Moving, Relocation and Storage Tips

When you rent a moving truck or van from U-Haul, your printed contract will have a printed picture of a fuel gauge. This picture will reflect the level of fuel your truck is assumed to have at the time of your rental. Some dealers may even have you initial next to the fuel gauge on the contract, as an indicator of your understanding of the refueling requirement.

It is your responsibility to make sure that:

1.) The fuel gauge on the contract matches the actual fuel level of the truck
2.) You refuel the truck to this same level before returning it

In most of the U-Haul vans and trucks that are currently in circulation, you have to actually start the engine before the fuel gauge will accurately reflect the fuel level. If the fuel level of your truck indicates an amount of fuel less than what your contract indicates, you should resolve the issue before driving away from the lot. 99% of the time, the location where you return your truck will have no sympathy if you did not verify the fuel level before taking possession of the equipment.

If you do not return the truck to the level indicated on the contract (a term to which you are agreeing simply by signing the document), then you could, and probably will, face some steep charges.

Be smart! Be safe!

When renting moving equipment from U-Haul®, always purchase the SafeMove® (for moving trucks/vans) or SafeTow® (for trailers/auto transports) damage protection.

What most people don’t realize is that few auto insurance policies cover moving trucks because they are classified as ‘cargo’ transportation. Furthermore, no credit card companies provide collision damage protection on truck and/or trailer rentals.

The cost of U-Haul’s SafeMove® or SafeTow® protection is minimal compared to the expense of replacing a piece of skirting (approximately $37.50 per section) or repairing grill damage (starting at $300). If you rub the roof against a tree and abrade a decal, you’re liable. If you park the truck overnight and it gets ‘tagged’ with graffiti, you’re liable!

Even just the minimal level of protection offers 100% damage protection for the truck and your belongings, and medical coverage in case you’re injured in an accident. If you decide to pop for the Super SafeMove® protection, you’ll even be protected against lawsuits filed by other people in the event you’re sued as a result of an accident.

Be smart! Be safe!