Your Complete Guide to Getting a Cheap Moving Truck Rental Without Sacrificing Quality
When it comes to moving, costs can pile up quickly. Between packing supplies, fuel, and the time it takes to relocate, saving wherever possible is key. One of the biggest expenses is the truck itself, but there are real, proven ways to cut that cost. If you are trying to score a cheap moving truck rental or save on U-Haul or another provider, this guide will walk you through practical, fact-based ways to keep more money in your pocket.
1. Book Your Moving Truck Early
Truck rental rates work like airline tickets: the later you book, the higher the price can go. Companies like U-Haul, Penske, and Budget adjust their pricing based on supply and demand. The earlier you reserve your truck, the better chance you have at locking in a low rate.
Pro tip: Try to book at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance, especially if you are moving at the end of the month, during a weekend, or in peak summer months when demand surges.
2. Compare Multiple Truck Rental Companies
Not all moving truck rental companies price the same. Rates can vary significantly between U-Haul, Penske, Budget, Enterprise, and Ryder depending on location, truck size, and even the day of the week. Do not assume one company is always cheaper.
Use comparison tools or manually check 3 or 4 providers. Even a $20 to $40 difference adds up, especially when you factor in mileage, insurance, and taxes.
3. Choose the Right Truck Size for Your Move
One of the most expensive mistakes people make is renting a truck that is too large or too small. Too large, and you are overpaying for space you do not use. Too small, and you risk damaging your items trying to cram them in—or worse, needing to make multiple trips.
That is why using a moving truck size calculator can help. Tools like the one on MovingTruckSize.com can estimate how many cubic feet of space you really need based on your home size and furniture inventory. This takes the guesswork out and helps you save money with confidence.
4. Avoid Weekend and End-of-Month Rentals
The most expensive times to rent a truck are weekends and the final days of the month. That is when most leases end and the highest number of people are on the move. As a result, rental rates spike.
If you can swing it, plan your move for a weekday in the middle of the month. Mid-week, mid-month moves are the sweet spot for snagging lower prices and better availability.
5. Look for Coupons and Promo Codes
You do not have to be a professional deal hunter to find moving truck coupons. Many rental companies offer promo codes through email newsletters, student discounts, military savings, AAA memberships, and partner organizations.
Where to look:
-
U-Haul often has deals for students and the military
-
Budget regularly offers percentage-off coupons online
-
Penske runs seasonal specials, especially for long-distance moves
Make sure to check their official website before booking, and apply your promo code during checkout.
6. Skip Extra Services You Don’t Need
Rental companies are businesses. They will offer add-ons like hand trucks, moving blankets, boxes, and furniture pads sometimes automatically checked off in your reservation.
If you are trying to get a cheap moving truck rental, review these add-ons carefully. Bring your own supplies if you can, or borrow them from friends and family. A single hand truck rental might cost $10 to $15, which is money saved if you already have one.
7. Fill the Gas Tank Yourself
Almost all rental truck companies require you to return the truck with the same fuel level it had when you picked it up. If you do not, they will charge you a refueling fee, and it is often two to three times the normal gas price.
Always stop and fill the tank yourself before returning the truck. Keep your receipt in case there are any disputes. It is one of the easiest ways to avoid unnecessary fees.
8. Watch Your Mileage
Some moving truck rentals come with unlimited mileage, which is great for long-distance moves. Others, especially local rentals, charge by the mile. If you are using a company that charges mileage, plan your route ahead of time and avoid extra driving.
For example, U-Haul local rentals often include a set number of miles, like 20 or 40, and then charge extra per mile after that. Penske and Budget may have different thresholds. Staying under the limit can save you a surprising amount.
9. Use One-Way Rentals Strategically
If you are moving long-distance, consider whether a one-way rental is more cost-effective than a round-trip rental. In many cases, returning the truck to the same location can double your mileage charges.
One-way rentals typically come with flat-rate pricing and may include a mileage allowance and additional days. If you are flexible on where you return the truck, this can save a lot, especially when compared to the cost of fuel, mileage, and time to bring it back.
10. Downsize Before You Pack
The fewer items you move, the smaller the truck you need—and the less you spend. Decluttering before a move is not just emotionally freeing, it is financially smart.
Sell, donate, or recycle anything you do not need. Fewer boxes mean less space, which means a cheaper truck. You may even save money on packing materials.
11. Check for Hidden Fees
Before you finalize your rental, double-check the full cost breakdown. Look for hidden or unexpected charges like:
-
Environmental fees
-
Insurance add-ons you did not request
-
Mileage overages
-
After-hours drop-off penalties
-
Cleaning fees
If something looks off, ask the company directly before confirming your booking. Being aware of these fees ahead of time can help you budget accurately and avoid surprises.
12. Bundle Services (When It Makes Sense)
Some moving truck companies also offer storage units, moving labor, or packing services. If you need more than just the truck, bundling services can sometimes lead to savings.
For example, renting a U-Haul truck and U-Box storage together may come with a package discount. If you are hiring movers, some companies also give a better rate when you use their preferred truck rental partner.
But only bundle if you genuinely need the extra service. If not, sticking to the basics is usually cheaper.
13. Use a Credit Card with Travel Perks or Cash Back
If you are paying for your rental with a credit card, use one that gives you rewards, points, or cash back. Some credit cards also include rental vehicle insurance, which may allow you to skip buying the rental company’s coverage (check your card’s terms to be sure).
This adds a layer of protection and may offset some of the total cost through rewards.
14. Return the Truck on Time
Late return fees can rack up quickly. Even an extra hour can result in a full-day charge. Make sure to return your truck on time—or even a little early—to avoid late fees.
Set a reminder for yourself, and leave extra time on moving day in case of unexpected delays like traffic or unloading issues.
Final Thoughts: Getting the Best Value from Your Moving Truck Rental
Saving money on your move is all about smart planning. The key to finding a cheap moving truck rental is knowing how companies price their services and avoiding costly mistakes.
To recap:
-
Book early and avoid peak days
-
Compare prices from at least 3 providers
-
Use a truck size calculator to avoid overpaying
-
Trim the extras you do not need
-
Stick to your mileage and fuel return rules
A little research upfront can save you hundreds on moving day. And if you want a stress-free way to start, try our free Moving Truck Size Estimator to make sure you choose the right truck the first time.
Your move does not have to break the bank. With the right strategies, you can save on U-Haul and other moving rentals without sacrificing reliability or peace of mind.