Renting a Uhaul truck is a popular option for people who are moving or need to transport large items. Uhaul is one of the leading truck rental companies in the United States, offering a range of trucks and trailers for rent at affordable prices. However, before you rent a Uhaul truck, it’s important to understand the cost involved and what you can expect to pay.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Renting a Uhaul Truck
The cost of renting a Uhaul truck depends on several factors, including:
- The size of the truck
- The distance of the trip
- The duration of the rental
- The pickup and drop-off locations
- The time of year
Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors.
The Size of the Truck
The size of the Uhaul truck you rent will have a significant impact on the cost. Uhaul offers trucks in a variety of sizes, ranging from 10 feet to 26 feet. The larger the truck, the more expensive the rental will be. However, renting a larger truck may be necessary if you have a lot of items to move.
The Distance of the Trip
The distance of the trip will also affect the cost of renting a Uhaul truck. Uhaul charges a base rate for the rental, plus a certain amount per mile. The longer the trip, the more miles you will need to drive, which will increase the overall cost.
The Duration of the Rental
The duration of the rental will also impact the cost. Uhaul charges a daily rate for the rental, so the longer you rent the truck, the more expensive it will be. However, Uhaul does offer discounts for longer rentals, so it may be more cost-effective to rent the truck for a longer period of time.
The Pickup and Drop-Off Locations
The pickup and drop-off locations will also affect the cost of renting a Uhaul truck. If you pick up the truck in one location and drop it off in another, you may be charged an additional fee. Additionally, some locations may have higher rental rates than others.
The Time of Year
The time of year can also impact the cost of renting a Uhaul truck. During peak moving season (typically between May and September), rental rates may be higher due to increased demand. If you can schedule your move during the off-season, you may be able to save money on the rental.
The Cost of Renting a Uhaul Truck
So, how much does it cost to rent a Uhaul truck? The cost will depend on the factors we discussed above. However, here are some rough estimates:
- A 10-foot truck rental for a local move (under 50 miles) will cost around $20 per day, plus $0.59 per mile.
- A 20-foot truck rental for a local move (under 50 miles) will cost around $40 per day, plus $0.79 per mile.
- A 26-foot truck rental for a local move (under 50 miles) will cost around $45 per day, plus $0.79 per mile.
- A one-way truck rental (for moves over 50 miles) will cost around $100-$300 per day, plus $0.59-$0.79 per mile.
Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and the actual cost may vary based on your specific rental.
Additional Costs to Consider
In addition to the base rental cost and mileage fees, there may be some additional costs to consider when renting a Uhaul truck. These may include:
- Insurance: Uhaul offers optional insurance coverage for an additional fee.
- Equipment rentals: Uhaul offers a variety of equipment rentals, such as furniture pads and dollies, for an additional fee.
- Gas: You will need to refill the gas tank before returning the truck.
- Additional fees: There may be additional fees if you return the truck late or don’t follow the rental agreement.
Make sure to read the rental agreement carefully and factor in any additional costs when budgeting for your move.
Tips for Saving Money on a Uhaul Rental
While renting a Uhaul truck can be expensive, there are some tips you can follow to save money:
- Book early: Uhaul often offers discounts for early bookings.
- Compare rates: Shop around and compare rates from different rental companies.
- Choose the right size truck: Renting a truck that is too large or too small can be costly.
- Move during the off-season: If possible, schedule your move during the off-season to take advantage of lower rental rates.
- Avoid additional fees: Make sure to return the truck on time and in good condition to avoid additional fees.
Conclusion
Renting a Uhaul truck can be a cost-effective way to move or transport large items. However, it’s important to understand the cost involved and factor in any additional fees. By doing your research and following these tips, you can save money on your Uhaul rental and make your move a success.