Most moving truck rental companies use one of three fuel policies—and picking the wrong one can cost you $50 to $200+ on a single rental. Understanding how each works, what hidden charges apply, and which makes sense for your move distance will save you money and stress on moving day.
The Three Main Fuel Policies
Moving truck rental companies typically offer Full-to-Full, Full-to-Empty, or Prepaid fuel arrangements. Each has different upfront costs, flexibility, and risk factors.
Full-to-Full means you rent the truck with a full tank and return it with a full tank. You pay for fuel separately as you drive. This policy works best for shorter moves (under 150 miles) where you'll use less than half a tank.
Full-to-Empty requires you to return the truck empty of fuel. The company charges a premium per-gallon rate—typically 20–40% higher than gas station prices—for any fuel remaining in the tank when you return it. This sounds backward, but it protects the rental company from reselling gas they can't measure accurately.
Prepaid fuel lets you buy a full tank upfront at a discounted rate (usually 10–15% cheaper than retail). You keep any unused fuel; the company doesn't refund the difference. This works best for longer moves (200+ miles) where you'll definitely need a full tank.
Comparing Costs Across Policies
Let's use a concrete example: renting a 26-foot box truck for a 180-mile move.
- Full-to-Full: You buy roughly 45 gallons at $3.50/gallon = $157.50 in fuel costs. If gas prices are low, you win. If prices spike, you pay more.
- Full-to-Empty: The company charges $5.00/gallon for a full tank (48 gallons) = $240. You return it empty and owe nothing extra—but this premium rate stings if fuel costs were lower at pumps nearby.
- Prepaid: You pay $180 upfront for 48 gallons at a discounted $3.75/gallon. You use 45 gallons and lose $11.25 worth of unused fuel. Total cost: $180 (you keep the difference conceptually, but don't get a refund).
The prepaid option is cheapest for this scenario, but only if you actually use most of the tank.
What to Check Before Renting
When you compare moving truck rentals on Mercoly or directly with providers, clarify these details:
- Tank size and starting fuel level: Confirm the truck arrives truly full, not 7/8 full. Photo the gauge before leaving the rental lot.
- Fuel surcharge if you return with gas: Even under Full-to-Empty, some companies charge a convenience fee ($15–$30) if you return with significant fuel remaining. Read the fine print.
- Mileage limits: Unlimited mileage is standard, but double-check. Some budget rentals impose per-mile charges ($0.15–$0.50/mile) after a threshold.
- Fuel card or cash-only: A few companies won't let you fuel up yourself; they handle it and charge you. This is rare but ask upfront.
- Refund policy: If you prepay and don't use all fuel, confirm whether any refund is possible (most don't offer one).
Key Considerations for Your Move
Distance matters most. Moves under 100 miles? Full-to-Full is safer—you'll use minimal fuel and avoid overpaying at the rental company's inflated rates. Moves over 200 miles? Prepaid fuel removes guesswork and locks in a predictable cost.
Plan your fuel stops. Large trucks (26-foot and up) get 5–7 miles per gallon. Map truck-friendly gas stations along your route in advance. Some regular pumps won't fit large nozzles or clearance. Using truck stops (Pilot, Love's) adds 10–15 minutes but ensures compatibility.
Factor in return logistics. If you're returning the truck far from home, returning it with an empty tank (or nearly empty) avoids the Full-to-Empty penalty. Budget extra time to find a gas station near the return location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a gas credit card to prepay and earn rewards on fuel costs? Most prepaid fuel policies don't allow this—you pay the rental company upfront, not the pump. Full-to-Full policies let you buy fuel yourself at any pump, so you can use your rewards card there.
Q: What happens if I return the truck on empty and it still shows a quarter tank? Under Full-to-Empty, you'll be charged the premium per-gallon rate for that remaining fuel. Always top off at a station immediately before returning to avoid this surprise charge.
Q: Is there a way to avoid fuel charges altogether? No, but you can minimize them by choosing Full-to-Full for short moves (under 150 miles) or Prepaid for longer distances where the discounted upfront rate justifies the unused fuel loss.
Next time you're comparing moving truck options, use Mercoly to see which providers offer the clearest fuel policies and lowest rates for your move distance.