9 uhaul cargo van rental tips for smooth moving

I still remember the sweaty chaos of my first U-Haul rental—it was a scorching July afternoon in Chicago, and I was scrambling to load up my apartment before a cross-country move. The van felt like a furnace, and I ended up overpaying for mileage because I hadn\they\measure your bulky items first and consult U-Haul\it strains the van and increases fuel costs. A well-packed load cuts driving time and stress.

Driving a cargo van feels different from your sedan—give yourself time to adjust. Practice in an empty lot first, focusing on wider turns and longer stopping distances. On a move from Miami, I underestimated this and nearly clipped a curb, which could\getting there safely is the win.

Route planning isn\factor in low bridges or weight-restricted roads that GPS might miss. I once got stuck in a tunnel in Boston because I didn\even a 30-minute delay can cost $50.

Finally, prep for emergencies like a flat tire or breakdown. Pack a kit with jumper cables, a flashlight, and U-Haul\s roadside number—I had a battery die mid-move in Denver, and that kit got me back on the road fast. Know basic troubleshooting, like checking fluid levels, and keep your phone charged. Being ready turns a crisis into a minor hiccup.

Moving doesn\t have to be a horror story. With these tips, you\ll handle your U-Haul rental like a pro, saving cash and keeping your cool. Got your own moving war stories or questions? Share them below—I\d love to hear how it goes for you!