Renting a truck can be ideal whether you are moving across the country or need a vehicle for a local project. With so many truck rental companies, how do you know which one to choose? I’ve researched and compared the top brands to create this list of the USA’s five best truck rental companies.
1. U-Haul
Founded in 1945, U-Haul is a giant truck and trailer rental company in North America. Their massive fleet includes everything from pickup trucks to 26′ moving trucks. U-Haul prides itself on exceptional customer service and convenient locations, with over 20,000 rental centers across the US and Canada.
Some key features of U-Haul include:
- Huge selection of rental trucks, trailers, auto transports, and specialty equipment
- One-way and local rentals are available
- Free towing services on all one-way truck rentals
- Convenient online and mobile reservations
- Affordable prices and discounts available
U-Haul makes truck rentals easy and has all the necessary equipment and services for DIY movers. Their established reputation and vast network of locations earn them the #1 spot on my list.
2. Penske
Penske Truck Rental is another industry leader, operating since 1969. They are known for their consumer-focused approach and quality rental trucks. Penske provides rental services internationally but has over 2,000 locations across the US.
Benefits of renting with Penske include:
- Free unlimited miles on one-way truck rentals
- A newer fleet of trucks compared to competitors
- Clean and well-maintained rental trucks
- Mobile check-in to expedite the rental process
- 24/7 roadside assistance with trucks equipped with GPS
From cargo vans to 26′ straight trucks, Penske has a large fleet to meet your needs. Their focus on the customer experience makes them one of the best nationwide rental providers.
3. Budget Truck Rental
Owned by Avis Budget Group, this company has been in business for over 60 years. Budget Truck Rental has over 2,800 locations across the US and Canada. They offer a range of pickup trucks, cargo vans, and trucks for moving.
Highlights of Budget Truck Rental include:
- One of the largest rental fleets in North America
- Lower rates than competitors on particular trucks
- Online tools to estimate costs and reserve a truck
- Partnerships with major moving brands like U-Pack
- Deals and discounts for students, military, and businesses
While having fewer specialized services and equipment offerings than U-Haul and Penske, Budget Truck Rental excels in price and convenience, their vast fleet and national presence earn them a spot on my top rental companies list.
4. Enterprise Truck Rental
Enterprise Rent-A-Car operates one of the world’s largest rental car and fleet companies. Their truck rental business, Enterprise Truck Rental, leverages the company’s expertise in fleet management. With over 5,500 locations across the US, Enterprise has a distribution network that rivals industry leaders.
Here are some advantages of renting a truck from Enterprise:
- No mileage restrictions on most rentals
- Pickup and cargo van rentals are available
- A good option for local moves and projects
- Hassle-free pickup and drop-off process
- Additional services like towing and moving equipment
While Enterprise doesn’t have the giant trucks for full-scale moves, their great rates on pickups, vans, and small trucks earn them praise. And you can’t beat the convenience of their neighborhood rental locations.
5. Ryder
Ryder has over 90 years of experience in transportation management, including truck rentals. Although their network has fewer locations than other national chains, they have over 500 rental centers across the US. Ryder is an excellent option for commercial and over-the-road rentals.
Critical advantages of Ryder include:
- Large selection of heavy-duty trucks for commercial use
- Specialized equipment like lift gates and refrigeration
- Fuel-efficient rental fleet with diesel and alternative fuel vehicles
- Rental management tools for businesses
- Used truck sales and leasing options
So for more significant projects and commercial rentals, Ryder can meet your needs. While they don’t focus on the consumer rental market, Ryder excels at commercial truck rentals, earning them a place on my list.
Key Factors To Consider When Renting a Truck
Once you’ve selected a rental provider, there are a few key factors to consider to make sure you get the right truck for the job without overspending:
- Truck size – Make sure to get an accurate measurement of what you need to move. Oversized trucks mean wasted gas and money.
- Rental duration – Be realistic about how long you’ll need the truck to avoid late fees.
- Mileage – For one-way rentals, check mileage allowances before committing. Unlimited mileage is ideal.
- Date flexibility – Rent during the week instead of on weekends for better rates.
- Hidden fees – Ask beforehand beforehand about tax, insurance, tolls, and other charges.
- Discounts – Remember to ask about current promotions and savings opportunities.
FAQs About Renting a Truck
If you still have questions about selecting the right rental truck, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Q: Is it cheaper to rent a truck one way or locally?
A: One-way rentals often carry fees for dropping off in a different location. Local rentals allow you to save on these fees and gas costs.
Q: What is the minimum rental age for a truck?
A: Most major companies have a minimum rental age of 21, and drivers under 25 often pay added fees. Always check requirements.
Q: What is the giant truck I can drive without a commercial driver’s license (CDL)?
A: The giant rental truck available to the average driver is a 26′ moving truck, which doesn’t require a CDL.
Q: Should I purchase the rental company’s insurance?
A: It depends on your insurance policy, but rental insurance often makes sense for liability coverage and peace of mind.
Q: Are there additional fees to consider with a truck rental?
A: Yes, most companies charge fees for things like supplies/equipment, toll usage, and late returns. Ask for full pricing details before booking.
Conclusion
Whether moving across the country or running local errands, renting a truck can save costs and convenience. U-Haul, Penske, Budget, Enterprise, and Ryder are 5 of the best truck rental companies due to their national networks, fleet variety, and competitive pricing. Consider factors like truck size, mileage, fees, and discounts to get the perfect rental truck. And remember to ask about any extra charges. By selecting the right provider and truck, you can save money and make your rental experience hassle-free.
