cents) than in LA (jumping only 10 cents). This proves that local supply and inventory availability are constantly influencing the price you see.
Factors that Influence the Price of Your U-Haul
While the advertised sticker price is a good starting point, the final number on your receipt is determined by a mix of variables. Based on our data, here are the factors that will have the biggest impact on your wallet, ranked from most influential to least.
- Distance: For local moves, this is usually the single biggest expense because you pay a fee for every mile you drive on top of the base rate. For long-distance moves, the distance determines your flat rate, and you will face overage charges if you exceed the mileage allowance for your route. Check out our guide on How U-Haul’s Pricing Structure Works
- Rental Duration: Local rentals are charged in 24-hour cycles, so keeping the truck for a second day instantly doubles your base rental fee. Long-distance quotes come with a set number of days included; needing the truck longer will trigger additional daily fees. We’ve put together a guide on this: Can You Rent a U-Haul for More Than a Day?
- Truck Size: The daily base rate increases as the truck gets bigger—a 26-foot truck costs more per day than a cargo van. Larger trucks also have lower fuel efficiency, meaning you will spend more at the pump. To learn more, read our article on U-Haul Truck Sizes and Price Structure
- Timing (Supply and Demand): Moving during peak times—like weekends, summer, or the end of the month—often leads to higher rates due to increased demand. We cover all of this and more in this article: Weekend vs. Weekday Pricing
- Fees and Add-Ons: While smaller individually, costs like damage protection, environmental fees, and equipment rentals (dollies, furniture pads) add up to increase your total. Here’s more information on How U-Haul Fees Work.
Paying for Gas for Your U-Haul
Beyond the rental rate and mileage fees, you need to budget for gas. U-Haul trucks are thirsty vehicles, and fuel is a separate expense that you are responsible for covering.
- For Local Moves: Bring the truck back with the same amount of fuel it had when you picked it up. If you drive off the lot with 3/4 of a tank, you must return it with 3/4 of a tank. If you return it with less, U-Haul will charge you for the missing fuel plus a service fee for the inconvenience. To avoid the penalty, just take a picture of the fuel gauge before you leave and top it off right before you return.
- For Long-Distance Moves: For longer trips, fuel becomes a major line item. While U-Haul estimates that their 10-foot trucks get up to 12 MPG and their larger trucks get up to 10 MPG, these numbers are for ideal driving conditions. Once your truck is fully loaded with furniture and boxes, your fuel efficiency will likely drop.
If you’re planning a 1,200-mile drive in a 26-foot truck, you are looking at purchasing roughly 120 gallons of gas. At current prices, that can easily add several hundred dollars to your total moving cost. It’s smart to budget a little extra for fuel just to be safe. Read our guide on How to Save Money on Your Rental Truck’s Gas.
U-Haul Trailer and Hitch Pricing
If you have a vehicle with a hitch, renting a trailer can be a massive money saver compared to renting a full-sized box truck. U-Haul offers a wide range of options, from small enclosed trailers for a few boxes to heavy-duty transporters for your car.
Here is a quick snapshot of the lineup and what you can expect to pay for a local rental.
U-Haul Trailer Rental Prices
| Trailer Type | Trailer Size | Trailer Dimensions | Typical Daily Price |
| Cargo Trailer | Small | 4′ x 8′ | $14.95 |
| Medium | 5′ x 8′ | $18.95 | |
| Large | 6′ x 12′ | $29.95 | |
| Utility Trailer | Small | 4′ x 7′ | $14.95 |
| Medium | 5′ x 8′ | $18.95 | |
| Large (Ramp) | 5′ x 9′ | $24.95 | |
| XL (Ramp) | 6′ x 12′ | $34.95 | |
| Vehicle Trailer | Tow Dolly | N/A | ~$44.95 |
| Auto Transport | N/A | ~$54.95 |
Note: Prices are estimates for local moves and exclude taxes and hitch installation fees. For a deeper dive into the specs, check out our Moving Trailer Rental Guide.
Types of Trailers: What’s the Difference?
- Cargo trailers ($14.95 – $34.95 per day): These are fully enclosed with lockable latches, making them perfect for protecting furniture and boxes from rain, snow, and road debris.
- Utility trailers ($14.95 – $34.95 per day): These are open-air trailers with low sides, ideal for tall or oddly shaped items like a fridge or landscaping gear.
- Vehicle trailers and tow dollies ($44.95 – $54.95 per day): Heavy-duty equipment designed specifically to tow a car behind another vehicle, either by lifting just the front wheels or the entire car.
For more on costs, read our Moving Trailer Rental Cost Guide.
Cargo Trailers
Cargo trailers are the go-to for small apartment moves or dorm room cleanouts. Because they are enclosed, you don’t have to worry about your mattress getting soaked on the highway.
Key Features:
- Sizes: 4’x8′, 5’x8′, and 6’x12′.
- Security: Built-in lockable latches.
- No Ramps: Be warned that cargo trailers generally do not come with a loading ramp, so be prepared to lift your heavy boxes into the back.
Real-World Costs:
- Local Move: We were quoted exactly $14.95 for the 4’x8′ trailer and $29.95 for the 6’x12′ trailer for a single day.
- Long-Distance Move: For a trip from Florida to Texas (approx. 1,100 miles), the quote jumped to $213 for the small trailer and $496 for the large one.
Utility Trailers
If you have a tall antique cabinet or a ride-on lawnmower, a utility trailer is your best bet. Just remember that your load will be exposed to the elements, so you might want to use a tarp to protect whatever you’re hauling.
Key Features:
- Sizes: 4’x7′, 5’x8′, 5’x9′, and 6’x12′.
- Ramps: Only the 5’x9′ and 6’x12′ trailers come with the “EZ-loading” fold-down ramp. The smaller ones do not.
- Availability: Some sizes (like the 4’x7′) are often restricted to local moves only.
Real-World Costs:
- Local Move: Prices mirror the cargo trailers, ranging from $14.95 to $34.95 depending on size.
- Long-Distance Move: Our quote for a 5’x9′ trailer with a ramp for a cross-country trek was $425.
Tow Dollies and Vehicle Trailers
Transporting a car yourself is not for beginners, but it is often cheaper than paying a professional auto shipper. U-Haul gives you two choices:
- Tow Dolly: Lifts only the front two wheels of your car. It is cheaper and lighter but generally best for front-wheel-drive vehicles.
- Auto Transport: Lifts the entire car off the ground. This saves wear and tear on your vehicle’s tires and transmission and is the safer bet for long trips.
Real-World Costs:
- Local Move: We found tow dollies starting at $44.95, and auto transports at $54.95 per day.
- Long-Distance Move: For our sample 1,100-mile move, the tow dolly was quoted at $151, while the auto transport was $301.
Important Rules:
- Hard Tops Only: U-Haul will not let you rent a trailer for a convertible or soft-top SUV.
- Speed Limit: You are strongly advised not to exceed 55 mph when towing.
If you want more details or other options you have for moving your car, read our complete guide to shipping your car.
U-Haul Hitch Requirements
Here’s the catch: you can’t rent any of these trailers without a hitch. If your car or truck doesn’t have one, you will need to install it.
U-Haul can install a hitch for you, but it is an investment. You are paying for the parts in addition to the labor. And no, you cannot buy a cheap hitch on Amazon and ask U-Haul to install it. They only work with their own equipment.
We asked U-Haul to outfit a 2025 Kia Soul for towing. Here is the real quote and cost for a hitch installation they gave us:
- Hitch Receiver: $149.95
- Wiring Kit: $91.95
- Ball Mount & Ball: $37.90
- Installation Labor: $132.00
- Taxes & Fees: ~$47.00
- TOTAL: ~$469.09
Prices vary by vehicle (older cars are often cheaper to wire), but you should budget at least $400–$500 if you are starting from scratch.
U-Haul U-Box Container Pricing
U-Haul’s answer to PODS-style moving containers is the U-Box. Instead of driving a massive truck yourself, U-Haul drops off a portable wooden container, you load it up at your own pace, and they ship it to your new home.
This is often a less stressful option if you aren’t comfortable driving a 26-foot vehicle on the highway. It also offers built-in flexibility: if your new place isn’t ready yet, U-Haul can store your containers in their secure warehouse until you say the word.
Average U-Box Costs by Home Size
(Includes container rental, delivery fees, and shipping)
| Local Move(Under 50 miles) | Long-Distance Move(~1,200 miles) | Cross-Country Move(~2,400 miles) | |
| 1-Bedroom Apt | $439.96 | $1,968.09 | $1,971.49 |
| 3-Bedroom Apt / 2-Bedroom House | $561.87 | $2,627.16 | $2,948.55 |
| 4-Bedroom House | $654.75 | $3,607.18 | $3,458.36 |
| 5-Bedroom House | $755.60 | $4,086.67 | $3,737.16 |
Source: HireAHelper’s U-Box pricing analysis
How U-Box Sizes Work
Unlike rental trucks that come in various lengths, the U-Box only comes in one size.
- Dimensions: 7’11” x 4’8″ x 6’11.5″
- Capacity: 257 cubic feet (holds about 2,000 lbs)
Think of one U-Box as roughly enough space for one to one-and-a-half rooms of furniture. For a studio apartment, one box might be enough. But for a standard 3-bedroom home, you will likely need 3 to 4 containers to fit everything.
“…[It] is important to know that [the $19.95 price] is strictly a base rate…Realistically, you will never walk out of a U-Haul center having paid just twenty bucks.”
The best part of the system is that you can order more than you think you need and only pay for the units you use. For example, if you order four boxes but only fill three, U-Haul typically picks up the empty one and doesn’t charge you for shipping it. This isn’t standard for every container company, so it’s a big point in U-Haul’s favor for this service.
Read our full review of U-Haul U-Box dimensions and prices and Moving Trucks vs. Moving Containers: Which is right for you?
U-Haul Insurance Pricing
U-Haul offers several coverage options to protect you and your cargo. While you’re not required to buy insurance, it’s important to know that most personal auto insurance policies and credit card protections do not cover moving trucks. U-Haul generally offers two main tiers of protection for its trucks:
SafeMove ($14 – $30 per day) is the standard option. It includes:
- Damage Waiver: Covers most accident damage to the rental truck itself.
- Cargo Protection: Covers your belongings against fire, windstorm, or overturning (but typically not damage from shifting during transit).
- Medical/Life Protection: Provides limited coverage for you and your passengers in the cab.
SafeMove Plus ($28 – $60 per day) provides significantly more peace of mind. Like the name suggests, this option includes everything in SafeMove, plus:
- Supplemental Liability Coverage: This pays out for damage you cause to others (up to $1,000,000).
- Overhead Damage Coverage: Standard SafeMove often excludes overhead collisions (e.g., hitting a low bridge), but SafeMove Plus usually covers this.
- No Deductible: You won’t pay out-of-pocket for covered accidental damage to the truck.
Other Coverage Options:
- SafeTow: Protection for trailers and the vehicle you are towing.
- SafeTrip ($5 – $7): Supplemental roadside assistance for lost keys, jump starts, or getting stuck in mud/snow.
U-Haul Supplies and Equipment Pricing
You can technically move without special equipment, but your back (and your friends) might hate you for it. And while you can buy boxes anywhere, U-Haul makes it easy to grab everything you need in one place.
Here’s one important tip: Rent, don’t buy. You can rent expensive items like furniture dollies and appliance trucks for a fraction of the purchase price. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for common supplies.
U-Haul Equipment & Supply Costs
| Item | Estimated Price | Notes |
| Furniture Pads | $5.00 / half-dozen | Rental price. Essential for preventing scratches. |
| Furniture Dolly | $7.00 – $10.00 | Rental price. The flat wooden board with 4 wheels. |
| Utility Dolly | $7.00 – $10.00 | Rental price. Standard upright hand truck. |
| Appliance Dolly | $10.00 – $15.00 | Rental price. Heavy-duty with straps for fridges/washers. |
| Moving Boxes | $1.30 – $2.35 each | Price varies by size (Small, Medium, Large). |
| Padlock | $4.95 – $16.95 | You need your own lock for the back of the truck. |
| Packing Tape | ~$8.99 | Includes 2 rolls and a dispenser. |
| Stretch Wrap | $10.95 – $29.25 | Great for keeping drawers closed or wrapping furniture. |
| Tie-Down Rope | ~$3.95 | Basic rope to secure items to the wall rails. |
Note: Rental prices may vary slightly by location and whether you are moving locally or one-way.
U-Haul Moving Labor Pricing
When you rent a truck, U-Haul will almost certainly suggest adding “Moving Help” to your order. This is their online marketplace where local labor providers sign up to help load and unload trucks.
How much does U-Haul moving help cost?
Pricing varies because individual providers set their own rates, but the standard booking is for two helpers for two hours. In our testing, quotes typically ranged between $200 and $300 for a two-hour block.
While convenient, it is important to know that U-Haul acts strictly as a connector. If your movers cancel at the last minute or break your favorite lamp, U-Haul’s terms state that the issue is solely between you and the service provider.
The HireAHelper Difference: If you want the savings of a DIY move but the reliability of professional help, HireAHelper offers a safer alternative. We don’t just list names of companies for you to choose; we stand behind every job booked on our platform. Here’s how we’re different:
- Smart Protection: Every move includes free standard repair coverage (up to $0.60/lb per item), with options to add extra coverage if you need it.
- Best Price Guarantee: If you find the same movers for a lower price elsewhere, we will match it.
- Service Guarantee: If your movers cancel on you, we will step in to find a replacement or cover the cost up to $1,000.
You can see exactly how HireAHelper works or browse top-rated movers near you to compare real pricing and reviews.
Other Things To Know About U-Haul Rentals
By now, you know the price of the truck, the gas, and the labor. But there are still a few logistics and other details that can trip you up at the counter. Here is what you need to know about paying for your rental and who is actually allowed to drive it.
How Will U-Haul Bill My Card?
It is a common misconception that booking online pays for your rental. In most cases, your credit card is only used to hold the reservation. When you arrive at the store to pick up your truck, you will need to present a physical card (or cash) to pay.
- The hold: U-Haul will place a hold on your account for the estimated total cost of your move. This includes the rental days, the estimated mileage you plan to drive, and any insurance or supplies.
- The final charge: You are not officially charged until you return the truck. The agent will inspect the fuel gauge and odometer. If you drove fewer miles than estimated, your final charge will be lower. If you drove more, it would be higher.
Note: If you use a debit card, ensure you have enough funds to cover the hold, not just the base rate. The funds might be tied up for a few days even after you return the truck.
Can You Pay Cash For a U-Haul?
Yes, U-Haul accepts cash, but it requires a few extra steps compared to paying with a card.
- Local Moves: You typically need to pay the estimated rental charges plus a $100 deposit (or the total estimated charges, whichever is greater).
- One-Way Moves: You generally pay the rental rate plus a $100 deposit.
- Reimbursement: When you return the truck (clean and on time), U-Haul will refund the difference between your deposit and the final bill.
Note: Even if you pay cash, most locations still require you to present a valid credit or debit card with a major logo to secure the reservation.
What U-Haul Discounts Are Available?
If you are looking for a standard “10% off for students” or “AAA discount,” you might be disappointed. U-Haul does not offer a blanket discount for military members, seniors, or students on truck rentals. However, that doesn’t mean savings aren’t available if you know where to look.
- Manager Discretion: Local managers often have the power to offer small discounts (typically 10-15%) to meet sales goals or help out customers. It never hurts to ask politely!
- Hotel Partners: U-Haul customers can often get discounts at partner hotel chains like Choice Hotels (up to 15% off) and Wyndham (up to 10% off).
- Military Perks: While there isn’t a rental discount, U-Haul often provides one free month of self-storage for active military members moving one-way.
- Free Boxes: Check the “U-Haul Customer Connect” bin at your local store. This is a “take a penny, leave a penny” system where previous movers leave their used boxes for others to take for free.
For the most up-to-date offers, it is worth checking the official Discounts page on U-Haul’s website before you book.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Rent a U-Haul?
The rules are simple and strictly enforced:
- Truck Rentals: You must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s license.
- Trailer Rentals: You must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license.
You do not need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to rent even the largest 26-foot truck.
How to Save Money on U-Haul Truck Rentals
Now that you know the base price is just the starting line, the best way to save money is to control the variables. Plan your route efficiently to keep those per-mile fees low on local moves. Always refill the gas tank yourself just before dropping off the truck to avoid the expensive convenience fee. And take a hard look at those optional add-ons; if you have a friend with a dolly, bring it along!
For the full breakdown of other shortcuts and tips, read our guide on paying for a U-Haul and how to save money.
The Bottom Line
As we’ve outlined, nobody walks out of U-Haul paying just $19.95.
Based on our analysis of real customer receipts, a realistic estimate for a local move is closer to $150 once you add in mileage, gas, and fees. For long-distance moves, that number jumps significantly, with averages hovering around $2,500 for a standard trip.
How much you actually pay will depend on your specific route and load size, but if you budget for these real-world numbers instead of the sticker price, you won’t be caught off guard. Hopefully, you’ll save at least enough for some extra coffee on the drive to your new home!
FAQs
Can you really rent a U-Haul for $19.95 a day?
Technically, yes, but practically, no. That $19.95 only covers the base rental fee for a pickup truck, cargo van, or 10-foot truck. Once you add the mandatory per-mile fees, fuel, environmental charges, and taxes, your actual bill will almost always be higher.
How much do U-Haul trucks cost?
Based on our analysis of real customer transactions, here are the average total costs:
- Local Move: ~$150
- Long-Distance Move: ~$2,500
- Cross-Country Move: ~$2,900
What is the cheapest U-Haul truck size?
The pickup truck, cargo van, and 10-foot box truck are all tied for the cheapest starting price. They all share the famous $19.95 per day base rate.
How much is U-Haul per mile?
For local moves, mileage fees typically range from $0.99 to $1.39 per mile. This rate isn’t fixed; it varies by location and can even go up on weekends when demand is higher.
Does U-Haul offer unlimited mileage?
Local rentals never come with unlimited mileage; you will always pay a fee for every mile you drive. However, one-way long-distance rentals include a set mileage allowance based on your specific route. You don’t pay per mile unless you exceed that limit.
Methodology
Provide a methodology statement. Use the information below to explain our rental truck cost database, then layer in additional methodology as needed.
This analysis is based on HireAHelper’s Rental Truck Cost Database, which contains data from 10,000 real rental truck transactions completed by HireAHelper customers over the past 6 years. The dataset includes moves of varying distances, sizes, and locations, and spans 12 rental truck and moving container brands commonly used across the United States.
Unlike studies that rely on online quotes, this dataset reflects actual amounts customers paid, including (e.g., mileage, insurance, taxes, add-ons), providing a more accurate representation of real-world truck rental costs. Because online price estimates often differ significantly from final charges due to factors like mileage overages, rental duration overages, and insurance add-ons, using completed rental data helps eliminate these discrepancies.
HireAHelper’s Hands-On Research Process
To verify this data, we didn’t just look at spreadsheets; we went out and rented these trucks ourselves. We drove the miles, filled the tanks, and paid the fees to see exactly how the pricing breakdown works in practice. Here are the actual line-item breakdowns from our recent hands-on tests.
Real Quote: Cheapest Possible U-Haul Rental
| Item | Cost |
| Rental Fee | $19.95 |
| Mileage Charge | $7.92 |
| SafeMove Insurance | $14.00 |
| Environmental Fee | $1.00 |
| 1.6 Gallons of Gas | $7.51 |
| Tax | $2.02 |
| Total | $50.38 |
Real Quote: U-Box Container (FL to TX)
| Item | Cost |
| U-Box Container (+1 mo use) | $99.95 |
| 2-dozen furniture pads | FREE |
| Shipping (Guaranteed Delivery) | $1,242.00 |
| Truck Delivery Fee | $115.00 |
| Total | $1,456.95 |
Real Quote: U-Haul Trailer Hitch Installation
| Item | Cost |
| Hitch & Parts | $190.80 |
| Wiring & Service Plan | $99.95 |
| Installation Fee | $180.00 |
| Taxes | $33.32 |
| Total | $475.75 |