U-Haul Lets You Live Your Peterbilt Fantasy with Its 29-Foot Box Truck

Why It Matters

The new truck modernizes U‑Haul’s aging fleet and expands DIY movers’ ability to handle bigger loads without a CDL, potentially boosting rental volume during peak moving season.

Key Takeaways

• U‑Haul's new 29‑foot Peterbilt “Easy Mover” launched
• 300‑hp Cummins gas engine delivers 8 mpg, 450‑mile range
• No CDL required despite 25,999‑lb GVWR
• Daily rental starts at $49.95, same as 26‑foot model
• Payload up to 11,939 lb; can tow 10,000 lb

Pulse Analysis

U‑Haul’s partnership with Peterbilt marks a strategic refresh of its rental fleet, which has long relied on dated GM and Ford platforms. By introducing a nearly 44‑foot vehicle with a modern cab, the company addresses long‑standing complaints about driver comfort and maneuverability. The "Easy Mover" also signals U‑Haul’s intent to compete more aggressively with regional movers and emerging gig‑based logistics firms that promise newer, more capable trucks for DIY customers.

Technically, the Easy Mover is powered by a 300‑horsepower Cummins B6.7 gas engine, delivering 660 lb‑ft of torque and an eight‑speed automatic transmission. At roughly 8 mpg, the 60‑gallon fuel tank provides over 450 miles of range—adequate for most cross‑country moves but a cost factor for budget‑conscious renters. The truck’s 25,999‑lb GVWR eliminates the need for a commercial driver’s license, opening the segment to a broader audience while still offering a payload of nearly 12,000 lb and a 10,000‑lb tow capacity.

For the moving industry, the Easy Mover could reshape rental dynamics. Its larger cargo space accommodates four‑ to six‑bedroom homes, reducing the number of trips required for big moves and potentially lowering overall logistics costs for consumers. At $49.95 per day, the price aligns with U‑Haul’s existing 26‑foot offering, making the upgrade a value proposition rather than a premium. As fuel prices fluctuate, the truck’s modest fuel efficiency may prompt renters to weigh mileage against convenience, while the absence of a CDL requirement could attract new market segments, driving growth for U‑Haul in a competitive landscape.