While U-Haul trucks are great for do-it-yourself moves, these are also known for being gas guzzlers. Or are they? In many ways, such a reputation is undeserved since enjoying savings on gas is possible by making the right choice in a U-Haul truck. Here are factors that should be considered in making your choice.
The Size and Number of Your Belongings
Obviously, the larger the size and the greater the number of belongings that should be moved, the larger the truck should be. In turn, the larger the truck, the larger its engine and the higher the gas expenses – at least, it’s the rule of thumb.
But there’s no need to get inefficient gas mileage from a U-Haul truck! You just need to consider the miles/gallon usage of the truck in relation to the size and distance of your move.
According to U-Haul experts, these size of move-to-size of truck recommendations can make the choosing process easier and faster.
- For a one-bedroom and studio moves, which are considered as relatively small, the 8-foot pickup truck, the 9-foot cargo van, and the 10-foot moving trucks are ideal.
- For medium to large relocations, such as for a three-bedroom home, the best choices are the 15-foot, 20-foot, and 26-foot trucks. These are also equipped with wide loading ramps, low decks, and comfort cabs for better moves.
- For larger moves, such as for a four-bedroom home with belongings that should ideally be moved in a single trip, the best choice may well be the 26-foot trucks; these are the largest of its kind in the U-Haul fleet.
If you want to hire smaller moving trucks, you may want to consider putting many of your belongings for sale or in storage, perhaps donate them. You can then pack lesser number of belongings in a smaller truck.
The Distance of the Move
If you’re making a short-distance move, you may want to consider renting a smaller truck and making more trips. But be sure to consider whether it’s more efficient to rent a larger truck and make a single trip instead. You have to consider whether the time spent is well worth the gas money saved, among other considerations.
But if you’re making a long-distance move, making multiple trips isn’t in your best interest. You should ideally then hire the largest possible truck and pack in all your essential belongings in it so as to make a single trip.
And be aware of the gas prices in the places where refueling will be necessary. Keep in mind that average gas prices will vary from one state to the next so it pays to plan your refueling stops.
