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How Much Does a Moving Truck Rental Cost in the USA?
Calculate Your CostThe cost of a moving truck rental in the USA can look affordable at first, but the final price depends on more than the daily truck rate.
For a small local move, truck rental can still be one of the lowest-cost ways to move. But for a bigger home or a long distance move, the price can climb quickly.
Current public pricing shows that local rentals start at $19.95 plus mileage. AAA's current national average fuel price is $3.790 per gallon for regular gas and $4.765 per gallon for diesel, so fuel should be part of your budget from the start.
Average Moving Truck Rental Cost by Move Type
These estimates are based on current U.S. pricing patterns, rental company rates, mileage fees, and fuel costs.
| Move Type | Common Truck Size | Estimated Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small local move under 35 miles | Cargo van or 10 ft truck | $84 to $148 |
| Apartment move within the same city | 12 ft to 16 ft truck | $139 to $276 |
| 2 to 3 bedroom local move | 16 ft to 22 ft truck | $228 to $489 |
| Larger local move | 22 ft to 26 ft truck | $367 to $742 |
| Short one-way move under 250 miles | 12 ft to 16 ft truck | $731 to $1,192 |
| Cross-country move | 16 ft to 26 ft truck | $2,986 to $7,489 |
Common Add-On Costs to Expect
Some costs are easy to miss when you first book a truck. This is why you should use our moving cost calculator before you reserve anything.
| Add-On | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Mileage fee for local rentals | $0.69 to $1.29 per mile |
| Fuel for a 50-mile local move | $18.97 to $38.66 |
| Basic damage coverage | $14.82 to $42.79 per day |
| Furniture dolly rental | $7.46 to $13.84 per day |
| Furniture pads | $9.73 to $21.68 per dozen |
| Car tow dolly | $47.89 to $98.62 per day |
| Extra rental day | $59.74 to $87.93 per day |
What Usually Affects the Final Price?
When users search for moving truck rental near me, they notice the daily rental rate first. That number is important, but it is not the full price.
The final cost can change depending on several factors.
Truck size
Larger rental trucks usually cost more per day. If you choose a truck that is too small, you may also spend more because of extra trips.
Move distance
Local rentals charge per mile. A long distance move may include a mileage allowance, but the base price is usually higher.
Pickup and drop-off location
Returning the truck to a different city or state can increase the cost. One-way rentals usually cost more than same-location returns.
Rental date
Prices can change based on demand. Weekends, holidays, summer months, and end-of-month dates are often more expensive.
Fuel cost
You usually need to refill the truck before returning it. Bigger trucks use more fuel, especially when fully loaded.
Moving equipment
Dollies, furniture pads, hand trucks, ramps, and towing equipment can increase the final price.
Average Moving Truck Rental Cost by State
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Moving Truck Rental Advice and Tips
What Size Moving Truck Rental Do I Need for my Move?
It is important to choose the right truck size as it can save your money, time and stress. If the truck is too small, you may need extra trips. If it is too large, you may pay more than you need.
A good rule is to choose your moving truck rental based on the size of your home, the number of rooms, and how much furniture you have.
| Truck Size | Best For | What Usually Fits |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo van | Studio apartment or small dorm move | Boxes, small furniture, mattress, lamps, and personal items |
| 10 ft truck | Studio or small 1-bedroom apartment | Queen mattress, small sofa, dresser, boxes, and basic furniture |
| 12 ft truck | 1-bedroom apartment | Bed, sofa, dining set, boxes, and small appliances |
| 15 ft to 16 ft truck | 1 to 2-bedroom home | Bedroom furniture, living room set, kitchen items, and boxes |
| 20 ft truck | 2 to 3-bedroom home | Multiple beds, sofa set, dining table, appliances, and packed boxes |
| 22 ft to 26 ft truck | 3 to 5-bedroom home | Large furniture, several rooms of belongings, appliances, and garage items |
How Can I Find a Cheap Moving Truck Rental Company?
Whenever you find a cheap moving truck rental company, do not pick the lowest daily rates. You also need to check mileage fees, fuel costs, insurance, and return rules.
Do not book the first truck you find. Compare at least three moving truck rental companies so you can see which one gives the best price.
Some companies show a low base rate, but add mileage, taxes, equipment fees, or coverage later. Always review the estimated final total before booking.
Truck prices can go up when demand is high. Booking early gives you more truck options and a better chance of finding a lower rate.
Weekends, holidays, summer months, and the end of the month are more expensive. If your schedule is flexible, try booking on a weekday or in the middle of the month.
A smaller truck may look cheaper, but it can cost more if you need extra trips. Pick a truck that fits your move without paying for more space than you need.
Some moving truck rental companies offer discounts for students, military members, AAA members, seniors, or online bookings. Always check before you reserve.
Is a One-Way Moving Truck Rental Better For a Long-Distance Move?
Yes, a one-way moving truck rental is usually better for a long-distance move because you can pick up the truck in one city and return it near your new home. You do not have to drive the truck all the way back, which saves time, fuel, mileage, and stress.
If you are moving from one state to another, a one-way rental is usually the easiest option. You load the truck, drive to your new location, unload it, and return it nearby.
Driving back to the original pickup location can add hours or even days to your move. A one-way rental helps you finish the move faster.
For a long distance moving truck rental, one-way service is often more practical because the trip is already expensive and tiring. Returning the truck to the original location can make the move harder than it needs to be.
What Should I Check Before Picking Up a Rental Moving Truck?
Before you drive away, take a few minutes to inspect the truck. This can help you avoid safety issues problems when returning the truck.
Walk around the truck and check for dents, scratches, broken lights, or other damage. Take photos or videos before leaving the lot so you have proof if there is a dispute later.
Check that the tires look properly inflated and do not have visible cracks, cuts, or heavy wear. Bad tires can make the drive unsafe, especially on a long route.
Test the headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights. These should work properly before you start your move.
Check the fuel gauge and make sure it matches what is written on your rental agreement. Most moving truck rental companies expect you to return the truck with the same fuel level.
Look at the odometer before you leave. Make sure the starting mileage is correct on the rental paperwork, especially if you are paying per mile.
Drive slowly in the lot if possible and check that the brakes feel normal. The steering should also feel steady and easy to control.
Open the back of the truck and make sure the space is clean, dry, and large enough for your items. Also, check that the door opens and closes smoothly.
How Can I Compare Moving Truck Rental Prices Before Booking?
A moving truck rental price can change a lot after mileage, fuel, coverage, and extra equipment are added. Before booking, compare the full estimated total, not only the advertised daily rate.
Start with the daily or hourly truck rate. This is the starting price, but it is not the final cost.
Look at how much the company charges per mile. This matters more for local moves because many local rentals charge mileage separately.
Check the truck's fuel type and expected miles per gallon. Larger trucks usually use more fuel, so gas or diesel can change the total price.
Damage protection or insurance can increase the rental cost. Check the price of the coverage plan before you add it.
Dollies, furniture pads, straps, and towing equipment may cost extra. Add only the items you actually need.
Use the same truck size, date, mileage, rental time, and pickup location when checking different truck rental companies. This gives you a fair price comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
You should book your moving truck rental at least 2 to 4 weeks before your move. If you are moving in summer, on a weekend, or at the end of the month, book even earlier.
Most moving truck rental companies require a valid driver’s license, a payment card, and your pickup details. Some companies may also ask for proof of insurance or another form of ID.
Some companies allow debit cards, but the rules can vary by location. A credit card usually makes the rental process easier because some locations use it for deposits or holds.
Many companies allow renters who are 18 or older, but some may require you to be 21 or 25 for certain truck sizes. Always check the age policy before booking.
Some one-way rentals may include unlimited miles or a set mileage allowance. Local rentals charge by the mile, so check the mileage policy before you reserve the truck.
Late returns can lead to extra charges. You may be charged for another rental period, extra mileage, or late fees, depending on the company's policy.
Yes, but the extra driver usually needs to be listed on the rental agreement. If someone drives the truck without being approved, coverage may not apply if there is an accident.
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