Renting a U-Haul: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Whether you’re relocating to a new home or just tackling an intensive DIY project, renting a U-Haul can make the job easier and smoother. From understanding your needs to returning the truck with everything done just right, there are many factors at play when it comes to getting the most out of your rental. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll walk through all of the steps involved in renting a U-Haul so that you can tackle whatever task is ahead with confidence.
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.
Determine your requirements
Before you start, assess the size of your move and the distance you’ll be traveling. Consider the volume of your belongings and the type of vehicle you’ll need. U-Haul offers various truck sizes, trailers, and other equipment to accommodate small to large moves.
Locate a nearby U-Haul center
Find a U-Haul center in close proximity to your current residence. You can search for locations on U-Haul’s website or use a search engine to find the nearest franchise. It’s crucial to select a convenient location to minimize extra travel and hassle.
Check availability and reserve your truck
Once you’ve found a suitable U-Haul center, visit their website or call to confirm the availability of your desired truck or equipment. Reserve your chosen vehicle for the moving date to ensure it’s available when you need it.
Gather necessary documents
Before picking up your rental truck, gather the required documents, including a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance. U-Haul requires drivers to be at least 18 years old for truck rentals and 16 years old for trailer rentals.
Pick up your rental
On the day of your move, arrive at the U-Haul center to collect your rental. Inspect the vehicle for any existing damage and make sure to report it to the staff before leaving the premises. Double-check that any additional equipment or services you reserved are included with the rental.
Review the rental contract
Before signing the rental agreement, read it thoroughly to ensure you understand the terms and conditions. Take note of any mileage limits, additional fees for extra days, and the company’s policies on refueling and returning the vehicle.
Familiarize yourself with the truck
Before hitting the road, familiarize yourself with the rental truck’s features and controls. Adjust the mirrors, practice maneuvering, and make sure you’re comfortable driving the larger vehicle.
Load your belongings
When it’s time to load your possessions, follow proper loading techniques to maximize space and prevent damage. Place the heaviest items at the front of the truck, near the cab, and arrange smaller boxes last. Use padding, straps, and tie-downs to secure your belongings during transit.
Return the rental
Once you’ve completed your move, return the truck to the designated U-Haul location. Make sure to refuel the vehicle, as required by the rental agreement, and remove all of your personal items. If you’ve incurred any additional charges, settle them with the staff at the drop-off location.
By following these steps and planning ahead, you’ll enjoy a seamless U-Haul rental experience and a successful DIY move.
How Much does it Cost to Get a U-Haul Truck?
The cost of renting a U-Haul truck varies based on the size of the vehicle, the distance you’ll be traveling, and any additional services you may need. Base prices for U-Haul trucks range from $19.95 for smaller options, such as an 8′ pickup or 10′ truck, to $39.95 for larger trucks, like the 20′ or 26′ models. Keep in mind, these base prices do not include mileage fees, which typically hover around $1.59 per mile.
To calculate the total cost, you’ll need to factor in the base price, mileage fees, and any extra fees for additional services or equipment. For example, if you were to rent a 10′ truck for a 100-mile move, you would pay $207, including the $19.95 base price and $1.59 per mile for 100 miles. It’s essential to consider these costs when planning your move to ensure it aligns with your budget and expectations.
| 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
With renting a U-Haul, you can now tackle those tough moving tasks with ease. It’s affordable and convenient, and you don’t have to invest in a large-capacity vehicle of your own. Take the time to understand the process and consider all your options so that you make the right rentable vehicle decision for your moving needs.
Lastly, when it comes down to it, make sure that you check out reviews for any potential U-Haul rental location before committing so that you know the staff there is reliable and attentive. With these steps in mind and implementation, renting a U-Haul can be just as easy as finding one!
