33 Great Uhaul Facts

The Origins of U-Haul

U-Haul, a household name in moving and storage, has a rich history. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this iconic company.

1. U-Haul was founded in 1945 by Leonard Shoen in Ridgefield, Washington. He started the company with just $5,000, which he borrowed from his wife’s family.

2. The name "U-Haul" was chosen to emphasize the do-it-yourself nature of the service. The idea was that anyone could "haul" their belongings using the company's equipment.

3. Leonard Shoen built the first U-Haul trailers in his garage. He then rented them out to people moving across the country.

U-Haul's Growth and Expansion

From a small operation to a nationwide service, U-Haul's growth is impressive. Here are some key milestones in their expansion.

4. By 1955, U-Haul had expanded to all 48 contiguous states. This rapid growth was fueled by a franchise model that allowed local dealers to rent out U-Haul equipment.

5. U-Haul introduced the concept of one-way rentals. This innovation allowed customers to pick up a truck in one city and drop it off in another, making long-distance moves more convenient.

6. The company’s fleet includes over 176,000 trucks, 120,000 trailers, and 46,000 towing devices. This makes it one of the largest moving and storage companies in the world.

U-Haul's Unique Offerings

U-Haul isn't just about trucks and trailers. They offer a variety of services that cater to different moving and storage needs.

7. U-Haul offers self-storage units at many of their locations. These units provide a secure place for customers to store their belongings during a move or for long-term storage.

8. The company also provides moving supplies like boxes, packing tape, and furniture pads. This makes it a one-stop shop for all moving needs.

9. U-Haul has a program called U-Box, which is a portable storage container service. Customers can pack their belongings into a U-Box, and U-Haul will transport it to their new location or store it until they’re ready.

U-Haul's Commitment to Sustainability

U-Haul is dedicated to environmental responsibility. They have implemented several initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint.

10. U-Haul trucks are designed with aerodynamic features to improve fuel efficiency. This helps reduce the amount of fuel used during long-distance moves.

11. The company has a "Truck Share 24/7" program that allows customers to rent and return trucks using their smartphones. This reduces the need for physical rental locations and cuts down on emissions from customer travel.

12. U-Haul recycles old trucks and trailers. When a vehicle is no longer roadworthy, they salvage usable parts and recycle the rest.

U-Haul's Community Involvement

U-Haul is committed to giving back to the communities they serve. They participate in various charitable activities and initiatives.

13. U-Haul partners with the American Red Cross to provide disaster relief. They offer free storage for families affected by natural disasters and donate trucks for transporting supplies.

14. The company supports military families by offering discounts to active-duty service members and veterans. This helps ease the financial burden of moving for those who serve the country.

15. U-Haul sponsors local events and community programs. They often provide trucks and trailers for parades, charity runs, and other community gatherings.

Fun and Lesser-Known Facts

Beyond the business side, U-Haul has some quirky and interesting tidbits that many people might not know.

16. U-Haul trucks feature "SuperGraphics" on their sides. These graphics showcase different states and provinces, highlighting unique aspects of each location.

17. The company has a mascot named "Sammy U." Sammy is a friendly moving box who appears in U-Haul's marketing materials and at events.

18. U-Haul has a museum in Phoenix, Arizona. The U-Haul Shoen Family Conference and Fitness Center includes exhibits on the company’s history and the moving industry.

U-Haul's Impact on Pop Culture

U-Haul has made its mark on popular culture, appearing in movies, TV shows, and even music.

19. U-Haul trucks have been featured in numerous films, including "The Pursuit of Happyness" and "Little Miss Sunshine." Their distinctive orange and white design makes them easily recognizable.

20. The term "U-Haul lesbian" originated from a joke about how quickly some lesbian couples move in together. It has since become a part of LGBTQ+ culture.

21. U-Haul has been mentioned in songs by artists like Taylor Swift and Brad Paisley. These references highlight the company’s role in American life and culture.

U-Haul's Innovations in Technology

U-Haul has embraced technology to improve customer experience and streamline operations.

22. The company offers an online reservation system. Customers can book trucks, trailers, and storage units from the comfort of their homes.

23. U-Haul's mobile app allows users to manage their rentals, find nearby locations, and access moving tips. This makes the moving process more convenient and efficient.

24. U-Haul has implemented GPS tracking in their trucks. This helps customers keep track of their belongings during a move and provides peace of mind.

U-Haul's Safety Measures

Safety is a top priority for U-Haul. They have implemented several measures to ensure the well-being of their customers and employees.

25. U-Haul trucks are equipped with features like anti-lock brakes and airbags. These safety features help protect drivers and passengers during a move.

26. The company conducts regular maintenance on their vehicles. This ensures that trucks and trailers are in good working condition and reduces the risk of breakdowns.

27. U-Haul provides customers with safety tips and guidelines. These resources help people pack and load their belongings safely and securely.

U-Haul's Financial Success

U-Haul's business model has proven to be highly successful. Here are some financial facts about the company.

28. U-Haul is a subsidiary of AMERCO, a publicly traded company. AMERCO’s stock is listed on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol "UHAL."

29. The company generates over $4 billion in annual revenue. This makes it one of the most profitable moving and storage companies in the world.

30. U-Haul has a strong presence in the self-storage industry. They are one of the largest self-storage operators in North America, with over 1,500 facilities.

U-Haul's Future Plans

Looking ahead, U-Haul has ambitious plans for growth and innovation. Here’s what the future holds for the company.

31. U-Haul is expanding its fleet of electric trucks. These eco-friendly vehicles will help reduce emissions and promote sustainability.

32. The company is investing in new technologies to improve customer service. This includes enhancements to their mobile app and online reservation system.

33. U-Haul plans to open more locations in underserved areas. This will make their services more accessible to people across the country.

Final U-Haul Facts

U-Haul has been a game-changer in the moving industry since 1945. With over 21,000 locations, it's no wonder they’re a household name. Did you know U-Haul trucks are designed with low decks and wide ramps to make loading easier? Plus, they offer a variety of sizes to fit any move. Their trucks are also equipped with Gentle-Ride Suspension, ensuring your belongings travel smoothly. U-Haul even rents out trailers, towing equipment, and storage units. They’ve got eco-friendly initiatives too, like their “Truck Share 24/7” program, which lets you pick up and drop off vehicles anytime using your phone. U-Haul’s commitment to customer service and innovation keeps them at the forefront of the moving industry. Next time you need to move, remember these facts and make your experience a breeze.