Does Renting U-Haul Actually Cost $19.95?

Are you thinking about moving but unsure how much renting a U-Haul will actually cost? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many people find the process of figuring out moving costs, especially truck rentals, to be a bit confusing. But here's the good news: we’re here to break it all down for you in a way that’s easy to understand and budget for.

In short, renting a U-Haul does not actually cost $19.95. Your final bill typically includes:

• The base rate for your selected truck
• Mileage charges
• Rental duration
• Fuel costs
• Insurance coverage
• Environmental fees
• Optional moving help

📦 Need an estimate on the price of a U-Haul? Try our U-Haul Rental Cost Calculator

U-Haul Base Rates: What You Need to Know

It's important to note that these base rates are just the starting points for your rental costs. The mileage fee is added on top of these base rates, so the total cost can quickly add up the further you need to travel.

For instance, if you’re planning a move within town, your overall expense will be a combination of the base rate and the mileage rate.

For example, renting a 10' truck at $19.95 per day, with an additional $1.19 per mile, can turn into $31.85 for just a 10-mile trip.

Besides the regular in-town (round-trip) rental, U-Haul offers one-way rentals. This means you can pick up your truck at one location and drop it off at another. This is particularly useful for longer moves where returning the truck to the original location is not feasible.

One-way rentals include a designated mileage allowance, which is typically calculated based on the distance between the pick-up and drop-off locations. If you exceed this allowance, expect to pay additional mileage fees at around $1.00 per mile.

💡 Explore more: What You Need to Know Before You Rent a U-Haul

Key Factors Affecting U-Haul Rental Prices

When it comes to renting a U-Haul, several factors come into play that can significantly influence the final cost. Let's dive into the main aspects you should consider:

• Distance Traveled:
  • How far you’re moving directly affects the cost. For local moves, you typically pay by the mile, which means the farther you go, the more you pay. Long-distance, or one-way rentals, have a different model that usually includes a set number of miles within the base rate.
• Truck Size:
  • U-Haul offers a variety of truck sizes from cargo vans to 26-foot trucks. Naturally, larger trucks cost more to rent, but they also carry more.
• Time of the Week:
  • Believe it or not, the day you choose to move can impact your rental price. Weekends and the beginning or end of the month are peak moving times, often resulting in higher rates.
• Rental Location:
  • Prices can vary depending on the location you’re renting from. High-demand areas might have steeper prices, while rates in less busy locations may be more affordable.
• Seasonal Demand:
  • Just like the time of the week, the time of the year can affect prices. Summer is a popular moving season, which generally means higher rates for U-Haul rentals.

Understanding these key points will help you estimate your U-Haul rental costs better. By considering the distance, truck size, timing, and location, you can make a smart choice and maybe save some money. Don't forget to compare rates to make sure you're getting the best deal for your move!

💡 Knowledge is power: learn if local movers or U-Haul is cheaper

6 Important Facts to Know Before Booking a U-Haul

Before you hit the road with a U-Haul truck, there are a few essential things you should be aware of.

1. The average cost of renting a U-Haul for a one-way move is $130
2. Local moves with U-Haul typically cost $19.95 per day plus mileage fees
3. Mileage fees for U-Haul rentals average $0.79 per mile
4. U-Haul charges an environmental fee of $1-$5
5. Insurance coverage for U-Haul rentals ranges from $14 to $28 per day
6. Additional equipment like dollies and furniture pads can add $7-$10 per item

💡 Considering a Home Depot truck rental? Learn more here: U-Haul Vs. Home Depot Truck Rental in New York

Fuel Costs and Policies

Fuel costs are a crucial part of your U-Haul rental budget. U-Haul trucks use unleaded fuel, which is more convenient and better for the environment than diesel.

When you rent a U-Haul, you must refill the gas tank to the level it was at when you picked up the truck. If you don't, you'll face extra charges.

Mileage fees are another factor to consider. These rates can change based on your location and whether you're making a local or long-distance move. For instance, mileage rates in crowded cities like Los Angeles are often higher than in the Midwest. Make sure to check your rental agreement for specific rates.

Planning your route can also help manage fuel costs. By noting gas stations along the way and refueling during less busy times, you can avoid delays and keep your move on schedule. Keep these tips in mind for a smoother and more budget-friendly U-Haul rental experience.

💡 Tip: Save money by finding the cheapest gas station nearby.

U-Haul One-Way Vs. Round-Trip Rentals

Understanding the costs associated with renting a U-Haul can be quite daunting, but breaking it down into its core components helps simplify the process. As illustrated in the table above, the rental type you choose will heavily influence your overall expenses.

One-Way Rental Cost

With one-way rentals, the base rate can vary significantly based on factors like truck size, moving dates, and distance. Remember, while you have a designated mileage allowance, any extra miles will tack on additional costs at $1.00 per mile. If you need extra days, that’s an extra $40 per day. This type of rental is ideal for long-distance moves, saving you the hassle of returning the vehicle to its original location.

• Base Rate:
  • Varies by truck size, date, and distance
• Mileage:
  • Includes a set allowance; extra miles = $1.00/mile
• Extra Days:
  • $40 per additional day
• Best For:
  • Long-distance moves (drop-off at different location)

Round-Trip Rental Cost

Round-trip rentals (also called in-town rentals), on the other hand, offer a more predictable pricing structure for local moves. With a low daily base rate starting at $19.95 and an additional fee of approximately $0.79 per mile, you can easily estimate your costs based on the distance you'll be traveling.

Despite the appealing base rate, keep in mind that mileage fees can quickly add up if you're covering a considerable distance.

• Base Rate:
  • Starts at $19.95/day
• Mileage Fee:
  • Around $0.79 per mile
• Best For:
  • Local moves with return to original location
• Note:
  • Costs can rise quickly with longer driving distances

Which Type Should I Choose?

Choosing between one-way and round-trip rentals essentially boils down to your specific moving needs. Are you relocating across the country or simply moving a few blocks away? Consider the distance, duration, and any additional fees to make an informed decision.

How to Avoid Unexpected Costs

Additionally, the cost is influenced by several factors, including the day of the week and the rental location. Weekend rates might be higher due to increased demand, whereas weekday rentals could offer some savings. For example, in Florida, the weekend rate is about $0.89 per mile, compared to lower rates on weekdays. Always check for any regional differences that might apply to your specific move.

To avoid any unexpected costs, make sure to:

• Calculate your total distance before renting.
• Consider if a round trip (in-town rental) or a one-way trip is more economical for your needs.
• Keep an eye on potential additional fees, such as fuel costs and late return penalties.

The Actual Total Cost of Renting a U-Haul

Remember, the total cost of renting a U-Haul includes the base rate of your selected truck, mileage charges, rental duration, fuel costs, insurance, environmental fees, and any optional moving help.

Base Rate

The advertised base rate varies depending on the truck size, location, and day of the week. For example, a 26-foot truck may start at $39.95 for an in-town move. However, that number is only the starting point — not the final cost.

Mileage & Distance

For local moves, U-Haul charges per mile. Even at $0.79–$1.19 per mile, those charges add up quickly — especially if you need multiple trips.

For long-distance or one-way rentals, mileage is often bundled into the rate, but additional miles can significantly increase your total.

Fuel Costs

U-Haul trucks must be returned with the same fuel level as when you picked them up. These trucks are not known for fuel efficiency, so longer moves can mean a noticeable fuel expense on top of everything else.

Insurance & Environmental Fees

Optional insurance coverage typically costs extra per day. While it provides peace of mind, it increases your daily rental total.

Additionally, U-Haul may charge small environmental or administrative fees, which further raise the overall price.

Additional Services

If you need help loading or unloading, you can add movers through U-Haul. Depending on your move size and complexity, this can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.

Deposits & Payment Holds

It’s also important to note that U-Haul may place a temporary hold on your bank account for the estimated rental amount. This can reduce your available balance until the rental is finalized.

Let Laborhutt Do the Heavy Lifting

If you’re moving just one piece of furniture or completing a small apartment move, you may find that hiring help directly through Laborhutt is more affordable, without paying for the truck, mileage, gas, or hidden add-ons.

Before reserving a truck, it’s worth comparing the true total cost with our U-Haul Rental Cost Calculator. You might be surprised which option saves you more!