U-Haul vs Small Haul: A Comprehensive Guide to Local & Long-Distance Moves
- charlesconigliaro
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Moving can be stressful and expensive, especially when deciding how to transport your belongings. If you live in the Denver or Boulder area and are planning a local or out-of-state move, you might be weighing options like renting a U-Haul truck, using PODs (portable storage containers), or hiring a small local moving company such as Small Haul. Each choice has its own costs, benefits, and challenges. This guide breaks down these options to help you make the best decision for your move.
Comparing Costs for Denver/Boulder and Long-Distance Moves
When budgeting for a move, cost is often the first factor people consider. Here’s how U-Haul, PODs, and Small Haul stack up for moves within Denver/Boulder and to other states.
U-Haul Costs
Local Moves: U-Haul charges by the day plus mileage. For example, renting a 15-foot truck for a local move in Denver might cost around $40–$50 per day plus $0.79 per mile. Additional fees for insurance, equipment rental (dollies, blankets), and fuel can add up.
Out-of-State Moves: U-Haul offers one-way rentals with a flat fee based on distance. A move from Denver to California (about 1,100 miles) could cost $1,500-$2,500 depending on truck size and availability.
PODs Costs
Local Moves: PODs charge a monthly rental fee plus delivery and pickup fees. For a small container, expect $150–$200 per month plus $100–$150 for delivery and pickup in Denver.
Out-of-State Moves: The monthly fee remains, but long-distance transport adds a significant cost. A move to another state can easily reach $1,000 or more, depending on container size and distance. Neither of the above options include the cost of labor for loading or unloading - this is assuming you will be handling the labor yourself (and likely convincing some buddies to help with beer and pizza!).
Hiring Small Haul
Local Moves: Small Haul offers competitive flat rates for local moves in Denver and Boulder, often starting around $250 for small loads. Pricing includes labor, truck, and equipment.
Out-of-State Moves: Small Haul can coordinate out-of-state moves with transparent pricing and personalized quotes, often saving money compared to large companies. With our network of Small Haul branches across the country, we can save you money on a long-distance job by batching other long-distance moves together.
Small Haul’s all-in pricing can be easier to budget for, especially for local moves.
Pros and Cons of DIY Moving vs Hiring a Local Company
Choosing between doing it yourself or hiring professionals depends on your priorities, skills, and time.
DIY Moving with U-Haul or PODs
Pros:
Cost Control: You pay only for truck or container rental and fuel.
Flexibility: You can schedule your move on your own timeline.
Privacy: You handle your belongings directly.
Cons:
Physical Labor: Loading, driving, and unloading require effort and skill.
Risk of Damage: Without professional handling, items may get damaged.
Assembling/Disassembling: Consider how easy or hard your bed frame is to put together.
Time-Consuming: Coordinating logistics and driving can take a full day or more.
Customer Service Issues: U-Haul has mixed reviews regarding availability and support, especially during peak moving seasons.
Hiring Small Haul
Pros:
Professional Handling: Experienced movers reduce risk of damage.
Time Savings: Movers handle packing, loading, and unloading.
Customer Service: Small Haul is known for personalized, responsive service.
Convenience: No need to drive a large truck or rent equipment.
Cons:
Higher Upfront Cost: Labor and service fees add to the price.
Scheduling: You need to book in advance, which may limit flexibility.
Customer Service Experiences with U-Haul and Small Haul
Customer service can make or break a moving experience.
U-Haul: Many customers report long wait times, inconsistent truck availability, and difficulty resolving issues by phone. Some praise the convenience of widespread locations, but others find the experience frustrating during busy seasons.
Small Haul: Reviews highlight friendly, reliable movers who communicate clearly and arrive on time. Small Haul’s local focus allows for tailored service and quick responses to customer needs.
Choosing a company with strong customer support can reduce stress and improve your move.
Flexibility and Convenience of PODs vs Traditional Moving Services
PODs offer a unique approach by combining storage and moving in one.
PODs: You pack at your own pace, and the container stays at your home until you’re ready. This is ideal for flexible timelines or if you need temporary storage. However, the container size limits how much you can move at once, and costs can rise with longer rental periods.
Traditional Moving Services (Small Haul): Movers handle everything on a scheduled day, which is faster but less flexible. You don’t need to worry about packing the truck or driving.
U-Haul falls somewhere in between, requiring you to drive but offering truck sizes to fit your load.
Tips for Choosing the Best Option Based on Your Needs
Assess Your Budget: If you want to save money and don’t mind physical work, U-Haul or PODs might work. For a smoother experience, Small Haul’s pricing is competitive for local moves.
Consider Your Timeline: PODs offer flexibility if your move is spread out. Small Haul is better for a quick, scheduled move.
Evaluate Your Physical Ability: If lifting heavy items or driving a large truck is a concern, hiring Small Haul is safer.
Think About Customer Support: If you want peace of mind and help when issues arise, Small Haul’s local service excels.
Distance Matters: For out-of-state moves, U-Haul and PODs are common, but Small Haul can coordinate moves with personalized quotes, and can batch other long-distance jobs to bring you cost-savings.
Looking for a local or out-of-state move and don't want to break your back?
Call Small Haul Colorado today and get a quick and easy quote for whatever your moving needs may be.
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