Most U-Haul trucks have cruise control, but it depends on the model year and truck size

Yes, most U-Haul rental trucks come equipped with cruise control, though not every truck in their fleet has it. Newer models—generally 2015 and later—are more likely to have the feature as standard. Smaller trucks like the 10-foot box truck often have cruise control, while some older or smaller vehicles in the fleet may not. The best way to know for certain is to ask the rental agent when you pick up your truck, or to check the truck itself once you arrive at the rental location.

U-Haul's fleet is large and varied, with trucks ranging from small cargo vans to 26-foot moving trucks. Because they acquire vehicles over many years and from different manufacturers, not every truck has identical features. A truck that was purchased in 2018 will have different technology than one purchased in 2010. The rental agent can tell you whether your specific truck has cruise control before you drive off the lot.

Key Takeaways

  • Newer U-Haul trucks (2015 and later) are more likely to have cruise control than older models.
  • Smaller box trucks like the 10-foot model typically include cruise control as standard equipment.
  • You should ask the rental agent or check the truck's dashboard controls before leaving the lot to confirm the feature is present.
  • If cruise control is important for your trip, mention it when you reserve your truck so the agent can note your preference.
  • Cruise control on rental trucks works the same way as on personal vehicles—use the stalk or button on the steering column to set and adjust speed.

How to check if your U-Haul truck has cruise control

When you arrive at the U-Haul location to pick up your truck, walk around the steering column before you sign the rental agreement. Look for a stalk (a lever extending from the steering column) or buttons on the steering wheel itself. On most trucks, the cruise control stalk is on the right side of the steering column, below the turn signal lever. If you see a stalk with markings like "SET," "RESUME," or "CANCEL," the truck has cruise control.

If you cannot find the controls by looking, ask the rental agent directly. They handle these trucks daily and can tell you in seconds whether cruise control is present. This is a reasonable question—many renters ask about specific features before taking the truck. If the truck assigned to you does not have cruise control and you need it for a long drive, ask whether another truck on the lot has the feature.

Why cruise control matters on long U-Haul rentals

Cruise control reduces fatigue on highway driving by holding a steady speed without constant pressure on the accelerator. On a long move—especially if you are driving 8 or 10 hours in a day—this can make a real difference in how tired you feel by the end of the drive. U-Haul trucks are heavier and less responsive than passenger cars, so maintaining a consistent speed without cruise control requires more active attention.

If your rental truck does not have cruise control and you are facing a long highway stretch, you have options. You can drive at a steady speed manually, take more frequent breaks to rest your leg, or ask the rental agent whether a different truck is available. Some renters also find that adjusting the seat and steering wheel position helps reduce fatigue even without cruise control.

Differences between truck sizes and cruise control availability

U-Haul's 10-foot box truck, 15-foot box truck, and 20-foot box truck models typically come with cruise control on newer units. The 26-foot truck, which is their largest standard rental, usually has cruise control as well. Smaller vehicles like cargo vans and pickup trucks vary more widely—some have it, others do not, depending on the year and original manufacturer.

The reason for this variation is straightforward: U-Haul buys trucks from different manufacturers at different times. A Ford F-150 pickup from 2012 may not have cruise control, while a 2018 model does. When you reserve your truck online or by phone, you can note that cruise control is important to you, and the agent will try to assign a truck that has it. This is not a may provide, but it helps the staff keep your preference in mind.

How to use cruise control on a U-Haul truck

If your truck has cruise control, the operation is straightforward. Accelerate to your desired speed using the gas pedal. Once you reach that speed, locate the cruise control stalk on the steering column (usually on the right side, below the turn signal). Push the stalk away from you or press the "SET" button to engage cruise control at that speed. The truck will now maintain that speed without you pressing the accelerator.

To adjust the speed while cruise control is active, you can usually push the stalk up to increase speed or pull it down to decrease speed, or use the "+" and "−" buttons if your truck has them. To cancel cruise control, press the brake pedal or pull the stalk toward you. Always be aware that cruise control does not steer the truck or brake for obstacles—you remain responsible for steering and braking. On a loaded moving truck, cruise control is helpful on flat highway sections but should be disengaged in heavy traffic, on hills, or in bad weather.

What to do if your U-Haul truck does not have cruise control

If you arrive at the rental location and your assigned truck lacks cruise control, you have a few choices. First, ask the agent whether another truck on the lot has the feature. U-Haul locations often have multiple trucks available, and swapping to one with cruise control takes only a few minutes. Second, if no other truck is available and cruise control is essential for your trip, you can ask about rescheduling your rental for a different date when a newer truck might be available.

If you decide to proceed without cruise control, plan for more frequent breaks. Driving a heavy truck without cruise control is more tiring than driving a car, and fatigue is a safety risk. Stop every 1.5 to 2 hours to stretch and rest your leg. Adjust your seat and steering wheel to a comfortable position before you leave the lot, as this can reduce strain during the drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I request a truck with cruise control when I make my reservation?

Yes. When you reserve your truck online or by phone, you can note in the special requests field that cruise control is important for your trip. The rental agent will try to assign a truck with this feature, though availability depends on what is in stock on your rental date. Calling the location directly a day or two before your pickup gives the staff time to set aside a truck that meets your needs.

Do all U-Haul truck sizes have cruise control?

Newer models across all sizes—10-foot, 15-foot, 20-foot, and 26-foot trucks—typically have cruise control. Older trucks and smaller vehicles like cargo vans are less consistent. The best approach is to ask the rental agent about your specific truck when you arrive, rather than assuming based on size alone.

Is it safe to use cruise control while towing a trailer with a U-Haul truck?

Cruise control can be used while towing, but use caution on hills and in variable traffic. Many drivers prefer to disengage cruise control when towing because the added weight makes speed changes less responsive. If you are towing, test the cruise control on flat ground first to see how the truck responds, and be ready to brake manually if needed.

What if the cruise control on my rental truck is broken?

If you discover the cruise control is not working after you pick up the truck, return to the rental location when ready and ask for a different truck. U-Haul should swap your vehicle at no extra charge if a feature listed as available is not functioning. Do not drive off the lot without confirming the feature works if it was important to your decision.