Overview of U-Haul Vehicle Rental Services

U-Haul is a privately held company under the umbrella of AMERCO, which also manages sectors like real estate and insurance. Founded by Leonard Shoen in a family garage, the company initially grew through franchising gas stations to expand rapidly. The Shoen family holds a majority stake of 55%. Due to the widespread presence of their rental trucks, U-Haul has become synonymous with moving services across North America. Internal family disputes led to court battles, culminating in a successful family takeover by Edward and Mark Shoen.

Despite ongoing family disagreements, the company’s operations continued smoothly. Leonard Shoen passed away in 1999 after a car accident, and U-Haul filed for bankruptcy in 2003, reemerging in 2004 unscathed. Their fleet includes various gas-powered trucks and trailers, with some diesel models previously in use. The fleet features GMC and Ford vehicles, with truck sizes ranging from 3.0 meters to 7.9 meters. Additional equipment such as towing trailers and car transport vehicles are also available. U-Haul promotes trucks with unique features like lower decks and over-cab storage, branded with educational images of Canadian regions.

Most rental locations, including corporate centers and neighborhood dealerships, offer these trucks. The company provides two main services: One-Way rentals, where vehicles are dropped off at different locations, and In-Town rentals, requiring the return to the original pick-up point.