Introduction

When renting a self-storage unit or moving van through U-Haul, it's crucial to adhere to the terms of your rental agreement, particularly concerning the drop-off location. Failing to do so can lead to additional fees, payment issues, and even legal consequences. In this article, we will explore the potential outcomes if you drop off a U-Haul at a different location than specified, and what you can do to mitigate these issues.

Extra Fees

Wrong Destination Fee

If you drop off a U-Haul at a location different from the one specified in your rental agreement, you may incur a different destination fee, also known as a 'wrong destination' fee. This fee is typically calculated as twice the one-way rate to the actual drop-off location. For example, if the one-way rate to Ohio from New York is $500, the fee for dropping the truck off in Ohio would be $1,000.

U-Haul bases the distance and location into account to determine this fee, with each region or marketing company setting its own limits on what is considered too far. If you only travel 15 to 30 miles from the intended drop-off location, no additional fees may apply. However, if the distance exceeds this threshold, the consequences can be significant.

Example

Let’s say you rented a vehicle from New York with a destination of Maryland for $300. Later, you changed your mind and decided to drop off in Ohio. Without notification, the fee for the one-way journey from New York to Ohio is $500. Since you didn't notify U-Haul, the penalty for dropping off in Ohio would be twice the one-way rate, resulting in a final bill of $1,000.

Payment Issues

Another potential consequence of failing to pay for your rental is that U-Haul may attempt to charge your initial payment method. If this fails, they may escalate the matter to collections, which can negatively impact your credit score.

Better Communication

It is always best to communicate with U-Haul if you have any payment-related issues. They may offer solutions, such as flexible payment plans, to help you resolve the situation. Open dialogue can prevent the issue from escalating and damaging your relationship with the company.

Legal Consequences

Theft or Fraud

Not returning the vehicle properly or failing to pay can be considered theft or fraud, which can lead to legal action against you. This can result in fines, legal fees, and even a criminal record.

Impact on Future Rentals

Your ability to rent from U-Haul or other rental companies in the future may be affected negatively. If you have a history of not paying or not returning vehicles as agreed, you may face difficulty renting in the future, as companies consider your trustworthiness.

Conclusion

Staying informed about your rental agreement and communicating with U-Haul promptly is essential to avoid these potential issues. Always notify U-Haul of any changes in your plans. Early communication can help prevent additional fees, payment issues, and legal troubles. You can also mitigate these risks by ensuring you have the necessary funds to cover any expenses and by opting for more flexible payment plans if available.