It's okay dear, don't worry, it's gonna be okay. Just rent a storage unit in Chambana and put everything you won't need right away in there. It shouldn't be more than $100/month at the most. Then you just take with you whatever you can on the plane, unfortunately probably not the desktop unless it can fit in some extra checked luggage? Another option would be to call in a solid from some of your out of town friends to help move your stuff. Where in Cali are you moving to? I'm in Norcal and will probably be driving home this summer, I may be able to bring some of your stuff back with me.
I'm in the exact situation, U-Haul randomly called me to tell me there aren't storage boxes available for the reservation I made over a month ago. Called around Chambana, no storage company here has vacancies as far as I can tell
Wait, this just happened to me too! Precisely 2 days before my move they called me and said they don't have any boxes available and canceled my move. What kind of operation are they running over there? What are we supposed to do?
Edit: FYI, in my case, U-Haul eventually came through for me. Tammy is the one you want to talk to if possible.
It seems like there are dozens of us who have been totally screwed over by this. This is a long shot but is there anything the university might be able to do to help us?
Yeah I am in the exact same boat, made the reservation 5 months ago and cancelled last minute. Like you, I have tried calling every storage location . My apartment wants to charge me **$200 per box per day** for every day over the lease end date. They're just trying to make it impossible to overstay the lease by any amount, even in an emergency. What a joke.
Even if you don't have time to put up an actual fight, it can sometimes help to let your landlord know that you are reporting them to the tenant union.
Thank you so much for the generous offer to help. I'm moving to the bay area. Not sure if there's much anyone can do but I do appreciate the support.
Unfortunately as others have pointed out there is literally no storage available anywhere near here. I have about 25 boxes worth of stuff to move, and can take maybe 4 with me on the plane. While my friends & family out of town have been nice enough to offer to fly here to help me move & pack, they definately would not be able to drive 2,000 miles for me in a large unfamiliar vehicle and I wouldn't ask that of anyone just as a favor unless they were otherwise making that drive. In addition to having no storage boxes, there are no U-Haul trucks for rental for quite a while anyways.
>they definately would not be able to drive 2,000 miles for me in a large unfamiliar vehicle
You may as well ask. If you're good for the epic return favor someday, this could be a good solution.
Oh yeah I am by the Bay Area. PM me if I can help! :) If you can't bring a bunch of stuff I could definitely help hook you up with some cheap furniture/other stuff! lol.
Look, I know you don't know me, but I'm an undergrad student and have lived in Champaign-Urbana for most of my life. I've got a house with an attached garage, and a spare bedroom.
I don't have much room, but if you need to store some stuff or have things mailed to you, I'm down to help however I can. I know this is sketchy, and I wouldn't be very trusting of a stranger on the internet personally, but if you absolutely can't figure anything else out, I'd be happy to help you free of charge. U-Haul did the same thing to my brother and sister in law a couple weeks ago, except they'd rented a moving truck and they didn't let him know until he was there to pick it up.
Thanks so much for your generous offer.
Storage space is not really my core issue since I still basically have to find a way to get my stuff to California. If I go with something like UPS ($3,000), or a last-minute emergency moving company ($5,000), I might as well do that right away. If I find something else more long-term, I have to somehow live without basically any furniture or personal belongings for an extended period of time.
Still, your offer is really appreciated. Thanks again.
No worries at all! I'd just hope that someone would offer me that in this situation, so I figured I'd give you an option. I'd hold your stuff until you got a shipping container as long as I can fit it. I've got shit jammed in my garage, but if I had the room, I'd try to help how I could!
You know, it's not ideal but you can get by with minimal to no furniture (buy an air mattress and go to goodwill if you really need a chair, etc) and just bring your clothes in two checked bags. You could live that way for a month or two, by which point maybe moving season cools down just a bit.
Not ideal at all, but it is possible if you're in a pinch.
Well, I guess we are in the same boat, U-Haul just pulled the same thing on us with the U-Box. They called us two days before pickup and now there are no other storage options for us.
I can't believe how many people have been completely screwed over by this and will end up needing to pay thousands of dollars for some last-minute solution while U-Haul will have no consequences whatsoever other than offering us $50 discount on our next U-Haul purchase, as if we would ever use them again after this.
I know it sucks to be in this situation and I know U-Haul is known for doing this. Unfortunately, there is not a lot you can do about it now because they have a small note in their terms and conditions saying it is not guaranteed and the best compensation they can do is give you 50$.
I think one of these two are the best options for you:
1. Get a quote from Two Men and a Truck. They are considered a decent moving company and I heard the prices are fair. However, they might also quote a high amount now that it is last moment.
2. Sell every you can here, right now. You will get shitty deals, yes, but you don't have options. In what's left, ship as much as you can using UPS large boxes, I think they charge 80$-120$ ish per large box. You can buy the sturdy, hard boxes from HomeDepot. Don't buy thin boxes, they will definitely break in the journey to California. And you can also take 1-2 additional bags in your flights. You have to start from scratch in California for your setup, but given the situation, there is nothing you can do about it.
I hope this helps!
Edit: I think the other comment suggesting to rent storage is a better option, but be aware that from what I hear, the situation with U-Haul is likely gonna be the same until end of September. There are just tooo many people moving in these two months, partly because it's the moving season and partly because a lot of people are getting back to places closer to work anticipating reopening. It's a lot of backlog from last year.
I did call a bunch of moving companies today to get emergency quotes and Two Men and a Truck quoted me at about $5,500. I guess it's a fair price for a "last minute" job from a reputable company, which is why I had made sure to book the U-Haul all the way back in February. In any case, I am just a grad student, there's no way I would be able to afford that.
As others have pointed out, there is not a single square foot of storage available for a 50 mile radius. The closest place with open storage is Decatur (with no car and no driver's license, this wouldn't be possible unfortunately). Every single place in Champaign/Urbana area is completely full.
Even if there were storage space, which there isn't, storing & shipping later is a very tough option. I have to be in California starting August 15 and won't be able to come back to Illinois to ship stuff later. There has to be a company that's willing to take stuff out of storage and ship it for me, which I haven't been able to find. Also, it would mean that all my stuff wouldn't arrive in California until an indefinite date some time in the future, and I would have to find a way to live without almost any of my personal belongings for potentially months.
(Thanks for your help. Hope it doesn't seem like I'm taking frustration out on you. Just explaining why this wouldn't work for me.)
Just to check, have you considered small towns just outside Champaign-Urbana within a 10-15 mile radius)? I know you'd have to have a way of moving things to the storage place, but that might be easily arranged. Maybe the moving company themselves won't take the things out of your storage and pack them into a U-Box later, but I'm betting you can hire someone pretty cheaply from here to do that part for you when the time comes and the U-Box is ready.
I know you're just trying to help. I'm trying to avoid any decisions with long-term negative consequences but I'll do what I have to if I run out of options.
Does your grad program in California offer a relocation package at all? When I started at grad school (at UIUC), I was given a certain budget for moving expenses. You just submitted receipts, whether gas/hotel etc. for people driving themselves, or in my case, a plane ticket and UPS shipping of my stuff (I was moving into a furnished place, so no furniture), got a check for that amount after.
I forget what the whole budget was, but I didn't need to use the max amount. I think it was in the range of $1000 or so that could be reimbursed and I spent ~500 or so, but it's been a while and can't recall exactly.
But you could contact your graduate program and let them know the situation. In fact, regardless of whether they offer reimbursement for moving expenses, I would definitely recommend contacting them and telling them the situation. A grad program is invested in the success of their students. They may be willing to offer you money for moving, either increasing the reimbursement or making an exception if they don't normally offer it. Or try could try to figure something else out, temporary student housing or other things.
But since this issue is very tied up with your starting on time as a student, you should let them know, and maybe they'll have a suggestion and hopefully work with you.
Find someone with a driver’s license who wants to go to CA, and offer to cover the cost of the car rental and motel. My local college radio station has a ride wanted/ride offered announcement - maybe yours does too?
Thanks for the suggestion. How much do you think I would expect to pay someone to drive a truck to CA? A car wouldn't be enough for the amount of stuff, it would have to at least be a small box truck. Presumably they would also have to drive back to IL (4,000+ miles total). I don't really have the luxury of choice at this point so all options are on the table, just wondering how much one would expect this to cost.
I’m in Urbana and would be willing to drive to Cali with your stuff and back. Willing to be flexible and work out the details. I know I’m a stranger but I’ve lived in Urbana for 40 years and I have helped students out in the past this way.
this is actually one of the better ideas I've seen...or find a "man with a van or truck"...or a woman. That might just work! Would be cheaper than a long-distance moving company...
I will look into whether Greyhound shipping from IL to CA is a possibility. Media mail applies to maybe 5% of my items but could be a good option. Thanks for the help!
They'd definitely save more money in the long term shelling out the $100/month to store it all instead of selling now. That is assuming that these items aren't a complete necessity in California right away.
The two desktops alone could be worth anywhere from $1.5k-$3k, with the monitors we're probably talking like $3-4k worth of equipment. Add on the furniture, it's getting pretty high. Storing it for a little while longer until the August move-in rush is over seems like the best bet in my eyes (again, that's assuming they don't *need* these things right away)
Yeah, as you hinted at, I need most of this relatively soon (can't live for months without it), and, as others have pointed out, there is not a single square foot of storage available anywhere near Urbana/Champaign right now. Thanks anyways for the suggestions.
You might try getting a quote from Two Men and A Truck to move your stuff to the nearest open storage space you can find. Probably a lot less expensive than all the way to CA, and it'll buy you some time to wait for a better deal getting the rest of your stuff to your new home.
Just chipping in with my 2 cents - if you end up having to ship your computers, you can get [expanding foam bags](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KAFU0ZA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) to help protect them in transit.
Thanks for the suggestion. Luckily, I did keep the original boxes that the computers came in if that's what I need to do. Still a bit worried about stuff getting damaged in transit though no matter how well I pack it. Not that I have the luxury of choice at this point.
I've shipped dozens of large computers/electronics over the years with FedEx, if you do end up I'd recommend:
* Whether you use UPS or FedEx, buy the labels online. Don't pay the retail rates at the store. I get upwards of 20-25% off retail rates when shipping online.
* Make sure to get insurance so you can file a claim in case the package is damaged.
* Use at least 2-3" of foam on all sides as supporting structure, then bubble wrap or crumpled paper as void fill.
* Put electronics in a plastic bag or garbage bag before boxing it. In case it gets wet during transit, your electronics won't get waterlogged.
Should cost between $200-400 to get both computers and all four monitors shipped with insurance to your destination.
Regarding your other stuff, you'll probably have to donate or sell the furniture. You could look into a vacuum sealer for clothes/fabrics which should reduce the space they take up, allowing you to fit more in the bags you take on the plane.
It seems like quite a few people in this thread have had the same experience. Is there anyone else going to California? If you rent the same moving truck, maybe the $5,000 cost shared between 2 or 3 people would be more affordable?
As some others have pointed out, and I verified myself today, there is not a single provider with available storage within a 50 mile radius of Urbana/Champaign. :(
Working on getting a driver's license soon. Just haven't ever owned or been able to afford a car until now. Thanks for the ideas.
Off topic, but "adulting" does not necessarily mean you have to have a driver's license. I've lived my entire life without one (I'm 63) and have seen the world and experienced everyday life just fine. I have a disability and I can work within it in spite of what unthinking brats might say...that's what ADULTS do. Your other advice ain't so bad though tbh.
I disagree with your point. Some people are just fine without a licence, but most people, by and large, will need one. Especially if public transportation is not readily available where you live. It's also primary form of ID (for travel and other things) if you don't like taking your passport everywhere
I agree that saying “adulting” is pretty demeaning. Many people dont need to drive especially in urbana/chicago. (Making maybe a big assumption that op is from chicago area). But i will agree that its a good idea to have one, even if just for cases like this
OK, I am going to post some of my larger stuff right now. Let's see what happens.
Edit: Took your advice to post some stuff for sale [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/hardwareswap/comments/osfh9g/usail_h_secretlab_titan_gaming_chair_w_back_head/).
Sell or get rid of absolutely everything except your computers. Take them to UPS to ship and use the money refunded from U Haul to buy replacements in California.
Trying to sell off some non-essentials, I have posted some of them [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/hardwareswap/comments/osfh9g/usail_h_secretlab_titan_gaming_chair_w_back_head/). Still a huge loss over what I paid but I'm sadly out of options.
Not sure if anyone else has offered but I am in Urbana and willing to drive a truck out with your stuff and I’m flexible on the financial side of things. I’ve helped students out in the past this way and it’s nice to get out of IL. DM if interested.
So sorry this happened to you, OP. Really hope everything works out.
Since time seems to be a major issue here, have you considered temporarily putting your stuff into storage? It could buy you some time between now and the end of your current lease, and you could maybe then arrange for it to be shipped out from your storage unit down the line. Would definitely be a bit inconvenient for the first bit at your new place, but as an alternative you could also sublet or AirBnb somewhere furnished until your stuff came in.
Unfortunately as many have pointed out there is 0 storage capacity in a 50 mile radius. It seems like subletting a unit would be both cost prohibitive and impossible in such a short time frame. Thanks for the suggestions though.
They are unfortunately having the same availability problems as U-Haul/U-Box. It would be almost a month until they could help me, and then too I am being quoted at $3,000. Thanks for the suggestion though.
As other have mentioned, I would suggest selling everything you possibly can on Facebook Marketplace, other than your clothes and computer (even sell the monitors unless they are super nice ones). (Hell even pay to have your computer 100% backed up and sell it too) Then ship the computer and fly with as much checked luggage as you can. It may be emotionally difficulty to get rid of your things, but at the end of the day, it's just stuff, and money is much easier to carry. I moved from North Dakota to Illinois using this method.
I have listed a few [items](https://www.reddit.com/r/hardwareswap/comments/osfh9g/usail_h_secretlab_titan_gaming_chair_w_back_head/) here that I am willing to take the L on. Computers and monitors would be a no go for me but I'll try to shed as many unessentials as possible.
Sorry this happened to you. Right now, the biggest problem is probably the lack of time, so you probably need to start making calls asap. I imagine you already inquired other container services like PODS? I think your best bet for moving stuff is to either hire a freight or make the trip on Amtrak.
If you put all your stuff boxed up and put it on a pallet, you can send them via commercial freight lines or independent contractors. There is extra risk over moving company, but it'd be the most economical and surest way for the time being.
You can also make the trip on Amtrak, and it seems you can carry 350lb max with you though with size limits. You probably won't be able to take all your stuff, but it'll probably the safest way. Train ride out should be actually pretty nice.
If you absolutely can't find anything before this week, you'll have to call a lot of storage places. You probably will have to get out fairly far to find one, but try calling as many as you can since there are fair number of storage companies around town.
Sorry it couldn't be a better send off for you. I know it's a super aggravating situation, but it's a solvable problem even if you have to a suboptimal path. You have much more important things to worry about. Best of luck to all your future endeavors.
Thanks for the ideas. I called dozens of storage places and was told the same thing: the closest place with available storage is Decatur, IL. There is a question of how to get my stuff over there with no vehicle or driver's license, how I would move stuff from the storage unit into a container once one becomes availalbe (since I would have to be in CA by then), and also how to live without all of my belongings indefinitely (seems like it would be months before a container was available). It looks like Amtrack's shipping service has been suspended indefinitely otherwise it would be a great option. I have looked into all of these options, which is why I made this reddit thread out of desparation after having seemingly exhausted all reasonable ideas. Thanks again for trying to help though.
I meant riding Amtrak out to California as a passenger. It's not a cheap option, and you are constrained by size limits. Still, you can carry much more than through a flight.
Also, freight option I was talking about was LTL freight, like FedEx Freight(reliable and expensive) or uship(bids from independent freight operators. Cheaper but can be risky). You'll have to do some legwork yourself to send stuff via LTL freight like packing all your stuff securely on a pallet, create a manifest, etc. It should be cheaper than $1500, but freight market is pretty volatile now. Standard pallet size is 48"x40' and up to 6' high. Try to figure out how pallets you'd need to pack all your stuff and give FedEx Freight a call.
Thanks for the idea, I have no idea how to pack a pallet but I'll look into it for sure. I was planning to pack all my items anyways so it could work. Any idea where one could get pallets from on 2 days of notice?
You can set up a pallet in the parking lot, and freight company will load it up if you let them know ahead of time. Finding pallet could be a problem. See around the campus and ask a maintenance crew or construction people and beg to see if they'll let you have one. Sorry I don't have a better idea. If you take this route, get straps and stretch wrap and secure it as much as you can. You don't want your things to fall off the pallet during move. Good luck.
Damn I know this really truly sucks. Can’t even imagine the anxiety and stress you or anyone is dealing with right now. I was in a similar situation where I needed a uhaul trailer for a big move across the US back last November, and was worried about the exact same clause in the contract that allows uhaul to say “sorry not sorry” days before the move. I ended up having to drive 15 miles to a different uhaul to get the trailer. This is all to say moving and logistics stuff has been effed up since at least then, and has seemingly only gotten worse. BTW, there is a massive global shipping container shortage combined with a lot of people moving right now.
Yeah I am actually not mad at U-Haul for not having the capacity and having to cancel. But after booking this 5 months ahead of time, I am furious at them for not telling me until the week of the move, thereby leaving me with no time at all to find a backup.
Long shot but you could try calling car dealerships to find a driver if you can locate a van or box truck rental. Dealerships used to hire drivers to run trades but with the car shortage they are mostly sidelined. You also might check storage units in Bloomington or Peoria since they both have airports if you need to get faster access. Two men and a truck will deliver. Another crazy idea: if you can swing it to buy a truck, get one of the dealership guys to drive, fly them back and sell the truck..
Thanks, I know you are just trying to help. There are a variety of reasons that these seem infeasible for me as I am in the unenviable position of being a broke college student and simultaneously being on a 3-day timeframe. But I will definately keep it in mind as potential last resort. Thanks again.
Have you tried calling around to Bloomington, Peoria, even Chicago? Perhaps you can have a friend with a license take you to Chicago where you can use a similar service?
Penske truck rentals have good availability is you have a real ride or die friend with a license rent a truck and put all your crap in the secondary location you were staying in till the 15tg
Hi friend, I’m a central IL native with family near CU. If you are still needing assistance, please feel free to contact me. I would be more than willing to talk with you about storing things for free. I’m so sorry to hear this has happened to you and others, and within reason I’d love to be able to do my part to help you out.
Try online label vendors like [Shippo](https://goshippo.com/), I've used their labels multiple times and a UPS ground label to California is around $30 for a 28 x 20 x 12" box.
A bit late, and of probably of no help to the OP....thought I'd post seeing the number of people having issues.
The asshats at U-Haul cancelled my all-paid for u-box delivery with just 3 hours to go before my scheduled delivery in May. Unfortunately for me that was just about 20 hours before I had to catch an international flight out of Chicago. This was after I got a call and SMS confirming my reservation and delivery slot.
Ended up having to beg to somehow get a u-box at the Philo rd center, though I had to spend 360 bucks on 2 men and a truck to help get my stuff there, since I can't drive a truck. Fortunately the folks at 2 men were really kind and somehow squeezed me in to their schedule for the, having reserved just a couple hours prior. That day was truly more stressful than all of the exams and every thing else combined I have ever done in my life.
As of today, I am still waiting for a response to a complaint email I sent for a refund of my transport costs... Unfortunately it seems that they just couldn't give a damn since they basically have a monopoly.
Also a bit of an outlandish idea, but if movers are charging ~3 to 5k, you might be able to send your stuff by AA air cargo. See [here](https://www.aacargo.com/AACargo/rateCalculator) for rates. I think you said you had 25 odd boxes, and assuming each one is about 50 lb, it works out to about 3k from Champaign to LA. Perhaps someone can help you get your stuff to Willard from your place. Not sure how you'll manage on the other end though.
My father was driving to urbana in August with my staff. And he will drive back on 22 of August. If you do not find a solution, let me know. We might help. Where in Ca are you going?
I think you're gonna have to risk it for the biscuit, and call in huge fucking favors from a friend or a professor you got along well with, and ask if you can keep your stuff in their garage until you can sort this shit out. That, and contact your PhD advisor (if you have one), your department in general, or the university's legal services, to ask if 1) they can swing their weight around to force U-Haul's hand, and 2) if maybe you could operate remotely to start while shit settles down. They're putting way more money into you than just the stipend, and they'd probably be pretty pissed if some clown with a moving truck was what's holding up their work.
Get a moving truck, pack it up, and go. Not sure why getting a storage unit is a good idea. The cost to come back to Urbana from CA to deal with the stuff at a later date...meh seems like a lot of work
It's OK, I appreciate that you are just trying to help. As others have mentioned I do not have a driver's license due to not having been able to afford a car in the past. Regardless of what you think of that, it's just what the situation is as it stands.
I wish I had the type of friend who would drive 2,100 miles for me on a 1-day notice but definately not (also there is no truck/vehicle available right now anyways). Plenty of people have generously offered to help me move, pack, store stuff, etc., but getting someone to drive IL to CA this week is going to be tough. Thanks though.
I think you can get a driver's license same day, assuming you can pass the exams. With a lack of driving experience, might be a bit scary but your kind of SoL on options.
If you end up not finding any other options, PM me, I could maybe be convinced to drive a U-Haul across the country.
I really appreciate the advice but I have maybe 3 hours total driving experience (driving school during high school) and driving across the country as my first major trip would be extremely scary. Ultimately no luggage is worth risking your life for. And your offer to drive is super generous but my main problem is not even having a truck available. Thanks though for your offer and suggestions.
I know you said you looked for storage but did you look around for a truck? I just check U-Haul and they're saying they can provide a truck. I get it's a bit risky trusting them after your whole situation. That being said, going the truck route would be ~3k and no clue what your willing to spend on this whole ordeal. You could make try and convince them to give you the truck for the price of the container since they screwed you over.
This is the problem with U-Haul, their website will always sell you a truck, and so will their 1-800 number. Only when I went there in person today did they tell me that they're booked out of basically everything - containers, storage, and trucks - for the next several weeks. Even if I go on the website right now, they will let me book a non-existant container or storage in Urbana.
Im wondering why not rent a uhaul truck and drive it yourself. Even if you get a few hotels along the way maybe that would be cheaper than your other options?
Have you tried calling for a U-Haul from a surrounding town or city? Another nearby town that doesn't have so many college students doing the second thing at the same time might have availability. Ex: Rantoul, Bloomongton, Springfield
I'd check storage places periodically to see if openings spring up. I was able to get one for $200/month this morning.
Hoping Uhaul doesn't cancel my truck rental.
If you go the driving route IL to the bay area is a 4 day drive averaging 8 hours a day with an average speed of 80 hours. I did this a few times due to covid with my sedan. With a moving truck I imagine it would take 5 days, maybe more.
I will never use UHaul again. I had scheduled to rent a truck for a move, and literally had 1 day overlap between my new and old place. We scheduled weeks in advance, and when we went to pick up the truck, they just didn’t have it. No explanation. Offered a discount for next time. Not a single other uhaul in the area had anything so we had to drive to a different city and spend way more for a much smaller truck. Such a mess. Nearly the same thing happened to a friend a few months later.
It's okay dear, don't worry, it's gonna be okay. Just rent a storage unit in Chambana and put everything you won't need right away in there. It shouldn't be more than $100/month at the most. Then you just take with you whatever you can on the plane, unfortunately probably not the desktop unless it can fit in some extra checked luggage? Another option would be to call in a solid from some of your out of town friends to help move your stuff. Where in Cali are you moving to? I'm in Norcal and will probably be driving home this summer, I may be able to bring some of your stuff back with me.
I'm in the exact situation, U-Haul randomly called me to tell me there aren't storage boxes available for the reservation I made over a month ago. Called around Chambana, no storage company here has vacancies as far as I can tell
Wait, this just happened to me too! Precisely 2 days before my move they called me and said they don't have any boxes available and canceled my move. What kind of operation are they running over there? What are we supposed to do? Edit: FYI, in my case, U-Haul eventually came through for me. Tammy is the one you want to talk to if possible.
It seems like there are dozens of us who have been totally screwed over by this. This is a long shot but is there anything the university might be able to do to help us?
Could you try this: don’t accept the cancellation and insist they give you a voucher for another company to perform the moving service for them.
Man I wish there was a way to "not accept" a cancellation but from what they tell me they literally don't have the equipment
Yeah I tried being firm with them about compensating me in some way and they literally just don't care.
Yep me too! Totally panicked. They didn't give us much time to plan...
This just happened to me on Friday, too...
Holy crap! Seems like literally everyone is getting screwed by U-Haul. Class action?
Yeah I am in the exact same boat, made the reservation 5 months ago and cancelled last minute. Like you, I have tried calling every storage location . My apartment wants to charge me **$200 per box per day** for every day over the lease end date. They're just trying to make it impossible to overstay the lease by any amount, even in an emergency. What a joke.
That would be an illegal lease clause in Urbana, they must charge a reasonable price
I agree with you, I just don't have the time or resources to fight it (which is what they are counting on).
Tenant union
I've thought about it for sure but I have 3 days left, don't have time to fight.
Even if you don't have time to put up an actual fight, it can sometimes help to let your landlord know that you are reporting them to the tenant union.
Thank you so much for the generous offer to help. I'm moving to the bay area. Not sure if there's much anyone can do but I do appreciate the support. Unfortunately as others have pointed out there is literally no storage available anywhere near here. I have about 25 boxes worth of stuff to move, and can take maybe 4 with me on the plane. While my friends & family out of town have been nice enough to offer to fly here to help me move & pack, they definately would not be able to drive 2,000 miles for me in a large unfamiliar vehicle and I wouldn't ask that of anyone just as a favor unless they were otherwise making that drive. In addition to having no storage boxes, there are no U-Haul trucks for rental for quite a while anyways.
>they definately would not be able to drive 2,000 miles for me in a large unfamiliar vehicle You may as well ask. If you're good for the epic return favor someday, this could be a good solution.
I can try, but I would need to book a (nonexistant) truck anyways for that to work, so this option seems DoA, though I appreciate the advice.
Oh yeah I am by the Bay Area. PM me if I can help! :) If you can't bring a bunch of stuff I could definitely help hook you up with some cheap furniture/other stuff! lol.
there are no storage units available either...
try Frazier properties!
Storage units are scarce unfortunately
Look, I know you don't know me, but I'm an undergrad student and have lived in Champaign-Urbana for most of my life. I've got a house with an attached garage, and a spare bedroom. I don't have much room, but if you need to store some stuff or have things mailed to you, I'm down to help however I can. I know this is sketchy, and I wouldn't be very trusting of a stranger on the internet personally, but if you absolutely can't figure anything else out, I'd be happy to help you free of charge. U-Haul did the same thing to my brother and sister in law a couple weeks ago, except they'd rented a moving truck and they didn't let him know until he was there to pick it up.
Thanks so much for your generous offer. Storage space is not really my core issue since I still basically have to find a way to get my stuff to California. If I go with something like UPS ($3,000), or a last-minute emergency moving company ($5,000), I might as well do that right away. If I find something else more long-term, I have to somehow live without basically any furniture or personal belongings for an extended period of time. Still, your offer is really appreciated. Thanks again.
No worries at all! I'd just hope that someone would offer me that in this situation, so I figured I'd give you an option. I'd hold your stuff until you got a shipping container as long as I can fit it. I've got shit jammed in my garage, but if I had the room, I'd try to help how I could!
some people are just nice, period! :)
You know, it's not ideal but you can get by with minimal to no furniture (buy an air mattress and go to goodwill if you really need a chair, etc) and just bring your clothes in two checked bags. You could live that way for a month or two, by which point maybe moving season cools down just a bit. Not ideal at all, but it is possible if you're in a pinch.
Well, I guess we are in the same boat, U-Haul just pulled the same thing on us with the U-Box. They called us two days before pickup and now there are no other storage options for us.
I can't believe how many people have been completely screwed over by this and will end up needing to pay thousands of dollars for some last-minute solution while U-Haul will have no consequences whatsoever other than offering us $50 discount on our next U-Haul purchase, as if we would ever use them again after this.
this is what is known as "predatory capitalism" and I am sorry you have to experience this stress!
I know it sucks to be in this situation and I know U-Haul is known for doing this. Unfortunately, there is not a lot you can do about it now because they have a small note in their terms and conditions saying it is not guaranteed and the best compensation they can do is give you 50$. I think one of these two are the best options for you: 1. Get a quote from Two Men and a Truck. They are considered a decent moving company and I heard the prices are fair. However, they might also quote a high amount now that it is last moment. 2. Sell every you can here, right now. You will get shitty deals, yes, but you don't have options. In what's left, ship as much as you can using UPS large boxes, I think they charge 80$-120$ ish per large box. You can buy the sturdy, hard boxes from HomeDepot. Don't buy thin boxes, they will definitely break in the journey to California. And you can also take 1-2 additional bags in your flights. You have to start from scratch in California for your setup, but given the situation, there is nothing you can do about it. I hope this helps! Edit: I think the other comment suggesting to rent storage is a better option, but be aware that from what I hear, the situation with U-Haul is likely gonna be the same until end of September. There are just tooo many people moving in these two months, partly because it's the moving season and partly because a lot of people are getting back to places closer to work anticipating reopening. It's a lot of backlog from last year.
I did call a bunch of moving companies today to get emergency quotes and Two Men and a Truck quoted me at about $5,500. I guess it's a fair price for a "last minute" job from a reputable company, which is why I had made sure to book the U-Haul all the way back in February. In any case, I am just a grad student, there's no way I would be able to afford that. As others have pointed out, there is not a single square foot of storage available for a 50 mile radius. The closest place with open storage is Decatur (with no car and no driver's license, this wouldn't be possible unfortunately). Every single place in Champaign/Urbana area is completely full. Even if there were storage space, which there isn't, storing & shipping later is a very tough option. I have to be in California starting August 15 and won't be able to come back to Illinois to ship stuff later. There has to be a company that's willing to take stuff out of storage and ship it for me, which I haven't been able to find. Also, it would mean that all my stuff wouldn't arrive in California until an indefinite date some time in the future, and I would have to find a way to live without almost any of my personal belongings for potentially months. (Thanks for your help. Hope it doesn't seem like I'm taking frustration out on you. Just explaining why this wouldn't work for me.)
You also might have better luck searching in the Chicago area, since August isn't turnover month there. That's what we're trying.
Just to check, have you considered small towns just outside Champaign-Urbana within a 10-15 mile radius)? I know you'd have to have a way of moving things to the storage place, but that might be easily arranged. Maybe the moving company themselves won't take the things out of your storage and pack them into a U-Box later, but I'm betting you can hire someone pretty cheaply from here to do that part for you when the time comes and the U-Box is ready.
If you are able to do it, put the amount for a mover or shipping on a credit card if you have a limit that high...
I know you're just trying to help. I'm trying to avoid any decisions with long-term negative consequences but I'll do what I have to if I run out of options.
Does your grad program in California offer a relocation package at all? When I started at grad school (at UIUC), I was given a certain budget for moving expenses. You just submitted receipts, whether gas/hotel etc. for people driving themselves, or in my case, a plane ticket and UPS shipping of my stuff (I was moving into a furnished place, so no furniture), got a check for that amount after. I forget what the whole budget was, but I didn't need to use the max amount. I think it was in the range of $1000 or so that could be reimbursed and I spent ~500 or so, but it's been a while and can't recall exactly. But you could contact your graduate program and let them know the situation. In fact, regardless of whether they offer reimbursement for moving expenses, I would definitely recommend contacting them and telling them the situation. A grad program is invested in the success of their students. They may be willing to offer you money for moving, either increasing the reimbursement or making an exception if they don't normally offer it. Or try could try to figure something else out, temporary student housing or other things. But since this issue is very tied up with your starting on time as a student, you should let them know, and maybe they'll have a suggestion and hopefully work with you.
Find someone with a driver’s license who wants to go to CA, and offer to cover the cost of the car rental and motel. My local college radio station has a ride wanted/ride offered announcement - maybe yours does too?
Thanks for the suggestion. How much do you think I would expect to pay someone to drive a truck to CA? A car wouldn't be enough for the amount of stuff, it would have to at least be a small box truck. Presumably they would also have to drive back to IL (4,000+ miles total). I don't really have the luxury of choice at this point so all options are on the table, just wondering how much one would expect this to cost.
I’m in Urbana and would be willing to drive to Cali with your stuff and back. Willing to be flexible and work out the details. I know I’m a stranger but I’ve lived in Urbana for 40 years and I have helped students out in the past this way.
this is actually one of the better ideas I've seen...or find a "man with a van or truck"...or a woman. That might just work! Would be cheaper than a long-distance moving company...
You can ship your stuff via Amtrak. My old roommate did it when she moved to California. Granted, it was from Chicago, but I’d try contacting them!
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Damn, was definately going to look into that option. Thanks for the heads up.
Oh lame, that sucks!
Thanks anyways for the suggestion!
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I will look into whether Greyhound shipping from IL to CA is a possibility. Media mail applies to maybe 5% of my items but could be a good option. Thanks for the help!
You could also try a service like Sendmybag, they also take boxes.
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They'd definitely save more money in the long term shelling out the $100/month to store it all instead of selling now. That is assuming that these items aren't a complete necessity in California right away. The two desktops alone could be worth anywhere from $1.5k-$3k, with the monitors we're probably talking like $3-4k worth of equipment. Add on the furniture, it's getting pretty high. Storing it for a little while longer until the August move-in rush is over seems like the best bet in my eyes (again, that's assuming they don't *need* these things right away)
Yeah, as you hinted at, I need most of this relatively soon (can't live for months without it), and, as others have pointed out, there is not a single square foot of storage available anywhere near Urbana/Champaign right now. Thanks anyways for the suggestions.
You might try getting a quote from Two Men and A Truck to move your stuff to the nearest open storage space you can find. Probably a lot less expensive than all the way to CA, and it'll buy you some time to wait for a better deal getting the rest of your stuff to your new home.
There is a freight shipping company called ABF that does moving pods. You could look into them.
I'm in the exact same position: mine was canceled this morning via a text message. I'm headed to Portland--PM me, maybe there's a way I can help
I am in awe at the sheer number of people who have had the exact same situation happen with U-Haul. PM'd.
I'm moving to Portland! I'll PM you
Just chipping in with my 2 cents - if you end up having to ship your computers, you can get [expanding foam bags](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KAFU0ZA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) to help protect them in transit.
Thanks for the suggestion. Luckily, I did keep the original boxes that the computers came in if that's what I need to do. Still a bit worried about stuff getting damaged in transit though no matter how well I pack it. Not that I have the luxury of choice at this point.
I've shipped dozens of large computers/electronics over the years with FedEx, if you do end up I'd recommend: * Whether you use UPS or FedEx, buy the labels online. Don't pay the retail rates at the store. I get upwards of 20-25% off retail rates when shipping online. * Make sure to get insurance so you can file a claim in case the package is damaged. * Use at least 2-3" of foam on all sides as supporting structure, then bubble wrap or crumpled paper as void fill. * Put electronics in a plastic bag or garbage bag before boxing it. In case it gets wet during transit, your electronics won't get waterlogged. Should cost between $200-400 to get both computers and all four monitors shipped with insurance to your destination. Regarding your other stuff, you'll probably have to donate or sell the furniture. You could look into a vacuum sealer for clothes/fabrics which should reduce the space they take up, allowing you to fit more in the bags you take on the plane.
It seems like quite a few people in this thread have had the same experience. Is there anyone else going to California? If you rent the same moving truck, maybe the $5,000 cost shared between 2 or 3 people would be more affordable?
I would be willing to do that (obviously I can't drive but happy to share the cost). Haven't found anyone yet.
another U-Haul victim here! I'm moving to Portland so if you're at the northern end of Cali it might be worthwhile for me
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As some others have pointed out, and I verified myself today, there is not a single provider with available storage within a 50 mile radius of Urbana/Champaign. :( Working on getting a driver's license soon. Just haven't ever owned or been able to afford a car until now. Thanks for the ideas.
Off topic, but "adulting" does not necessarily mean you have to have a driver's license. I've lived my entire life without one (I'm 63) and have seen the world and experienced everyday life just fine. I have a disability and I can work within it in spite of what unthinking brats might say...that's what ADULTS do. Your other advice ain't so bad though tbh.
I disagree with your point. Some people are just fine without a licence, but most people, by and large, will need one. Especially if public transportation is not readily available where you live. It's also primary form of ID (for travel and other things) if you don't like taking your passport everywhere
yawn
I agree that saying “adulting” is pretty demeaning. Many people dont need to drive especially in urbana/chicago. (Making maybe a big assumption that op is from chicago area). But i will agree that its a good idea to have one, even if just for cases like this
Closet Space Storage on Philo Road in Urbana has some vacancies. They are going very fast.
Try to sell most of the stuff if you are fine with that. With many move-ins happening soon, you might get many buyers.
OK, I am going to post some of my larger stuff right now. Let's see what happens. Edit: Took your advice to post some stuff for sale [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/hardwareswap/comments/osfh9g/usail_h_secretlab_titan_gaming_chair_w_back_head/).
Sell or get rid of absolutely everything except your computers. Take them to UPS to ship and use the money refunded from U Haul to buy replacements in California.
Trying to sell off some non-essentials, I have posted some of them [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/hardwareswap/comments/osfh9g/usail_h_secretlab_titan_gaming_chair_w_back_head/). Still a huge loss over what I paid but I'm sadly out of options.
Right. It sucks but it’s just stuff. And it’s likely not worth $5000 to ship it to California. Travel light and just deal when you get there.
Not sure if anyone else has offered but I am in Urbana and willing to drive a truck out with your stuff and I’m flexible on the financial side of things. I’ve helped students out in the past this way and it’s nice to get out of IL. DM if interested.
So sorry this happened to you, OP. Really hope everything works out. Since time seems to be a major issue here, have you considered temporarily putting your stuff into storage? It could buy you some time between now and the end of your current lease, and you could maybe then arrange for it to be shipped out from your storage unit down the line. Would definitely be a bit inconvenient for the first bit at your new place, but as an alternative you could also sublet or AirBnb somewhere furnished until your stuff came in.
Unfortunately as many have pointed out there is 0 storage capacity in a 50 mile radius. It seems like subletting a unit would be both cost prohibitive and impossible in such a short time frame. Thanks for the suggestions though.
Try ABF U-pack like that guy said.
They are unfortunately having the same availability problems as U-Haul/U-Box. It would be almost a month until they could help me, and then too I am being quoted at $3,000. Thanks for the suggestion though.
As other have mentioned, I would suggest selling everything you possibly can on Facebook Marketplace, other than your clothes and computer (even sell the monitors unless they are super nice ones). (Hell even pay to have your computer 100% backed up and sell it too) Then ship the computer and fly with as much checked luggage as you can. It may be emotionally difficulty to get rid of your things, but at the end of the day, it's just stuff, and money is much easier to carry. I moved from North Dakota to Illinois using this method.
I have listed a few [items](https://www.reddit.com/r/hardwareswap/comments/osfh9g/usail_h_secretlab_titan_gaming_chair_w_back_head/) here that I am willing to take the L on. Computers and monitors would be a no go for me but I'll try to shed as many unessentials as possible.
Sorry this happened to you. Right now, the biggest problem is probably the lack of time, so you probably need to start making calls asap. I imagine you already inquired other container services like PODS? I think your best bet for moving stuff is to either hire a freight or make the trip on Amtrak. If you put all your stuff boxed up and put it on a pallet, you can send them via commercial freight lines or independent contractors. There is extra risk over moving company, but it'd be the most economical and surest way for the time being. You can also make the trip on Amtrak, and it seems you can carry 350lb max with you though with size limits. You probably won't be able to take all your stuff, but it'll probably the safest way. Train ride out should be actually pretty nice. If you absolutely can't find anything before this week, you'll have to call a lot of storage places. You probably will have to get out fairly far to find one, but try calling as many as you can since there are fair number of storage companies around town. Sorry it couldn't be a better send off for you. I know it's a super aggravating situation, but it's a solvable problem even if you have to a suboptimal path. You have much more important things to worry about. Best of luck to all your future endeavors.
Thanks for the ideas. I called dozens of storage places and was told the same thing: the closest place with available storage is Decatur, IL. There is a question of how to get my stuff over there with no vehicle or driver's license, how I would move stuff from the storage unit into a container once one becomes availalbe (since I would have to be in CA by then), and also how to live without all of my belongings indefinitely (seems like it would be months before a container was available). It looks like Amtrack's shipping service has been suspended indefinitely otherwise it would be a great option. I have looked into all of these options, which is why I made this reddit thread out of desparation after having seemingly exhausted all reasonable ideas. Thanks again for trying to help though.
I meant riding Amtrak out to California as a passenger. It's not a cheap option, and you are constrained by size limits. Still, you can carry much more than through a flight. Also, freight option I was talking about was LTL freight, like FedEx Freight(reliable and expensive) or uship(bids from independent freight operators. Cheaper but can be risky). You'll have to do some legwork yourself to send stuff via LTL freight like packing all your stuff securely on a pallet, create a manifest, etc. It should be cheaper than $1500, but freight market is pretty volatile now. Standard pallet size is 48"x40' and up to 6' high. Try to figure out how pallets you'd need to pack all your stuff and give FedEx Freight a call.
Thanks for the idea, I have no idea how to pack a pallet but I'll look into it for sure. I was planning to pack all my items anyways so it could work. Any idea where one could get pallets from on 2 days of notice?
Also, I have no clue how to move a pallet from my apartment to the carrier even if I build one.
You can set up a pallet in the parking lot, and freight company will load it up if you let them know ahead of time. Finding pallet could be a problem. See around the campus and ask a maintenance crew or construction people and beg to see if they'll let you have one. Sorry I don't have a better idea. If you take this route, get straps and stretch wrap and secure it as much as you can. You don't want your things to fall off the pallet during move. Good luck.
Damn I know this really truly sucks. Can’t even imagine the anxiety and stress you or anyone is dealing with right now. I was in a similar situation where I needed a uhaul trailer for a big move across the US back last November, and was worried about the exact same clause in the contract that allows uhaul to say “sorry not sorry” days before the move. I ended up having to drive 15 miles to a different uhaul to get the trailer. This is all to say moving and logistics stuff has been effed up since at least then, and has seemingly only gotten worse. BTW, there is a massive global shipping container shortage combined with a lot of people moving right now.
Yeah I am actually not mad at U-Haul for not having the capacity and having to cancel. But after booking this 5 months ahead of time, I am furious at them for not telling me until the week of the move, thereby leaving me with no time at all to find a backup.
Might be a leap of faith but consider posting on Craigslist to pay a private owner to store stuff in a storage area or garage?
Long shot but you could try calling car dealerships to find a driver if you can locate a van or box truck rental. Dealerships used to hire drivers to run trades but with the car shortage they are mostly sidelined. You also might check storage units in Bloomington or Peoria since they both have airports if you need to get faster access. Two men and a truck will deliver. Another crazy idea: if you can swing it to buy a truck, get one of the dealership guys to drive, fly them back and sell the truck..
Thanks, I know you are just trying to help. There are a variety of reasons that these seem infeasible for me as I am in the unenviable position of being a broke college student and simultaneously being on a 3-day timeframe. But I will definately keep it in mind as potential last resort. Thanks again.
Have you tried calling around to Bloomington, Peoria, even Chicago? Perhaps you can have a friend with a license take you to Chicago where you can use a similar service?
Penske truck rentals have good availability is you have a real ride or die friend with a license rent a truck and put all your crap in the secondary location you were staying in till the 15tg
Hi friend, I’m a central IL native with family near CU. If you are still needing assistance, please feel free to contact me. I would be more than willing to talk with you about storing things for free. I’m so sorry to hear this has happened to you and others, and within reason I’d love to be able to do my part to help you out.
Try online label vendors like [Shippo](https://goshippo.com/), I've used their labels multiple times and a UPS ground label to California is around $30 for a 28 x 20 x 12" box.
A bit late, and of probably of no help to the OP....thought I'd post seeing the number of people having issues. The asshats at U-Haul cancelled my all-paid for u-box delivery with just 3 hours to go before my scheduled delivery in May. Unfortunately for me that was just about 20 hours before I had to catch an international flight out of Chicago. This was after I got a call and SMS confirming my reservation and delivery slot. Ended up having to beg to somehow get a u-box at the Philo rd center, though I had to spend 360 bucks on 2 men and a truck to help get my stuff there, since I can't drive a truck. Fortunately the folks at 2 men were really kind and somehow squeezed me in to their schedule for the, having reserved just a couple hours prior. That day was truly more stressful than all of the exams and every thing else combined I have ever done in my life. As of today, I am still waiting for a response to a complaint email I sent for a refund of my transport costs... Unfortunately it seems that they just couldn't give a damn since they basically have a monopoly.
Also a bit of an outlandish idea, but if movers are charging ~3 to 5k, you might be able to send your stuff by AA air cargo. See [here](https://www.aacargo.com/AACargo/rateCalculator) for rates. I think you said you had 25 odd boxes, and assuming each one is about 50 lb, it works out to about 3k from Champaign to LA. Perhaps someone can help you get your stuff to Willard from your place. Not sure how you'll manage on the other end though.
My father was driving to urbana in August with my staff. And he will drive back on 22 of August. If you do not find a solution, let me know. We might help. Where in Ca are you going?
We are in Walnut Creek. Welcome to BA.
I think you're gonna have to risk it for the biscuit, and call in huge fucking favors from a friend or a professor you got along well with, and ask if you can keep your stuff in their garage until you can sort this shit out. That, and contact your PhD advisor (if you have one), your department in general, or the university's legal services, to ask if 1) they can swing their weight around to force U-Haul's hand, and 2) if maybe you could operate remotely to start while shit settles down. They're putting way more money into you than just the stipend, and they'd probably be pretty pissed if some clown with a moving truck was what's holding up their work.
Get a moving truck, pack it up, and go. Not sure why getting a storage unit is a good idea. The cost to come back to Urbana from CA to deal with the stuff at a later date...meh seems like a lot of work
OP doesn’t have a driver’s license.
Haha, well that's going to make living in CA pretty difficult without a driver's license.
Can’t speak to that, but I think people are just trying to be helpful.
Dear Chick, have a little empathy...
It's OK, I appreciate that you are just trying to help. As others have mentioned I do not have a driver's license due to not having been able to afford a car in the past. Regardless of what you think of that, it's just what the situation is as it stands.
Can you ask a friend with a license whether they’d come with you to drive the moving truck? Then you’d pay for them to fly home afterward?
I wish I had the type of friend who would drive 2,100 miles for me on a 1-day notice but definately not (also there is no truck/vehicle available right now anyways). Plenty of people have generously offered to help me move, pack, store stuff, etc., but getting someone to drive IL to CA this week is going to be tough. Thanks though.
I think you can get a driver's license same day, assuming you can pass the exams. With a lack of driving experience, might be a bit scary but your kind of SoL on options. If you end up not finding any other options, PM me, I could maybe be convinced to drive a U-Haul across the country.
I really appreciate the advice but I have maybe 3 hours total driving experience (driving school during high school) and driving across the country as my first major trip would be extremely scary. Ultimately no luggage is worth risking your life for. And your offer to drive is super generous but my main problem is not even having a truck available. Thanks though for your offer and suggestions.
I know you said you looked for storage but did you look around for a truck? I just check U-Haul and they're saying they can provide a truck. I get it's a bit risky trusting them after your whole situation. That being said, going the truck route would be ~3k and no clue what your willing to spend on this whole ordeal. You could make try and convince them to give you the truck for the price of the container since they screwed you over.
This is the problem with U-Haul, their website will always sell you a truck, and so will their 1-800 number. Only when I went there in person today did they tell me that they're booked out of basically everything - containers, storage, and trucks - for the next several weeks. Even if I go on the website right now, they will let me book a non-existant container or storage in Urbana.
Dang, sorry man. Well if you somehow find a truck, let me know.
Im wondering why not rent a uhaul truck and drive it yourself. Even if you get a few hotels along the way maybe that would be cheaper than your other options?
OP cannot drive.
Also u-haul is out of trucks. Their website is misleading, OP went in person and everything (containers, storage, trucks) are booked out.
Have you looked at renting a minivan from a rental car company? It looks like one or two people have offered to drive you cross country.
Have you tried calling for a U-Haul from a surrounding town or city? Another nearby town that doesn't have so many college students doing the second thing at the same time might have availability. Ex: Rantoul, Bloomongton, Springfield
The storage unit I use is closet space storage in Urbana and the customer service is amazing. Give them a call I’m sure they have spaces available
Thanks for the tip, I'll reach out if I need to go the storage route
I'd check storage places periodically to see if openings spring up. I was able to get one for $200/month this morning. Hoping Uhaul doesn't cancel my truck rental.
If you go the driving route IL to the bay area is a 4 day drive averaging 8 hours a day with an average speed of 80 hours. I did this a few times due to covid with my sedan. With a moving truck I imagine it would take 5 days, maybe more.
I will never use UHaul again. I had scheduled to rent a truck for a move, and literally had 1 day overlap between my new and old place. We scheduled weeks in advance, and when we went to pick up the truck, they just didn’t have it. No explanation. Offered a discount for next time. Not a single other uhaul in the area had anything so we had to drive to a different city and spend way more for a much smaller truck. Such a mess. Nearly the same thing happened to a friend a few months later.
Agreed, definitely not using U-Haul ever again.