U-Haul Vs Budget Truck Rental: Which Moving Truck Saves You More?
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Looking for a moving truck rental can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options and factors to consider. From truck size and rental costs to mileage policies and extra equipment, it’s easy to spend hours researching which company fits your needs best.
To save you time, we’ve put together a side-by-side comparison of U-Haul and Budget Truck Rental. Both can get the job done, but here’s why U-Haul stands out and makes moving easier.
Rental Costs for U-Haul and Budget Truck
When most people start comparing rental trucks, the first stop is usually the price section. A few key factors influence costs, including truck size, rental duration, miles driven, and whether you’re booking a local (in-town) or planning a one-way trip where you drop your equipment at a different location.
Local Moving Quote:
|
Brands |
U-Haul |
Budget Truck |
|
Truck Size |
15 feet' |
16 feet' |
|
Cubic Feet |
764 |
658 |
|
Max Load |
6,385 lbs. |
4,460 lbs. |
|
Seats |
3 |
2 |
|
Tow Hitch |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Quoted Price* |
$42.85 |
$47.94 |
*Data as of November 2025. Quotes taken from respective websites. Same-day pickup/drop-off in 85014 zip code for a 10-mile move. Insurance and add-ons not included. Prices subject to change.
Long Distance Moving Quote:
|
Brands |
U-Haul |
Budget Truck |
|
Truck Size |
26 feet' |
26 feet' |
|
Cubic Feet |
1,682 |
1,698 |
|
Max Load |
12,859 lbs. |
9,180 lbs. |
|
Seats |
3 |
3 |
|
Rental Period |
5 Days |
5 Days |
|
Quoted Price* |
$1,900.50 |
$2,529.70 |
* Data as of November 2025. Pickup in 85014 and drop-off in 73301 zip code. Insurance and add-ons not included. Prices subject to change.
The difference is clear – U-Haul gives you more space and features for less money, especially on long-distance travel.
Types of Trucks
If you only need one of the four sizes Budget offers, that could work well, but if you want more flexibility and accessibility, U-Haul has seven different sizes to choose from.
|
Brands |
U-Haul |
Budget Truck |
|
Types of Fleet Sizes |
Six types, including pickup, cargo, 10 feet, 15 feet, 20 feet, and 26 feet |
Four types, including cargo, 12 feet, 16 feet, and 26 feet |
|
Fuel |
Unleaded |
Unleaded & Diesel |
|
Mom's Attic |
Yes |
No |
|
Rub Rails |
Yes |
No |
|
Low-Loading Deck |
Yes |
No |
U-Haul is known for its exclusive Mom’s Attic (extra storage above the cab) and rub rails, which help keep fragile items safe and out of the way. With U-Haul offering a wider range of trucks, from small cargo vans to 26’ moving trucks, you can easily find the perfect fit for your journey.
Towing and Moving Accessories
|
Brands |
U-Haul |
Budget Truck |
|
Towing Equipment |
Bike Racks Cargo Carriers Tow Dolly Auto Transport Toy Hauler |
Car Carriers Tow Dolly |
|
Moving Accessories |
Wide range including hand trucks boxes, covers and bags, locks, packing and shipping supplies, |
Limited including hand trucks, furniture pads and @PlatePass |
If you want more flexibility, U-Haul has a variety of towing equipment and moving accessories to best support your move. From boxes and locks to dollies and packing supplies, you’ll find it all in one place.
Rental Policies and Protection Plans
In addition to base rental and mileage fees, insurance is another important factor to consider.
|
Brands |
U-Haul |
Budget Trucks |
|
Extra Driver Fee |
No |
Yes |
|
Moving Trucks Coverage Options |
SafeMove®, SafeMove Plus®, Safetow® |
Auto Tow Protection (AP) |
|
Life warranty plan for towing accessories |
Yes |
No |
Budget can be a fit for certain local moves with fewer size needs. However, with only four truck sizes available, it may be harder to find the exact fit for your move. You could end up paying for more space than you need or squeezing into a truck that feels too small. U-Haul offers a wider variety of truck sizes, so it’s easier to choose the right fit without the guesswork. On top of that, U-Haul’s flexible protection plans, larger fleet, and no extra charge for an additional driver make the moving process smoother and often more affordable for most movers, especially on longer trips.
Other Factors
|
Brands |
U-Haul |
Budget Truck |
|
Locations |
24,000 |
2,800+ |
|
Availability |
All 50 U.S. states and all Canadian Provinces |
Contiguous U.S only |
|
Booking Options |
Online, app or in-store |
Online or in-store |
*Not all stores carry moving truck rentals.
U-Haul is one of the largest networks of rental locations across the United States. With more than 24,000 locations, you can find moving rental trucks and support wherever you go. Moreover, our commitment to keeping a large, well-maintained fleet means you can trust that the trucks will be in excellent condition and ready to handle your moving needs.
At the end of the day, moving is stressful enough. What matters most is finding a truck that fits your needs and gives you peace of mind. With U-Haul, you’re not just renting a truck — you’re making your move easier, safer, and more affordable. Ready to book your move? Get your free U-Haul quote today and see how much you can save.