Moving Truck Rental Guide
Comparing moving truck rental options has never been this easy
Moving Truck Prices & Reviews: What We've Learned from 7,500+ Moves
We've collected more than 7,500 firsthand reviews over 7 years from people who rented moving trucks and shared what it was really like. That includes the good, the bad, and the "my truck was three hours late."
Here are our top three recommendations:
| Companies |  |
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| Reviews |
(4.5 out of 5)
Read Reviews
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(4.8 out of 5)
Read Reviews
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(4.8 out of 5)
Read Reviews
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(4.77 out of 5)
Read Reviews
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| Local Moves | $79.00 avg. | $149 avg. | $131 avg. | $92.00 avg. |
| Regional Moves | $534 avg. | $1,001 avg. | $880 avg. | $623 avg. |
| Long Distance | $1,012 avg. | $1,898 avg. | $1,668 avg. | $1,181 avg. |
| Truck Sizes | Pickup, cargo van, 12 ft, 16 ft, 26 ft | Cargo van, 12 ft, 16 ft, 22 ft, 26 ft | Pickup, cargo van, 10 ft, 15 ft, 17 ft, 20 ft, 26 ft | 16 ft cabover, 24 ft box, 26 ft box |
| Gas Milage | Up to 10 to 19 MPG | Up to 12 to 13 MPG | Up to 6 to 14 MPG | Up to 12 to 24 MPG |
| Locations | 2,800+ | 2,500+ | 21,000+ | 460+ |
| Get a quote Read More | Get a quote Read More | Get a quote Read More | Get a quote Read More |
How much do moving trucks cost?
For a medium-sized move (2 bedroom home / 3 bed apartment), the median cost to rent a moving truck is:
- Local Move: $132
- Regional Move: $890
- Long Distance: $1,687
When thinking about cost, the following factors should all be considered:
- Distance
- Size of truck
- Gas (avg. ~10 mpg)
- Small fees (e.g., environmental fees, mileage fees, damages, etc.)
Pro Tip: The best way to ensure you get a good deal on a moving truck is to plan ahead, look for deals, and compare multiple quotes. Because of the dynamics of supply and demand, the brand with the best prices for your move might vary.
Renting a Truck? Book Pros to Help
Just because you're renting the truck doesn't mean you have to do everything yourself. Hiring local movers to help load and unload is more affordable than most people expect — and it can seriously cut down on stress. Plus, having pros pack your truck the right way lowers the risk of damaging your stuff (or your back).
Here's why over 1 million people have chosen to book moving help through HireAHelper:
- Simple online booking. Instantly compare prices, read reviews, and reserve your crew — all without phone calls or hidden fees.
- Best price guarantee. Find a lower published price for the same move? We'll match it.
- $1,000 Service Guarantee — with real support. If something doesn't go to plan, our team is here to help 7 days a week.
- Last-minute friendly. Need help tomorrow? Chances are, we've got movers available.
Overview of Our Moving Truck Rental Company Reviews
We've spent years researching the biggest moving truck rental brands so you don't have to. Our reviews combine real-world testing, thousands of first-party customer experiences, and hands-on input from moving experts who know the ins and outs of every truck type.
Budget® Truck Rental
Budget® is a popular choice for people who want to keep moving costs low without giving up the basics they need. Their line-up includes cargo vans, pickups, and box trucks up to 26 feet, covering most studio, apartment, and small- to midsize-home moves. Many locations also rent towing gear, dollies, and furniture pads, so it is easy to pick up everything in one stop.
With thousands of locations across the country, Budget works well for students, renters, and families planning local or regional moves. People also like the convenience of choosing their pickup and drop-off locations when they book.
Since many Budget branches are franchise-owned, things like truck age, customer service, and which accessories are in stock can be a bit of a mixed bag. Watch out for late return fees and debit card holds — they can sneak up on you. Budget shines when saving money and getting a roomy truck are bigger priorities than having the newest ride on the block.
Pro
- One of the most affordable choices for local and regional moves, with roomy 26-foot trucks for larger loads.
Con
- Service quality, truck condition, and accessory availability can vary a lot between franchise locations.
Extra Moving Truck Fees to Watch Out For:
- Gas prices
- Environmental fee
- Truck cleaning fee
It's easy to forget to factor in fuel costs when considering the cost of renting a moving truck. On a short move in-town that only takes one trip, it might not break the bank, but if you have a longer move or need to make more than one trip, fuel costs can add up quickly. Don't forget that, while many moving trucks might advertise 10-12 MPG, it's likely to be half that when fully loaded.
Pro-Tip: If you're making a local move, the cheaper rental cost of a smaller truck might be attractive, but if you have to make several trips, you aren't only wasting time, you're also spending more money on fuel. Also consider booking loading help from the pros to get a tight fit and reduce the cost of fuel.
Penske Truck Rental
Penske® stands out for its newer trucks, clear long-distance pricing, and customer service that feels more personal than some bigger rental companies. Although it has fewer locations than U-Haul, Penske's 2,500-plus stores still cover most cities and suburbs. The trucks are usually cleaner, better maintained, and more comfortable for long trips. Many people pick Penske when they want a dependable truck for moving several rooms or heavier furniture.
Penske's reservation guarantee is a big plus. If you book in advance, they promise your reserved truck — or a bigger one for the same price — will be ready when you arrive. Most one-way rentals include unlimited miles, which makes planning a long move less stressful. Penske is a good choice for anyone who wants predictable pricing, comfort on long trips, and helpful support.
Pro
- Newer, well-maintained trucks with guaranteed reservations for peace of mind.
Con
- Higher local pricing than budget-focused rental brands.
U-Haul® Truck Rental
U-Haul® is the most widely recognized truck rental company in the country, and for good reason. With more than 21,000 locations, it offers the largest network of trucks, cargo vans, pickups, and towing equipment available to DIY movers. That reach makes it one of the easiest brands to book, especially for local and regional trips or situations where you need a truck on short notice.
The company serves a wide range of customers, including students, small households, growing families, and anyone who prefers a flexible, do-it-yourself approach. U-Haul's fleet varies by location, but the brand offers multiple truck sizes, plenty of add-ons, and a mix of storage and trailer options that appeal to people who want everything in one place. The tradeoff is that service quality and truck condition are not always consistent, and reservations sometimes shift to a different pickup location.
U-Haul is strongest when convenience and availability matter most, especially for short or mid-range moves.
Pro
- The largest and most accessible truck rental network.
Con
- Truck condition and pickup reliability vary by location.
How does renting a moving truck work?
Get a quote online or call and make a reservation. Then on the day of your scheduled delivery, you:
- Head to the nearest truck rental center & sign the relevant paperwork
- Drive away an assigned vehicle
- Load it up on your own, or with hired movers
- Drive it to where you're taking your stuff
- Unload it yourself, or with hired movers
- Return the truck to another facility (or the same one, if you moved nearby)
Pro-Tip: If you've booked your move a week or more in advance, it's often wise to call a day or two before your pick-up date to confirm that your truck reservation is all set. Some brands (looking at you U-Haul) are notorious for overbooking their trucks. It can also be helpful to have a substantial buffer between when you pick up your truck and when your moving help is arriving (the day before is ideal!).
Enterprise® Truck Rental
Enterprise Truck Rental is a popular pick for people who want a clean, reliable truck for a local move and prefer a simple rental process. The company operates more than 460 truck branches across the U.S. and Canada, with a fleet that leans newer than many competitors. Their lineup covers cargo vans, pickups, and box trucks up to 26 feet, so renters can choose something that fits a small apartment, a few rooms' worth of furniture, or a light commercial project.
Most Enterprise customers are students, renters, and families handling short moves across town. The brand’s flexible pickup scheduling and friendly counter staff often earn high marks in reviews, and their vans are especially popular with people who want something easier to drive than a full-size box truck. The biggest limitation is the round-trip rule: all rentals must be returned to the same branch, which makes long-distance moves impractical.
Enterprise delivers the most value when you need a well-maintained truck for a local or regional trip and have a branch close to both ends of your move.
Pro
- Newer vans and trucks that feel easier and more comfortable to drive for local moves.
Con
- All rentals must be dropped off at the pickup location, so it's only practical for very short-distance moves.
Truck Rental Space Size Guide
Small truck 10-13 ft.
Studio apt. 400-600 sq. ft.
Ideal For:
- 1-3,000 lbs.
- 400-450 cubic feet
- 1-5 Medium furniture items
- Up to 120 medium boxes
Not Ideal For:
- King size bed
- Pianos
- Pool tables
- Refridgerators
Medium truck 14-17 ft.
1-3 Bedrooms 600-1,200 sq. ft.
Ideal For:
- 3,000 - 5,500 lbs.
- 650 - 850 cubic feet
- 1-10 Medium furniture items
- Up to 250 medium boxes
Not Ideal For:
- Grand / Baby grand pianos
- 3+ Bedroom homes
Large truck 18-24 ft.
3-4 Bedrooms 1,200-1,800 sq. ft.
Ideal For:
- 5,500-6,500 lbs.
- 900 - 1,400 cubic feet
- 1-15 Medium furniture items
- Up to 450 medium boxes
Not Ideal For:
- Small apartments
- 4+ Bedroom homes
Extra large truck 26+ ft.
4+ Bedrooms 1800-2400+ sq. ft.
Ideal For:
- 6,500-8,400 lbs.
- 1,400-1,600 cubic feet
- 1-20 Medium furniture items
- Up to 550 medium boxes
Not Ideal For:
- Small homes
- Small apartments
Is a Moving Truck Right for Your Move?
Local Moves
Pros
- Often the most affordable local moving option
- Pairs great with local movers to save money
- Many companies have a variety of rental sizes and helpful equipment
Cons
- You have to do the driving
- Flexible, but your local supply of trucks may be limited
- Higher mileage fees for local moves
You can move locally or long distance, but a long-distance move will, of course, cost you more in both time and money.
Local moves tend to be easier to accomplish with a rental truck if you're willing to do the driving and have a place to park the vehicle.
But the fact is that with a local move, you usually can pick up and drop off at the same location. In addition, you don't need to spend as much time driving, so it might not be as big a deal to drive one of those big trucks across town, especially if there are no highways.
Beware! Many people end up getting parking tickets because they don't communicate their move to the city, especially in big cities with limited parking.
When should I reserve my truck by?
Ideally, you want to reserve your rental truck no later than one month out from your move.
But hey, life happens. Calling your local rental truck company as late as moving day is something they're used to, but be prepared to call several places in and around town—especially during the busy summer season.
Long-Distance Moves
Pros
- Fantastic value compared to other moving options
- Variety of sizes allow you to customize your moving journey
- Lower or alternatively priced mileage options
Cons
- You have to do the driving
- Responsible for tolls and fees
- Insurance usually more costly
Long-distance moves are more complicated. First, you have to drive further, which inevitably means paying a larger bill. Second, you have to find a rental company that allows you to pick up the truck in one place and drop it off in another. This means that the company must have locations in your departure and arrival zones.
Versus Other Moving Options
Pros
- Very often the most affordable moving option
- Likely the most customizable option for your specific move
- Discounts are easier to come by
Cons
- You have to do the driving
- Harder to know final cost, due to fees
- The most in demand moving option year-round
Rental moving trucks were once the only way to make a move, especially one across the country. But nowadays, you have more options to consider, including:
- Doing it all yourself
- Moving containers
- Space on a freight truck
Still, for those who like to drive - even driving the hugest of those bad boys - moving trucks remain a viable, affordable option.
They have decent flexibility, dwarfed only by the moving container, and are usually the most affordable way to move, short of moving things in your own car with your own muscles.
Rental truck insurance
Insurance isn't really optional with moving truck rentals. Most credit card companies and auto insurance policies won't cover the cost of the truck if there is significant damage on your watch. Totaling a truck can cost upward of $45,000, so you'll have to consider investing in insurance!
Most of the rental truck companies offer some sort of logical option. Many provide you with more than one possibility, too, and it's usually one insurance that provides the bare minimum and another that allows you to go all in. Unfortunately, you ultimately have to make a choice regarding much of the truck will be covered, as well as personal property and human life within the vehicle in case of an accident.
Paired With Movers
Pros
- The best cure to moving stress in the world
- Extremely great value for their cost
- Efficient with their time and bring lots of knowledge to your move
Cons
- Are more expensive than a DIY Move
- Cannot drive your moving truck if hired as labor-only
- Subject to their schedule and local availability
You can hire professionals to load and unload the truck to make the experience considerably easier. Sometimes this option can cost as low as one or two hundred bucks. To figure out exactly how much your moving truck/mover combo would cost, you just have to study your options to determine the best fit for your move.
Most truck rental companies sell other moving supplies, such as boxes and packing tape. But you might be able to find these items cheaper at the local hardware store or even the dollar store, so keep that in mind. You can rent hand trucks and furniture pads from truck rental companies, too. Tows for your car are also available.
Don't forget these things w/ your truck
- Moving blankets
- Hand trucks
- Car tows
- Boxes
- Ties
You can rent these at most truck rental and hardware stores, and most are essential. Many movers automatically provide many of these things, which really help out with moving costs!
Are There Any Downsides with Moving Trucks?
There are often hidden fees. Some companies charge an environmental fee, for example.
You must budget for gas, which is not going to be included in an estimate.
The locations of the truck rental company matters. Why? If you get a great price but have to drive another vehicle far away to pick up the truck, you will be spending more on gas and losing time. Also, some companies allow you to drop off your truck at a different facility, which makes them ideal for a long-distance move. However, if you are moving from, say, New Jersey to Florida and have to pick up and drop off at the same New Jersey location ... that truck isn't for you.
You have to be willing and able to drive it yourself. This is not for everyone. Know thyself and determine whether you can handle it. Some people love the opportunity, while others dread it. Regardless, you have to be insured and prepared for the worst case scenarios.
Recent Moving Truck Customer Reviews
The truck was not the newest but it ran the road well during the day and the evening. The only mishap was that the inside Dick light failed to stay on but we were able to complete our task.
Truck was great but it beeped in traffic incessantly due to being to close to the vehicle in front of us, which in traffic in cities you can't stay back 5-6 car lengths. The limiter on speed was also incorrect in some places, road speed was 65 but it would shut you down to 55 even though that wasn't the actual speed limit.
have used them in the past, the 1st time they were lacking with requested equipment, thankfully we did not need the use of what we asked for, this time we got half of our request so they adjusted pricing on both occasions which was fine in the end, as far as I'm concerned.
The price was decent. The truck was beat up, but fully functional. Some of the extra's we ordered were not available on pickup day (only 12 of the 24 moving blankets, no dolly). As such, I reduced the rating one star.
When giving discounts by phone please tell the renter what to bring to make sure to get the discount. We didn't have the AAA card and lost 80-100 dollars off
Great truck. Had many safety features, lane departure, following distance...etc. Had some difficulty making it up the inclines but didn't loose too much speed, with a FULLY loaded truck.
My transportation experience was seamless. I rented a 16' truck one way, and everything went smoothly from pickup to return. Refueling at Sam’s Club cost about $60, and the drop-off location was just 7 miles from my new place, which made things easy and stress-free. Couldn’t have asked for a better process.
It was a 1,700 mile move and the truck and equipment performed very well. We were able to return the equipment to the Cottonwood office where the person in charge was very knowledgeable and helpful. It was a positive experience
Great price, though the trucks have certainly seen some wear and tear. The truck I had flashed the change oil light constantly and the cab leaked a substantial amount of rainwater (did not leak into the box where the items were stored though) Customer service was good. This was for a one way move to a different state, so the price was very good in comparison with other companies. I would use again even in spite of some of the minuses.
As with the movers, the UHaul support people were surprisingly helpful for a huge company. We needed to change our vehicle type and they made this happen even when several locations were closed for the holiday.
I rented a High Roof Cargo Van from Enterprise in Allentown. Space was decent & I was able to have everything from my 1 bedroom loaded with room to spare but bear in mind, I am a minimalist. Took a little time to get adjusted to the 4 mirrors & the turning but once you are on the road for a while, it became easy.
The price was great. The truck ran well and made it the full 7 hour drive. The AC and cup holder were broken in the truck which was a bit annoying given we drove it in August. Also, when we went to pick up the truck the lady was grumpy and they didn't have the auto transport that we booked available so they had to send us to a different location to pick it up and to do that they had to modify our booking contract. The change in the contract was an inconvenience for us and I think it actually slightly increased the overall price of our initial booking.
After having a mess up with budget truck rental uhals helped me out with a truck. Had to drive out of my way for it but it was worth it to get out of my old place.
They had diesel and gas varieties of budget trucks which was nice. I chose the gas 26' truck for cheaper gas across state lines. Only problem was they couldn't get a 2 wheel tow dolly for my vehicle to haul behind. 1 Person got the last one in the entire area the day before. Other than that, no complaints.
Rented a Cargo Van in NJ to move from my Brooklyn apartment to NJ, so pickup/dropoff same location. Easy reserve, very clean van with low mileage, staff very helpful, after hours drop off available. Perfect size for one bedroom apartment. Have rented cargo vans many times from Enterprise with absolutely no issues. Highly recommend. Easier to rent van with hired helpers than using moving company.
Enterprise is awesome. I had to run late to my return due to unexpected moving challenges, so I gave them a call and they were helpful and offered some flexible options. Would use again.
The agent in their Baltimore, MD location allowed me to pick up the Cargo Van over the weekend following Christmas after they were closed and did not begin billing me until 8AM Monday morning, the start of the contract. The $600 was for a one-way ($250 extra charge) rental for two days from Baltimore to Carmel, IN (Indianapolis)
U-Haul® is a registered trademark of U-Haul International, Inc. Budget Truck Rental®, LLC is a registered trademark of Budget Truck Rental, LLC. Penske Truck Leasing Co., L.P.® is a trademark of Penske System, Inc.
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