U-Haul Launches 29-Foot 'Easy Mover' Truck to Dominate Summer Moving Season
Event summary
- U-Haul introduced the 29-foot 'Easy Mover' (EM) truck, its largest and most advanced moving vehicle, developed in collaboration with Peterbilt.
- The EM features 2,057 cubic feet of cargo space, a 6.7L turbo-charged engine, and an 8-speed automatic transmission, designed for easier driving and loading.
- Initial deployment is limited to Greater Los Angeles and Philadelphia markets, with in-town rental rates starting at $49.95 plus mileage and fuel costs.
- U-Haul last introduced a new truck size in 2011, marking a 15-year gap between major fleet expansions.
The big picture
U-Haul's EM truck represents a strategic push to dominate the DIY moving market by combining larger cargo capacity with improved usability. The move underscores the company's commitment to R&D and its ability to leverage partnerships like Peterbilt to enhance fleet capabilities. With nearly half of all residential moves occurring between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the timing positions U-Haul to capture a larger share of the seasonal demand.
What we're watching
- Market Adoption
- Whether the EM's design and affordability will drive higher demand during the peak summer moving season.
- Competitive Response
- How rivals like Budget Truck Rental and Penske Truck Rental will react to U-Haul's expanded capacity and ease-of-use features.
- Operational Scaling
- The pace at which U-Haul will expand the EM's availability beyond the initial test markets.
Related topics