How Much Weight Can A U-Haul Carry? [Inc. 26 Ft, 20 Ft, 17 Ft, 15 Ft, & 10 Ft]

U-Haul makes moving easy for do-it-yourselfers and professional movers alike. But when loading a U-Haul, how much weight can you safely put in each box? Let's take a look at each size of U-Haul size and weight capacity below.

Here are the maximum weight capacities for each U-Haul size:

  • U-Haul 10' truck - 2,850 lbs
  • U-Haul 15' truck - 6,385 lbs
  • U-Haul 17' truck - 6,160 lbs
  • U-Haul 20' truck - 5,700 lbs
  • U-Haul 26' truck - 12,859 lbs

As you can see, even though some of the trucks are smaller, they can actually hold more weight. In this article, we will take a closer look at each size of U-Haul and the maximum weight capacity for loading them. In addition, we will answer other frequently asked questions about using a U-Haul truck, so read on!

U-Haul Moving Truck On Interstate Highway, How Much Weight Can A U-Haul Carry? [Inc. 26 Ft, 20 Ft, 17 Ft, 15 Ft, & 10 Ft]

What Is The Maximum Load Weight For U-Haul Trucks?

As one of the leaders in the self-moving industry, U-Haul offers a variety of trucks in different sizes to accommodate different move sizes.

So, no matter if you need to move your one-bedroom apartment or your four-bedroom house, U-Haul has a truck that can accommodate your move.

To ensure the safety of their customers and their belongings, U-Haul has weight limits for each size of truck. The reason is if a truck is loaded beyond its capacity, it can become overloaded.

An overloaded truck can be extremely dangerous to drive. The added weight makes it difficult to control the truck and can cause problems with the brakes and tires. In addition, an overloaded truck is more likely to be involved in an accident.

Now that we know why U-Haul has weight limits, let’s take a look at the different sizes of U-Haul trucks and their maximum load weights.

U-Haul van travelling on the interstate

U-Haul 10' Truck

The smallest truck that U-Haul offers is the 10’ truck. This truck is designed for smaller moves, such as a one-bedroom apartment or studio.

The maximum load weight for the 10’ U-Haul truck is 2,850 lbs. This may seem like a lot, but once you start loading boxes and furniture, the weight adds up quickly.

If you are unsure if the 10’ truck will be large enough for your move, contact your local U-Haul center. The representatives can help you determine which truck size is right for your move.

U-Haul 15' Truck

The next size up from the 10’ truck is the 15’ truck. This truck is designed for medium-sized moves, such as a two-bedroom apartment or a smaller home.

The maximum load weight for the 15’ U-Haul truck is 6,385 lbs. As you can see, it is a big increase from the 10’ truck. With this truck, you should have no problem loading all of your belongings for your move.

U-Haul 17' Truck

This is where it can get confusing. The 17’ truck is the next size up from the 15’ truck. You would think that it would have a higher weight limit, but that is not the case.

The maximum load weight for the 17’ U-Haul truck is 6,160 lbs. So, even though this truck is two feet longer than the 15’ truck, it has a lower weight limit.

The 17’ truck is designed for medium-sized moves, such as a two-bedroom home. Even though the maximum load capacity is slightly lower than the 15’ truck, it can hold more belongings because of the increased space.

U-Haul 20' Truck

The 20’ truck is the next size up from the 17’ truck and is designed for large moves. With this truck, you will have no problem moving a three-bedroom apartment or two-bedroom home.

The maximum load weight for the 20’ U-Haul truck is 5,700 lbs. Due to its increase in length, the 20’ truck has a lower weight limit than the 17’ and 15' trucks.

If you need more length and more weight capacity, then you need to move up to the 26’ truck.

U-Haul 26' Truck

The 26’ truck is the largest truck that U-Haul offers and is designed for moves of three to four bedrooms or more. With this truck, you will have no problem moving your entire home.

The maximum load weight for the 26’ U-Haul truck is 12,859 lbs. This is a significant increase from the 20’ truck and should be more than enough for your move.

If you need to move a large home or office, then the 26’ truck is a perfect choice. Take caution when loading this truck, as it is easy to overload it. Be sure to evenly distribute the weight throughout the truck to avoid any problems.

Now that we have covered the different sizes of U-Haul trucks and their maximum load weights, you should have no problem choosing the right truck for your move. Keep reading as we answer some frequently asked questions about U-Haul trucks.

U-Haul is an American equipment rental company founded in 1945

Is It Hard To Drive A U-Haul Truck?

Whether or not it's hard to drive a U-Haul truck or not really depends on your experience. If you have never driven a truck before, it can be a bit daunting. But, if you have driven a truck before, then it should be no problem.

The hardest part about driving a U-Haul truck is getting used to the size. These trucks are much larger than your average pickup truck or SUV. It can be tricky to maneuver them in tight spaces and parallel park.

The key is to take your time and be careful. If you are unsure about something, be sure to ask a U-Haul representative. They can answer any questions you have and help you feel more comfortable behind the wheel.

Do I Need A Special License To Drive A U-Haul Truck?

No, you do not need a special license to drive a U-Haul truck. As long as you have a valid driver's license, you will be able to rent and drive a U-Haul truck.

U-Haul trucks aren't considered commercial vehicles, so you don't need a commercial driver's license (CDL) to operate them. However, you do need to be over the age of 18 and have a clean driving record in order to rent a U-Haul truck.

You don't need insurance to drive a U-Haul truck, but we recommend getting insurance from U-Haul to cover your belongings in case of an accident. This will be an option when you make your rental reservation.

U-Haul truck parked in central Boston

What Is The Best Way To Load A U-Haul Truck?

There is an art to loading a U-Haul truck. You want to make sure that you evenly distribute the weight throughout the truck so that it drives and handles properly.

The best way to load a U-Haul truck is to start with the heaviest items first and work your way to the lightest items. Be sure to tie down all your belongings so they don't shift during the move.

If you have any questions about loading your U-Haul truck, be sure to ask a U-Haul representative. They can give you tips and tricks to make sure your belongings are safe and secure.

What Happens If You Scratch A U-Haul Truck During A Move?

Before you leave with one of their trucks, a U-Haul representative will walk you through a pre-trip inspection. They will point out any existing damage to the truck so that you are aware of it.

If you do happen to scratch or dent the truck during your move, U-Haul will charge you for the repair. The amount you will be charged will depend on the severity of the damage.

In addition, you will be charged for lost revenue if repairs prevent the truck from being rented out for a period of time.

The best way to avoid being charged for damage is to be careful with the truck and take your time when loading and unloading it.

How Much Does It Cost To Rent A U-Haul Truck?

Side view of parked U-Haul 10 ft moving truck

The cost to rent a U-Haul truck depends on a few factors, such as the size of the truck, the distance of your move, and the time of year.

Generally speaking, the bigger the truck, the more it will cost per day and per mile. In addition, the farther the move, the more it will cost.

For example, if you are traveling from Montana to Texas, you can be looking at a hefty price tag. However, if you are moving just a few miles down the road, it may only cost you a hundred dollars.

Finally, the time of year can impact the cost of renting a U-Haul truck. Moving during the summer is typically more expensive than moving in the winter. This is because demand for U-Haul trucks is higher in the summer months.

If you are looking to save money on your move, be sure to compare prices and look for discounts.

It's also worth noting that you will have to pay for fuel. Depending on the size and weight of the truck (and therefore its fuel economy) and the distance driven, this component of the move can certainly get expensive.

Final Thoughts

U-Haul Moving Truck On Interstate Highway

While driving your own car or renting a small truck for a local move is convenient, sometimes you need a larger truck to transport all your belongings. This is where U-Haul comes in.

Just be careful when driving one of their trucks, and be sure to load it properly. If you do, you'll be on your way to a successful move!

Made it to the end? Here are other articles you might find helpful:

How To Remove U-Haul Hitch From Car

Can You Tow A Travel Trailer With A U-Haul Truck?

Can You Fit A Couch In A Pickup Truck Or SUV?

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