Renting a moving truck is one of the easiest ways to save money on your move. When you’re willing to do the packing, loading, and driving yourself, you can often cut moving costs by hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The hard part isn’t deciding to rent a truck. It’s deciding which one.
Penske and U-Haul are two of the most well-known names in moving truck rentals. At first glance, they seem almost the same, but once you look closer, there are clear differences that can affect both your budget and your moving experience.
In this updated 2025 comparison, we look at Uhaul vs Penske and how they stack up in the areas that matter most: truck size, availability, pricing, coverage, and discounts.
Quick Takeaway: U-Haul is still the more affordable and flexible choice for most people, while Penske earns points for reliability and newer trucks. Keep reading to see how each company measures up and which one might fit your move best.
Table of Contents
Penske vs. U-Haul at a Glance
If you’re short on time, here’s the quick version: Both companies are solid choices for DIY movers, but they shine in different ways. Use this table as your cheat sheet before diving into the details below.
| Factor | Winner | Details |
| Which is better overall | U-Haul | U-Haul offers more locations, better availability for local moves, and lower prices overall. Penske stands out for long-distance reliability and newer trucks, but U-Haul is the better all-around option for most people. |
| Which is cheaper | U-Haul | U-Haul’s base rates are usually lower, especially for short, local moves. Penske can be competitive for long-distance rentals with unlimited mileage, but it’s rarely the cheapest overall. |
| Do they charge per mile? | Both | U-Haul charges a daily rate plus a per-mile fee for local moves and a flat rate for long-distance trips. Penske does the same, but some one-way rentals include unlimited mileage. Always double-check your quote before booking. |
| Top 3 pros for U-Haul | — | 1. Widest availability nationwide
2. Lower base prices 3. Flexible short-term rentals |
| Top 3 pros for Penske | — | 1. Newer, well-maintained fleet
2. Unlimited mileage on many one-way rentals 3. Strong customer service reputation |
| Top 3 cons for U-Haul | — | 1. Older trucks on average
2. Per-mile fees can add up fast 3. Prices vary widely by location |
| Top 3 cons for Penske | — | 1. Higher base rates
2. Fewer pickup and drop-off locations 3. Limited availability for smaller moves |
If you’re moving across town, U-Haul is usually the simpler and cheaper choice. For longer moves or when you want a newer truck and a smoother ride, Penske often delivers more value despite the higher upfront cost.
Penske vs. U-Haul: Rental Truck Sizes
First things first, let’s take a look at the rental truck sizes available from both Penske and U-Haul. We reviewed each company’s website and made calls to local rental centers to confirm loading space, mileage, and towing capabilities.
Most people renting a truck aren’t looking for something fancy — they just need a vehicle that fits their move. For small apartment moves, U-Haul has more variety. For larger moves, both companies have strong options, though Penske’s trucks are often newer and slightly more fuel-efficient.
Here’s how the two compare at a glance:
Truck Sizes and Availability
| Rental Sizes | Penske Truck Sizes | U-Haul Truck Sizes |
| Pickup Truck | ❌ | ✅ Pickup Truck, 19 mpg |
| Cargo Van (Small studio apt) | ❌ | ✅ Cargo Van, 18 mpg |
| Smallest Box Truck (Studio or 1 BR apt) | ✅ 12-ft Truck, 10–12 mpg | ✅ 10-ft Truck, 12 mpg |
| Mid-range Box Truck (1–2 BR home) | ✅ 16-ft Truck, 10–12 mpg | ✅ 15-ft Truck, 10 mpg |
| Large Box Truck (2–3 BR home) | ✅ 22-ft Truck, 12 mpg (Diesel) | ✅ 20-ft Truck, 10 mpg |
| Largest Box Truck (3–5 BR home) | ✅ 26-ft Truck, 12 mpg (Diesel) | ✅ 26-ft Truck, 10 mpg |
Who wins: U-Haul. It offers more vehicle sizes for residential moves, including smaller options like pickup trucks and cargo vans. Penske’s lineup is simpler but performs better for long-distance trips thanks to newer diesel trucks and better fuel efficiency.
Who Wins: U-Haul
U-Haul has long had the benefit of offering pickup trucks (not an option at Penske). Now that Penske has recently removed cargo vans from their residential lineup, U-Haul is the clear winner in the rental truck size contest.
Penske vs. U-Haul: Services and Add-Ons
When you’re choosing a moving truck, it helps to look beyond just the size or the price. The extra stuff — like whether you can rent a dolly, get packing supplies, or add storage — can make your moving day a lot easier.
Penske and U-Haul both cover the basics, like truck rentals, coverage options, and roadside help. The main difference is how much each one includes from the start. U-Haul has more services built in, while Penske works with partners to fill in those gaps.
Services and Add-Ons Comparison
| Service | Penske | U-Haul |
| Rental Trucks | ✅ | ✅ |
| Coverage and Roadside Assistance | ✅ | ✅ |
| Trailer Hitches | ❌ | ✅ |
| Tow Dollies & Car Carriers | ✅ | ✅ |
| International Moving | ❌ | ✅ (with U-Box®) |
| Self Storage | ✅ (through partners) | ✅ |
| Portable Storage Containers | ❌ | ✅ (U-Box®) |
| Moving Labor | ✅ (Simple Moving Labor) | ✅ (Moving Help®) |
| Moving Supplies | ✅ | ✅ |
| Propane Sales | ❌ | ✅ |
Who wins: U-Haul. It tends to be easier for people who just want to rent a truck and get going without hunting for extra services. You can usually find what you need in one place, from boxes to storage. Penske does many of the same things, but you’ll sometimes have to go through partners or make separate arrangements. That’s not a dealbreaker, but it adds a few extra steps.
Penske vs. U-Haul: Coverage Options
When you rent a moving truck, coverage protects you if something goes wrong on the road. Both companies offer a few levels of protection, from basic equipment coverage to more complete plans that include personal injury and cargo damage.
“U-Haul wins on price. Penske wins on reliability. The right choice depends on what matters more for your move — saving the most money or knowing you’ll have a well-maintained truck waiting when you arrive.”
If you’re only driving across town, the minimum coverage might be fine. For a long trip or a one-way move, though, it’s worth paying a little more for broader protection. Accidents, weather, or damage during loading can get expensive quickly, and most personal auto policies won’t cover a rental truck.
Penske Coverage Options
| Plan | What It Covers |
| Basic | Damage to Penske equipment only |
| Standard | Equipment damage, third-party damage, and injury claims |
| Value | All Standard coverage plus cargo accident damage |
| Plus | Everything above, plus personal accident and injury protection |
These plans build on one another, letting you add more protection as you go up in tiers.
U-Haul Coverage Options
| Plan | What It Covers |
| Safemove® | Damage waiver, cargo protection, and basic medical/life coverage |
| Safemove Plus® | All Safemove protection plus supplemental liability coverage, and no deductible for accidental damage |
| Safetow® | Protection for towed vehicles and cargo |
| Safetrip® | Supplemental roadside protection |
| Safestor® | Coverage for storage with U-Haul or U-Box® |
| Safehaul® | Coverage for shipped items via U-Box® |
Who wins: U-Haul. It offers more types of protection and more flexibility to tailor coverage to your move. Penske’s plans are straightforward and solid, but U-Haul gives customers more control over what they pay for and how much they’re protected.
Penske vs. U-Haul: Cost
Pricing is one of the biggest deciding factors when you’re choosing between Penske and U-Haul. Both companies have updated their fees and mileage rates for 2025, so we pulled new data from our most recent truck rental cost analysis to see how they compare for local, regional, and long-distance moves.
For this comparison, we looked at average prices for a mid-size truck (around 15–16 feet) across large, mid-size, and small U.S. cities. These quotes include base rental costs and standard fees but not optional insurance or add-ons.
Average 2025 Truck Rental Costs
| Move Type | U-Haul | Penske |
| Local (same city) | $139 | $215 |
| Regional (next state over) | $168 | $256 |
| Long-distance (cross-country) | $3,249 | $3,718 |
These numbers include mileage, environmental, and vehicle fees, plus average fuel estimates based on national gas prices of about $3.18 per gallon.
At a glance: U-Haul remains the more affordable choice across all move types, especially for short and regional trips. Penske’s prices are higher, but some one-way rentals include unlimited mileage, which can make them more predictable for longer trips.
How Mileage and Fees Work
Both companies charge differently depending on the move type.
- Local moves: U-Haul uses a daily base rate plus a per-mile fee (usually around $1.39 per mile). Penske’s local rates include unlimited mileage in some markets but often have higher daily prices.
- Long-distance moves: U-Haul prices are quoted as flat one-way rates that include mileage and travel days. Penske follows a similar structure, often bundling unlimited mileage into its long-distance pricing.
Who wins on cost
For most moves, U-Haul comes out ahead. Its base prices are consistently lower, and even though you’ll pay per mile on local trips, the total tends to be cheaper. Penske’s trucks may get slightly better fuel economy and include unlimited miles on longer routes, but the higher upfront cost usually outweighs the savings.
If you’re only driving across town or a few hundred miles, U-Haul will likely save you money. For a cross-country move, Penske can still be worth checking if unlimited mileage gives you peace of mind about the total cost.
Is Penske Cheaper Than U-Haul for a Local Move?
No, Penske is generally not cheaper than U-Haul for local moves. Based on our 2025 rental truck cost data, U-Haul continues to offer lower starting prices and more flexible options for short-distance trips.
The comparison below shows estimated local pricing for each company’s smallest available box truck, including base fees, mileage, and standard add-ons.
Local Move Cost Comparison (Tampa Bay Region)
| Cost Item | Penske 12-ft Box Truck | U-Haul 10-ft Box Truck |
| Base Rate | $29.99 | $19.95 |
| Cubic Feet | 450 ft³ | 402 ft³ |
| Mileage Fee | $0.99 per mile | $0.99 per mile |
| Vehicle Licensing Fee | $2.50 | $1.20 |
| Environmental Fee | $5.00 | $1.00 |
| Basic Insurance | $30.00 | $15.00 |
| Estimated Tax | $2.63 | $1.47 |
| Total Estimated Cost (Before Driving) | $70.12 | $38.62 |
At a glance: Even before you hit the road, renting from U-Haul costs roughly half as much as renting from Penske for a local move of similar size. Both charge the same mileage rate, but U-Haul’s lower base and insurance costs make it the more affordable option for short trips.
Is Penske Cheaper Than U-Haul for Long Distance Moves?
No, Penske is still not cheaper than U-Haul for most long-distance moves. While Penske trucks get slightly better gas mileage and often include unlimited miles, the higher base rates usually cancel out those advantages.
For our 2025 cost comparison, we used average long-distance quotes from our nationwide truck rental cost analysis, which includes similar routes and equipment sizes across major markets. This reflects real-world costs for a one-way move using a 26-foot truck.
Long-Distance Move Cost Comparison (Example Route: Tampa, FL → Los Angeles, CA, ~2,980 miles)
| Cost Item | Penske 26-ft Truck (Diesel) | U-Haul 26-ft Truck (Gas) |
| Base Rate | $4,760 | $3,399 |
| Coverage | $540 | $140 |
| Environmental Fee | $15 | $5 |
| Estimated Tax | $346 | $247 |
| Average MPG | 12 mpg | 10 mpg |
| Fuel Cost (Est.) | $812 | $912 |
| Total Estimated Cost (With Fuel) | $5,718 | $4,703 |
At a glance: Even with better mileage and unlimited miles, Penske’s total long-distance price still comes in about $1,000 higher than U-Haul’s. The higher base rate and insurance costs outweigh the fuel savings.
U-Haul remains the cheaper option for long-distance moves in 2025, even when fuel efficiency and mileage policies are factored in.
Both companies have ways to help you save, but they do it in different ways. Penske gives more direct price cuts, while U-Haul focuses on extras that make moving a bit easier.
Penske discounts:
- AAA members usually save about 12%
- Military members and veterans can get up to 15% off
- Students often get around 10% off local or one-way moves
- Promo codes pop up sometimes for one-way trips, taking another small amount off
U-Haul discounts:
- One free month of storage with a one-way truck or trailer rental
- Free used boxes are available through their Customer Connect program
- Option to sell back any unused boxes after your move
- Free towing inspections and occasional price breaks if you need the truck for extra days
Who wins: Penske. The discounts go straight toward lowering what you pay for the truck, so you see the savings right away. U-Haul’s deals are nice if you need storage or supplies, but they don’t really bring down the rental cost itself.
Penske vs. U-Haul: Ease of Booking
Booking a moving truck online sounds simple, but not every company makes it feel that way. Both U-Haul and Penske let you reserve a truck from your phone or laptop, but the process itself isn’t quite the same.
Booking Online with U-Haul
U-Haul’s site is easy to navigate, and the quote tool gives you plenty of options right away. You can plug in your dates, pick your truck size, and see availability in your area within a minute or two.
The site does try to upsell you — boxes, pads, towing gear — but at least you can see everything in one place before you check out. For people who like having full control over the details, that’s a plus. The only drawback we could find is that the booking flow can feel long if you just want to grab a quick price.
Booking Online with Penske
Penske’s site feels cleaner and faster, in general. You can get a quote in fewer steps and without as much upselling. It’s straightforward and clear about what’s included in the rate.
You’ll also see options to add insurance or towing equipment right in the quote summary instead of being pushed through extra pages.
However, Penske’s availability tool isn’t quite as flexible as U-Haul’s. Some pickup and drop-off locations don’t show up until you call, and certain sizes of trucks aren’t available for all trip types online.
Who wins: It’s close! Penske’s process is simpler, but U-Haul’s site gives you more information and flexibility. If you value speed, Penske is easier to book. If you’d rather see every option up front and book everything in one place, U-Haul might be the better fit.
Penske vs. U-Haul: Customer Satisfaction
We went to Consumer Affairs to find out more about the customer experience at Penske and U-Haul, from the best and worst reviews to overall customer satisfaction ratings.
Penske vs. U-Haul: Recent Customer Reviews
U-Haul 5-Star Review
“It was a 1,700 mile move and the truck and equipment performed very well. We were able to return the equipment to the Cottonwood office where the person in charge was very knowledgeable and helpful. It was a positive experience.” – Robert C., Cottonwood, AZ (September 2025)
U-Haul 1-Star Review
“Rented a 15 foot truck for 3 hours. Vehicle had damage all around it including the safety equipment. Used mobile app to check in. That backfired because they ended up charging me for damage that had been previously done to this truck as well as the insurance. The team there was unwilling to resolve.” – Javier, U-Haul customer (October 2024)
Penske 5-Star Review
“Overall, loved working with Penske. Terrific customer service! Vehicle was fine. Tough to see out of passenger side mirror; had my son drive instead. Easy pick up, easy drop off!” – Jill M., San Marcos, CA (July 2025)
Penske 1-Star Review
“I rented from them in July and returned the truck on time. A week later, I was told the vehicle hadn’t been returned and was charged over $500. When I called, they changed their story and said it was for a missing key. Very frustrating experience.” – Twila H., Jacksonville, FL (October 2025)
Consumer Ratings:
| Criteria | Penske | U-Haul |
| Consumer Affairs Rating | 3.8 / 5 | 2.6 / 5 |
| Trustpilot Rating | 3.4 / 5 | 2.1 / 5 |
| 5-Star Review Percentage | 18% | 10% |
| 1-Star Review Percentage | 56% | 73% |
| Total Reviews (approx.) | ~400 | ~1,400 |
Who Wins: Penske.
From what people are saying this year, Penske just feels more reliable. The trucks show up clean and ready to go, and most folks finish their move without a hassle. U-Haul is everywhere and cheaper, but too many people mention problems getting the truck they booked or dealing with staff who don’t follow through. Penske costs more, but you actually get what you expect.
Your Experience May Vary by Location
Keep in mind that customer satisfaction can be wildly different depending on which location you’re renting from. A Penske or U-Haul in one city might be great, while the same company two states over could have serious issues. Before you book, take a few minutes to look up reviews for the specific pickup and drop-off locations you’ll be using. What happened to someone in California might not match what you’ll experience in Georgia, so local reviews give you a much clearer picture of what to expect.
Penske vs. U-Haul: Availability
Availability can make or break a move, especially if your schedule is tight. This is one area where U-Haul’s size really shines. With thousands of locations across the country, it’s usually not hard to find a truck nearby. Many of their vehicles are stationed at small local businesses or gas stations in addition to U-Haul centers, which makes same-day or last-minute rentals possible in most areas. The one thing to keep in mind is that the inventory moves quickly, and customers sometimes report being reassigned to a different pickup site or truck size when demand is high.
“For small apartment moves, U-Haul has more [truck size] variety. For larger moves, both companies have strong options, though Penske’s trucks are often newer and slightly more fuel-efficient.”
Penske’s network is smaller, but it’s more predictable. You’ll find most of their trucks at Home Depot stores or official Penske branches. There may not be as many to choose from, but reservations are typically more reliable. When you book a truck, it’s far more likely to be waiting for you at the exact time and place you scheduled. That reliability matters when you have movers or travel plans tied to a specific day.
Who wins: U-Haul offers broader access, making it easier to find something close and available right away. Penske’s biggest advantage is dependability — fewer surprises on pickup day and a smoother process overall. If convenience is your top concern, U-Haul will do the job. If reliability is what matters most, Penske is the safer choice.
So, Is Penske a Good U-Haul Alternative?
Renting a truck remains one of the most affordable ways to move, and both U-Haul and Penske make that possible. The key difference comes down to what kind of value you’re looking for.
If your main goal is to spend less, U-Haul is still the cheaper option. Its base rates and short-distance prices come in lower almost everywhere, and with more locations to choose from, it’s easier to find a truck that fits your budget on short notice.
Penske, on the other hand, earns its reputation for quality. The trucks are newer, the reservations more dependable, and the customer experience tends to be smoother, especially for long-distance moves. You’ll pay more up front, but you’re less likely to deal with last-minute surprises or vehicle issues once the move starts.
U-Haul wins on price. Penske wins on reliability. The right choice depends on what matters more for your move — saving the most money or knowing you’ll have a well-maintained truck waiting when you arrive.
Why You Can Trust HireAHelper
Everything we write is based on real data and research we do ourselves. We pull current truck rental prices, read customer reviews, and collect new quotes to make sure the information stays accurate. Nothing here comes from guesswork or old data.
HireAHelper has helped more than one million people move. We’ve seen what goes right and what doesn’t, and we use that experience to make moving simpler for everyone who reads our guides.
You can learn more about our team and how we do our research at HireAHelper.com/about.
Penske vs. U-Haul: FAQs
Q: Why is Penske better than U-Haul?
A: After our extensive review, we’ve found that Penske’s trucks might be in better condition (which means they can give better gas mileage), and they offer more options for discounts. If neither of those points matters to you, you’re probably going to find what you need at U-Haul.
Q: Why is Penske so expensive?
A: Penske’s pricier rentals are likely influenced by the additional cost of maintaining a higher-quality truck fleet compared to U-Haul’s (Penske supposedly changes out their trucks more frequently).
Q: What is the best truck rental for moving?
A: U-Haul has a lot going for it: it’s very widely available, cheaper, and has plenty of truck size options. It will be the best option for a lot of people.
Q: Is there an AAA U-Haul discount?
A: AAA doesn’t offer a discount for U-Haul.
A Look at Other U-Haul Alternatives
U-Haul may be one of the better-known options out there, but it isn’t the only one. If you can’t find what you want at U-Haul, check out some of these other U-Haul alternatives.
Budget Truck Rental
- Unlimited mileage for one-way rentals
- Affordable rates
- Discounts available
- Limited services
Enterprise Truck Rental
- 12+ different truck/van sizes
- Moving supplies add-ons
- One-way rentals aren’t always available
Home Depot Truck Rental
- Unlimited mileage options
- Low-cost hourly rentals
- Convenient locations
- Packing/moving supplies available in stores
- One-way rentals aren’t always available
Bottom Line: The Right Rental Truck for Your Move
If you’re looking for affordability, convenience, and options, U-Haul may be your best bet, but it’s not your only option. Many rental truck companies have quote engines built into their websites, making it easier than ever to compare pricing and services. Before your next move, we recommend getting at least three quotes and always ask about hidden costs and fees.