Canceling a U-Haul reservation doesn’t have to be a hassle. Whether you’ve had a change of plans or found an alternative moving solution, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of canceling your U-Haul reservation efficiently and effectively. We’ll cover various cancellation methods, important considerations, and even what to do if things don’t go as planned.
Understanding U-Haul’s Cancellation Policy
Before diving into the cancellation process, it’s essential to understand U-Haul’s general policy:
- U-Haul appreciates cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance of the pickup time.
- There is typically no cancellation fee.
- If you’ve prepaid for your reservation, refund processing can take 24-72 hours.
With these points in mind, let’s explore the various methods to cancel your U-Haul reservation.
Cancellation Methods
1. Online Cancellation
For truck or trailer reservations, you may be able to cancel online. Here’s how:
- Log into your U-Haul account.
- Navigate to the “My Orders” section.
- Find and click on the reservation you want to cancel.
- Look for the “Cancel Reservation” button and click it.
Note: This method isn’t always available, so don’t be discouraged if you can’t find the cancellation option online.
2. Phone Cancellation (Recommended Method)
The most reliable way to cancel any U-Haul reservation is by phone:
- Call U-Haul’s Sales and Reservations Department at 1-800-468-4285.
- If you made your reservation through a local U-Haul location, contact that specific location directly.
- For online or 1-800-GO-UHAUL reservations, use the regional office phone number provided in your confirmation.
3. Mobile App Cancellation
If you used the U-Haul mobile app to make your reservation, you can also cancel through the app:
- Open the U-Haul Mobile Application and log in.
- View your current reservations.
- Select the reservation you want to cancel.
- Follow the prompts to confirm the cancellation.
Canceling Specific Types of Reservations
U-Box Reservations
For U-Box (portable storage box or pod) reservations:
- Call U-Haul’s Sales and Reservations Department.
- Discuss your cancellation options with a customer service representative.
- You may have the choice to cancel the entire order or just the delivery and/or storage portion.
What If You Forget to Cancel?
Life happens, and you might forget to cancel your reservation. Here’s what you need to know if you fail to pick up your U-Haul equipment:
- Automatic Cancellation: U-Haul reserves the right to cancel your reservation if you don’t pick up the rented equipment within 1 hour of your scheduled rental time.
- No Refund: Since you didn’t cancel in advance, you may not be eligible for a refund.
- Potential Charges: While there are typically no direct late fees for not picking up equipment, be aware that any additional charges or fees associated with the reservation might still apply.
- Communication from U-Haul: The company may attempt to contact you about the cancellation using the information you provided during reservation.
The $50 Reservation Guarantee
U-Haul offers a $50 reservation guarantee under certain circumstances. Here’s how to qualify:
- Confirmed Reservation: Your reservation must be confirmed either through online booking with a “Reservation Guarantee” badge or through direct contact from U-Haul at least one day prior to your move.
- Failure to Meet Reservation Details: U-Haul must fail to provide the equipment size, location, and pick-up time as agreed upon in your reservation.
- Claiming the Guarantee: If U-Haul fails to meet the agreed-upon details and doesn’t offer an acceptable alternative, you’re entitled to the $50 guarantee payment.
To claim the guarantee:
- Contact your local U-Haul location and speak with the General Manager.
- If unsuccessful, contact U-Haul customer service at 1-800-GO-UHAUL (1-800-468-4285).
- As a last resort, reach out to U-Haul’s customer care team on social media, such as @uhaul_cares on Twitter.
Final Tips for a Smooth Cancellation
- Cancel Early: Whenever possible, cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled pickup time.
- Keep Records: Make note of any confirmation numbers or representative names when canceling.
- Check Your Account: After cancellation, verify that your account reflects the cancellation and any applicable refunds.
- Be Polite: Customer service representatives are more likely to help if you’re courteous and patient.
By following this guide, you should be able to cancel your U-Haul reservation with minimal stress and inconvenience. Remember, clear communication and timely action are key to a smooth cancellation process.