Moving can be a stressful experience, and it’s often expensive too. Many people choose U-Haul as their moving company, but it’s not always the most affordable option. Luckily, there are many cheap U-Haul alternatives that can help you save money while still getting the job done. In this article, we will explore some of the best cheap U-Haul alternatives available and provide you with tips on how to make your move affordable and stress-free.
Planning Your Move
Before you start packing, it’s important to plan your move carefully. Here are some tips on how to do it:
Set a Budget
The first step in planning your move is to set a budget. Determine how much you can afford to spend on moving expenses, including transportation, packing supplies, and labor.
Choose the Right Time
The time of year you choose to move can affect the cost. Try to avoid peak moving season (June through August) and weekends, as rates may be higher.
Downsize Your Belongings
The fewer items you have to move, the cheaper your move will be. Consider selling or donating items you no longer need.
Cheap U-Haul Alternatives
Now that you have a plan in place, it’s time to explore some cheap U-Haul alternatives. Here are some options to consider:
Rental Trucks from Other Companies
Many other companies offer rental trucks that are comparable to U-Haul but may be cheaper. Here are some of the other companies to consider:
| Company | Description |
|---|---|
| Budget Truck Rental | Offers rental trucks in a variety of sizes and has over 2,800 locations across the US |
| Penske | Offers rental trucks in a variety of sizes and has over 2,000 locations across North America |
| Enterprise | Offers cargo vans and pickup trucks for rent |
Moving Containers
Moving containers are a convenient and affordable option for long-distance moves. Here are some of the companies that offer moving containers:
| Company | Description |
|---|---|
| PODS | Offers moving containers in a variety of sizes and allows you to load at your own pace |
| U-Pack | Offers moving containers and will transport them to your new location |
| SmartBox | Offers moving containers in a variety of sizes and allows you to load at your own pace |
Portable Storage Units
If you’re moving locally, portable storage units can be a great alternative to renting a moving truck. Here are some of the companies that offer portable storage units:
| Company | Description |
|---|---|
| PODS | Offers portable storage units in a variety of sizes and will transport them to your new location |
| 1-800-PACK-RAT | Offers portable storage units in a variety of sizes and has over 60 locations across the US |
| ZippyShell | Offers portable storage units in a variety of sizes and will transport them to your new location |
Rent a Cargo Van
If you don’t have a lot of belongings to move, renting a cargo van can be a cheap and efficient option. Here are some of the companies that offer cargo van rentals:
| Company | Description |
|---|---|
| Enterprise | Offers cargo van rentals at over 7,200 locations worldwide |
| Avis | Offers cargo van rentals at over 5,000 locations worldwide |
| Budget | Offers cargo van rentals at over 3,000 locations worldwide |
Hire Moving Labor
If you don’t want to do the heavy lifting yourself, you can hire moving labor to help you load and unload your belongings. Here are some websites that can help you find affordable movers in your area:
| Website | Description |
|---|---|
| HireAHelper | Allows you to compare prices and book moving labor online |
| MovingLabor.com | Allows you to compare prices and book moving labor online |
Comparing Prices of U-Haul with Other Cheap Moving Alternatives
U-Haul is a well-known and popular choice for moving, but there are many other cheap U-Haul alternatives available. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compared the prices of U-Haul with some of its competitors for various moving-related expenses.
Truck and Van Rentals
| Company | Price for a 10ft Truck Rental (1-day rental) | Price for a Cargo Van Rental (1-day rental) |
|---|---|---|
| U-Haul | $19.95 plus mileage and fees | $19.95 plus mileage and fees |
| Budget Truck Rental | $129 plus mileage and fees | N/A |
| Penske | $118 plus mileage and fees | N/A |
| Enterprise | N/A | $59.99 plus mileage and fees |
As you can see, U-Haul offers the cheapest option for a cargo van rental, but its prices for truck rentals are comparable to its competitors.
Moving Supplies and Packing Kits
| Company | Price for a Small Moving Box | Price for a Medium Moving Box | Price for a Large Moving Box | Price for a Dish Barrel Box | Price for a Wardrobe Box |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U-Haul | $0.99 | $1.49 | $1.99 | $5.99 | $11.95 |
| Home Depot | $0.98 | $1.68 | $2.26 | $5.47 | $11.97 |
| Lowe’s | $0.98 | $1.68 | $2.28 | $5.38 | $11.97 |
As you can see, U-Haul’s prices for moving supplies and packing kits are comparable to its competitors.
Storage
| Company | Price for a 5′ x 5′ Storage Unit (per month) | Price for a 10′ x 10′ Storage Unit (per month) |
|---|---|---|
| U-Haul | $44.95 | $129.95 |
| Public Storage | $56 | $185 |
| CubeSmart | $52 | $166 |
As you can see, U-Haul’s prices for storage units are competitive with its competitors. It’s important to keep in mind that prices can vary based on your location, time of year, and other factors. It’s always a good idea to shop around and compare prices before making a decision.
Tips for Making Your Move Affordable and Stress-Free
Regardless of which cheap U-Haul alternative you choose, there are things you can do to make your move more affordable and stress-free. Here are some tips:
Pack Smartly
Pack your belongings carefully to avoid damage and save space. Here are some tips:
- Use boxes of different sizes to maximize space.
- Label everything clearly.
- Use padding, bubble wrap, or newspaper to protect fragile items.
Get Free Boxes
You don’t have to spend money on boxes. You can get free boxes from liquor stores, grocery stores, and online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist.
Compare Prices
Shop around to find the best deals on moving supplies, transportation, and labor. Don’t be afraid to negotiate with companies to get a better price.
Ask for Help
Enlist the help of friends and family to save money on moving labor. Offer to buy them lunch or dinner as a thank you.
Be Flexible
Flexibility can help you save money. For example, if you’re renting a truck, consider picking it up from a location outside the city where rates may be cheaper.
Conclusion
Moving doesn’t have to be expensive or stressful. By planning ahead, exploring cheap U-Haul rivals, and following our tips for making your move affordable and stress-free, you can have a smooth transition to your new home. Remember to compare prices, pack smartly, and be flexible to save money. With the right planning and resources, you can make your move a success.
FAQs
Can I rent a moving truck from a company other than U-Haul?
Yes, there are many other companies that offer rental trucks for moving, such as Budget Truck Rental, Penske, and Enterprise.
Are moving containers a good option for long-distance moves?
Yes, moving containers can be a convenient and affordable option for long-distance moves. Companies like PODS, U-Pack, and SmartBox offer containers that you can load and they’ll transport.
How can I make my move more affordable?
To make your move more affordable, you can set a budget, downsize your belongings, shop around for the best deals on moving supplies and transportation, and be flexible with your plans.
Is it cheaper to hire moving labor or do it myself?
It depends on your situation. If you have friends and family who can help you move, doing it yourself may be cheaper. However, if you don’t want to do the heavy lifting, hiring moving labor can be an affordable option.
Can I get free moving boxes?
Yes, you can get free boxes from liquor stores, grocery stores, and online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist.
