Hire a Professional U-Haul Driver for Your Long-Distance Move
Certified drivers handle the entire journey while you travel separately. You rent the truck, pack your belongings, and we drive it safely across America. Delivered in 1-3 days, and not 2-4 weeks.
✓ 1,500+ successful moves completed nationwide since 2018
✓ Every driver: Certified, commercially insured, background checked
✓ Real-time GPS tracking from pickup to delivery
✓ Transparent pricing: $400-$2,000 depending on distance (see examples below)
✓ Licensed & Insured ✓ Background-Checked Drivers ✓ Safe, Nationwide Service
Get Your Free Quote (60 Seconds)
No phone calls required. Quote sent to your email within 2 hours.
⚡ Most quotes sent within 2 hours
📋 No obligation - see your price, then decide
Why Hire a Professional U-Haul Driver Instead of Driving Yourself?
Moving 1,200 miles in a 26-foot truck isn't like driving your car. It's 10-12 hours per day of white-knuckle highway driving in a vehicle that weighs over 10,000 pounds when loaded.
Here's what you're really signing up for when you drive yourself:
The Physical Challenge
- Maintaining constant alertness while piloting a 26-foot vehicle through highway traffic
- Navigating mountain passes where a loaded truck handles completely differently than on flat ground
- Backing into tight driveways—often with a car trailer attached
- Managing driver fatigue across 2-3 consecutive days of 10+ hour drives
- Dealing with mechanical issues 500 miles from home with all your belongings in the back
The Knowledge Gap
Professional drivers know things you don't:
→ Which routes avoid low-clearance bridges
→ How to recognize when brakes are overheating on mountain descents
→ When weather conditions make it unsafe to continue
→ How to properly secure a towed vehicle so it doesn't come loose at 65 mph
The Risk
A single accident in a rental truck can cost you:
- Thousands in liability for damage to other vehicles
- Loss or damage to your belongings
- Potential injury to yourself or passengers
- Insurance deductibles starting at $1,000 (if you purchased coverage)
Our drivers handle this daily.
They've navigated every major interstate, driven through every type of weather, and solved every problem that can arise on a cross-country move.
You've already stressed over:
- Packing every room
- Coordinating utilities and address changes
- Saying goodbye to your old home
- Planning your new life
Don't add 1,500 miles of exhausting, risky driving to that list.
See Your Exact Cost
Every route is different. Get a personalized quote with transparent pricing—no hidden fees, no surprises.
Request Your Quote →How Our U-Haul Driver Service Works
We keep it simple. You handle your move your way, we handle the hardest part.
STEP 1: You're in Control
📦 You Handle Your Move Your Way
✓ Rent your U-Haul, Penske, or Budget truck directly (You choose size, pickup time, location)
✓ Pack and load on your own schedule (No strangers in your home, no rushed timeline)
✓ Choose your pickup date and delivery deadline (This is your move, not a moving company's schedule)
Take your time. Move at your pace.
STEP 2: We Handle the Drive
🚛 Our Professional Driver Takes the Wheel
- Your assigned driver meets you at the rental location (You'll receive their credentials 24-48 hours in advance)
- Completes a full vehicle inspection before departure (Brakes, tires, lights, load security)
- Drives your loaded truck directly to your destination (No warehouse stops, no shared freight, no detours)
- You travel separately in your own vehicle, or fly to your destination (Optional: Some drivers allow ride-alongs if you prefer—space permitting)
You receive real-time GPS tracking throughout the journey so you always know exactly where your truck is.
STEP 3: Your Belongings Arrive Safely
🏠 Delivery & You're Done
✓ Truck is delivered directly to your new address
✓ You unload on your own timeline (or hire local labor if needed)
✓ Optional: We can return the truck to U-Haul for you (additional service)
No warehouses. No reloading. No delays.
Your belongings go straight from your old home to your new one.
Timeline
Most cross-country moves are completed in 1-4 days, depending on distance.
Significantly faster than freight-based moving companies, which often take 2-3 weeks.
Communication
Your driver provides updates at major stops and is available via text throughout the journey.
Ready to Book Your Professional Driver?
Get your free quote now. Most customers receive pricing within 2 hours.
Get Free Quote →U-Haul Driver Pricing: What to Expect
The cost to hire a U-Haul driver depends on distance, route complexity, truck size, and whether you're towing a vehicle.
Below are real-world examples to help you budget.
Sample Pricing by Route
| Route Example | Distance | Driver Cost | Full-Service Mover | Your Savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York → Florida | 1,200 miles | $900-$1,300 | $6,000-$10,000 | $4,700-$8,700 |
| California → Texas | 1,400 miles | $1,100-$1,500 | $7,000-$12,000 | $5,500-$10,500 |
| Chicago → Phoenix | 1,700 miles | $1,300-$1,800 | $8,000-$14,000 | $6,200-$12,200 |
| Seattle → Denver | 1,300 miles | $1,000-$1,400 | $6,500-$11,000 | $5,100-$9,600 |
| Boston → Miami | 1,500 miles | $1,200-$1,600 | $7,500-$13,000 | $5,900-$11,400 |
What's Included in Your Quote
✓ Professional driver from pickup to delivery
✓ All driver travel expenses (flights, meals, lodging if multi-day trip)
✓ Liability insurance coverage
✓ Route planning and optimization
✓ Real-time GPS tracking throughout journey
✓ Pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections
✓ Direct communication with your driver
What You Pay Separately
- U-Haul truck rental (you book directly with U-Haul, Penske, or Budget)
- Fuel costs (we provide upfront estimates—typically $200-$600 for cross-country)
- Tolls (tracked and itemized with receipts provided)
- Optional: Truck return service (if you don't want to drive to U-Haul to drop off)
Additional Services
- Car Towing: +$200-$400 (if you're towing your vehicle behind the truck)
- Oversized/Specialty Items: Pricing varies (grand pianos, hot tubs, motorcycle trailers)
- Last-Minute Booking: May incur rush fee (if booking within 7 days of move date)
Cost Comparison: The Full Picture
Full-Service Moving Company (New York → Florida)
- Packing: $1,000-$1,500
- Loading: Included
- Transport: $4,000-$7,000
- Unloading: Included
- Hidden fees: $500-$1,000
- Timeline: 1-3 weeks
- TOTAL: $6,000-$10,000
PODS Container Service
- Container rental: $2,000-$3,000
- Transport: $1,500-$3,000
- Storage fees (if delayed): $300-$800
- Timeline: 2-4 weeks (often unpredictable)
- TOTAL: $4,000-$7,000
Our Professional Driver Service
- Driver: $1,200
- Fuel and Tolls: $200 - $400
- Timeline: 1-2 days
- TOTAL: $1,400
- Your labor: Packing and loading/unloading
💰 SAVINGS: $4,300-$8,300 vs. full-service movers | $2,600-$5,000 vs. PODS
💰 See How Much You'll Save
Compare our driver service to your other options. Most customers save $3,000-$7,000 on their move.
Calculate My Savings →Why Customers Trust Our Professional Drivers
Every driver in our network undergoes extensive vetting before being approved to drive for our customers.
We don't cut corners on safety or professionalism.
Driver Qualifications
🎯 Every Driver Must Have:
✓ Clean driving record (comprehensive MVR check)
✓ Minimum 5 years experience operating 10'-26' box trucks
✓ Specific training in towing (auto transports, trailers, dollies)
✓ General liability insurance (verified active)
✓ Criminal background screening (completed before approval)
We reject 80+% of driver applications.
We only work with experienced professionals who meet our strict standards.
Insurance & Safety
🛡️ Multiple Layers of Protection:
- General liability coverage on every move
- Pre-trip vehicle inspections (brakes, tires, lights, signals, load security)
- Post-trip condition reports
Plus: You maintain the rental truck insurance through U-Haul (SafeMove, etc.), providing additional coverage layers.
Transparent Process
📋 What You'll Receive:
- Driver credentials 24-48 hours before pickup (name, photo, license verification, contact info)
- Right to approve or request different driver (no questions asked)
- Direct communication with your assigned driver throughout the journey
- Real-time GPS tracking (you can see exactly where your truck is)
- Itemized cost breakdown before you book (no surprise fees at delivery)
No bait-and-switch. No hidden costs. No last-minute substitutions.
Nationwide Coverage
🇺🇸 Coast to Coast Service:
✓ All 48 contiguous states covered
✓ Network of professional drivers across major metropolitan areas
✓ Experience with every major interstate route and regional highway
✓ Knowledge of truck-specific restrictions, low clearances, and optimal rest stops
✓ Relationships with U-Haul locations nationwide for efficient pickup/return
Whether you're moving from Manhattan to Miami or Seattle to San Diego, we have drivers who know your route.
Our Commitment
We've built our reputation on delivering what we promise. That's why we're selective about which moves we accept and which drivers we approve.
Every move is our reputation on the line.
See Your Exact Cost
Every route is different. Get a personalized quote with transparent pricing—no hidden fees, no surprises.
Request Your Quote →See Your Exact Cost
Every route is different. Get a personalized quote with transparent pricing—no hidden fees, no surprises.
Request Your Quote →What Our Customers Say
Sarah M. — San Diego, CA → Orlando, FL
"The $1,750 we paid was worth every single penny."
We needed to move our entire 3-bedroom house from San Diego to Orlando—2,700 miles with a car on a trailer. I was absolutely terrified of driving a 26-foot truck myself, especially through the Arizona desert and Texas in the middle of August.
Our driver Mike was incredible:
- Sent us GPS updates every 4 hours like clockwork
- Handled a tire blowout in New Mexico without breaking a sweat
- Called ahead when weather in Louisiana was going to delay delivery by 3 hours
The truck arrived exactly as promised. Everything inside was perfectly secure, nothing damaged.
The $1,750 we paid was worth every penny compared to the $9,000 quote we got from a traditional moving company. Plus we controlled the entire timeline—we could pack on our schedule, and we knew exactly when our stuff would arrive.
— Sarah M.
San Diego, CA → Orlando, FL
Distance: 2,700 miles | August 2024
Truck: 26' U-Haul with auto transport trailer
David R. — Dallas, TX → Austin, TX
"Way easier than driving ourselves, and honestly way safer too."
My wife and I are both in our 60s, and the idea of driving from Dallas to Austin in a 20-foot truck was not appealing. The pricing was totally fair—$680 for what would have been an exhausting 8-hour drive for us.
Our driver:
- Gave us updates along the way which made us feel secure
- Showed up exactly on time at both ends
- Was just professional the whole way through
We've already recommended this service to three of our friends who are relocating.
This is how moving should work.
— David R.
Dallas, TX → Austin, TX
Distance: 850 miles | September 2024
Truck: 20' U-Haul
Melissa T. — Phoenix, AZ → Tampa, FL
"The peace of mind alone was priceless."
I was really nervous about hiring a U-Haul driver online—that concept was totally new to me and I'll admit I was skeptical.
But MovingTruckDriver.com exceeded every expectation:
- Booking process was simple and clear
- Sent me my driver's credentials two days before pickup (license, photo, DOT certification)
- Communication was excellent throughout
- When I had a question about insurance, they responded within 15 minutes with a detailed explanation
I flew from Phoenix to Tampa and my belongings were already there waiting for me. Everything was intact, the truck was delivered right to my new driveway, and I didn't have to white-knuckle it across three states.
100% would use again.
— Melissa T.
Phoenix, AZ → Tampa, FL
Distance: 2,100 miles | October 2024
Truck: 26' U-Haul
Want verification before booking?
Request a quote with your specific route, and we'll connect you via email with a past customer who completed a similar move.
You can ask them anything. No pressure, no sales pitch.
We earn your trust through transparency, not through volume of online reviews.
Still Have Questions?
Submit your quote request and we'll provide personalized answers for your specific move, plus exact pricing for your route.
Get Personalized Quote →Common Questions Answered
Here are the questions we hear most often.
For complete answers to 40+ questions, visit our full FAQ page.
Do I need a special license to rent a U-Haul if I hire you to drive it?
No. You rent the truck using your regular driver's license. Our driver operates it under their commercial credentials and insurance.
You're the renter, they're the driver—it's that simple.
How far in advance should I book a driver?
Recommended timeline:
Peak Season (May-September):
- 3-4 weeks advance: Best availability on your preferred dates
- 2-3 weeks advance: Usually works, but popular routes (FL, TX, CA) book up
- 1-2 weeks advance: May work with limited driver selection
- Less than 1 week: Last-minute sometimes available—contact us
Off-Season (October-April):
- 2-3 weeks advance: Plenty of availability
- 1-2 weeks advance: Usually no problem
- Last-minute: Often accommodated
Pro tip: The constraint is usually U-Haul truck availability, not our drivers. During peak season, one-way rentals book up fast. Reserve your truck first, then book your driver immediately after.
Can I ride in the truck with the driver?
In some cases, yes, space permitting.
Some customers prefer this because they want to stay with their belongings or don't want to drive separately.
Ride-along availability depends on:
- Truck cab configuration (some seat 2, some seat 3)
- Driver preference (discussed during booking)
- Your comfort with long hours in a truck cab
We confirm ride-along options when you book. If not possible, most customers either drive separately or fly to their destination.
Do I need to tip the driver?
Tipping is not required or expected, but it's appreciated for exceptional service.
Industry standard if you choose to tip: $50-$100 for a smooth long-distance move.
Some customers tip more for:
- Extremely challenging conditions (bad weather, difficult routes)
- Going above and beyond (helping with truck return, etc.)
However, our pricing already includes fair compensation for drivers. Unlike many services, we don't underpay drivers and expect tips to make up the difference.
Bottom line: Tip if you want to, don't if you don't. Either way, you'll receive the same professional service.
What if something goes wrong during the trip?
Your driver handles all issues and keeps you informed immediately.
Mechanical Issues:
- Driver coordinates with U-Haul roadside assistance
- You're notified of delays and estimated resolution time
- No additional cost to you
Weather Delays:
- If conditions become unsafe, driver stops and waits out the weather
- Safety always comes first
- No extra charge for weather delays
Accidents (rare, but if it happens):
- Driver contacts authorities, secures the scene
- Notifies you immediately
- Coordinates with insurance providers
- We manage all logistics while keeping your belongings secure
You're never left in the dark. Communication is constant throughout any issue.
Is it cheaper to hire a driver or use a full-service moving company?
Hiring a driver is typically 60-75% cheaper than a full-service mover for the same route.
Example: New York to Florida (3-bedroom)
- Full-Service Mover: $6,000-$10,000
- Our Driver Service: $1,900 total
- Your Savings: $4,100-$8,100
The trade-off: You do the packing and loading/unloading yourself (or hire local labor for $200-400).
But you save thousands and maintain total control over timing and handling of your belongings.
Do you drive Penske and Budget trucks too?
Yes. Our drivers are experienced with all major rental truck brands:
✓ U-Haul (all sizes, 10'-26')
✓ Penske (all sizes)
✓ Budget (all sizes)
✓ Ryder (commercial models)
The process is identical regardless of which company you rent from.
See All 40+ Questions Answered
Ready to Book Your Professional Driver?
Get your free quote now. Most customers receive pricing within 2 hours.
Get Free Quote →Get Your Free Quote Now
Ready to skip the stress of driving a moving truck yourself?
Fill out the form below and receive your personalized quote within 2 hours.
No sales calls, no pressure—just transparent pricing for your exact route.
What Happens After You Submit
- Within 2 hours: You receive a detailed quote via email with exact pricing for your route
- Within 24 hours: We confirm driver availability for your preferred dates
- 24-48 hours before pickup: You receive your driver's credentials (name, photo, license, contact info)
- Move day: Your driver meets you at the rental location and handles the drive
Why Choose Us
✓ Transparent pricing (no hidden fees)
✓ Experienced drivers only (5+ years minimum)
✓ DBackground checked
✓ Real-time GPS tracking
✓ Nationwide coverage (all 48 states)
✓ Faster than traditional movers (days, not weeks)
Get Your Free Quote (60 Seconds)
No phone calls required. Quote sent to your email within 2 hours.
⚡ Average response time: 1.8 hours
📧 Quote sent to your email
💬 Have urgent questions? See our FAQ page for instant answers
Explore Our Services
U-Haul Van Rental Service
🚐 Perfect for studio apartments and small 1-bedroom moves. Professional drivers for cargo van rentals.
Learn More → UHaul Van Rental
U-Haul with Car Towing
🚗 Need to tow your vehicle behind the truck? Our drivers are experienced with auto transports and tow dollies.
Learn More → UHaul with Car Towing
Winter Moving Services
❄️ Professional drivers for snow and ice conditions. Don't risk driving in bad weather yourself.
Learn More → U-Haul In The Snow
Additional Resources
📏 Not sure which truck size you need?
Learn More → U-Haul Truck Size Comparison Guide
❓ Have more questions?
Learn More → Read Our Complete FAQ