Whether you are renting a truck from U-Haul to move to the next neighborhood or to an entirely different city, you may wonder if you can leave your car at a U-Haul location. If you are like most car owners, you probably don’t want to leave your car just anywhere with the hope that it will be safe.
You can leave your car at a U-Haul location for as long as you need. Some locations have specific parking spots for customer vehicles, while others will allow you to park in any empty spot. Avoid leaving your car unattended and follow any posted signs or directions to avoid ticketing or towing.
However, before leaving your car at a U-Haul location, it’s essential to understand the process and what you need to do to prepare your car. This way, you can be sure that your car will be safe while you’re away. Read on to learn everything you need to know about leaving your car at a U-Haul location.
How To Leave Your Car at a U-Haul Location
If you need to leave your car at a U-Haul location, the process is relatively simple. However, you will need to contact the location to ask whether they have a space for your car. If there is no parking available, you may need to check with other locations in the area.
When you call the U-Haul location, ask about their parking policies and procedures. You will need to provide your:
- Name, contact information, and address.
- Vehicle make, model, and license plate number.
- Dates you will be leaving your car.
- Payment information.
After reserving a spot, you will need to drop off your car at the U-Haul location on your reservation date. When you arrive, have your driver’s license, and registration with you as the U-Haul location will need to make a copy of these documents.
You will also need to sign a parking agreement form that outlines the terms and conditions of leaving your car at the U-Haul location. Read them closely so that you understand your rights and responsibilities. You don’t want to be surprised by any fees or charges later on.
After you have signed the parking agreement form, the U-Haul agent will give you a parking permit that you will need to place on your car’s dashboard. This permit will have the dates you are allowed to leave your car at the U-Haul location.
What the Process Is Like
Leaving your car at a U-Haul location is similar to leaving your car at a parking garage or parking lot. The main difference is that you will need to sign a parking agreement form and be given a parking permit. After checking in and filling out all the necessary paperwork:
- The U-Haul rep will ask you to remove all valuables from your car, including GPS units, stereos, laptops, loose change, and other personal belongings.
- You will be directed to a parking spot, usually in a fenced-in lot, to protect your car from weather and potential theft.
- You will be asked to turn off your car’s headlights and lock all the doors to prevent theft.
- You will leave your car keys with the U-Haul rep to ensure your car’s safety and their safety.
- The U-Haul rep will give you a claim check, which you will need to present when you pick up your car.
Note that U-Haul locations are not responsible for any damage to your car while parked on their property. You will need insurance that covers any potential damage that could occur while your car is stored at the U-Haul location.
How To Prepare Your Car for Storage
While the process of leaving your car at a U-Haul location is relatively simple, there are a few things you need to do before you drop off your car:
Ensure Your Car Is in Good Condition
Before leaving your car at a U-Haul location, you must ensure it is in good condition. This means:
- Checking the oil level and changing it if necessary.
- Checking the tire pressure and inflating the tires if needed.
- Ensuring there is enough gas in the tank.
- Cleaning your car, removing all debris, and vacuuming the interior.
This helps ensure your car is well-maintained while you’re away.
Ask a Rep Where To Park
U-Haul locations have different parking arrangements, so asking a representative where you should park your car is important. Some locations have designated parking spots for customers leaving their cars, while others may have a more general parking area.
Ensure you follow the rep’s instructions when parking your car. You don’t want to park in a spot not designated for U-Haul customers, as you may be ticketed or towed.
Remove All Valuables From Your Car
Leaving valuables in your car is never a good idea, even if you are leaving it in a secure location. U-Haul representatives will ask you to remove all valuables from your car before you leave it, but it is always best to do this ahead of time.
Common items that you should remove from your car include:
- Jewelry
- GPS units
- Stereos
- Laptops
- Medications
- Wallets
- Keys
While U-Haul locations have security measures in place, it is always best to err on the side of caution and remove all valuables from your car before you leave it. Remember, U-Haul isn’t responsible for any items stolen from your car while it is parked on their property.
Follow Rules and Regulations
When you leave your car at a U-Haul location, you need to follow all the rules and regulations that are in place. These rules are designed to ensure the safety of your car and to prevent any accidents from happening.
- Follow all the signage posted in the parking lot, and be sure to park in the designated spot for U-Haul customers.
- Do not park in a handicap spot, fire lane, or any other spot that is not designated for parking.
- Turn off your car’s headlights and lock all the doors before you leave. U-Haul representatives will have the keys to your car, so there is no need to leave them in the ignition.
Final Thoughts
U-Haul locations offer a convenient and safe option if you need a spot to leave your car as you move to a new city or neighborhood. Call in a few days before to reserve a spot and follow all the rules and regulations when you drop off your car.
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