U-Haul Storage Rate Increase: The 1-Year Price Lock, Explained

U-Haul markets a 1-Year Price Lock on self-storage rent. Here is what U-Haul says it covers, what it says happens after 12 months, and what to do if you got an increase notice.

U-Haul's 1-Year Price Lock, explained

According to U-Haul, the price lock keeps your monthly storage rent the same for your first 12 months, starting on your contract start date (U-Haul 1-Year Price Lock). U-Haul says you still rent month-to-month and are not locked into a long-term contract. U-Haul's FAQ says the lock applies to base rent at U-Haul owned and managed locations (U-Haul Self-Storage FAQ).

What happens after 12 months

U-Haul states that your monthly rate "may be subject to an increase after 1 year," and that any increase "will be preceded by email and letter notification 30 days in advance" (U-Haul 1-Year Price Lock). Check your rental agreement and the notice you receive for the exact terms.

What the lock does not cover

Per U-Haul:

  • Optional add-ons like SafeStor® tenant insurance
  • Late-payment fees
  • U-Box portable storage containers

U-Haul also says the offer applies to units rented by new customers, or additional units rented by existing customers. Its FAQ says storage affiliate locations may or may not extend some U-Haul offers.

Got a U-Haul increase notice?

  • Check the date your contract started. U-Haul says the lock runs 12 months from that date.
  • Compare the new rate to your current base rent, separate from add-ons.
  • Note the date the new rate starts.

U-Haul's own guide notes that storage rent laws vary by state and that your rental agreement matters (U-Haul Tips).

How to compare nearby rates

Ask U-Haul in writing whether a lower rate is available, and compare written offers from nearby facilities. More tips: How to negotiate your storage rate.

With your consent, Cut My Storage emails your current facility and nearby storages within about 3 miles on your behalf. You see the written replies and choose. We never move you without your OK. Cut My Storage is free for renters.

Related guides: Self storage rate increase: what renters can do next · Is your storage rate increase normal? What to check first · Can you negotiate storage rent? How to negotiate storage unit rent

FAQ

Does U-Haul raise storage rent in the first year?

U-Haul says base rent under its 1-Year Price Lock stays the same for the first 12 months.

How much notice does U-Haul say it gives?

U-Haul states any increase after 1 year will be preceded by email and letter notice 30 days in advance.

Does the lock cover insurance or late fees?

No. U-Haul says SafeStor® and late-payment fees are not included.

Is U-Box covered?

No. U-Haul's FAQ says U-Box containers are excluded.

This is general information, not legal advice.

Got a U-Haul increase notice? Email hello@cutmystorage.com to start. Free for renters.

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