How to Read a U-Haul Rental Contract

Last Updated: January 30, 2026

Do you have questions about the rental contract you signed? Many first-time renters find rental contracts intimidating, but we’re here to help you understand the details of your rental and save you money.

It's crucial to thoroughly understand your U-Haul® rental contract to avoid confusion or unexpected fees. This article will guide you through the different sections of a U-Haul truck rental contract and explain how they impact your experience as a U-Haul customer.

What is a U-Haul Rental Contract?

A U-Haul rental contract is an agreement between U-Haul and the customer, outlining the terms and conditions of the rental service. When you sign this contract, you agree to use the equipment provided by U-Haul for a specific period of time.

What Types of Rental Contracts Does U-Haul Offer?

One-way: For moves where you pick up the equipment at one location and drop it off at another. Rates depend on rental truck size, distance, and move date.
In-town: For local rental truck, trailer, and equipment rental moves where you pick up and drop off at the same location. Rates depend on the truck size, distance, and the number of rental periods used.

Depending on the rental contract, you will either return the rental truck or trailer to the same location or a specified drop-off location. If not specified, you'll be provided with a phone number to call upon arrival at your destination.

How to Read a U-Haul Rental Contract

Your rental contract is divided into sections. Here’s how to read each one.

Top Section (Left Side):

Contract Number and Equipment Number: Always check the equipment number on your rental equipment to make sure it matches.
Date and Time of Rental: The date and time when you start your equipment rental.
Renter's Information: Includes the authorized drivers, address, email, and phone number.
Rental Out Date/time and rental due date/time: Return the equipment before this time to avoid additional fees. If you need additional time, log in to the U-Haul App to extend your rental (subject to availability).

One-Way Rental Specifics

Drop-Off Information: City and state, due date and time, and specific location if applicable. Dropping off at a different location may incur additional charges. If no drop-off location is specified, a phone number will be provided to call for information.

Top Section (Right Side)

Type of Rental Contract: One-way, in-town (local).
Renting Location: The location where you are picking up your equipment.
Roadside Assistance Information: QR code for roadside assistance during your rental.
Safe Protection: Shows whether you have Safemove®, Safemove Plus® (Collision damage waiver) or Safetrip® applied or not.
Authorized Driver(s): Anyone listed on the contract are authorized by company to operate this equipment
Rental Out Date/Time: The date and time you pick up your rental.
Due Date/Time: The date and time you are scheduled to drop off your rental.

Middle Section For Local Moves

Equipment Number and License Number: Helps you check if it's the correct equipment.
Miles (MI) Out/MI Rate: Includes MI (Mile) or KM (Kilometer) Charge, MI/KM Rate
Coverage: Shows whether you have Safemove®, Safemove Plus® (Collision damage waiver) or Safetrip® applied or not.
Rental Rate and Rental Charge: Base rate of the rental truck.
Estimated Charges: Total estimated charge based on estimated MI/KM.
Additional Charges or Taxes: Contains any additional charges or taxes, if applicable, such as the Environment Fee, Estimated Subtotal, Rental Tax, and any deposit made. The estimated total charges show the total amount you pay for the rental.

Top Section For One-Way Moves

Drop Off Equipment At: U-Haul center or Neighborhood Dealer, where you are dropping off your rental.
Drop Off Address: The address you are dropping off your rental.
Safe-Protection: Shows whether you have Safemove®, Safemove Plus® (Collision damage waiver) or Safetrip® applied or not.
Destination: The city and state you are dropping off your rental.
Due Date/Time: The date and time you are scheduled to drop off your rental.
Days and Miles Allowed: Number of days and miles given for the move. Please notify us if you need to keep the equipment beyond the rental terms. An extra fee will be charged for any additional miles or days.

Middle Section For One-Way Moves

Equipment: The equipment you are renting
Rental Charge: The rental amount charged based the equipment rented and the milage allowed.
Coverage: Shows whether you have Safemove®, Safemove Plus® (Collision damage waiver) or Safetrip® applied or not.
Total Charges: The total amount to be paid for the equipment rented.
MI/KM Out: How many miles the rental truck has.

Bottom Section

Method of Payment: Includes your payment information for confirmation. Depending on your type of move, the payment process differs. For a one-way move, you will pay the full rental cost when picking up the rental.
For in-town moves: You will receive an estimate, and a hold will be placed on your debit/credit card. The final charge will be processed when you return the truck.

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Fuel Gauge Reading: Shows the amount of fuel when you rented the truck and the fuel tank capacity. You must return the truck with the same fuel gauge reading to avoid fuel charges.
Your rental contract will indicate the equipment’s initial or dispatched fuel level. In the picture above, the tank is full. The numbers beneath the gauge indicate how much fuel is required to reach the dispatched level. For example, if prior to returning your truck the fuel gauge reading was at ½, you would need to add 14 gallons to fill the tank prior to returning.

Terms and Conditions

Read Before Signing: Make sure to read this section carefully to understand all the rules and provisions of the rental contract before signing.

Now that you've reviewed your rental contract, you're ready to rent a truck. Sign the contract and make your move a smooth and enjoyable experience!

Learn about Common Preventable Issues for U-Haul Moving Equipment.

If you have any further questions or need Roadside Assistance for your vehicle, use the U-Haul App to live chat with a U-Haul Roadside Assistance team member, or call 1-800-528-0355. For all other general U-Haul questions about payments or contract details, call 1-800-468-4285.

Final Takeaways

Now that you know how to read your U-Haul rental contract, you’re ready to move forward with confidence. Understanding the details helps ensure a smoother rental and a better moving experience.

Start your reservation today and take control of your move.

Frequently Asked Questions About Renting a U-Haul Moving Truck Rental

Do you need proof of insurance to rent a U-Haul truck?

No, all you need is two forms of ID, a payment method, and to be older than 18. U-Haul offers Safemove® and Safemove Plus® as liability coverage options when renting a U-Haul truck.

How does a U-Haul truck rental work?

You can make a reservation online, at a local U-Haul Moving & Storage Center, or with a U-Haul neighborhood dealer. After selecting your equipment and rental type, you’ll pick up the truck, trailer, or moving equipment and return it according to your contract terms.

Do you pay for a U-Haul truck up front?

For one-way rentals, the full rental cost is paid when you pick up the rental. For local rentals, a hold is placed on your card based on estimated charges, and the final amount is processed when you return the truck.

What happens if I return my truck late?
Returning equipment after the due date and time may result in additional charges for extra days or mileage.

If you need additional time, log in to the U-Haul App to extend your rental (subject to availability).