Box Truck Rental Cost and Size Guide: Which Truck Is Best for Your Move?
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Box Truck?
Moving can be complicated—but renting a box truck gives you the freedom to take control of your relocation. Whether you’re heading across town or across the country, a moving truck rental can be a cost-effective way to transport your belongings. But how much does it cost? What size truck do you need? And which company offers the best deal?
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about box truck rental costs, sizes, pros and cons, and how Poseidon Moving Company can support your move—even if you’re driving the truck yourself.
What Is a Box Truck and How Does It Work for Moving?
Box trucks, also called straight trucks or cube vans, are enclosed moving vehicles designed to safely transport household or commercial goods. Unlike a full-service moving company that handles both transport and labor, a box truck rental puts you in the driver’s seat—literally.
Here’s how it works:
1. Reserve a truck: Based on your move date, truck size, and route.
2. Pick up the vehicle: And drive it to your loading location.
3. Load your items: Then drive the truck to your destination.
4. Unload and return: The truck to the designated drop-off point.
Pros of Renting a Moving Truck
✅ Control Your Schedule: You’re not tied to mover availability—you decide when to pack, load, and drive.
✅ Cost-Effective for Local Moves: Daily rental fees and mileage can be cheaper than hiring movers.
✅ Available Nationwide: Easy access to rental locations in nearly every U.S. city.
✅ Flexible Truck Sizes: Match the truck to your move size—no paying for unused space.
✅ One-Way Rentals: Most providers allow you to return the truck in your destination city.
Cons of Renting a Moving Truck
❌ You Drive the Truck: Navigating a 26-foot vehicle in traffic isn’t for everyone.
❌ Fuel Costs Add Up: Larger trucks can get just 8–12 MPG, so cross-country moves add fuel expenses.
❌ Insurance Is Extra: Most companies charge daily protection fees that can significantly increase your total.
❌ No Labor Help: You’re responsible for loading, unloading, and securing everything yourself.
❌ Hidden Fees: Mileage fees, environmental fees, and late returns can increase your bill.
How Much Does a Box Truck Rental Cost?
Pricing varies by provider, distance, duration, and truck size. Here’s a side-by-side breakdown of average estimated costs:
Move Type |
U-Haul (10’–26’) |
Penske (12’–26’) |
Budget |
Enterprise |
Ryder |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Local (1 day + miles) |
$19 – $59 + $0.79/mi |
$40 – $90 + $0.79/mi |
$30 – $80 + $0.70/mi |
$50 – $100 flat |
$50 – $100 flat |
500-mile move |
$500 – $1,200 |
$600 – $1,300 |
$550 – $1,200 |
$700 – $1,400 |
$750 – $1,600 |
1000+ miles |
$1,200 – $2,800 |
$1,300 – $3,000 |
$1,100 – $2,500 |
$1,400 – $3,200 |
$1,500 – $3,500 |
Insurance (optional) |
$15 – $40/day |
$20 – $60/day |
$15 – $50/day |
$25 – $55/day |
$25 – $65/day |
Note: Costs vary based on season, city, availability, and one-way drop-off locations.
Box Truck Sizes: What Size Do You Need?
Choosing the right truck size is critical. Too small, and you risk leaving items behind. Too large, and you’re overpaying and wasting gas. Here’s a truck size comparison guide:
Truck Size |
Dimensions (L x W x H) |
Cubic Feet |
Capacity |
Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
10’ Truck |
9.5′ x 6.3′ x 6′ |
~402 cu. ft. |
1 BR / Studio |
Local apartment moves |
15’ Truck |
15′ x 7.7′ x 7′ |
~763 cu. ft. |
1–2 Bedrooms |
Small homes or condos |
20’ Truck |
19.5′ x 7.7′ x 7′ |
~1,015 cu. ft. |
2–3 Bedrooms |
Full apartments or homes |
26’ Truck |
26′ x 8′ x 8′ |
~1,700 cu. ft. |
3–5 Bedrooms |
Large homes, offices |
💡 Pro Tip: 26-foot trucks are the largest you can drive without a CDL in most states.
Packing and Driving Tips for Your Moving Truck
Even if you’re going the DIY route, packing like a professional makes all the difference.
● Disassemble large furniture to save space and prevent damage
● Distribute weight evenly: heavier items near the front, lighter ones on top
● Use moving straps and blankets to secure everything
● Drive carefully: mind overhead clearance, wide turns, and braking distance
● Refuel before return to avoid extra charges
Need Help Loading or Unloading Your Rental Truck?
Even if you’re renting the truck yourself, you don’t have to do it all alone. That’s where Poseidon Moving comes in. We offer labor-only moving services to assist with:
● Loading and unloading your rented box truck
● Packing services and materials
● Furniture disassembly and reassembly
● Heavy lifting and protective wrapping
● Cross-country move assistance
Let Poseidon Moving Support Your DIY Move
Renting a box truck gives you independence—but it also puts you in charge of the heavy lifting. Poseidon Moving offers a better way: you drive, we handle the rest. With our professional labor services, your truck is packed with care, your furniture is protected, and your move is stress-free.
Request a free quote today and let us help you get moving—with less hassle and more confidence.
