How Much Does It Cost to Take a U-Haul Cross Country?

Planning a cross-country move can be both exciting and overwhelming. When it comes to choosing the right moving equipment, many opt for U-Haul, known for its reliable and convenient services. However, one of the most common questions is how much it costs to rent a U-Haul for a long-distance move. In this guide, we will explore the factors that influence the cost of renting a U-Haul for a cross-country move and provide you with a detailed breakdown of what to expect.

Understanding the Factors Influencing U-Haul Cross Country Moving Costs

Several factors play a critical role in determining the cost of renting a U-Haul for a cross-country move. Here are some of the key influences:

Distance: The longer the distance, the higher the rental cost. U-Haul typically charges based on the number of miles driven, so a cross-country move can significantly increase the total bill. Size of the Rental U-Haul: The size of the U-Haul you choose will also impact the overall cost. Larger U-Hauls naturally come with higher rental rates. Additional Services: Some rental companies offer additional services like towing, loading assistance, and mileage charges, which can add to the total cost. Seasonal Pricing: Prices can fluctuate depending on the time of year. Certain months, like summer, tend to see higher demand and higher rates. Time of Year: As mentioned, seasonal pricing can affect costs. Additionally, the time of day and day of the week might influence pricing as well.

Official U-Haul Pricing and Movango

U-Haul offers its rental prices through an innovative online platform called Movango. Movango provides a comprehensive and accurate pricing system that allows you to get real-time quotes and book your U-Haul directly online. This platform is accessible at To obtain an accurate estimate, it is recommended to visit the site and enter your specific information, including the start location, end location, miles to move, and specific dates.

Visiting the Movango website will give you a detailed breakdown of the costs, including:

U-Haul Models: From small utility trailers to larger vans, each model has different rental rates. Pickup and Return Fees: There might be additional fees for picking up and returning the U-Haul. Mileage Charges: The cost per mile driven, which can be a significant factor for a long-distance move. Time of Delivery: Early morning and late-night deliveries might come with an additional fee.

A Comprehensive Pricing Breakdown

Let's take a closer look at a specific example to understand the cost structure more clearly. For a 1,500-mile cross-country move from New York to California during the summer, you might encounter the following costs:

Daily Rental Rates

U-Haul offers several sizes for your cross-country move, such as a 120 Box, a 16x82 Van, or a 282 Van. Here's a general breakdown of the daily rental rates (as of the last update) for these models:

Model Daily Rate ($) 120 Box $40-$50 16x82 Van $60-$70 282 Van $75-$90

Total Rental Costs

Assuming a 7-day rental period (which is typical for a cross-country move), the total daily rental cost could be:

120 Box: $280-$350 16x82 Van: $420-$490 282 Van: $525-$630

Please note that these rates are approximate and can vary based on the rental company's current pricing.

Mileage Charges

The cost per mile can vary depending on the model of U-Haul you choose. For the sake of example, let's assume:

120 Box: $0.30 per mile 16x82 Van: $0.40 per mile 282 Van: $0.50 per mile

For a 1,500-mile move, the mileage costs would be:

120 Box: $450 16x82 Van: $600 282 Van: $750

Adding the daily rental and mileage charges, the total cost for the trip would be:

120 Box: $730-$800 16x82 Van: $1,020-$1,090 282 Van: $1,275-$1,360

Tips for Saving on U-Haul Cross Country Moving Costs

While the total cost for a cross-country move can be substantial, there are ways to save money. Here are some tips:

Book in Advance: Renting a U-Haul during peak moving seasons can be more expensive. Booking in advance can help you secure better rates. Compare Prices: U-Haul isn't the only company offering moving services. Check with other rental companies as well. Some might offer better deals or additional discounts. Consider a Smaller U-Haul: For long distances, a smaller U-Haul might be sufficient if you're moving a smaller number of items. Use Additional Services Wisely: While towing and loading assistance can be helpful, they come with additional fees. Use them only if you truly need them. Be Flexible: Moving during off-peak months or weekdays might help you save money.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Planning a cross-country move using U-Haul can be a cost-effective solution if you do your research and choose the right rental model. By understanding the factors that influence the cost and utilizing the Movango platform, you can get an accurate estimate and make informed decisions. Remember, while U-Haul is a reliable option, it's always a good idea to compare prices from different rental companies to ensure you're getting the best deal.

If you have any specific concerns or need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to U-Haul directly. They are always available to help and can provide you with personalized advice based on your needs.