U-Haul International, Inc. has recently acquired 4.46 acres of land at 4880 NW Urbandale Drive, Urbandale, Iowa, marking a significant step towards the development of a new retail, moving, and self-storage facility. Scheduled for completion in 2026, this project aims to address the growing needs of the Urbandale community and the greater Des Moines metro area.
The strategic location near the Urban Loop is chosen for its direct interstate access, facilitating easier and more efficient moving and storage services for customers.
U-Haul Moving & Storage at Urban Loop will feature a modern retail showroom, over 700 indoor, ADA-accessible storage rooms with climate-control options, and high-tech security features, ensuring a wide range of affordable and accessible services, according to a press release.
In addition to traditional moving services, the facility plans to include a separate warehouse for U-Haul’s portable moving containers, covered RV and vehicle storage, bike racks, hitch accessories, U-Box containers, and more. Professional hitch installation and propane exchange, refills, and accessories will also be available, catering to a broad spectrum of customer needs.
U-Haul’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the design and operation of the new facility. The company’s shared-use business model, which allows communities to share moving equipment, significantly reduces the need for individuals to own large-capacity vehicles.
This initiative, alongside U-Haul Adaptive Reuse, truck modifications for improved fuel economy, and the use of plastic Ready-To-Go Boxes® that are shared hundreds of times before being recycled, underscores U-Haul’s dedication to environmentally friendly business practices.
The U-Box Load Share program, recently named the 2023 Best in Biz gold winner for the Most Environmentally Friendly Service of the Year, further highlights the company’s innovative approach to sustainability.
The project is also set to have a positive impact on the local job market, with plans to hire 10 team members from the Urbandale community.
U-Haul, recognized by The Military Times as a Best for Vets employer, actively recruits veterans, offering them preference in the hiring process. This approach not only supports job growth within the community but also aligns with U-Haul’s broader commitment to supporting those who have served.
Kellin Sybrant, U-Haul Area District Vice President, emphasized the importance of the new facility in accommodating the needs of a growing community.
“Having a facility at the Urban Loop is important because it gives our customers direct access to the interstates,” Sybrant said, highlighting the project’s role in supporting the expansion of the Des Moines metro area.
U-Haul’s investment in Urbandale is a testament to the company’s long-term vision for urban development and sustainability. By offering a comprehensive range of services designed to meet the evolving needs of the community, U-Haul is setting a new standard for corporate responsibility in urban planning and development.
As urban areas continue to grow, the need for sustainable development and community-focused initiatives becomes increasingly important. U-Haul’s project in Urbandale serves as a model for how companies can contribute to the development of urban landscapes, offering valuable services while also prioritizing environmental sustainability and job creation.