Comparing Major Moving Truck Rental Agencies

If you're planning a DIY move unless you're just starting out and pack all your stuff in the trunk of your car, you're likely to need a truck or van to help you get the job done. If you're moving house, it's unlikely that even getting your friend with a pick-up truck to swing by will be enough; that's when you need to work with a company that rents moving trailers and trucks.

While your town may have local moving companies that will complete your move for you, full-service moves are often expensive. Unless you're moving a significant number of possessions, moving them is rarely economical. A DIY move - renting the truck, getting friends and relatives to help you pack up and load a truck, then driving to your new location where you unpack all over again - is usually the most economical option for getting your move done. Renting a truck can be a cost-effective solution, especially if you're willing to handle the packing and driving yourself.

In general, it's best to work with a nationally known moving truck company. These companies have fleets of trucks that are (hopefully) in good repair. Their reputation protects you to a certain degree, and you can be fairly sure that if you need to put a deposit down on a truck, it'll be there the day you need it. There are several major companies you can choose from in most communities. While getting a quote online is always the best way to find accurate pricing, these numbers and details will help you get started.

Choosing the Right Moving Truck Rental Company

Before choosing a moving truck, make sure it matches your needs. Price matters, but it's more important to choose a company that fits your specific needs. If you're moving across the country, choose a company that provides unlimited mileage. If you're moving fragile items, look for a company that provides extra equipment, such as dollies and padded blankets.

Now, how did we narrow down the top companies? We looked at a variety of factors, from customer reviews to the range of services offered. We also considered the availability of trucks and each company's geographic reach. But we didn't stop there. We dug deeper to find out about the age of their fleets, because let's face it, no one wants a truck that breaks down mid-move. We even looked at the fine print, like insurance options and additional fees that might sneak up on you.

So, as you read through our comparisons, keep your own checklist in mind. What are your non-negotiables? What can you compromise on? And most importantly, what will give you peace of mind on moving day? Remember, the best choice for you might not be the biggest company, but the one that fits like a glove with your specific moving needs.

Not all companies offer the same range of truck sizes. Use this chart to see which rental services provide vehicles that fit your move size, from studio apartments to full homes.

Company	Available Truck Sizes (Feet)	Small Vehicle Options
U-Haul	10, 15, 17, 20, 24, 26	Pickup trucks, cargo vans
Penske	12, 16, 22, 26	Not listed
Enterprise	15, 16, 24, 26	Cargo vans, pickups
Budget	10, 16, 24	Cargo vans

U-Haul

U-Haul is certainly the best-known player in the DIY move game. U-Haul is one of the largest and most recognizable companies with locations across the United States and Canada. It is known for offering some of the most affordable truck rental prices in the country. The company offers a range of products and services, including truck and trailer rentals, storage solutions, packing supplies, making it a one-stop shop for people moving locally and across state lines. Some basics about their services and products:

More size options than any of the competitors
• Truck sizes include 10, 15, 17, 20, 24 and 26 feet
• Cargo vans and pickups are also available. For smaller moves or transporting specific items, a cargo van might be a more suitable option.
• Carry moving supplies and boxes
• Cargo, utility, and car trailers are available
• U-Box containers are an option

While truck and van options are familiar to most people, container shipping is new to many movers. The U-Box option allows movers to pack their belongings in a storage container, which is then moved to their new location on the date they choose.

Another advantage of the company is that there is typically always a location nearby where you can pick up or drop off your moving truck. That is one reason it is a popular choice for a local move. This means spending less on mileage you won't need, just by picking up or returning your truck for local moves. U-Haul also offers several protection plans suitable for different trips and modes of transportation.

One downside of U-Haul is that because they're so big, service is unlikely to be particularly individualized. There are also so many options for moving truck sizes that it's easy to feel overwhelmed.

Penske

Penske offers high-quality truck rental and leasing services to businesses and individuals in the United States and Canada. The company operates a fleet of over 325,000 trucks and provides a wide range of services, including full-service truck leasing, contract maintenance, and logistics solutions.

Penske trucks are much smaller than U-Haul, but are partnered with Home Depot to give their customers more options in delivery locations. Penske tends to be more expensive than U-Haul and Budget, but it has a newer fleet.

• Truck sizes include 12, 16, 22, and 26 feet
• Usually best prices for out-of-state moves
• Unlimited mileage for long-distance moves
• Fewer renting locations than competitors
• Newer trucks. Penske truck rental is a solid option if you're looking for newer, well-maintained vehicles for your move.
• Towing equipment includes a car carrier

Penske also offers a variety of insurance plans that are based on your travel needs; again, it's best to discuss with your specific representative what would be most appropriate for your situation.

Enterprise

Most people know that Enterprise rents cars, but fewer people are aware of their moving truck division. Enterprise truck rental offers a wide range of commercial trucks, including cargo vans, box trucks, and stake bed trucks. The company has a reputation for exceptional customer service, competitive pricing, and locations across the United States.

• Not available for long distance moves; local moves only
• Trucks include 15, 16, 24, and 26 feet sizes
• Low mileage rates for in-town moves
• Not many locations to rent or drop off a truck
• Higher per-mile rates than competitors
• Cargo vans and pickup trucks are also available

Enterprise is generally considered to be more expensive than the other three rental agencies. That said, Enterprise is primarily useful for businesses or individuals moving to a nearby location; rental agreements stipulate that moving trucks must be returned to the same location from which they were rented. For many larger companies, the truck can be returned to any authorized dealer. Still, customer satisfaction with the company is very high, so if you're moving around town or picking up a new piece of furniture from a company that doesn't do the delivery, Enterprise may be just what you're looking for.

Budget Truck Rental

Much like Enterprise, customers are familiar with renting cars from Budget Truck Rental, but may not have heard that they can rent moving vehicles. Budget is a budget-friendly truck rental option for a local move, with competitive pricing and flexible rental options. Budget offers a wide range of trucks, including cargo vans and box trucks. Like U-Haul, they also provide additional equipment, such as hand trucks, moving blankets, and dollies, to assist with your move.

Budget is also one of the budget-friendly options in the industry, with competitive pricing and flexible rental options. With over 1,700 locations nationwide, Budget makes it easy for customers to find a nearby rental location. The company offers one-way truck rentals, allowing customers to drop off their truck at a different location than where they picked it up.

• Trucks include 10, 16, and 24 feet options. If you're moving a large number of items, a box truck could be the ideal choice due to its spacious cargo area.
Low costs for local moves
• Low rates for one-way truck rentals
• Sell moving boxes and packing materials
• Low mileage rates

Budget's overall operation is a lot smaller than U-Haul, which may make finding a local dealer a challenge; customer experience also seems to vary from dealer to dealer. This may mean that it's particularly important to get information and recommendations from local Budget users before making a decision.

Fleet Age and Vehicle Condition Expectations

Older trucks often cost less upfront, while newer fleets tend to be more reliable and use less fuel. The table below compares what you can expect from each company’s fleet.

Company	Average Fleet Age	Reliability Insights
U-Haul	Older fleet overall	Occasional complaints of worn interiors or higher mileage units
Penske	Newer vehicles	Praised for condition and fuel efficiency on long hauls
Enterprise	Commercial-grade trucks, typically newer	High satisfaction in urban moves and business use
Budget	Moderate fleet age	Mixed reviews depending on local dealer maintenance

Diesel vs. Gas Trucks

In long-distance moves, fuel efficiency can matter more than small differences in rental prices.
• Gas box trucks often average 6 to 8 MPG when loaded.
• Diesel box trucks often average 11 to 13 MPG under similar conditions.

On a 1,000-mile move, that gap can add up to hundreds of dollars in fuel costs. Diesel trucks are more common in Penske’s fleet and at some Enterprise locations.

Fuel efficiency matters most in these situations:
• Moves over 300 miles
• Towing a vehicle
• Driving through mountain areas or high-wind regions

Reservation Reality Check: Availability vs. Confirmation

A truck “reservation” does not mean you have a guaranteed vehicle. It works as a scheduling request that depends on other customers returning trucks on time.

• U-Haul and Budget Truck Rental operate high-volume, dealer-managed networks. When a truck is returned late or breaks down, the next reservation may fail. Many movers experience this in the form of last-minute cancellations or location changes.

• Penske Truck Rental uses a centrally controlled commercial fleet. It has fewer locations, and trucks are less often double-booked.

• Enterprise Truck Rental prioritizes round-trip rentals. This reduces the risk of overbooking and limits one-way availability.

Practical rule: If your move depends on a fixed deadline such as a lease end, military orders, or hired labor, treat reservations from U-Haul or Budget as higher risk unless you add a time buffer. Here is how this works by company:

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Moving Truck

The price of renting a moving truck depends on a few things such as the truck's size, the distance you'll be travelling, and the truck rental company. Based on a one-way rental of a 10-foot moving truck for a one-day rental, below are a few price choices from the above-mentioned truck rental companies:

U-Haul: The cost for a one-way rental starts at around $19.95, plus additional fees for mileage and insurance. Depending on the distance of the move and other factors such as insurance and gas, the total cost could range from $60 to $200 or more.

Penske: The cost for a one-way truck rental starts at around $80 to $100, plus additional fees for mileage and insurance. The total cost could range from $100 to $300 or more, depending on the distance of the move.

Budget Truck Rental: The cost for a one-way rental starts at around $70 to $80, plus extra for mileage and insurance. The total cost could range from $100 to $300 or more, depending on the distance traveled.

Cost Comparison by Move Scenario

Truck rental prices vary significantly depending on whether your move is local, long-distance, or round-trip. Here’s how the major companies compare on cost for common moving scenarios.

Move Type	Lowest Typical Cost	Why
Local move under 50 miles	Budget / U-Haul	Lower base rates offset mileage charges
One-way move under 500 miles	Budget / U-Haul	Promotional one-way pricing
One-way move over 500 miles	Penske	Unlimited mileage avoids overage costs
Same-day in-town hauling	Enterprise	Predictable per-mile pricing, newer trucks

Drop-off rules vary by rental company, and some trucks must be returned to the pickup location. This comparison shows which companies allow one-way moves.

Company	One-Way Drop-Off Available?	Return Requirements
U-Haul	Yes	Can return to different location; large national network supports this well.
Penske	Yes	One-way rentals supported; best for long-distance moves.
Budget	Yes	One-way rentals offered, but not all locations support this.
Enterprise	No	Truck must be returned to same location unless business account allows exception.

Additional Equipment

• U-Haul, Budget, and Penske all offer equipment for rent, such as dollies and moving blankets.
• Enterprise does not offer additional equipment.

Not all rental services carry the same moving equipment. This breakdown shows which companies supply the equipment you may need to make your move easier.

Company	Dollies & Hand Trucks	Blankets & Pads	Towing Equipment
U-Haul	Available for rent	Available for rent	Trailers, car carriers
Penske	Available	Available	Car carrier options
Budget	Available	Available	Not mentioned
Enterprise	Not offered	Not offered	Not offered

The Best Moving Truck Rental Company

There is no single best rental truck agency. The right choice depends on your circumstances and budget. U-Haul is a good choice for those on a tight budget, while Penske is ideal for those who want more flexibility and newer vehicles. Budget Truck Rental is a good option for those who need a large or medium box truck for a local move, and Enterprise is known for its excellent customer service and high-quality vehicles. Each of the four rental agencies has strengths and weaknesses, and the best option will depend on your specific needs and preferences. When comparing truck companies, consider both cost, reliability, and customer service.

With so many moving company options out there, it's not surprising that customers can get overwhelmed by their choices. Many websites offer guesses of how much truck space you need - for example, they might say that a one-bedroom apartment needs a particular size of truck, but if you find that you have either way too much truck or nothing like enough for your needs, there's really nothing you can do on the day of your move to change your mind.

While you can make reservations with each of these companies online, it's a good idea to speak to your local dealer to make sure the truck you want will be in stock on the appropriate day, and that all of your questions are answered before you put down a deposit. Here is an extra tip for you: regardless of truck size, rental trucks are not considered commercial vehicles, and you do not need a special license to drive one.

Which Company Fits Your Move Type

Match the company to the risk you’re managing.
• Local move under 20 miles: Budget or U-Haul when the mileage math works in your favor.
• Long-distance move: Penske for predictable mileage and reliable truck condition.
• Small or professional loads: Enterprise for newer vehicles and consistent maintenance.
• Towing a car: U-Haul for available towing equipment and clear rental terms.

Myths and Misconceptions About Moving Truck Rental Companies

All Moving Truck Companies Offer Similar Insurance Plans

Contrary to popular belief, insurance offerings can vary significantly between companies. For instance, some may offer more comprehensive plans covering both the truck and your belongings, while others might only cover the vehicle. According to a study by the American Moving & Storage Association, only 20% of DIY movers fully understand the insurance options available to them.

Insurance options vary by rental company, and coverage details affect both cost and risk. This comparison shows how protection plans differ in scope and limits, helping renters identify coverage gaps.

Company	Vehicle Damage Coverage	Cargo Protection Availability	Common Coverage Limitations
U-Haul	Optional damage waivers reduce renter liability	Separate plans for belongings inside the truck	Does not cover improper loading or prohibited items
Penske	Tiered plans based on deductible level	Available as add-on coverage	Personal items may have per-pound value caps
Budget	Damage waivers offered at daily rate	Limited personal property protection options	Coverage varies by dealer and location
Enterprise	Commercial-style damage protection	Not included for personal household goods	Primarily designed for business-use rentals

Unlimited Mileage Always Comes Standard

Many people assume that unlimited mileage is a standard feature across all rental companies. However, some companies only offer this for long-distance moves. A survey found that 35% of customers ended up paying additional fees due to a misunderstanding of mileage policies.

Newer Trucks Are Always More Expensive to Rent

It's a common misconception that newer trucks are always more expensive. Companies like Penske, known for having newer fleets, often have competitive pricing. Data from Consumer Reports show that newer trucks are not only more fuel-efficient but also more cost-effective in the long run because they have fewer mechanical issues.

Local Companies Are Always Cheaper Than National Ones

While local companies might offer lower base prices, they often lack the range of services and equipment that national companies provide. A report by the Better Business Bureau indicated that 40% of complaints about moving truck rentals involved unexpected fees from local companies.

Booking Online Guarantees Truck Availability

Many assume that booking online guarantees the truck will be available on the moving day. However, overbooking is a common issue in the industry. According to a J.D. Power study, 22% of customers experienced availability issues despite having reservations, resulting in delays and higher costs.

Mileage Policy Differences by Company and Move Type

Mileage terms vary by company and by move distance, whether you’re moving across town or across the country. This chart compares how each provider handles mileage.

Company	Local Moves	Long-Distance Moves
U-Haul	Charges per mile	Mileage estimate included; excess billed separately
Penske	Charges per mile	Unlimited mileage
Budget	Low per-mile cost	One-way rentals include mileage allowance
Enterprise	Charges per mile	Not available

Unique Insights and Practical Money Saving Tips

1. Leverage Off-Peak Seasons for Better Rates: Rental rates can fluctuate based on the season. According to industry data, rates are generally lower during the fall and winter months.

2. Check for Partnership Discounts: Some companies have partnerships with organizations that offer member discounts. For example, Penske Truck Rental has a partnership with AAA that provides discounts to its members.

3. Consider Fuel Efficiency: The fuel efficiency of the truck can significantly impact your overall moving costs. Trucks with better miles-per-gallon (MPG) ratings can save you money in the long run.

4. Inspect the Truck Thoroughly Before Signing: Always inspect the truck for any existing damage before signing the rental agreement. Take photos as evidence to avoid any disputes later.

5. Understand the Cancellation Policy: Each company has its own cancellation policy. Some may offer a full refund if you cancel within a certain period, while others might charge a fee.

If you need assistance with loading or unloading your rental truck, browse through the links below to find an affordable moving labor in your state.