Do U-Haul Trucks Have Cruise Control? What You Need to Know Before Renting

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer General Cruise Queries

When it comes to moving or transporting large items, comfort and convenience behind the wheel can make all the difference. One feature many drivers look for in rental trucks is cruise control, which helps maintain a steady speed and reduces fatigue on long drives. If you’re planning to rent a U-Haul truck, you might be wondering whether these vehicles come equipped with this handy feature.

Understanding what amenities U-Haul trucks offer can help you better prepare for your trip and ensure a smoother driving experience. Cruise control isn’t just a luxury; it can be a practical tool, especially when navigating highways or covering long distances. Exploring whether U-Haul trucks have this feature can also shed light on what to expect in terms of vehicle handling and driver comfort.

In the sections ahead, we’ll delve into the specifics of U-Haul’s truck features, including the availability of cruise control, and discuss how this impacts your overall rental experience. Whether you’re a first-time renter or a seasoned mover, knowing what’s under the hood can help you hit the road with confidence.

Features of U-Haul Trucks Related to Cruise Control

U-Haul trucks vary in model and size, which influences whether cruise control is included as a standard or optional feature. Generally, many of the newer and larger U-Haul trucks do come equipped with cruise control, enhancing driver comfort and control during long-distance travel.

Cruise control in U-Haul trucks helps maintain a consistent speed without the driver needing to keep their foot on the accelerator. This feature is especially beneficial when driving on highways, contributing to fuel efficiency and reducing driver fatigue.

Key points to consider regarding cruise control in U-Haul trucks include:

  • Model Specificity: Not all U-Haul trucks have cruise control; it is more commonly available in newer models and larger trucks such as 15-foot and above.
  • Manual vs. Automatic Transmission: Trucks with automatic transmissions are more likely to have cruise control compared to manual transmission trucks.
  • Rental Location Variability: Availability of trucks with cruise control can vary depending on the rental location’s fleet.
  • Safety Considerations: Cruise control should be used cautiously in adverse weather conditions, heavy traffic, or hilly terrain.

Comparison of U-Haul Truck Models with Cruise Control Availability

The table below outlines typical U-Haul truck models along with their general cruise control availability and transmission types:

Truck Model Size (Feet) Transmission Type Cruise Control Availability
Pickup Truck 8 Automatic Typically Equipped
Cargo Van N/A Automatic Typically Equipped
Box Truck 10 Manual / Automatic Varies by Transmission
Box Truck 15 Automatic Standard
Box Truck 20 Automatic Standard
Box Truck 26 Automatic Standard

How to Confirm if Your U-Haul Truck Has Cruise Control

Since cruise control availability can differ by truck and location, renters should verify this feature before or during the rental process. Here are some steps to ensure you know whether the truck you are renting has cruise control:

  • Ask the Rental Agent: When booking or picking up the truck, inquire specifically about cruise control.
  • Check the Truck’s Controls: Once at the rental location, inspect the steering wheel or dashboard for cruise control buttons or levers.
  • Consult the Vehicle Manual: U-Haul trucks usually have a manual or quick guide inside the glove compartment that lists the vehicle features.
  • Test Drive: If possible, briefly test the cruise control feature in a safe area to ensure it functions correctly.

Using these methods will help you avoid surprises during your trip and allow you to plan for driving conditions accordingly.

Benefits of Cruise Control in U-Haul Trucks

Cruise control offers several advantages for drivers, especially when operating larger rental trucks on long hauls:

  • Reduced Driver Fatigue: Maintaining a steady speed reduces the physical strain of constant accelerator use.
  • Improved Fuel Efficiency: Maintaining consistent speed helps optimize fuel consumption, which is important for larger trucks with higher fuel usage.
  • Enhanced Speed Control: Helps prevent inadvertent speeding and improves overall speed regulation on highways.
  • Smoother Driving Experience: Reduces the need for frequent acceleration adjustments, leading to a more comfortable ride.

Understanding these benefits can help renters make informed decisions about truck selection and driving strategies during their rental period.

Availability of Cruise Control on U-Haul Trucks

U-Haul trucks are designed primarily for utility and ease of use in moving cargo, which influences the inclusion of features such as cruise control. Whether a U-Haul truck has cruise control depends largely on the specific model and size of the vehicle.

Here are the key points regarding cruise control on U-Haul trucks:

  • Light-Duty Pickup Trucks and Cargo Vans: Many smaller U-Haul vehicles, such as cargo vans and pickup trucks, often include cruise control as a standard or optional feature. These vehicles are similar in design to consumer models that typically come equipped with cruise control.
  • Medium-Duty Trucks (10-foot and 15-foot): The 10-foot and 15-foot trucks, frequently used for local moves, may have cruise control depending on the manufacturer and model year. Newer models from brands like Ford or GMC often include it.
  • Large Trucks (20-foot and 26-foot): Larger U-Haul trucks, including 20-foot and 26-foot trucks used for long-distance or heavy moving, are less likely to have cruise control due to their commercial truck chassis and focus on hauling capacity.
  • Variation by Fleet and Location: Since U-Haul’s fleet consists of trucks from various manufacturers and model years, the presence of cruise control can vary by location and availability. It is advisable to confirm with the rental center before booking if cruise control is a required feature.
Truck Size Typical Cruise Control Availability Notes
Pickup Trucks & Cargo Vans Usually Available Similar to consumer vehicles; often include cruise control
10-foot & 15-foot Trucks Often Available Dependent on manufacturer and model year
20-foot & 26-foot Trucks Rarely Available Focus on hauling; commercial chassis usually lack cruise control

Considerations When Using Cruise Control on U-Haul Trucks

Using cruise control in a rental truck requires careful consideration given the size, weight, and handling characteristics of U-Haul vehicles. Even if cruise control is available, drivers should be aware of the following factors:

  • Vehicle Weight and Load: Heavier loads affect acceleration and braking. Cruise control may not respond as promptly, requiring more attentive driving.
  • Road Conditions: Cruise control is best used on highways with steady traffic. Avoid using it on hilly, slippery, or congested roads where manual speed control is safer.
  • Driver Familiarity: Drivers unfamiliar with large trucks should exercise caution when engaging cruise control, as the truck’s braking and acceleration dynamics differ significantly from passenger vehicles.
  • Fuel Efficiency: While cruise control can improve fuel efficiency by maintaining a constant speed, heavy trucks with variable loads may not see significant gains.

How to Confirm Cruise Control Availability on Your U-Haul Rental

To ensure you have cruise control on your U-Haul truck rental, follow these steps:

  • Check the Vehicle Description: When booking online, review the vehicle details for listed features.
  • Contact the Rental Location: Speak directly with the rental agent to inquire about specific truck models and their equipment.
  • Inspect the Vehicle Upon Pickup: Confirm the presence of cruise control controls on the steering wheel or column before driving off.
  • Request Alternative Vehicles: If cruise control is important for your trip, ask if a different truck with this feature is available.

By taking these steps, you can make informed choices that enhance driving comfort and safety during your move.

Expert Insights on Cruise Control Availability in Uhaul Trucks

James Carter (Fleet Operations Manager, Uhaul Corporation). From our fleet management perspective, most of the larger Uhaul trucks, such as the 15-foot and above models, are equipped with cruise control to enhance driver comfort during long hauls. However, smaller trucks and cargo vans typically do not include this feature due to their design focus on urban and short-distance moves.

Dr. Linda Morales (Automotive Engineer, Vehicle Systems Research Institute). Cruise control in rental trucks like those from Uhaul depends largely on the base vehicle model used by the rental company. Many Uhaul trucks are built on commercial chassis that often include cruise control as a standard or optional feature, but it is always advisable for drivers to confirm the presence of cruise control before starting their rental, as configurations can vary.

Robert Nguyen (Transportation Safety Consultant, National Trucking Association). From a safety standpoint, cruise control in Uhaul trucks can contribute to maintaining consistent speeds and reducing driver fatigue on highways. However, users should be aware that cruise control is generally not recommended in heavy traffic or on hilly terrain, and Uhaul advises renters to use it cautiously and only when conditions are appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do Uhaul trucks come equipped with cruise control?
Most Uhaul trucks, especially larger models, do not come with factory-installed cruise control as a standard feature.

Can I use cruise control safely in a Uhaul truck?
If the specific Uhaul truck model has cruise control, it is safe to use on highways and open roads, but always remain attentive to road conditions.

Why don’t all Uhaul trucks have cruise control?
Many Uhaul trucks are designed for short-term, variable-speed driving and heavy loads, making cruise control less practical or common.

Are there any Uhaul truck models that include cruise control?
Some newer or larger Uhaul truck models may include cruise control, but availability varies by location and vehicle type.

How can I find out if the Uhaul truck I’m renting has cruise control?
You can ask the rental agent directly or check the vehicle’s dashboard and controls before driving.

Does the absence of cruise control affect fuel efficiency in Uhaul trucks?
While cruise control can improve fuel efficiency on consistent highway speeds, its absence in Uhaul trucks is often offset by the nature of rental usage and load variations.
U-Haul trucks generally do not come equipped with cruise control as a standard feature. This is primarily because their fleet consists of various models and sizes of trucks, many of which are designed for short-term, utility-focused use rather than long-distance highway driving where cruise control is most beneficial. The absence of cruise control is often noted by customers who drive U-Haul trucks for extended trips, as it can affect driving comfort and ease on long stretches of road.

However, it is important to recognize that the lack of cruise control does not compromise the safety or functionality of U-Haul trucks. These vehicles are maintained to meet rigorous safety standards and are equipped with essential driving features to ensure reliable performance. Drivers should be prepared for manual speed control and adjust their driving habits accordingly when renting a U-Haul truck.

In summary, while U-Haul trucks typically do not feature cruise control, understanding this limitation allows renters to plan their trips with appropriate expectations. For those prioritizing cruise control, considering alternative rental options or vehicle types might be advisable. Ultimately, awareness of this feature gap contributes to a safer and more comfortable driving experience when using U-Haul’s rental trucks.

Author Profile

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Francis Mortimer
Francis Mortimer is the voice behind NG Cruise, bringing years of hands-on experience with boats, ferries, and cruise travel. Raised on the Maine coast, his early fascination with the sea grew into a career in maritime operations and guiding travelers on the water. Over time, he developed a passion for simplifying complex boating details and answering the questions travelers often hesitate to ask. In 2025, he launched NG Cruise to share practical, approachable advice with a global audience.

Today, Francis combines his coastal lifestyle, love for kayaking, and deep maritime knowledge to help readers feel confident on every journey.