U-Haul vs. Home Depot Truck Rental: Which is Best?

Key takeaways

Here are some fast facts about U-Haul and Home Depot’s rental trucks to help you decide which one is right for your move and book with confidence.

• Best for one-way or long-distance: U-Haul typically wins because it offers better route coverage, a wide range of truck sizes, and transparent one-way quotes that include a mileage allowance and days to move.
• Best for short local errands: The Home Depot Load ‘N Go truck is hard to beat for quick hauls across town with flat, time-based rates and unlimited mileage for the period you rent.
• Need a larger truck with one-way pricing: Penske (booked through Home Depot) is a strong option, and a lot of their one-way routes include unlimited mileage and discounts for students, military, and AAA members.
• Reservations and availability differ: U-Haul accepts advance reservations with a $50 reservation guarantee, while Load ‘N Go is first-come, first-served at your local Home Depot store.
• Mileage charges are the swing factor: Per-mile fees on local U-Haul rentals can add up if you have a lot of stops, while Load ‘N Go’s unlimited miles can keep costs predictable for an all-day local move.

• U-Haul local rentals: Expect a low base rate plus per-mile and time charges, with add-ons like dollies, pads, taxes, and optional protection plan fees added at checkout. U-Haul’s pricing is budget-friendly for very short trips but can climb quickly as you add miles and hours.
• U-Haul one-way rentals: You’ll receive a flat quote that includes a set number of days and a mileage allowance. Overages for miles or days are billed separately, so you should build in a small buffer if your schedule is tight.
• Home Depot Load ‘N Go: The first seventy-five minutes are charged at a flat rate, with daily and weekly options that typically include unlimited mileage. This structure is great for in-town errands and days with multiple stops where per-mile pricing could get out of hand.
• Penske via Home Depot: Local rentals usually combine a daily rate with per-mile charges, while many one-way quotes include unlimited mileage. Penske frequently offers wider availability for large box trucks and competitive long-haul rates.

• You can complete the work locally in under a day: Load ‘N Go excels for errands, marketplace pickups, and quick apartment shuttles without complicated logistics.
• You want simple pricing with unlimited miles: Time-based rates help you plan confidently when you plan to make several stops or drive across town.
• You only need a pickup, cargo van, or flatbed: The Load ‘N Go fleet focuses on small vehicles that are easy to park and return.

• You’re moving one-way or long-distance: U-Haul’s route coverage and reliable one-way quotes make interstate or cross-country moves straightforward.
• You need a specific box truck size on a set date: Advance reservations and the $50 reservation guarantee add certainty during busy seasons.
• You want extras in the same ecosystem: You can pair truck rentals with moving trailers, U-Box containers, and self-storage for a streamlined experience.

• You want a larger box truck for a one-way move: Penske offers 12- to 26-foot trucks with strong availability for bigger homes and longer routes.
• You prefer unlimited mileage on long hauls: Many one-way quotes include unlimited miles, which simplifies budgeting if your plans change mid-trip.
• You qualify for common discounts: Students, military members, and AAA cardholders may find lower rates by stacking available discounts.

• Reserve online, by phone, or in person: You can compare sizes, pickup points, and add-ons in one place, then lock in your choice ahead of time.
• $50 reservation guarantee: If U-Haul doesn’t meet your confirmed time, place, and equipment size, you’re eligible for a $50 payout per its policy.
• Extensive network coverage: With a huge footprint, you’ll usually find multiple pickup and drop-off options near your route.

• Load ‘N Go is first-come, first-served: Walk in with your driver’s license and card to book. Availability can fluctuate, especially on weekends and mornings.
• Penske reservations are available online: Book your dates and size in advance, then pick up at a participating Home Depot or Penske location.

• U-Haul supports one-way across most sizes: You can pick up a truck at one location and return it elsewhere, which is ideal for interstate moves or relocations to new cities.
• Load ‘N Go is generally round-trip only: You’ll return to the same Home Depot store, which is a good fit for projects and errands in your town.
• Penske offers broad one-way options: Many routes and sizes are available for one-way bookings, and they often include unlimited miles.

• U-Haul offers occasional promos: Some locations include one month of self-storage with a truck rental and partner discounts on supplies or hotels during select periods.
• Home Depot/Penske offer select discounts: Military, students, and AAA members often qualify for discounts with Home Depot. The percentages vary by offer and may require verification at pickup.