Best One-Way Rental Truck Options
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If you’re looking for a one-way moving truck rental, you have options. But which option is the best? One-way rental trucks come in several sizes, and choosing the right one is one of the first decisions you'll make when planning a long-distance move.
Below, we break down everything you need to know. From cost comparison to truck size, added fees, and expert tips, so you can plan your move confidently and save money along the way.
Key Takeaways
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What is a One-Way Truck Rental?
A one-way rental truck is a vehicle you rent for moving things from one place to another. You pick it up at one location and drop it off at another. People usually use one-way truck rentals for long-distance moves, such as relocating to a new city or state.
Key features of a one-way truck rental:
- Flexibility – Renters can start their journey in one place and end in another, without needing to return the vehicle to the original location.
- Convenience – Useful for moving large items or entire households without the need to backtrack or make multiple trips.
- Availability – There are many truck rental companies, but it’s important to choose one with enough locations and available equipment to suit your journey.
- Cost – Pricing is typically a flat rate that already includes a set number of days and miles. Additional fees may apply for fuel, optional coverage, or extra days if the rental truck exceeds the included allowance.
- Options – Moving truck rentals come in various sizes to accommodate different moving needs, from small to extra-large trucks.
Reasons to Book a One-Way Rental Truck
Save Money on Long Distance Moving
Simply put, if you’re moving across the country, you’ll need a way to get there. A one-way moving truck rental is a cheaper alternative to a full-service mover. On average, full-service movers will cost about two to three times as much as a DIY rental. Here is a comparison for a 26-foot moving truck rental going from Dallas, Texas to Orlando, Florida.
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Brands |
U-Haul |
Penske |
Budget Truck |
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To and From Dallas, TX (75126) to Orlando, FL (32801) |
$2,588.30 |
$2,985.40 |
$3,164.87 |
Quotes were made for January 2026. Quotes include truck only; no liability coverage was selected. Prices are subject to change. Enterprise Truck Rentals and Home Depot truck rentals do not offer one-way moves, only local moves.
The best way to save on one-way moves is to go with a rental truck company that has the most locations. These companies can usually offer the best price, because you don’t need to drive out of your way to pick up or return a rental truck.
This will reduce the overall cost of the moving truck by decreasing the total distance you have to travel, and the cost of gas to get there.
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Brands |
U-Haul |
Penske |
Budget Truck |
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Locations |
2,600 across 49 U.S. states and only seven Canadian provinces |
2,800 across 48 U.S. states and 9 Canadian provinces |
Additional Charges and Fees to Watch Out For
With the amount of planning and time one-way moves with truck rentals can take, some things just can’t be planned for. For example, an unexpected stop can add an extra day (or more) to your trip. With Penske and Budget Truck, you pay an additional $100 for every day that you need to extend your rental. U-Haul only charges $40 per additional day.
Avoid Wear and Tear on Your Vehicle
If you're moving across the country soon and considering driving your personal vehicle, think again. All those extra miles will put a lot of unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle. Moving truck rentals can help protect your car when you rent a one-way moving truck.
Learn more about the best 10 Tips for Driving a Moving Truck Long Distance.
You can still transport your car using a tow dolly or a car carrier. Simply attach your vehicle to the rental trailer, and you'll be all set to hit the road. This convenient option allows you to move both your belongings and your car safely and efficiently.
Pro Tip: Reserve your moving truck rental and load it up before picking up vehicle towing trailers. Unload the vehicle and return the trailer before unloading the moving truck rental at your new home.
Learn more about How to Tow a Car with a Moving Truck.
More Space for Your Belongings
Many DIY movers cram as much as they can in their vehicles when they relocate. This can result in items shifting, getting lost, or even breaking during transit. By utilizing additional safety spaces in a moving truck rental like Mom’s Attic® with U-Haul, you can carefully organize and secure your possessions up high, ensuring safety when loading up and driving.
With the extra room available, you can not only transport your furniture but also have space for your clothing and other personal items. Not sure how much space you need? Check out our moving truck size chart for more details.
The Best One-Way Moving Truck Options
10-Foot Moving Truck
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15-Foot Moving Truck
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20-Foot Moving Truck
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26-Foot Moving Truck
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Based on the comparisons above, U-Haul offers the best combination of truck sizes, the lowest cost, and the best availability. Still need some more info about what moving truck rental to go with?
Learn more about How to Choose the Right Size Moving Truck Rental.
Don’t just take our word for it – iMoving named U-Haul the #1 choice of the best moving truck rental companies in terms of transparent pricing, exceptional service, and quality assurance compared to other truck rental companies.
Are you ready to start planning your one-way move? Get a free, online, instant quote today for a U-Haul one-way rental near you!
Can you drop off a U-Haul at any location?
Yes! You can choose a contactless pickup or drop off with U-Haul through 24/7 Truck Share®, allowing you to use your phone to verify your rental with an online agent, no counter visit required. And with one-way rentals, you simply return your U-Haul rental truck to the location near your destination, not where you picked it up.
Does U-Haul rent pickup trucks?
Yes, U-Haul does rent pickup trucks and cargo vans; however, these vehicles are not available for one-way moves and are only available at U-Haul moving and storage centers.
Can you drive a U-Haul out of state?
Yes, you can! You can pick up and drop off a U-Haul moving truck rental at more than 25,000 locations across all 50 U.S. States and every Canadian province.