What are the inside dimensions of a U Haul cargo van?
A U-Haul cargo van typically offers about 9.5 to 10.5 feet of cargo length, roughly 5 feet of width, and around 5 feet of height, equating to about 240 to 260 cubic feet of space. Exact figures vary by model and year, and wheel wells reduce usable space.
Understanding these numbers helps with planning a move, especially if you’re trying to fit long items or maximize efficiency. This article provides typical ranges, notes on variation, and practical steps to verify the precise measurements for the specific van you’ll rent.
Typical interior dimensions you can expect
The following figures offer a general planning guide for U-Haul’s cargo van interiors. Variations depend on the exact van model, year, and roof height.
- Interior cargo length: approximately 9 ft 10 in to 10 ft 6 in (119–126 in)
- Interior width (between side walls): up to about 5 ft 0 in (60 in); usable width between wheel wells around 4 ft 10 in (58 in)
- Interior height: approximately 4 ft 11 in to 5 ft 2 in (59–62 in)
- Estimated cargo volume: roughly 240–260 cubic feet
These figures serve as a planning guide. For exact figures on the specific van you’ll rent, refer to the vehicle’s specs at the U-Haul location or on the official site for that vehicle model.
How to verify the exact van dimensions for your move
For precise planning, follow these steps to confirm the inside measurements of the van you will rent.
- Check the exact van model and year at the U-Haul reservation page or by asking the staff.
- Inspect the cargo area in person when you pick up the van; physically measure the interior length from the back of the cab to the rear doors.
- Measure the width at floor level, noting any wheel wells that reduce usable width.
- Measure the interior height from the floor to the ceiling at multiple points to account for ridges or protrusions.
- Use the measurements to plan the layout of your items, allowing extra space for tie-downs, moving blankets, and doors clearing obstacles.
Once you have the exact measurements, create a rough sketch or a simple grid to map where your items will go, plotting any bulky items last to confirm access and turning clearance.
Practical packing tips for a U-Haul cargo van
Efficiently loading a small moving van requires strategy. Here are quick tips to maximize space and protect belongings.
- Disassemble large furniture when possible to reduce length and height; bag or wrap screws and bolts together for reassembly.
- Place heavier items on the floor and toward the cab to keep the center of gravity stable; lighter boxes go on top.
- Use moving blankets and straps to secure items and prevent shifting during transit.
- Label boxes and create a logical unloading sequence to minimize movement inside the van.
With careful planning, you can maximize the cargo van’s space and protect your belongings on the move.
Summary
In practice, a U-Haul cargo van provides roughly 9.5–10.5 feet of cargo length, about 5 feet of width, and around 5 feet of height, translating to approximately 240–260 cubic feet of space. Exact numbers vary by model, year, and roof height, and wheel wells reduce usable space. Always verify the specific van’s dimensions at the pickup location to plan your load accurately.
Can you fit a queen size mattress in a U-Haul cargo van?
Yes, a standard U-Haul cargo van can fit a queen-size mattress, though you may need to maneuver it carefully. It's best to load the mattress and box spring on their sides, often by angling the box spring through the back doors first and then leaning the mattress against it.
How to load a queen mattress into a U-Haul cargo van
- Protect your items: Use a mattress bag to protect the mattress and box spring during transport.
- Load the box spring first: Bring the box spring in through the rear doors at a 45-degree angle and lean it against one of the side walls.
- Add the mattress: Lean the mattress against the box spring.
- Load other items: You can then fit other boxes and furniture around the mattress and box spring. For example, you could place the headboard and footboard on top of the mattress.
- Consider alternative loading: If you have few or no other items, you can lay the mattress and box spring flat on the floor.
What are the inside dimensions of a cargo van?
Compare Similar Cargo Vans for Rent
| Compact Cargo Van | Heavy Duty XL Cargo Van | |
|---|---|---|
| Interior Length* | 83" | 143" |
| Interior Height* | 52" | 56" |
| Interior Width* | 48" | 55" |
| Miles Per Gallon (estimate)** | 24 mpg | 12 mpg |
How big is the inside of a U-Haul cargo van?
U-Haul Truck Sizes
| Sub Category | Pickup truck | Cargo vans |
|---|---|---|
| Interior Length, Width, Height | 7'10" x 5'2" x 1'9" | 9'6" x 5'7" x 4'8" |
| Deck Height From Ground | 3' | 2'5" |
| Deck Length | 7'10" | 9'6" |
| Volume | Open Bed | 245 cu. ft. |
What can I fit in a 9 ft cargo van?
How Much Space Is There In A 9-foot Cargo Van? In the most basic terms, a 9-foot cargo van should be spacious enough to fit a queen-size mattress and a box spring with relative ease. It is designed and built for intermodal transport, which means it can be used across different modes for improved functionality.
