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Rental Truck Fuel Calculator:

How to estimate gas costs for a rental truck

Did you know that when moving long distance in a rental truck, it may cost more for fuel than it does to rent the truck? It’s true! While truck rental may seem like the most affordable option, adding in the cost to fill it up may make it more expensive than you planned. To help you check this cost in advance, U-Pack has an easy-to-use gas cost estimator. Find out how to use this online calculator, what factors contribute to fuel costs in a rental truck and how to move without paying extra for gas.
fuel cost estimator

Using the fuel cost estimator

Put the pencil and paper away — there’s no math required. This rental truck fuel calculator takes your origin and destination (either zip code or city and state) and determines costs based on average fuel prices, the distance and the average MPG of a rental truck. 
If you want to double check the math, use this equation:
Total Miles ÷ Moving Truck MPG x Price of Gas per Gallon = Total Cost to Fuel the Rental Truck

What impacts rental truck fuel costs?

Once you get an estimated cost from the calculator, remember that it is just that — an estimate. Many factors determine fuel consumption in a rental truck, which can impact costs. These include:
  • Vehicle specifics. While our fuel cost estimator uses an average MPG, rental trucks can get anywhere from 6 to 12 miles per gallon. And on a long distance trip, that difference can add up to hundreds of dollars.
  • Fuel type. Some trucks require diesel, which is typically more expensive than unleaded gas.
  • Weight. While loading the truck, keep in mind that heavier loads will require more fuel. Consider getting rid of unwanted items before the move to reduce the load.
  • Maintenance. A well-tuned vehicle with properly inflated tires is best for MPG. Ask about maintenance practices before reserving a truck, and check the tires before hitting the road.
  • Towing. Towing a vehicle or a cargo trailer also impacts fuel use because extra weight requires more gas to pull it. 
  • Driving habits. Driving faster increases wind resistance, which requires the truck to work harder and therefore use more gas. Some rental truck companies recommend driving at lower speeds for safety, but it’s also smart for better MPG.

Don't worry about gas costs — move with U-Pack

If you’re worried about the costs of fuel, you can avoid paying at the pump by moving with U-Pack®. It’s a different type of moving service where you do the packing and loading, but we handle the driving. U-Pack rates include fuel, transportation, taxes and liability coverage.
Get a quote for U-Pack and see how the price compares to truck rental. Or if you prefer to talk to someone, a helpful moving consultant can help — just call 800-413-4799.

Have questions?

If you have any questions about rental truck fuel calculations or moving with U-Pack, leave a comment below. We’re always here to help. 

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