Costco's Vehicle Rental Service Could Save You A Ton Of Money

Some people think that Costco is just for buying up bulk goods. However, superfans will swear that there is very little in the realm of goods, services, and smart Costco items to stock up on that the chain cannot deliver on for members. However, even Costco diehards may be unaware that Costco can also save them a bundle when it comes to renting trucks. Costco has a partnership with Budget Trucks that allows Costco members to rent larger vehicles at a discount. For 25% off direct Budget retail rates, Costco members can rent trucks up to 26 feet long, as well as any necessary towing equipment. 

The Budget partnership also includes 24/7 roadside assistance, a free additional driver to list on the truck rental, and a potential discount on boxes and other moving supplies. Best of all, the deal is available for both Costco Gold Star and Executive members. This discount can mean real savings for those struggling over whether or not to hire a moving company. It can also help those needing to purchase larger items — like furniture or electronics — by making it easier to safely transport those items home. However, while Costco lovers will champion the chance to get moving trucks for a deal, some customers have complained on sites like Reddit that the truck isn't guaranteed for the day of pickup. There are also some complaints that Budget rental trucks are a bit too well-used for some driver's tastes. However, the final price point may make up for whatever preferences a Costco member might have.

For those looking to explore the Budget truck rental options on Costco, it's important to know that you must go through the Costco Travel website to gain access to the external link, run by Budget, for the discounted truck rental program. You can filter your individual results by using your own search parameters, such as setting pick-up and return locations as well as a range of dates. A list of available vehicles will post to the search, with the regular Budget retail rate and the Costco partnership reduced price. It's worth noting that non-members can research rental prices this way through the Costco partnership. However, to actually book any deal you might find, a Costco membership is required.

Budget lists vehicle selection, location, mileage, and add-on premiums and protections as some of the factors that go into the final price for each rental truck. With that said, discounts do not apply to any damage or recovery fees the rental could rack up while in your use. Common Budget rental truck offerings include a cargo van, 12-foot moving truck, 16-foot moving truck, and a 26-foot moving truck. And, despite the trucks being potentially more well-used than some would like, overall savings could make this Costco membership perk worth it — especially when you cost compare Costco bookings to direct car rental bookings.