is key for anyone doing a DIY move. When planning your budget, especially for the first time, focus on mileage fees. These fees depend on how far you’re moving. For one-way moves, costs include total miles driven and any extra miles. For local moves, you pay a flat rate plus mileage costs.
To save money on U-Haul rentals, explore different options. Renting a bigger truck might mean fewer trips. Or use trailers, which might not add mileage fees but need extra equipment like a hitch. Remember to add up insurance, moving supplies, and equipment rental costs to get the total price.
Knowing the U-Haul price per mile helps you move cheaply and smoothly. Use trucks that save on gas and pack smart to keep costs low. There are many ways to make moving less expensive and more efficient.
Understanding U-Haul’s Pricing Models
U-Haul uses two main pricing models: in-town and one-way rentals. In-town uses a basic fee plus a uhaul mileage charge. For example, a 20-foot truck rental costs about $1,807 with a $1.09 charge for each mile driven.
One-way rentals have a set amount of miles and days included. Going over these limits means extra fees, which can raise the U-Haul rental costs a lot.
To provide a clear comparison:
- Penske Truck Rental (22-foot) costs $2,629, and they charge $0.79 for each mile you drive.
- Budget Truck Rental (16-foot) costs $1,354.84, with a $0.89 per mile fee.
- Enterprise Truck Rental (20-foot, local only) charges $95 daily, with a $0.23 mileage fee.
- Home Depot Truck Rental (12-foot, local only) charges $139 daily, but you don’t have to pay for miles you drive.
Rental costs can change with the seasons. Spring and summer usually have higher rates. But, you might save over $50 a day in the off-season.
The costs of renting with U-Haul go beyond just mileage rates. Security deposits, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) deductible fees, and the rental time also affect the total price.
Security deposits usually range from $100 to $500. CDW deductibles are often between $250 and $500. Plus, rentals are by the day; extra hours can lead to late fees.
Knowing these details can help customers understand U-Haul rental costs better. This makes choosing the right service for moving easier.
Factors Influencing U-Haul Price Per Mile
When you’re planning to move, you need to think about a few key things that affect U-Haul’s price per mile. The size of your load is a big deal because a bigger truck costs more to rent and uses more gas. This makes the total price go up.
The distance you’re moving also plays a huge role in cost. Traveling far means spending more on gas and travel. U-Haul does charge for mileage, which really matters for longer trips.
Also, extra gear like dollies and furniture pads can increase your bill. These items make moving easier, but they cost extra, usually between $7 and $10 each.
| Cost Component | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| One-Way Move | $130 on average |
| Local Rental (Daily) | $19.95, plus mileage fees |
| Mileage Fees | $0.79 per mile (local), $1.00 per mile (exceeding allowance) |
| Environmental Fee | $1-$5 |
| Insurance Coverage | $14-$28 per day |
| Additional Equipment | $7-$10 per item |
Knowing what affects U-Haul costs helps you budget better to avoid surprise charges. Factors like truck size and trip distance greatly influence what you’ll pay. Plus, being aware of average costs and extra fees prepares you for the move. This ensures a smoother and more budget-friendly move.
Calculating Your Total Rental Cost
To figure out your U-Haul rental cost, you’ll need to think about different things to skip surprise fees. The price you start with for renting a U-Haul can change a lot. It depends on how big the truck is and how long you need it. Local moves with a truck usually cost between $100 and $400. But, covering 500 miles for a long-distance move can run from $800 to $2,200. This starting price includes a daily fee that goes from $20 to $100, depending on the truck size and the rental service.
The fee for each mile you drive ranges usually from 59 to 99 cents. If you’re renting the truck to go one way, it’s $1.00 for every extra mile. To plan your budget well, try to guess the total miles you’ll travel. For example, moving a 2-3 bedroom house with a 20′ truck over 500 miles might cost $295 to $495 just for the miles.
Don’t forget about other costs like gas, insurance, and moving supplies. How much you spend on gas depends on how well the truck uses fuel and the price of gas. Penske trucks are often newer, less than 2 years old, which can mean they’re more reliable and better on gas. Insurance can make your rental cost a lot more, so it’s smart to ask about extra coverage to protect against possible harm. Items like dollies or furniture pads from U-Haul, though optional, can really help with your move. Also, getting help from Moving Help services, which costs about $211 to $362 for two movers for two hours, can save you time and effort.
Moving at certain times can also affect the cost. Moving from May to September or on weekends can be more expensive. So, moving between Sunday and Thursday is often cheaper.
Here’s a closer look at different costs:
| Truck Size | Base Rate | Per-mile Fee | Fuel Costs | Insurance | Additional Items |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10′ Truck | $100 – $400 | $0.59 – $0.99 | Varies | Depends on Coverage | Dollies, Pads |
| 15′ Truck | $100 – $400 | $0.59 – $0.99 | Varies | Depends on Coverage | Dollies, Pads |
| 20′ Truck | $100 – $400 | $0.59 – $0.99 | Varies | Depends on Coverage | Dollies, Pads |
| 26′ Truck | $100 – $400 | $0.59 – $0.99 | Varies | Depends on Coverage | Dollies, Pads |
To wrap things up, when figuring out U-Haul costs, it’s a good idea to get a current quote from U-Haul. This gives you a precise cost estimate. Keep in mind the truck size guidelines and think about extra costs like taxes and fees. This will help you manage your moving budget better. Also, using online tools to calculate distance can be a huge help in planning your move and keeping costs down.
Tips to Save Money on U-Haul Rentals
Renting a moving truck can be a big step in a budget-friendly DIY move. To cut down on U-Haul rental costs, being smart in your planning is key. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Booking your truck on weekdays can lower costs. Demand and prices usually go up from Thursday to Sunday.
- Use your own suitcases or bags instead of buying boxes. This saves money and uses what you already have.
- Get help from friends and family instead of paying for movers. This makes your move cheaper and more fun.
- Move during off-peak times, like winter, to save money. Rental prices change with the seasons, and less popular times are cheaper.
- Try U-Haul’s Box Exchange program for free moving supplies. It’s a cost-effective way to get what you need and help the environment.
Understanding the costs involved is crucial for a budget move. Let’s look at some key expenses:
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Base Rate for Local Move (per day) | $19.95 |
| Final Cost for One-Day Rental | $52.40 |
| Mileage Cost (e.g., Los Angeles, Saturday) | $1.39/mile |
| Fuel Economy (10′ U-Haul Truck) | 7-10 miles per gallon |
| Mandatory Service Fee for Returning Truck with Less than 1/4 Tank of Gas | $30.00 |
| Gas Charge if Refilling by U-Haul | $6.25 per gallon |
Using these tips can help you save on U-Haul rentals. Your move will be affordable and efficient. Smart planning and finding ways to save are key to reducing your moving costs.
Avoiding U-Haul Over Mileage Fees
To avoid a U-Haul over mileage fee, it’s key to correctly figure out your total travel distance. U-Haul’s one-way rentals include some miles in the base rate. But if you go over, you might pay extra—between $0.40 and $0.99 for each mile over.
Planning your route well is a top way to keep U-Haul costs down. This helps avoid extra miles and costs. For one-way trips, think about buying extra miles beforehand. It could be cheaper than paying overage fees. Make sure to know your rental’s mileage rates and allowances to prevent surprises.
Other than mileage fees, remember U-Haul adds costs for extra equipment. Items like furniture pads or dollies could be $10 to $20 each. Also, return the vehicle with a full gas tank. Not doing so means paying $3 to $5 per gallon for gas—way more than at gas stations.
| Truck Size | Fuel Tank Capacity | Max Fuel Efficiency (mpg) | Range (miles) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-foot truck | 31 gallons | 12 mpg | 372 miles |
| 15-foot truck | 40 gallons | 10 mpg | 400 miles |
| 20-foot truck | 40 gallons | 10 mpg | 400 miles |
| 26-foot truck | 60 gallons | 10 mpg | 600 miles |
Late returns also lead to fees—from a $20 flat to per mile charges for extra time. To keep U-Haul costs in check, return the vehicle on time. Also, watching your rental period helps.
Comparing Local vs. Long-Distance U-Haul Rentals
Choosing between local and long-distance U-Haul rentals means understanding their pricing and what each offers. For short moves, local rentals charge a flat fee plus mileage, making them affordable. They cost around $38.70 with an added $0.99 for each mile you travel.
Long-distance rentals include miles and days in the price. They’re pricier because they cover one-way trips. The average cost for a long-distance move with U-Haul is about $2,684. This option can be cheaper than others thanks to U-Haul’s vast network.
Budget’s local rentals are cheaper than U-Haul’s, with a base rate of $27.61 and $0.47 per mile. Even though Budget is more affordable, U-Haul offers more truck sizes. This means you can find just the right truck for your move.
For long trips, consider discounts and insurance options. Budget offers discounts for some customers, making it a good deal for them. U-Haul provides great insurance options like Safemove and Safetow to protect your things.
So, when picking a rental for your move, think about the distance, your budget, and the move’s details. U-Haul’s wide selection and location coverage are handy. But, Budget might save you money if their deals apply to you.
Cost-Effective Alternatives to U-Haul Rentals
Looking for other options besides U-Haul can save you money. It can also give you choices that better match what you need. Let’s look at some of the top choices out there:
Enterprise Truck Rentals has trucks in many sizes. You can rent them for an average of $129 a day, with a cost of $0.33 for every mile you drive. They operate in 48 states, Canada, and Puerto Rico, giving you good coverage.
Penske offers trucks in all 50 states and Canada. Their daily rental prices start at $59.99. For long trips, they don’t charge extra for miles, which can save you a lot.
Budget Truck Rental is really affordable for local moves. Prices start at about $27.60. They’re available in 49 states. For one-way moves, they offer trucks of various sizes with no extra mileage fees.
Home Depot works well for small or quick moves. Their smallest rental is $19 for 75 minutes. For bigger moves, they have trucks starting at $29. This makes them a budget-friendly choice.
If you’re looking for a more premium option, Alamo rents trucks starting at $186 a day. They serve every state, as well as Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Canada. Despite the higher price, Alamo offers a wide range of truck sizes and options.
Portable moving containers like PODS are a flexible choice. They let you pack and unpack at your own pace. Depending on how long your move takes, they might save you money compared to traditional rentals.
Don’t forget about borrowing a vehicle from friends or family. Rental companies like Hertz and Avis are also worth considering. Hertz has locations in all 50 states, with daily rentals around $56. Avis offers services in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, making them easily accessible.
Choosing the right U-Haul alternative involves comparing reviews, prices, and what fits your needs. Making a well-informed choice can help you save and make your move easier.
Estimating Additional Moving Expenses
Moving can feel like a huge task, and it’s smart to think about all extra costs to prevent surprises. When planning your moving budget, remember to include more than just the basic costs.
Let’s look at the cost for extra moving help. A two-person team for two hours can cost differently depending on where you live. For instance, it might be about $204 in Florida, but up to $345 in North Dakota. Below, we’ve listed the average costs for similar help in other states:
| State | Cost |
|---|---|
| Alaska | $242 |
| Alabama | $242 |
| Arkansas | $276 |
| Arizona | $214 |
| California | $258 |
| Colorado | $270 |
| Connecticut | $254 |
| Florida | $204 |
| Georgia | $215 |
| Hawaii | $242 |
| Illinois | $268 |
| Massachusetts | $305 |
| Minnesota | $310 |
| North Carolina | $233 |
| New York | $267 |
| Texas | $215 |
| Virginia | $239 |
| Wisconsin | $312 |
Also, think about how much time moving will take based on your home’s size. Here are some time estimates:
- Under 800 sq. ft.: 2 hours for 2-3 helpers
- 800-1000 sq. ft.: 2 hours for 2-3 helpers
- 1000-1500 sq. ft.: 3 hours for 2 helpers; 2-3 hours for 3 helpers; 2 hours for 4 helpers
- 1500-2000 sq. ft.: 4 hours for 2 helpers; 3-4 hours for 3 helpers; 2-3 hours for 4 helpers
- 2001-3000 sq. ft.: 6 hours for 2 helpers; 4-5 hours for 3 helpers; 3-4 hours for 4 helpers
- 3000-4000 sq. ft.: 6-8 hours for 2 helpers; 5-6 hours for 3 helpers; 4-5 hours for 4 helpers
- 4000+ sq. ft.: 10+ hours for 2 helpers; 8-10 hours for 3 helpers; 6-8 hours for 4 helpers
When budgeting for your move, remember to add costs for packing supplies, storage, and insurance. Don’t forget about extra help charges or labor fees. Also, consider other fees like cleaning, travel expenses (fuel, food, water, lodging), and setting up your new place. This might include utility fees, deposits, and buying essential household items. Planning for these costs helps avoid unexpected financial surprises during your move.
Benefits of Renting with U-Haul
Renting with U-Haul comes with many perks that make it appealing for various moving needs. They offer a wide range of truck sizes including 10, 15, 20, and 26 ft options. This means you can find just the right truck size for your move, local or far.
U-Haul’s network is huge, with over 21,000 locations in the U.S. and Canada. Finding a U-Haul nearby is easy, which makes picking up and returning the truck convenient. They also offer moving supplies like boxes and packing materials, making your move smoother.
For peace of mind, U-Haul has damage protection plans. Their Safemove plan covers up to $80,000 in damages for about $77. The Safemove Plus plan gives even more coverage, up to $1,000,000, for around $132. These options reduce worry about your stuff during the move.
U-Haul’s pricing is also competitive. Local moves of 100 miles or less average about $38.70, plus $0.99 per mile. This is cheaper than many competitors and the general average. Their long-distance move cost is $1,945.68, often less than others like Penske and below the average cost of $2,077.
They offer one-way rentals with the option to return trucks at different locations. This can include 30 days of free storage at some locations. Features like Self-Pick-Up and Self-Return via U-Haul Truck Share add even more convenience, allowing you to schedule as you like.
U-Haul’s wide service range and big benefits explain why it’s a top choice for moving. With great prices, various truck sizes, and helpful services, U-Haul is a dependable and economical rental option.
Customer Tips for a Successful Move
Planning your rental with U-Haul well ahead is key. Pack your truck smartly to use space well and stay safe. Visit U-Haul’s website for advice on truck sizes and how to pack. Using suitcases instead of boxes can cut costs. Don’t forget to plan your fuel stops and breaks for a smooth journey.
U-Haul has good deals for moving around town or to a new city. Local rentals start at just $19.95, plus you pay for the miles you drive. Long-distance moves give you more miles and days for an extra charge. Getting a month of free storage with these rentals is a bonus. Remember, gas might cost around $3.30 a gallon in 2024, so plan for that too.
Need extra help? Hiring workers through U-Haul’s Moving Help Marketplace costs between $211 and $362 for a few hours. Moving in winter could save you money. Buying boxes in bulk and getting the Safemove® waiver for $15 makes moving cheaper and safer.
Knowing U-Haul’s prices and planning for extras can make your DIY move cheaper and easier. Checking the costs of miles and storage helps a lot. With careful planning, your move won’t break the bank.