Moving across the country can be a logistical challenge, especially when you need to transport all your belongings from one place to another. Many people wonder: Can I rent a van for a one-way cross-country trip?
Yes, you can rent a van for a one-way cross-country trip through major rental companies like U-Haul, Greenvans, and Enterprise. These companies specifically offer one-way rental services for cargo vans and moving trucks of various sizes.
While it’s possible to rent a van for a cross-country trip, you’ll want to keep reading to understand the significant cost differences between companies and potential restrictions that could affect your plans. Understanding these factors could save you hundreds of dollars on your rental and help you avoid unexpected complications.
How Much Does A One-Way Van Rental Cost?
The cost of a one-way van rental varies significantly depending on several factors. Distance is the primary factor, with cross-country trips typically ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 for a cargo van or small moving truck. However, the direction you’re traveling matters too – moving from east to west often costs more than west to east due to demand patterns.
Seasonal timing also affects pricing considerably. Summer months (May through September) see the highest rates due to peak moving season, while winter months can offer discounts of up to 20-30%. Booking at least 2-3 months in advance usually secures better rates.
What Restrictions Should I Know About For One-Way Van Rentals?
Most rental companies require renters to be at least 21 years old, with some requiring age 25 for one-way rentals. You’ll need a valid driver’s license and typically a credit card in the renter’s name. Insurance is another crucial consideration – while rental companies offer coverage, it’s worth checking if your personal auto insurance extends to van rentals.
Some companies also impose mileage limits or require minimum rental periods for cross-country trips. Additionally, certain routes may not be available for one-way rentals, particularly to or from less populated areas.
What Are The Alternatives To One-Way Van Rentals?
If the cost or restrictions of one-way van rentals don’t work for you, several alternatives exist. Moving container services like PODS or U-Pack can be more economical for cross-country moves, with prices typically 15-30% lower than traditional van rentals. These services also eliminate the need to drive a large vehicle across the country.
Professional moving companies provide another option, though they generally cost more than van rentals. For smaller moves, shipping services like consolidated freight or even traditional shipping companies might be worth considering.
For large families planning cross-country moves, you might also need to consider passenger transportation alongside your cargo van rental. If you’re relocating with multiple family members and need to travel together, you may want to rent a 15 passenger van near Philadelphia or your departure city to ensure everyone can travel comfortably while your belongings are transported separately in the cargo van. This dual-rental approach is particularly useful when flying isn’t practical for the entire family or when you need to transport pets and personal items that require immediate access during the journey.
What Size Van Do I Need For A Cross-Country Move?
Choosing the right van size is crucial for a successful cross-country move. For a studio apartment or one-bedroom home, a cargo van or 10-foot truck typically suffices, offering 400-600 cubic feet of space. A two-bedroom home usually requires a 15-foot truck (approximately 800 cubic feet), while three-bedroom homes need 20- to 26-foot trucks (1,200-1,700 cubic feet).
To avoid renting a van that’s too small or too large, take detailed inventory of your belongings and use online space calculators provided by rental companies. Remember that cross-country moves often involve longer loading times and more careful packing than local moves, so it’s better to have slightly more space than you think you need.
How Can I Save Money On A One-Way Van Rental?
Several money-saving strategies can significantly reduce the cost of your one-way van rental. Being flexible with your move date is perhaps the most effective approach – moving during off-peak seasons (October through April) or mid-month rather than at month-end can save 20-40% on rental costs.
Compare quotes from multiple companies, as prices can vary dramatically. Some companies offer special deals for specific routes or seasonal promotions. Additionally, joining rental company loyalty programs or seeking student, military, or AAA discounts can lead to savings. Fuel costs are another consideration – newer trucks generally offer better fuel efficiency, and planning your route through states with lower gas prices can help reduce overall expenses.
Consider that returning the van with a full tank of gas is almost always cheaper than paying the rental company’s refueling rates, which can be up to 50% higher than market prices. Finally, booking online often provides better rates than booking by phone or in person.
Time To Start Planning Your Move
Now that you understand the ins and outs of one-way van rentals, your next step should be to get quotes from at least three major rental companies (U-Haul, Penske, and Enterprise) for your specific route and intended moving dates. Compare these quotes while paying special attention to included mileage, insurance options, and any seasonal promotions that might be available, as this initial research will give you a realistic budget framework and help you decide if a one-way van rental is truly the best option for your cross-country move.
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