If you're looking to rent a trailer, U-Haul is probably the first name that comes to mind. But there's a new way to rent trailers that's faster, more flexible, and built for how people actually want to move today.
Here's an honest comparison between Moovalot's 24/7 self-service model and U-Haul's traditional rental counter approach.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Moovalot | U-Haul |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | 24/7 — rent anytime | Business hours only |
| Reservation | None needed | Required |
| Pickup Process | Scan QR code, unlock instantly | Counter visit, paperwork, key pickup |
| Billing | 15-minute increments | Hourly/daily blocks |
| Return Location | Any Moovalot location | Same location (usually) |
24/7 Availability vs. Business Hours
Moovalot: Rent at 2 AM if you want. Our trailers are available around the clock, every day of the year. Perfect for weekend projects, late-night moves, or early morning pickups.
U-Haul: Limited to business hours (typically 8 AM - 5 PM weekdays, shorter on weekends). If you need a trailer after hours, you're out of luck.
Winner: Moovalot if you value flexibility. U-Haul if you only rent during business hours anyway.
No Reservation vs. Required Booking
Moovalot: Just show up. If you see a trailer available in the app, it's yours. No planning ahead, no reservations, no deposits.
U-Haul: Requires advance reservation. During peak moving season (May-September), trailers can book up days or weeks in advance.
Winner: Moovalot for spontaneous needs. U-Haul if you prefer guaranteed availability weeks out.
Instant Unlock vs. Counter Process
Moovalot:
- Open the app
- Walk to the trailer
- Scan the QR code
- Lock opens automatically
Total time: Under 2 minutes.
U-Haul:
- Drive to the U-Haul center
- Wait in line at the counter
- Show ID, sign paperwork
- Get a physical key
- Find your trailer in the lot
Total time: 15-30 minutes (longer during peak hours).
Winner: Moovalot if you hate waiting. U-Haul if you prefer face-to-face interaction.
Flexible Billing vs. Fixed Blocks
Moovalot: Billed in 15-minute increments. Used the trailer for 37 minutes? You pay for 45 minutes. The longer you rent, the lower the hourly rate.
U-Haul: Charged by the hour or day. If you only need 30 minutes, you still pay for the full hour.
Winner: Moovalot for short trips. U-Haul for full-day or multi-day rentals (flat daily rate becomes competitive).
Pricing Comparison
Example: 2-hour rental in Houston
- Moovalot 5x8 open trailer: ~$27 (tiered hourly rate)
- U-Haul 5x8 cargo trailer: ~$29.90 (base rate + fees)
Pricing is similar for short rentals. U-Haul's daily rate ($29.95 + mileage) can be cheaper for all-day use, but Moovalot's tiered pricing rewards longer rentals with lower hourly rates.
Hidden fees: U-Haul charges mileage ($0.59-$0.99/mile in some markets). Moovalot has no mileage fees — unlimited miles included.
Return Flexibility
Moovalot: Pick up at one location, return to any other Moovalot location. Perfect for one-way moves across town.
U-Haul: Same-location return is standard. One-way rentals possible but require advance booking and additional fees.
Winner: Moovalot for cross-town flexibility.
When to Choose Moovalot
- You need a trailer right now (no planning ahead)
- You're renting outside business hours (nights, weekends, holidays)
- You want no paperwork or counter visits
- You're making a short trip (under 4 hours)
- You want unlimited miles included
When to Choose U-Haul
- You need a very specific trailer size (6x12, 7x14, etc.)
- You're doing a long-distance, multi-day move
- You want guaranteed availability weeks in advance
- You prefer in-person customer service
The Bottom Line
Moovalot and U-Haul serve different needs. U-Haul is a traditional rental company with a huge fleet and decades of infrastructure. Moovalot is a tech-first service built for speed and convenience.
If you value instant access, 24/7 availability, and no hassle, Moovalot is the better choice. If you need a specific trailer for a multi-day move and don't mind planning ahead, U-Haul still works.
Ready to try 24/7 self-service? Find a Moovalot trailer near you and see the difference.