The fastest way to find a U-Haul rental location
U-Haul has over 21,000 rental locations across North America, but the closest one to you depends on your zip code and what size truck you need. The quickest way to find nearby options is to go to uhaul.com, enter your location and rental dates, and see which branches have the truck size you want in stock. The website shows you the address, phone number, and current availability for each location — and you can reserve a truck right there without calling.
If you do not have internet access or prefer to call, U-Haul's customer service line is 1-800-468-4285. They can tell you which locations near you have trucks available and can hold a reservation over the phone. Local moving companies and equipment rental shops sometimes carry U-Haul trucks as well, so if the main U-Haul locations are booked, ask whether independent dealers in your area stock them.
Key Takeaways
- U-Haul's website shows real-time availability at nearby locations, including address, phone, and pricing for your specific dates.
- Truck sizes range from 10 feet to 26 feet, and availability varies by location — smaller trucks are usually easier to find on short notice.
- Independent dealers and moving companies often rent U-Haul trucks and may have different hours or availability than corporate locations.
- Reservation prices are lower than walk-in rates, so booking online or by phone before you arrive saves money.
- Peak moving season (May through September) fills trucks faster, so checking availability a few days ahead is wise.
How to search by truck size and rental period
U-Haul trucks come in five main sizes: 10-foot (holds about one bedroom), 15-foot (two bedrooms), 20-foot (three bedrooms), 26-foot (four to five bedrooms), and specialty trucks like the cargo van. When you search on uhaul.com, you pick the size you need, your pickup location, your return location (which can be different), and your rental dates. The site then shows you every location within a set radius that has that size available.
Smaller trucks (10 and 15 feet) are stocked at more locations and are easier to find on short notice. If you need a 26-foot truck on a Friday in summer, you may need to search a wider area or book several days ahead. One-way rentals (picking up in one city and dropping off in another) are possible but cost more than local moves, and availability depends on U-Haul's current fleet distribution.
Comparing U-Haul locations: corporate branches versus independent dealers
U-Haul operates both corporate-owned locations and independent dealer locations (often at hardware stores, moving companies, or equipment rental shops). Corporate locations tend to have more consistent hours and a wider range of truck sizes. Independent dealers may have limited inventory but sometimes have better availability on specific dates because they serve a smaller local area.
Prices can differ between corporate and independent locations for the same truck and dates, so if you are flexible on where you pick up, checking a few nearby options is worth the time. Independent dealers sometimes offer local discounts or loyalty programs that corporate locations do not. Call ahead if you are planning to rent from a dealer you have not used before — hours vary widely, and some close on Sundays or evenings.
What to expect when you arrive to pick up your truck
When you arrive at your rental location, bring a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name. U-Haul will ask you to inspect the truck for existing damage (dents, scratches, fluid leaks) and will document it on the rental agreement. Take photos or video of the truck's condition before you leave the lot — this protects you if U-Haul tries to charge you for damage that was already there.
The rental agent will show you how to operate the truck's basic controls, including the mirrors, lights, and backup camera if equipped. Ask about fuel policy: some rentals include a full tank and require you to return it full; others charge you for fuel used. Clarify the mileage policy as well — some rentals are unlimited, others charge per mile. These details are on your agreement, but asking out loud ensures you understand before you drive away.
Truck sizes and what they fit
A 10-foot truck holds about 4,000 pounds and fits a studio or one-bedroom apartment — roughly a bed, dresser, couch, and kitchen table. A 15-foot truck holds about 6,000 pounds and works for a two-bedroom move. A 20-foot truck holds about 8,000 pounds and covers a three-bedroom home. A 26-foot truck is the largest standard option, holds about 10,000 pounds, and is meant for a four- to five-bedroom house or a small commercial move.
U-Haul also rents cargo vans (smaller, car-like vehicles good for one room or light loads) and specialty trucks like flatbeds or refrigerated units. If you are unsure which size you need, U-Haul's website has a size guide with photos, or you can call the location and describe what you are moving. Renting a truck that is too small means multiple trips; renting one that is too large costs more and is harder to drive and park.
Booking online versus calling ahead
Booking on uhaul.com locks in a lower rate than showing up without a reservation. The website shows you the exact price before you confirm, and you can cancel or modify the reservation up to 24 hours before pickup without penalty. If you book online, you will receive a confirmation email with your reservation number — bring that or your phone to the location on pickup day.
Calling ahead (either the location directly or 1-800-468-4285) is useful if you have questions about truck condition, want to ask about local discounts, or need to arrange a time outside normal hours. Some locations offer phone-only deals or can hold a truck for a few hours while you finish packing. If you are renting during peak season (May through September), booking at least three to five days ahead reduces the risk of the size you want being sold out.
Returning your truck on time and avoiding extra charges
Your rental agreement specifies the return date and time. Returning the truck late incurs hourly charges that can add up quickly — often $40 to $60 per hour depending on the truck size. If you think you will need the truck longer, call the location before your return time and ask to extend the reservation. Extensions are usually approved if the truck is not already booked for another customer.
Return the truck with a full fuel tank (if that was the rental agreement), empty of your belongings, and as clean as you found it. U-Haul does not charge for normal wear, but they will charge you for excessive dirt, stains, or damage you caused. The return process takes 10 to 15 minutes — the agent inspects the truck, compares it to the pickup notes, and finalizes your bill. Keep your receipt for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a U-Haul truck same-day?
Yes, if a truck of the size you need is in stock at a location near you. Call the location directly or check uhaul.com to see current availability. Smaller trucks (10 and 15 feet) are more likely to be available on short notice than larger ones. Expect to pay a higher rate for same-day rentals than for advance bookings.
What if the truck I reserved is not available when I arrive?
U-Haul will offer you a larger truck at the same price, or a smaller truck at a reduced rate, or a refund. If you need the specific size you booked, ask them to check other nearby locations — they can sometimes transfer your reservation to a branch that has it in stock. Call ahead if you are concerned about availability.
Do I need a special license to drive a U-Haul truck?
A standard driver's license is sufficient for trucks up to 26 feet. Some states require a commercial license for trucks over 26,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating, but most U-Haul rentals fall below that threshold. Check your state's DMV website or ask U-Haul when you book if you are unsure.
Can I pick up a truck in one city and drop it off in another?
Yes, U-Haul offers one-way rentals. Enter different pickup and return locations on uhaul.com to see pricing. One-way moves cost more than local rentals because U-Haul has to reposition the truck. Availability depends on where trucks are needed — moving from a small town to a major city is usually cheaper than the reverse.
What happens if I damage the truck during my rental?
You are responsible for damage you cause. U-Haul offers damage waiver coverage (an optional fee added to your rental) that limits your liability. Document the truck's condition with photos when you pick it up and when you return it. If damage occurs, report it to the location when ready — waiting until later makes it harder to prove when the damage happened.