Yes, you can travel with U-Haul trucks and cargo vans for local or one-way moves using their fleet of leased vehicles, including trucks, cargo vans, and portable moving containers.
How many miles per gallon does a 26 ft U-Haul truck get?
A 26 ft U-Haul truck averages 10 miles per gallon, give or take a mile depending on load and terrain.
That’s typical for big rigs like this—those engines drink gas when they’re hauling your couch and coffee table. Expect to top off every 300–400 miles under a full load. U-Haul switched from diesel to unleaded years ago, which makes filling up easier and keeps maintenance simpler. Always check the fuel door for the right octane rating before you pull away.
What happens if you go over your miles in a U-Haul?
You’ll pay $0.40 for every extra mile once you blow past the allowance in your contract.
It’s spelled out in black and white on the paperwork you sign. This sneaky fee adds up fast, so map your route carefully. Google Maps or Waze will keep you honest. If you’re driving cross-country, bite the bullet and buy the Unlimited Mileage option at checkout. And hey, jot down odometer readings at every gas stop—just in case the system glitches.
How many MPG does a 15 ft U-Haul get?
A 15 ft U-Haul truck also lands around 10 miles per gallon, same as its bigger sibling.
It’s not exactly a Prius, but it’s manageable for studio apartments and small homes. The 40-gallon tank gives you roughly 400 miles before you need to refuel. Top off the night before you return to dodge idle fees. Honestly, this is the sweet spot for most moves—big enough to haul your life, small enough to park without a second mortgage.
Can I charge my phone in a U-Haul truck?
Yep, you can juice up your phone in most U-Haul trucks—just look for the 12V outlet or USB ports.
They’re usually hiding near the driver’s seat or tucked behind a panel in the cargo area. Some locations rent portable chargers if you forgot yours. Bring your own USB cable and you’re golden. If the ports aren’t obvious, check under the dash or behind the seats—U-Haul hides them to keep the cargo space clean.
Does U-Haul refund unused miles?
Nope, U-Haul won’t cut you a check for unused miles—they expire with the rental.
Same goes for extra days. Your best bet? Guess your needs accurately or fork over for Unlimited Mileage upfront. Refunds only happen for goofs like duplicate charges or canceled protection plans. Always eyeball your final receipt before you drive off the lot.
Do U-Haul trucks have aux?
Some do—look for a 3.5mm AUX jack on the dashboard, but don’t bet on it in every truck.
It’s hit or miss, especially in older models. If you don’t see an AUX port, grab a Bluetooth FM transmitter instead. Test your audio connection before you pull onto the road—last thing you need is a dead silence emergency halfway through your move.
How many mpg do Uhauls get?
Most U-Haul trucks land between 8–12 MPG, with bigger rigs closer to the lower end.
Throw a full load in there and expect the needle to dip even further. A 10 ft truck might hit 12 MPG, while a 26 ft struggles to reach 10. Use cruise control on highways and ease up on the gas pedal—your wallet will thank you. Fuel economy isn’t exactly U-Haul’s strong suit, but it’s the price you pay for hauling your life across town.
How much weight can a 26 foot U-Haul hold?
A 26 ft U-Haul can handle up to 12,859 lbs of cargo, but remember that includes the truck, fuel, and passengers.
Overloading is a bad idea—it wrecks the suspension, messes with braking, and can void your insurance. Spread the weight evenly and strap everything down tight. Furniture pads and moving blankets protect both your stuff and the truck’s interior. And for the love of all things holy, don’t stack your grandma’s china on top of the mattress.
What kind of gas does a U-Haul van use?
All U-Haul vans run on unleaded gasoline now—no diesel left in the fleet as of 2026.
This change happened years ago to simplify fuel logistics. Double-check the fuel door or your rental paperwork to be sure. Stick with 87 octane or higher unless the truck specifies otherwise. Trying to pump diesel into one of these? You’ll be walking.
How big is the tank on a 15 foot U-Haul?
A 15 ft U-Haul’s tank holds either 34 or 40 gallons, depending on the year and model.
Sub Category
Fuel Tank Size
MPG (up to)
Miles Per Tank (up to)
15′ Truck (older models)
34 Gallons
10
340 Miles
15′ Truck (newer models)
40 Gallons
10
400 Miles
If you’re hauling across state lines, aim for the 40-gallon version. Fill up when you hit half a tank—rural gas stations aren’t always around the corner. Keep those receipts handy for reimbursement or tax time.
How many gallons does a U-Haul truck hold?
A 10 ft U-Haul packs a 31-gallon tank and sips gas at about 12 MPG.
That’s good for roughly 372 miles if you’re gentle on the throttle. Perfect for dorm rooms or studio apartments. Always start with a full tank and refuel when you dip below half. Running it bone-dry can wreck the fuel pump—ask me how I know.
How much can fit in a 10 ft U-Haul?
A 10 ft U-Haul fits a king bed, frame, loveseat, two end tables, and a four-piece dining set, plus a mountain of boxes.
We’re talking about 350–400 cubic feet of space. It’s tight but doable for small spaces. Throw in some furniture pads and moving blankets to protect your stuff (and the truck). Load the heavy stuff first, centered over the rear axle, and leave walkways so you don’t tip the whole thing over.
How do you drive a 10 foot Uhaul truck?
Treat it like a boat on wheels—wide turns, slow acceleration, and extra care in reverse.
Mirror checks become your new religion. Braking takes longer, so leave way more space than usual. Practice turning in an empty lot before you hit the highway. Watch for low bridges and parking garage height signs—these trucks love to scrape. Signal early and move like you’re carrying nitroglycerin. Both hands on the wheel, eyes on the road, and no sudden moves.
How do I connect my Bluetooth to my uhaul truck?
Most U-Haul trucks with Bluetooth let you pair your phone via the infotainment screen—look for the Bluetooth settings menu.
Turn on your phone’s Bluetooth, find the truck in the list, and pair it up. Some use a touchscreen; others have dedicated buttons. No Bluetooth? Grab an FM transmitter or AUX cable. Test the audio before you roll out—nothing’s worse than realizing your playlist won’t play halfway to your new place. And for the record, U-Haul doesn’t provide charging cables, so bring your own.
How do you turn on a uhaul cargo light?
Flip the switch inside the cargo area or near the rear doors—it’s usually on the ceiling or wall.
This little light makes loading in the dark a whole lot safer. Always check that it works before you start hauling. If it’s dead, tell U-Haul staff before you drive off—driving blind is a terrible idea. Keep your cargo organized so you can actually see what’s back there.
Is it cheaper to return a U-Haul to the same location?
Always return it to where you rented it—one-way drop-offs can cost over $1,000 depending on the distance.
Those relocation fees add up fast. If you’re moving locally, consider a round trip to save serious cash. Compare drop-off fees at your destination before you book—some locations are cheaper than others. And double-check the return hours so you don’t get stuck with late fees.
Do budget vans have Bluetooth?
Budget vans come with Bluetooth hands-free calling as standard, though the exact setup varies by model year.
Use voice commands or the steering wheel controls to keep your hands where they belong. Pair your phone before you drive off—distracted driving is a terrible way to start a move. If Bluetooth acts up, ask the rental desk for help. Don’t even think about DIY repairs while you’re standing in the parking lot.
Edited and fact-checked by the MeridianFacts editorial team.
Tom Bennett is a travel planning writer and former travel agent who has booked everything from weekend road trips to round-the-world itineraries. He lives in San Diego and writes practical travel guides that focus on what you actually need to know, not what looks good on Instagram.
