Rajan Wilcox
U-Haul trucks generally operate on unleaded gasoline, although some may run on LPG (propane) or, in rarer cases, diesel. The company has made a deliberate decision to rent out vehicles that run on unleaded gasoline, as it is cheaper, more widely available, and environmentally friendly. U-Haul trucks average 10 miles per gallon, but this varies based on factors such as truck size, towing, driving style, and the weight of belongings. To save fuel, U-Haul recommends balancing the weight of items evenly, with 60% of the load towards the front of the truck. The rental contract will state the fuel level when picked up, and it must be returned at the same level.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel type | Unleaded gasoline |
| Other fuel types | LPG (propane), diesel |
| Fuel efficiency | 10-12 MPG |
| Factors affecting fuel efficiency | Towing, driving style, weight of belongings, terrain, vehicle condition, air filter, tire pressure, use of heater/air conditioner |
| Fuel costs | $3.40 per gallon (AAA’s average gas price) |
| Rental agreement | Return the vehicle with the same fuel level as when picked up |
| Fuel estimator | Compare current fuel gauge reading to the fuel estimator on the contract to determine the amount of fuel needed to return to the dispatch level |
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What You'll Learn
U-Haul trucks use unleaded gasoline
U-Haul trucks generally use unleaded gasoline. This is a deliberate decision by U-Haul to provide a more efficient and convenient rental experience for customers. Unleaded gasoline is widely available at gas stations across the country, making refuelling quick and easy. It also tends to be more environmentally friendly, with lower emissions, contributing to a healthier environment.
U-Haul trucks are equipped with decals near the gas cap that clearly indicate the proper fuel type. This ensures that there is never any confusion when refuelling. In rare cases, a U-Haul truck may run on LPG (propane) autogas or, even more rarely, diesel.
It is important to use the correct fuel type as specified in the rental agreement. Using the wrong fuel can cause severe damage to the truck, leading to engine problems and costly repairs. To avoid surprises and overspending, it is essential to understand how to estimate the amount of fuel needed before returning the truck. U-Haul provides a fuel estimator on the rental contract to help determine the appropriate amount of fuel required to bring the truck's fuel gauge back to the original dispatch level.
To use the fuel estimator, first, determine the current fuel gauge reading on the vehicle. Then, compare this reading to the fuel estimator on the contract, which will indicate the estimated number of gallons needed to return the gauge to the dispatch level. Filling up the tank before embarking on a long journey can help avoid running out of fuel. Additionally, driving at a steady speed, avoiding sudden acceleration and deceleration, and considering the truck's weight distribution when loading can maximise fuel efficiency during the rental period.
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Fuel estimator in the rental contract
When renting a U-Haul truck, it is important to use the correct type of fuel and to return the truck with the same fuel level as when you picked it up. This is specified in your rental agreement.
U-Haul trucks generally operate on unleaded gasoline, although in rare cases, your truck may run on LPG (propane) or diesel. To check, look for the decal near the gas cap, which will show the proper fuel type.
The fuel estimator on your rental contract will help you determine how much fuel to add to the vehicle to return it to the original dispatch level. First, check the current fuel gauge reading on the vehicle. Then, compare this reading to the fuel estimator on your contract. The contract will indicate the estimated number of gallons needed to return the gauge to the dispatch level.
U-Haul trucks vary in size, ranging from 10 to 26 feet, and have different fuel efficiencies. Most trucks average 10 miles per gallon, but this can range from 10 to 12 miles per gallon. The tank size also varies, starting at 31 gallons for the smallest truck and increasing to 40 gallons for mid-size trucks, with the largest tank size being 60 gallons for the 26-foot truck.
It is important to note that the U-Haul's estimated miles per gallon are calculated for empty trucks, so a loaded truck may use more fuel. Various factors can decrease fuel efficiency, such as towing a trailer, quick acceleration, heavy braking, using the heater or air conditioner, driving in mountainous areas, dirty air filters, and under-inflated tires. To improve fuel economy, distribute weight evenly in the truck and maintain a steady speed while driving.
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Fuel efficiency varies by truck size
U-Haul trucks generally operate on unleaded gasoline, although some trucks may run on LPG (propane) or diesel. The type of fuel your U-Haul truck uses will be clearly indicated on a decal near the gas cap.
U-Haul's fleet includes pickups, cargo vans, and 10-foot, 15-foot, 20-foot, and 26-foot trucks. The fuel efficiency varies by truck size, with most U-Haul trucks averaging 10 miles per gallon. The exact mileage will depend on the truck size, towing, driving style, and the weight of your belongings. The fuel efficiency of a U-Haul truck is also influenced by factors such as quick acceleration, heavy braking, and the use of the heater or air conditioner.
The tank sizes for U-Haul trucks start at 31 gallons for 10-foot trucks and increase to 40 gallons for 15-foot, 17-foot, and 22-foot trucks. The largest tank size is 60 gallons for the 26-foot truck. The 26-foot truck can hold enough belongings for a 3-to-4-bedroom house.
To improve the fuel economy of your U-Haul truck, you can distribute the weight of your items evenly throughout the truck. Keep about 60% of your load closer to the front of the truck, placing heavy items towards the front and layering lighter items on top. Additionally, maintaining a steady speed while driving can help optimize fuel efficiency.
When renting a U-Haul truck, it is important to return the truck with the same fuel level as when you picked it up. The rental contract will state the fuel level at the time of pickup, and you can use the fuel estimator on the contract to determine how much fuel you need to add before returning the vehicle.
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Driving style impacts fuel efficiency
When renting a U-Haul truck, it is important to understand how much fuel you will need and how your driving style can impact the truck's fuel efficiency. U-Haul trucks generally operate on unleaded gasoline, which is widely available at gas stations. The specific fuel requirements for your rental truck will be outlined in your rental contract and on a decal near the gas cap.
U-Haul provides a fuel estimator on the rental contract to help you determine how much fuel you will need to return the truck to its original dispatch level. It is important to note that the estimated miles per gallon (MPG) provided by U-Haul is for empty trucks, and a loaded truck will typically use more fuel. The fuel efficiency of a U-Haul truck depends on various factors, including the truck size, towing, driving style, and the weight of your belongings.
Now, let's discuss how your driving style can impact fuel efficiency. Firstly, quick acceleration and heavy braking can negatively affect fuel efficiency. Maintaining a steady speed is essential for optimizing fuel economy. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, gas mileage begins to decrease rapidly at speeds above 50 mph. Therefore, driving at higher speeds will result in increased fuel consumption.
Another factor to consider is the terrain. Driving in mountainous areas or hilly terrain will reduce fuel economy as the truck has to work harder to pull the load uphill. Additionally, ensuring your vehicle is in proper driving condition can impact fuel efficiency. For example, dirty air filters or under-inflated tires can lower fuel economy.
By distributing the weight of your items evenly in the truck, you can also improve fuel efficiency. U-Haul recommends keeping about 60% of the load closer to the front of the truck and placing heavy items towards the front, layering lighter items on top. This balanced approach helps improve the truck's gas mileage and driving stability.
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Refuel yourself or use EZ-Fuel service
When renting a U-Haul moving truck, you have two options for refueling: using the EZ-Fuel service or refueling the truck yourself before returning it.
EZ-Fuel Service
The EZ-Fuel service is a convenient option offered by U-Haul that takes care of refueling for you. With this service, you don't have to worry about refueling the truck yourself or ensuring it has the same fuel level as when you picked it up. This can save you time and effort, especially if you're on a tight schedule or unfamiliar with the refueling process.
Refuel Yourself
If you choose to refuel the truck yourself, it's important to follow these steps to ensure a smooth and cost-effective experience:
- Check the rental contract: Before leaving the U-Haul location, carefully review the rental contract. It will state the fuel level when you picked up the vehicle. Verify that the indicated fuel level matches the actual level in the vehicle.
- Use the fuel estimator: The rental contract includes a fuel estimator that guides you in adding the right amount of fuel. Compare the current fuel gauge reading with the estimator to determine how much fuel you need to add to return it to the original dispatch level.
- Use the correct fuel type: U-Haul trucks almost exclusively use unleaded gasoline. However, some equipment may run on LPG (propane) autogas or, in rare cases, diesel. Always refer to the rental agreement or the decal near the gas cap to confirm the correct fuel type.
- Refuel before long journeys: To avoid running out of fuel, fill up the tank before embarking on a long trip. Also, ensure that the clearance level at your gas pump is suitable for your U-Haul truck to prevent any damage.
- Drive efficiently: Maximize fuel efficiency by maintaining a steady speed, avoiding sudden acceleration and deceleration, and considering the truck's weight distribution when loading belongings. Driving in mountainous areas, using the heater or air conditioner, and having under-inflated tires can also impact fuel economy.
- Understand fuel costs: U-Haul trucks have varying fuel efficiencies, typically averaging 10 miles per gallon, depending on factors such as truck size, towing, driving style, and the weight of your belongings. Use U-Haul's rental truck fuel calculator to estimate fuel costs for your specific move.
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Frequently asked questions
You should return your U-Haul with the same amount of fuel as when you picked it up. You can use the fuel estimator on your rental contract to determine how much fuel you need to add.
First, determine the current fuel gauge reading on your vehicle. Then, compare this reading to the fuel estimator on your contract. The estimator will tell you how many gallons you need to add to return the gauge to the dispatch level.
U-Haul trucks generally operate on unleaded gasoline. However, some trucks may run on LPG (propane) or, in rare cases, diesel. You can always check the decal near the gas cap to see the proper fuel type for your specific truck.
There are a few things you can do to save money on fuel:
- Choose a larger truck: Larger trucks tend to have better fuel efficiency than smaller ones.
- Balance the weight of your items: Place 60% of your load towards the front of the truck, with heavy items in front and light items on top. Keep the left and right sides balanced as well.
- Drive at a steady speed: Rapidly increasing your speed can decrease fuel efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, gas mileage decreases significantly at speeds above 50 mph.
- Keep your truck in good condition: Ensure your truck has clean air filters and properly inflated tires before hitting the road.
Most U-Haul trucks average around 10-12 miles per gallon, but this can vary depending on truck size, towing, driving style, and the weight of your belongings. Remember that U-Haul's estimated MPG is for empty trucks, so a loaded truck will typically use more fuel.
