11 Tips For Driving a Moving Truck

A U-Haul truck

Driving a U-Haul truck isn’t too different from driving a regular vehicle. Our trucks are designed to make driving a simple experience that any DIY mover can accomplish.

Follow these tips for a smoother driving experience during your move:

1.  Drive Slower

Adhere to posted speed limits, but reduce your speed when driving on bumpy roads and in harsh weather conditions where roads are icy or wet.

2.  Follow at a Safe Distance

Don’t tailgate! Keep enough space between yourself and the vehicle in front of you. The recommended amount of space is the length of five vehicles.

3.  Apply Your Brakes Sooner

Since U-Haul trucks weigh more than the average vehicle, braking with a U-Haul truck is not as immediate as braking with a smaller vehicle. Don’t wait until the last minute.

4.  Give Yourself Extra Room When Turning

Large trucks require wider turns, and a U-Haul truck is no different. Be cautious of cutting corners when turning, especially when turning right.

5.  Use Your Mirrors When Switching Lanes

Check your side-view mirror and use your turn signal before switching lanes. Keep in mind that a U-Haul truck is longer than the average vehicle, so you’ll need ample space both in front and behind before switching lanes.

6.  Don’t Pass Other Vehicles Unless Necessary

Refrain from passing other vehicles when driving uphill, through bends, or on narrow roads. A large truck requires more time and distance to overtake another vehicle, so it should be done only when absolutely necessary.

7.  Be Mindful of Your Clearance Level

Be mindful of your U-Haul truck’s clearance level. The clearance level is noted on the corner of the truck’s cargo box and visible from the driver’s seat via the side-view mirror. It is also noted on decals inside the cab of the vehicle – one to the left of the steering wheel and one on the visor.

8.  Park in Large Spaces

Larger parking spaces allow for easier maneuverability when parking or pulling out, especially if there are no other vehicles nearby. Always set the parking brake before exiting the vehicle as well.

9.  Back Up With Caution

Reversing with a U-Haul truck can be tricky, so use your mirrors! Also, keep the windows down so that you can hear any other vehicles or pedestrians, and honk the vehicle’s horn once or twice as a final precaution before slowly reversing. If possible, it’s best to have a passenger exit the vehicle to guide you with hand signals as well.

10. Keep Pets Up Front

Remember to never leave your pet in the truck unattended. Be sure to keep water and food readily available for the duration of your trip, and use a harness or crate if your pets don't take kindly to driving long distances.

11. Map Out Your Route

Whether you’re moving across country or simply across town, planning your route will leave you feeling more confident when driving your U-Haul truck. For longer trips, it’s wise to outline where you intend to stop for food, gas, etc. too.

Make Sure That You’re Covered

It's always good to err on the side of caution by purchasing coverage for your rental to protect against damage or theft. Keep in mind that you are otherwise responsible for any damage that occurs to your rental truck, and most insurance companies won’t cover those costs. U-Haul’s SafeMove coverage is the best way to ease any worries.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of driving a U-Haul truck, learn how to self-pick-up and self-return your moving truck at any hour by using the U-Haul App.

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