Choosing the right size truck can feel tricky with so many options available. So, which is the right size for you? We’ve created a U-Haul truck size and dimensions comparison guide to help you figure out which U-Haul truck size and dimensions are the best suited for your next move.
U-Haul Truck Sizes and Dimensions
U-Haul Pickup Truck Dimensions
The smallest-sized U-Haul pickup truck you can rent is a pickup truck. The U-Haul Pickup Truck has inside bed dimensions of 7’10” x 5’2″ x 1’9″ and can hold a maximum of 1,897 pounds. They are an affordable solution to transport small loads, home improvement items, or small studio apartments. It’s important to remember that this is an open truck bed, so anything you put in it will be exposed to the outside elements.
U-Haul Cargo Van Size
The U-Haul 9′ Cargo Van features inside dimensions of 9’6″ x 5’7″ x 4’8″ and a max load weight of 3,880 pounds. The cargo van is appropriate for small moves, such as studio apartments or very sparse one-bedroom homes. You can easily fit a twin-sized mattress, sofa, spring box set, and multiple boxes without any hassle.
U-Haul 10 Foot Truck Dimensions
The 10 Foot U-Haul is the smallest box truck offered by U-Haul. Featuring U-Haul 10 foot truck dimensions of 9’11” x 6’4″ x 6’2″ and a maximum load capacity of 2,850 pounds, this vehicle perfectly accommodates the belongings of a small apartment or a one-bedroom home. This truck can accommodate a king-sized mattress with a box frame, a four-piece dining room table, end tables, a loveseat, and boxes without a problem. It is a common rental for young adults, and also many seniors.
15 Foot Truck Dimensions
This 15 foot UHaul is perfect for two-bedroom homes or condos and features a loading ramp to make it easier to move. In addition, you’ll be able to fit dressers, sofas, washers and dryers, king-size mattresses, and more in this truck. The U-Haul 15-foot truck has inside dimensions of 15′ x 7’8″ x 7’2″ and can support a maximum load weight of 6,385 pounds. Plus, it can tow up to 10,000 pounds! Which is terrific for also moving your vehicle to your new home at the same time.
20 Foot Truck Dimensions
The 20 foot UHaul is perfect for families who need to load up their 2-3 bedroom home. Boasting U-Haul 20 foot truck dimensions of 19’6″ x 7’8″ x 7’2″, a maximum loading weight of 5,700 pounds, and an impressive towing capacity of 7,500 pounds, this truck is the ideal choice for facilitating your next move. This truck can fit a king-sized mattress, sofas, armchairs, tables, and chairs of all kinds with ease.
26 Foot Truck Dimensions
Finally, the U-Haul 26 foot truck stands as the largest, equipped with generous inside dimensions of 26’2″ x 8’2″ x 8’3″ and a robust maximum load capacity of 9,010 pounds, ensuring ample space and strength for even the most substantial moving needs. This truck is perfect for those who are moving to a large home or office. With this truck, you’ll be able to fit all your personal belongings with ease – including beds, couches, tables, recliners, desks, washers, dryers, and any extra boxes.
U-Haul Comparisons
U-Haul Cargo Van vs. 10′ U-Haul Truck: A Detailed Comparison for Smaller Moves
When planning a move, choosing the right vehicle is crucial. For those moving a studio or a small one-bedroom apartment, the choice often comes down to a U-Haul Cargo Van or a 10′ Truck. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide:
Volume Capacity:
- U-Haul Cargo Van: Typically offers around 245 to 280 cubic feet of space. This capacity is sufficient for moving several large boxes, a mattress, a sofa, and a few other small pieces of furniture. It’s designed for those who are moving out of a dorm room or have a minimal amount of furniture.
- 10′ U-Haul Truck: Provides approximately 380 to 400 cubic feet of space. This extra volume is significant for individuals or small families, allowing for the transportation of an entire studio or small one-bedroom apartment’s worth of belongings, including larger furniture like dining sets and entertainment units.
Ease of Driving:
- U-Haul Cargo Van: Its size and handling are very similar to that of a large SUV or a minivan, making it a less intimidating choice for drivers unaccustomed to operating larger vehicles. Its agility in traffic and ease of use in densely populated areas make it an attractive option for city movers.
- 10′ U-Haul Truck: Although larger than a cargo van, it remains manageable for most drivers. It does, however, require more caution, especially when changing lanes and turning due to its length. The elevated driving position offers good visibility, which aids in navigation despite its size.
Fuel Efficiency:
- U-Haul Cargo Van: Generally offers better fuel efficiency compared to larger trucks, making it more economical for both short and long-distance moves. Its smaller size and lighter weight contribute to a lower fuel consumption rate.
- 10′ U-Haul Truck: Consumes more fuel due to its larger size and weight but is designed to be relatively fuel-efficient for its category. For longer moves, the difference in fuel costs compared to a cargo van can become more pronounced, so it’s worth considering based on the distance of your move.
Parking Convenience:
- U-Haul Cargo Van: Its compact size allows it to fit into standard parking spaces and navigate easily through parking lots, residential areas, and urban environments. This makes loading and unloading more convenient in areas where parking space is limited.
- 10′ U-Haul Truck: Requires more planning for parking, especially in busy urban areas or apartment complexes with small parking lots. It may not fit in standard parking spaces, necessitating the use of loading docks or designated truck parking areas for loading and unloading.
Best Use Case:
- U-Haul Cargo Van: Best suited for single individuals or couples moving a small quantity of items. Ideal for college students, apartment dwellers, or anyone making a small-scale move, such as transporting items to a storage unit or a single large piece of furniture.
- 10′ U-Haul Truck: Tailored for those moving a larger volume of items typical of a studio or a one-bedroom apartment. It’s the better choice for small families, individuals with more substantial furniture pieces, or anyone needing to move a moderate amount of household goods.
20′ U-Haul Truck vs. 26′ U-Haul Truck: Choosing the Right Size for Larger Moves
For families moving a two to three-bedroom home, the decision between a 20′ U-Haul Truck and a 26′ U-Haul Truck is critical. Here’s what you need to consider:
Overall Capacity:
- 20′ U-Haul Truck: Typically, a 20′ truck can hold the contents of a two-bedroom home, including large furniture pieces like sofas, beds, dining table sets, and multiple boxes. It’s an efficient choice for families that have a moderate amount of belongings but still need significant space. The truck’s capacity is usually around 1,000 to 1,200 cubic feet, making it a versatile option for various moving needs.
- 26′ U-Haul Truck: As the largest option available for personal moves, a 26′ truck can comfortably accommodate the belongings of a three-bedroom home, or a two-bedroom home with additional items such as large appliances, outdoor equipment, or if you have a larger number of bulky items. With a capacity of approximately 1,400 to 1,700 cubic feet, this truck is designed to move everything in one go, reducing the need for multiple trips.
Estimated Moving Range:
- 20′ U-Haul Truck: This truck size strikes a balance between offering a generous loading space and being manageable over long distances. Its relatively compact size compared to larger trucks makes it easier to handle on highways, through mountain passes, or in rural areas. It’s an excellent choice for families moving across the city or across the country, providing enough space without the challenges of maneuvering a larger vehicle.
- 26′ U-Haul Truck: Ideal for long-distance moves, the 26′ truck minimizes the number of trips needed to transport your belongings. However, its larger size means you’ll need to be more cautious with route planning, ensuring roads and parking spaces can accommodate the truck. This option is best when moving a significant volume of items far away, as it combines maximum capacity with the endurance needed for extended travel.
Fuel Consumption Differences:
- 20′ U-Haul Truck: More fuel-efficient than its larger counterpart, the 20′ truck offers cost savings, particularly important for long-distance moves. Its smaller size and lighter weight contribute to better mileage, making it an economical choice without sacrificing too much space.
- 26′ U-Haul Truck: The 26′ truck’s larger size and heavier load capacity naturally lead to higher fuel consumption. If you’re planning a long-distance move, factor in the increased fuel costs, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Despite this, the reduced number of trips and the ability to move all your belongings at once can offset the higher fuel expenses for many movers.
Suitability for Long-Distance Moves:
- 20′ U-Haul Truck: With its balance of capacity and fuel efficiency, the 20′ truck is well-suited for long-distance moves. It offers a practical solution for families who need to move a substantial amount of belongings but want to keep fuel costs in check. Its easier handling can also make a long journey less daunting for those less experienced with driving large vehicles.
- 26′ U-Haul Truck: The go-to choice for moving large homes over considerable distances, the 26′ truck ensures you can bring all your possessions without leaving anything behind. While fuel costs will be higher, the convenience of a single trip often justifies the expense, particularly for those relocating to a new state or across the country.
Maneuverability and Driving Comfort:
- 20′ U-Haul Truck: Offers a slightly less intimidating experience for drivers who may not be accustomed to handling large vehicles. Its size is easier to manage on narrow streets, tight turns, and during parking. For those concerned about the driving aspect of their move, the 20′ truck provides a good middle ground between capacity and maneuverability.
- 26′ U-Haul Truck: Requires a confident hand at the wheel, especially in densely populated areas or locations with restricted access. However, modern features like power steering, wide mirrors, and rearview cameras help mitigate these challenges. Drivers who are comfortable with larger vehicles will find the 26′ truck manageable, especially with a bit of practice in open spaces before the move.
We hope you enjoyed this post, and perhaps some of this information will come in handy on your next move. To learn more driving a U-Haul yourself, or hiring a U-Haul driver, please see on our comprehensive guide located at U-Haul Drivers.
For additional information, please read our next article entitled 8 Tips for Safe and Successful Driving a U-Haul Truck.
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