How to Rent a U-Haul: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Moving can be both an exciting and stressful experience. Renting a U-Haul for your move is one of the most popular options, and it’s easy to see why. U-Haul offers convenient locations throughout North America, competitive rates, and numerous vehicles in all sizes from pickups to 26-foot trucks plus equipment like trailer hitches or moving furniture pads.
But before you rent a U-Haul truck or van for your next move, there are several tips and best practices that can help make sure everything goes smoothly along the way. In this step-by-step guide on how to rent a U-Haul vehicle for your next move, we’ll walk through what information you need to have ready, important considerations while choosing a size of vehicle best suited for your job as well as other crucial details such as insurance costs involved when renting a U–Haul.
Steps to Rent A Uhaul for Moving
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to rent a U-Haul truck to ensure a smooth moving experience.
Step 1: Determine Your Requirements
The first step in renting a U-Haul truck is to determine the size of the truck you’ll need. U-Haul offers multiple truck sizes, ranging from 10 feet to 26 feet. Consider the amount of items you’ll be moving and the distance of your move when choosing the truck size. You should also consider whether you’ll need any additional equipment, such as a dolly or furniture pads.
Step 2: Locate a Nearby U-Haul Center
Use the U-Haul website or mobile app to locate a nearby U-Haul centre. You can also call U-Haul’s customer service to speak with a representative who can assist you in finding a centre.
Step 3: Check Availability and Reserve Your Truck
Once you’ve selected a U-Haul location, check the availability of the truck size you need. You can reserve your truck online or over the phone with a credit card.
Step 4: Gather Necessary Documents
On the day of your rental, be sure to bring a valid driver’s license and a credit card in the name of the driver. If someone else will be driving the truck, they will also need to bring their driver’s license.
Step 5: Pick Up Your Rental
Arrive at the U-Haul centre at the designated time to pick up your rental. A U-Haul representative will provide you with the keys to the rental and give you a brief overview of the truck’s features.
Step 6: Review the Rental Contract
Before signing the rental contract, be sure to review all of the terms and conditions. The contract will outline the rental period, the total cost, and any additional fees.
Step 7: Familiarize Yourself with the Truck
Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the truck before hitting the road. Adjust the mirrors and seats, and make note of all of the truck’s features, such as the gear shift and parking brake.
Step 8: Load Your Belongings
Load your belongings into the truck, making sure to distribute the weight evenly. Use furniture pads and tie-downs to secure your items and prevent damage during transport.
Step 9: Return the Rental
On the day of return, fill up the gas tank to the level it was when you picked up the truck. Return the truck to the U-Haul centre at the agreed-upon time and hand the keys back to the representative.
How Much Does it Cost to Get a U-Haul Truck?
When planning a move, one of the first things on your to-do list might be securing a truck rental. If you’re considering U-Haul, it’s important to know that the rental cost can vary based on different factors. The size of the truck you choose, the distance you need to travel, and any additional services you opt for can all impact the final price.
U-Haul’s base prices range from $19.95 for smaller options to $39.95 for larger trucks. However, these prices do not include mileage fees, which can add up quickly. To get an accurate estimate, consider the total distance you’ll be travelling and any additional services you may need. With careful planning, you can find a U-Haul rental that fits your budget and gets you where you need to go.
| Truck size | Base price | Included mileage | Total cost (100 miles) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8′ Pickup | $19.95 | $1.39 per mile | $177 |
| 10′ Truck | $19.95 | $1.59 per mile | $207 |
| 15′ Truck | $29.95 | $1.59 per mile | $223 |
| 20′ Truck | $39.95 | $1.59 per mile | $233 |
| 26′ Truck | $39.95 | $1.59 per mile | $233 |
In Closing
Renting a U-Haul truck is a simple process that can save you time and money during your move. By following these steps, you can ensure a stress-free experience and get on your way to your new home in no time. Remember to plan, bring the necessary documents, and familiarize yourself with the rental before hitting the road. Happy moving.
