How to Estimate the Mileage Fees for Your Move

A U-Haul truck pulling a cargo trailer on a desert highway.

It’s normal to have a lot of questions about your upcoming move. If you are planning to rent a moving truck, one of those inquiries likely pertains to mileage fees associated with the rental. This article will explain mileage fees and how the rental costs are determined to gain a better understanding.

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a U-Haul Truck?

The cost of renting a moving truck depends on several factors, such as the distance traveled, the size of the truck, day of the week, and rental location. Additionally, mileage fees play a significant role in determining the overall cost. To estimate your mileage fees and consequently, the total cost, the first step is to identify the type of rental you need.

In-Town Rental Cost Breakdown

If you are planning on picking up and dropping off your U-Haul rental truck at the same location, you are going to be completing an in-town rental.

In-town moves have a flat rate – starting at $19.95 – plus a per mile fee. Smaller trucks have a lower flat rate and mileage fees. Mileage rates vary based on a number of factors and may change, even daily (rates are lowest Sunday through Thursday). But in general, average mileage fees are between $.59 and $.99 per mile driven. If additional miles/days are needed, we offer special rates on cargo van and pickup truck rentals.

Be sure to choose the right size truck for your in-town rental. For example, if you’re moving from a house compared to an apartment, it might be more beneficial to rent a larger truck. The big truck can make one trip, while the smaller truck would require multiple trips, resulting in additional mileage fees.

One-Way Rental Cost Breakdown

If your move involves picking up a truck from one location and dropping it off at another, it’s called a one-way move. The cost for this type of rental is determined by the size of the truck, the moving date, and the origin and destination.

One-way rental prices encompass a designated mileage allowance and a predetermined number of days. If you need additional miles, they can be added at a rate of $1.00 per mile. Additional days can be added to one-way rentals for $40 per day.

The best way to estimate the cost of a one-way or in-town move is to get a quote.

Other Costs to Consider in Your Estimate

Truck Rental Insurance

The truck rental might be all you need for your move, but that’s not typically the case. For a low cost, you can also add damage coverage to your rental. At U-Haul, it’s called Safemove®, and it covers accident damage, cargo protection, and medical protection. Without it, you’re responsible for all damage to your truck rental.

Moving Supplies

It’s a good bet you’ll eventually need some quality moving boxes, tape, packing supplies, and other moving supplies. If you’re unsure where to begin, our moving supplies calculator will not only provide a recommendation on the supplies needed, but it’ll also provide a price quote to help you finalize your moving truck rental estimate.

Moving Help®

If you need assistance loading and unloading your truck, we recommend looking into Moving Help, powered by U-Haul. Rates vary based on hours needed, number of movers, and your service provider/location. On average, you can expect prices ranging from $211 to $362 for two hours and two movers.

How Do I Get a Moving Quote?

To start a reservation for your move, in-town or one-way, head over to the U-Haul home page. Set up the pick-up and drop-off location, pick up date, and get a rate to be on your way.

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