What Do I Need to Rent a U-Haul?

Understanding U-Haul rental requirements 

If you’re planning an out-of-state move and considering renting a U-Haul truck, understanding their rules and regulations is a good idea. While each U-Haul® location sets its own hours and operating procedures, their general requirements for renting trailers and trucks are typically the same. Let’s take a look, so you can determine if it’s an option for your move. If you’d rather not drive a truck or haul a trailer for a long-distance move, U-Pack® is an excellent alternative. Get the benefits of a DIY move without doing the driving! 

Minimum age for U-Haul rental  

To rent a trailer from U-Haul, you have to be 16 years old or older. To rent a moving truck from U-Haul, you have to be 18 years old or older. 

Type of license needed to operate U-Haul equipment 

To drive or haul U-Haul equipment, you must have a valid regular driver’s license* from the U.S., Canada, the military or a foreign country.  

U-Haul Truck Share 24/7® involves the use of a smartphone and a U-Haul account, and the renter’s identity must be verified with a photo that matches their driver’s license.

*To rent a 26-foot U-Haul truck in Quebec, Canada, a Class 3 Driver’s License is required (similar to a Commercial Driver’s License, or CDL). 

Acceptable payment methods 

U-Haul accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard and Visa credit cards and debit cards with a Visa or Mastercard logo. They accept payment on their website, over the phone and at their physical locations.  

A deposit of $100 plus the rental rate for the one-way move is needed to pay with cash in person. Depending on the location, an additional form of identification, like a utility bill or check stub, may also be required. 

Damage coverage 

U-Haul recommends purchasing optional damage coverage since most credit cards and auto insurance policies don’t cover rental trucks or trailers. If additional coverage is declined, the person on the rental contract will be financially responsible for the equipment and any damages during the move. 

Want an easier way to move long-distance? 

If you don’t fit the requirements for renting a U-Haul or the thought of driving a large truck across the country doesn’t sound appealing, consider U-Pack! With over 25 years of experience with household moving, we handle your shipments with care. We do the driving, and because you handle the packing and loading, you still get the savings and benefits of a DIY move. With U-Pack, there’s no deposit or extra fuel charge.  

Get a quote today 

Get a free U-Pack moving quote online or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant. If you have questions about U-Pack services, let us know in the comments. We’re glad to help! 

U-Haul® is a registered trademark of U-Haul International, Inc. Use of third-party trademarks or trademarks does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by such third-party.