U-Haul vs. Moving Company: Comparing the Benefits
Choosing between a U-Haul and a professional moving company can feel like a cost-saving decision—but when you look at the full picture, the difference is much bigger than the rental price. A DIY move with U-Haul means handling everything yourself: packing, lifting heavy furniture, loading and unloading, driving a large truck long distances, navigating unfamiliar routes, and managing fuel, tolls, and return deadlines. It also means taking on the risk of damage, injury, delays, and unexpected costs if anything goes wrong.
Hiring a professional moving company like Two Amigos removes those risks entirely. Instead of spending days packing, stressing over logistics, and exhausting yourself on moving day, you get experienced movers who do this every day. Two Amigos provides professional packing, proper equipment, secure loading, and trained crews who know how to protect your belongings during transport. Your furniture, electronics, and fragile items are handled correctly—not rushed or guessed through trial and error.
The true cost of a U-Haul often adds up quickly. Truck rentals, mileage, fuel, insurance, packing supplies, hotel stays, missed work, and potential damage can easily exceed the cost of a professional move. With Two Amigos, pricing is transparent and predictable, and your move is planned to avoid costly surprises.
Most importantly, Two Amigos gives you peace of mind. You’re not driving a massive truck across highways or relying on friends to help. You’re trusting a professional team that manages your move safely, efficiently, and on schedule.
If you’re deciding between U-Haul and a moving company, choose the option that protects your time, your belongings, and your well-being. Contact Two Amigos today for a personalized moving quote and experience the smarter, safer alternative to doing it yourself.
U-Haul vs. Moving Company: Comparing the Benefits
Whether you’re moving down the street or across the country, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make (aside from when to move) is how to move your belongings. Do you rent a truck from U-Haul and DIY your relocation? Or do you hire a professional moving company to handle everything?
Both options are popular — and each has real benefits and drawbacks. The right choice depends on your priorities: cost, convenience, stress, safety, timing, and what you’re moving.
In this post, we’ll break down U-Haul vs. Moving Company from every angle so you can decide with confidence.
What We’ll Cover
What U-Haul Is — and What Moving Companies Do
Cost Comparison
Convenience & Effort
Packing and Protection
Timing, Scheduling & Reliability
Insurance, Damage Risks & Liability
Distance Matters
Seasonal and Weather Considerations
Stress and Physical Strain
Who Each Option Is Best For
A Step-by-Step Decision Guide
Final Thoughts: Which Option Wins for You?
1. What U-Haul Is — and What Moving Companies Do
U-Haul: A DIY Truck Rental Solution
U-Haul is one of North America’s most familiar truck rental brands. When you rent a U-Haul:
You pick the truck or trailer size you want
You pick it up, load it, drive it, and unload it — all yourself
You pay based on rental rate, mileage (in many cases), and insurance
You handle packing, furniture disassembly, and loading/unloading
U-Haul is essentially equipment you borrow.
Moving Companies: Full or Partial Service
Professional moving companies offer:
Full packing and unpacking services (optional or included)
Loading and unloading
Transportation
Logistics planning
Specialty item handling (pianos, antiques, artwork)
Insurance and claims support
Some even offer storage solutions
Moving companies range from local movers handling short moves, to national brands and independent long-distance specialists.
2. Cost Comparison
Cost is the biggest reason people consider U-Haul.
U-Haul Costs
U-Haul pricing tends to include:
Rental fees: Daily or multi-day base charges
Mileage or distance fees: Especially for one-way moves
Fuel costs: You fuel the truck yourself
Insurance coverage: Optional, but recommended
Equipment add-ons: Dollies, furniture pads, moving kits
From a pure dollars-spent perspective, U-Haul usually appears cheaper upfront — especially for short moves, small households, or single-item transport.
Moving Company Costs
Moving companies will typically cost more upfront because you’re paying for:
Labor
Expertise
Transportation
Packing materials and services (if included)
Insurance and liability coverage
Scheduling and delivery management
But there are hidden savings with moving companies:
Less risk of damage to your belongings
Lower likelihood of injury
Fewer unexpected expenses like extra fuel, lodging, or rental equipment
Faster, more reliable timelines
Real World Example
A one-bedroom local move with U-Haul (truck, fuel, DIY packing) might cost a few hundred dollars. A full-service local mover for the same household might cost $800–$1,500.
Long-distance, that gap widens:
U-Haul’s truck, mileage, and lodging may add up quickly
A long-distance moving company quotes based on weight and distance, and can be more cost-competitive when accounting for all expenses
3. Convenience & Effort
This is where the options diverge most dramatically.
U-Haul Requires High Effort
You must:
Rent the truck
Pack everything
Disassemble large items
Load furniture and boxes
Drive a potentially large vehicle
Unload at your destination
Return the truck
This can be physically exhausting and time-consuming — especially for apartments with stairs, long walks, or awkward layouts, and especially for long distances.
Moving Companies Reduce Effort
When you hire professionals:
Movers arrive with trucks, equipment, and manpower
They often bring packing supplies or pack for you
They protect furniture and floors
They handle loading and unloading
You don’t have to drive long distances with heavy loads
If convenience and minimizing effort are important, full-service movers win by a long margin.
4. Packing and Protection
Packing is a skill — and poor packing often causes damage.
Packing with U-Haul
When you pack yourself:
You must buy boxes and supplies
You must pack tightly and securely
You choose how to protect fragile items
There’s no built-in expertise
Many DIY movers underestimate how much time proper packing takes.
Professional Packing Services
Moving companies often offer:
Full packing services
Specialty packing (electronics, art, antiques)
High-quality materials
Experienced crews
This protects your belongings and reduces damage risk.
Plus, movers use:
Furniture blankets
Straps
Dollies and ramps
Proper lifting techniques
All of which lower accident risk.
5. Timing, Scheduling & Reliability
U-Haul Scheduling
You reserve a truck and show up on time to pick it up. After that, timing is up to you.
But:
Availability varies (especially on weekends and peak seasons)
Returning the truck late incurs fees
You control all scheduling, which means all risks are your responsibility
Road delays and weather may disrupt your schedule
Moving Company Timelines
Movers offer:
Pickup and delivery dates or windows
Tracking and coordination
Flexible scheduling
Professional movers handle:
Driver routing
Logistics
Delays and communication
You don’t have to figure out the routing yourself.
6. Insurance, Damage Risks & Liability
U-Haul Insurance
U-Haul offers optional coverage like:
Damage protection
Cargo/contents protection
Liability coverage
However:
Your homeowners or renters insurance may not cover items in transit
You choose what coverage to buy
Coverage may be limited and has deductibles
Moving Company Protection
Moving companies typically include:
Basic liability coverage
Options for full value protection
Professional claims processes
Professional movers handle fragile and irregular items better because they pack and secure them regularly.
7. Distance Matters — Local vs. Long-Distance
U-Haul Is Often Less Attractive for Long Distance
For local moves, U-Haul is often the cheapest and most practical choice.
But for long-distance relocations:
Mileage adds up fast
You have to drive long hours with a large vehicle
Lodging and meals become part of your cost
You’re responsible for timing, delays, and safety
A long-distance move with a professional moving company is often:
More efficient
More cost-effective once all factors are considered
Less stressful
Safer for fragile, heavy, or valuable items
If you’re moving cross-country, professional movers often win on total value.
8. Seasonal and Weather Impacts
Weather affects moving drastically.
When You Move with U-Haul
You drive:
In snow, heat, rain
With a tall vehicle you may not be comfortable handling
Without backup when something goes wrong
This can be dangerous near mountains, in winter storms, or in heat waves without proper planning.
With a Professional Mover
Movers:
Are experienced with weather logistics
Have insurance for delays or weather
Coordinate around weather risks
Can adjust schedules
This reduces anxiety and risk.
9. Stress and Physical Strain
Moving is physically demanding. The risks include:
Back and muscle injuries
Strain from heavy lifting
Heat exhaustion
Accidental damage to walls, floors, furniture, or belongings
Moving with U-Haul
You wear multiple hats:
Driver
Packer
Loader
Logistics coordinator
This amplifies stress.
Moving with Professionals
Movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics, letting you focus on:
Family
Travel
New home setup
Unpacking planning
Less physical strain = less stress overall.
10. Who Each Option Is Best For
Here’s a focused breakdown of who benefits most from each choice.
U-Haul Is Best For:
Local moves
Single or two-item moves
People with strong DIY skills
Movers on tight cash budgets
Short notice relocations
Students or small apartments
Professional Moving Companies Are Best For:
Large households
Long-distance moves
Cross-country relocations
Families with kids or pets
People with fragile, high-value, or heavy items
Anyone valuing convenience and safety
In many long-distance cases, professional movers can be cheaper overall when you factor in fuel, time, lodging, risk, and damage protection.
11. Myths People Believe About Moving Costs
Myth: “U-Haul Is Always Cheaper”
Not when you add:
Fuel
Lodging and meals
Rental insurance
Time off work
Packing supplies
Damage risk
Total cost often approaches — or exceeds — professional moving quotes.
Myth: “Professional Movers Are Only for Rich People”
Not true. There are options:
Partial service (you pack, they load & transport)
Shared load moves
Off-peak pricing
Storage integration
Professional moving doesn’t have to be premium-only.
Myth: “DIY Moves Are Faster”
DIY moves require:
Rental coordination
Packing time
Long driving hours
Rest and recovery
Professional movers can often execute faster overall with less disruption.
12. The Decision Checklist You Can Use Today
To decide between U-Haul vs. a moving company, review the following:
Ask Yourself:
How far am I moving?
How much stuff do I have?
Can I physically handle packing and lifting?
Do I have help?
What is my travel timeline?
How important is insurance?
What is my budget?
Am I comfortable driving a large truck?
Do I have fragile or valuable items?
How much stress am I willing to take?
If you answered “no” to many of these, professional movers might be better.
13. How to Save Money With a Professional Mover
Professional moving doesn’t mean full price. You can:
Book off-peak dates
Choose partial services
Declutter before packing
Shop multiple quotes
Bundle long distance with storage
Avoid last-minute bookings
A smart moving company — like Two Amigos — can help quote accurately, plan logistics, and reduce unexpected fees.
If you’re weighing options and want a free long-distance moving quote with transparent pricing and scheduling, contact Two Amigos. We specialize in making big relocations predictable and stress-free.
14. When Mixing Options Makes Sense
Sometimes the best move combines approaches.
Examples:
You rent a U-Haul for small local items but move heavy furniture with pros.
You pack all your boxes yourself but book professionals just for transport.
You handle loading/unloading with friends while pros drive the truck.
A hybrid solution uses both methods to save money while reducing effort.
15. Real Stories: What People Usually Regret
U-Haul Regrets
“I thought it was cheaper… until we had to stay in hotels.”
“Driving that truck in snow was terrifying.”
“We underestimated packing time by three times.”
Professional Mover Regrets
“Wish we’d booked earlier.”
“Felt safer handing everything to professionals.”
“Packing took longer than expected, but being done early was worth it.”
These patterns repeat in moving surveys across North America.
16. Final Thoughts: U-Haul vs. Moving Company
The bottom line is this:
U-Haul saves money and effort for small, local, and simple moves — if you’re willing to do the work.
Moving companies save stress, time, and physical risk — especially for large or long-distance moves.
Your best choice is the one that fits:
Your budget
Your body
Your schedule
Your risk tolerance
Your long-distance or local needs
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but informed choices always beat guesswork.
The Ultimate Guide to U-Haul & Rental Moving Trucks
Everything you need to know before your next move
Moving can be one of life’s most stressful experiences — packing boxes, coordinating helpers, navigating logistics, and transporting your belongings safely. For many, renting a moving truck from U-Haul or another provider is a central part of the move.
This section walks you through absolutely everything you need to know about U-Haul and rental trucks for moving: how rentals work, what size you need, how pricing works, insurance options, tips to save money, pros and cons, alternatives, and smart strategies for a smooth move.
1. Why Rent a Truck for Moving?
Whether you’re moving to a new apartment, transporting furniture, or relocating across state lines, renting a truck gives you:
Space to move everything at once
Control over schedule and pace
More affordable option than full-service movers
Flexibility (DIY with friends/family)
One-way rentals for long moves
Renting is often cheaper than hiring full-service movers, and it’s a good fit if you’re willing to do the labor yourself.
2. Major Rental Truck Companies Overview
Here are the most common companies people use:
U-Haul – largest footprint and many locations
Penske Truck Rental – newer trucks & often lower mileage charges
Budget Truck Rental – clear pricing, frequent discounts
Enterprise Truck Rental – good service, smaller footprint
In this section we’ll focus mostly on U-Haul, since it’s the most widely available and has the biggest range of truck sizes and features.
3. U-Haul Truck Sizes & What They’re Best For
Choosing the right size truck ensures you don’t overpay — or worse, rent one too small.
Here are common U-Haul truck sizes and what they’re best for:
10-Foot Truck
Best for: Studio/1-bedroom moves
Capacity: ~ 300–500 sq ft
Features: Easy to drive, fits on highways
15-Foot Truck
Best for: 1–2 bedroom apartments
Capacity: ~ 700 sq ft
Features: More capacity without huge size
17-Foot Truck
Best for: 2–3 bedroom homes
Slightly larger and higher load capacity than 15’
20-Foot Truck
Best for: 3–4 bedroom homes
Capacity: ~ 1,000–1,200 sq ft
26-Foot Truck
Best for: Larger 3–5 bedroom homes
Largest U-Haul truck
Cargo Vans & Pickup Trucks
Best for: Small moves, apartments, transporting a few large items
Tip: More space doesn’t always mean safer space. A half-full large truck shifts cargo and can be harder to drive.
4. U-Haul Pricing: What You Really Pay For
U-Haul pricing isn’t as simple as “daily rate.” Total cost depends on:
Base Rental Fee
Daily rate according to truck size and season
One-way rental fees are usually higher than local moves
Mileage Charge
You pay per mile on one-way moves
Local moves often include a daily mile allotment
Taxes & Additional Fees
Environmental fees
Airport concession fees (if rented at an airport)
Fuel charges, if applicable
Insurance / Protection Plans
Extras
Dollies, moving blankets, furniture pads
Tie-downs and tools
Gas to fill the tank (you pay upfront and may not get refunded for unused)
Example Breakdown
For a local 15-ft truck rented for a day:
Base fee: $19.95–$29.95
Mileage: $0.79–$1.29/mi
Taxes & fees: varies by location
Insurance/protection: $10–$30/day
One-way moves cost more because the truck must be returned to a different location.
5. Insurance & Protection Options
Rental truck insurance can be confusing. U-Haul offers protection plans, but they’re optional if you already have coverage.
Here are common coverage options:
U-Haul Protection Plans
Safemove® – covers damage to truck and cargo
Safemove Plus® – higher coverage limits
Safemove Express® – liability coverage
Other Insurance Sources
Personal auto insurance – sometimes covers rental trucks
Credit card coverage – some cards include rental truck insurance benefits
Third-party insurance – often cheaper than rental company coverage
Important: Always check what your current insurance policies and credit cards cover before you opt into the rental company’s plan — many people pay for overlapping coverage they don’t need.
6. Booking Tips: How to Save Money
Book Early
Rental costs tend to rise as availability decreases.
Compare Across Companies
Check U-Haul, Penske, and Budget — prices can vary dramatically by date and location.
Avoid Airports
Airport truck rentals often have extra fees.
Ask About Discounts
Students, AAA members, military personnel, and certain affiliations may qualify for discounts.
Off-Peak Dates
Weekdays and mid-month dates are often cheaper than end-of-month weekend moves.
Fuel
Return the truck with a full tank to avoid premium fuel charges.
Bring Your Own Moving Supplies
Blankets, tape, and dollies can add up if bought at the rental counter.
7. Pick-Up & Drop-Off: What to Expect
Inspection
Before driving off:
Walk around the truck
Note any dents, scratches, or damage
Check tire condition and fuel level
Report issues before leaving
This protects you from being charged for pre-existing damage.
Keys, Mileage, and Instructions
Staff will record:
Odometer reading
Fuel level
Key issuance
Operating instructions
Return Checklist
Return on time (late fees apply)
Fill fuel tank
Clean out trash
Check for personal items
Return to original location for local moves, or designated drop-off location for one-way.
8. Loading & Packing Strategies
Packing smart saves time, stress, and space.
Organize First
Sort items by:
Fragility
Room
Weight
Heavy Items First
Place heavy items on the bottom and toward the truck’s front (near the cab).
Balance Weight
Distribute evenly side-to-side and front-to-back for safer driving.
Protect Fragile Items
Use:
Blankets
Bubble wrap
Furniture pads
Boxes labeled “fragile”
Fill Gaps
Use small boxes, bags, or soft items (pillows, clothes) to fill empty spaces.
Use Tie-Downs
Straps and ropes prevent shifting mid-drive.
Keep Essentials Accessible
Pack a “first night box” with:
Toiletries
Phone chargers
Bedding
Snacks
9. Driving a Rental Truck: Safety & Tips
Large moving trucks handle differently from cars.
Before You Drive
Adjust mirrors — blind spots are bigger
Get comfortable with the size
Check lights and signals
On the Road
Drive slower than usual (wind affects trucks)
Increase following distance
Wide turns are necessary
Be cautious backing up (use a spotter if possible)
Parking
Parking lots and tight city streets can be tricky. Plan ahead.
Fuel Stops
Diesel vs regular gasoline?
Make sure you know which fuel your truck uses before you fill up.
10. Common Questions & Concerns
Can I tow a trailer?
Yes — many U-Haul trucks can tow trailers or carry small personal vehicles with trailers. Towing adds complexity and requires extra skill and licensing in some regions.
What if I cancel?
Cancellation policies vary by company. Early notice often avoids fees, but last-minute cancellations can cost you.
What if I’m late returning?
Late returns usually incur extra daily charges. Some companies allow grace periods, but don’t rely on them.
What if I damage the truck?
If you declined rental insurance:
You may be responsible for all repair costs.
If you purchased coverage:File a claim with the rental company or your policy provider.
11. One-Way vs. Local Moves
Local Move
Pickup and return to same location
Often charged by the hour/day + mileage
Good for small moves within same city
One-Way Move
Pickup at one place, drop off at another
Great for long moves between cities or states
Pricing includes distance and demand
One-way moves can be significantly more expensive than local rentals — but also more convenient for relocations.
12. Pros & Cons of DIY Truck Rental
Pros
Cheaper than full movers
You control the schedule
Perfect for flexible, budget-friendly moves
Helpful with friends/family
Cons
Physical strain
Driving a large vehicle
Packing/loading challenges
Time-consuming
Think about your timeline, health and helpers when deciding.
13. Alternatives to U-Haul & Truck Rentals
Not every move needs a full rental truck. Here are alternatives:
Portable Storage Containers
Companies like PODS deliver a container — you load it, then they transport it.
Freight Trailers
YRC Freight and others drop off a trailer; you load, and they haul it.
Moving Labor
Hire professionals to load/unload for you (you still rent the truck).
Professional Movers
Full-service movers handle everything — packing, loading, driving, and unloading — but cost more.
Hybrid Moves
Rent a truck plus hire help for heavy lifting.
14. Extra Tips to Save Time & Stress
Start Early
Pack non-essentials weeks in advance.
Declutter
Sell/donate items you don’t need before moving.
Label Boxes
Clear labels = faster unpacking.
Take Photos of Setup
Take pictures of electronics before unplugging — it helps with reconnecting.
Stay Flexible
Allow a time buffer for unexpected delays.
15. Final Checklist Before Moving Day
Confirm reservation and pickup time
Pack essentials box
Have moving supplies ready
Check truck for damage before leaving
Map out your route, including fuel stops
Arrange help for loading/unloading
Return truck on time and filled with fuel
Conclusion
Renting a U-Haul or other moving truck can be one of the most efficient and budget-friendly ways to move — as long as you plan ahead, choose the right size, understand pricing and protection, pack smart, and drive safely.
With the right preparation and know-how, your move doesn’t have to be stressful — it can actually feel empowering.
If you have specific questions about pricing, truck sizes, insurance coverage, or move planning, feel free to ask!
When planning a move, many people debate between renting a truck and handling everything themselves or hiring a professional moving company. At first glance, a DIY option like a rental truck can seem cheaper, but when you look closer, the true cost and risk quickly become clear. Moving is physically demanding, time-consuming, and logistically complex—especially for long-distance or full-home relocations. This is where a professional moving company like Two Amigos becomes the smarter, safer choice.
A DIY move means you’re responsible for every detail. You have to pack your belongings properly, disassemble furniture, lift heavy items, load the truck efficiently, drive a large vehicle through traffic and unfamiliar routes, and unload everything at your destination. On top of that, you’re managing fuel costs, mileage fees, insurance add-ons, parking challenges, and strict return deadlines. One mistake—improper packing, poor loading, or a minor accident—can result in damaged belongings, injuries, or expensive delays.
Choosing Two Amigos removes that burden entirely. Our experienced movers handle packing, lifting, loading, transportation, and delivery with professional equipment and proven techniques. Furniture is wrapped and secured, fragile items are protected, and every step is managed by trained crews who move homes every day. Instead of exhaustion and stress, you get a smooth, organized moving experience from start to finish.
The cost comparison often surprises people. Once you factor in truck rental fees, fuel, packing supplies, hotel stays, time off work, and potential damage, a DIY move can cost just as much—or more—than hiring professionals. Two Amigos offers transparent pricing, clear estimates, and efficient planning that helps you avoid hidden expenses and costly mistakes.
Most importantly, a professional move gives you peace of mind. You’re not relying on favors from friends or risking injury. You’re trusting a team that is accountable, insured, and committed to protecting your belongings and your time. Whether you’re moving locally or long distance, the value of professional service goes far beyond convenience.
If you’re weighing the choice between doing it yourself and hiring movers, choose the option that puts your safety, time, and belongings first. Contact Two Amigos today for a personalized moving quote and discover why working with professionals is often the best investment you can make in a successful move.
In one six-month period, as many as 5 in 10 Canadians suffer low back pain.
Low back pain has many causes but it’s made worse by heavy lifting. And if you’re planning a move on your own, you’re going to be doing a lot of that.
When it’s time to move, you have a choice between hiring a moving company and doing it yourself with a rental truck, like a U-Haul. That means weighing the pros and cons of each in order to make the best decision for you.
Lucky for you, we’ve already done that work. Now all you need to do is read the below for a comparison of the benefits.
Know-How
Maybe you’re a seasoned mover who knows how to stack boxes properly and how to organize the truck in the most efficient way. But if you’re not, it could lead to headaches on moving day, with items being broken or not having the space you need in the U-Haul you rented.
A moving company hires professionals that have helped people move homes thousand of times. They know how to move, how to pack, how to stack, and how to make the day as smooth as possible. That means that moving day is not only efficient and effective, but it also lowers your risk of injury from moving heavy items.
Costs
It might seem cheaper to rent a U-Haul, but that cost depends on where you’re moving and how you’re moving. The cost of rental trucks can add up, especially if you’re moving long-distance or have to make more than one trip back and forth. That’s especially true in terms of fuel costs.
A professional moving company is likely to cost a bit more. They charge a basic cost for moving your stuff (either by weight or by the hour), plus insurance, plus gratuity.
But all those costs cover all the hard work they’re doing. They move all of your belongings from one house to the other, they do it with expertise, and they save you time and energy in the long run.
Insurance
If you move yourself, your stuff isn’t insured while it moves from one place to the other. Combine that with a lack of expertise in how to pack, stack and organize a truck, and you have a recipe for broken items with no financial compensation for replacing those items.
When you hire a moving company, your items are insured. You get to choose the level of insurance, too. You can go with the free coverage most companies offer or you can pay a little extra for full-value replacement.
Equipment
Do you have a walk-board, dollies, and moving blankets? How about padded door protection and rug runners? All of these items make moving safer for the people doing the moving and also minimize damage to your items and your home.
Professional movers have this equipment on hand. While you might be able to rent these items from U-Haul, it’s not going to come cheap.
Ready to Hire a Moving Company?
While renting a U-Haul might save you some money, DIY moving takes a lot of time and energy. A moving company can save you that effort. They have the expertise and equipment to make moving more efficient and less stressful.
If you’re ready to hire a moving company, look no further. Contact us for a quote today.