U-Haul “8 for 80” Dealer Series
In celebration of our 80th anniversary in 2025, we are highlighting eight small businesses serving as U-Haul dealers who have teamed with us to bring DIY moving products and services to their communities. These dealers may be old or new, have a fun story, a unique location, or just be in an interesting line of work. Enjoy!
Call of Duty
The Peninsula Fire Department answers more than just emergency calls. They pick up the phone every time a neighbor in their community needs U-Haul® mobility solutions.
What began as a creative way to generate fundraising has become a second vital service the PFD provides for the townspeople of Cleveland, Okla., nestled right along the Arkansas River about 20 miles northwest of Tulsa.
For the last year, this brave team of First Responders at 1040 E. Katy Lane has served in multiple capacities since becoming a U-Haul dealer to supply do-it-yourself movers with orange-clad trucks and trailers.
“We have the property right along the highway,” said Bob Sharp, the PDF firefighter who came up with the idea to partner with U-Haul after towing one of the Company’s vehicles during his wrecker service days.
Chris McMeans, U-Haul area field manager for the Cleveland area, explained that as a volunteer fire department, raising funds is necessary to make their firefighting services available. “This fire department is responsible for much of their own funding: firework sales, bake sales … and now U-Haul rentals help to do that.”
U-Haul dealers earn approximately 21% in commission off each rental transaction from their location.
Always Ready
Maintaining flexible schedules is commonplace for volunteer firefighters. That is also what makes their partnership with U-Haul thrive. “The volunteers are always ready to jump in at any time and that lends itself well to U-Haul,” Sharp said.
“They primarily protect their local lake community, but they also support the surrounding agencies,” McMeans noted. “Being a U-Haul dealer is another way to serve their community, and it gives them the opportunity to meet families moving in so they can build that relationship.”
The Peninsula Fire Department is adjacent to the main highway and ensures easy access for U-Haul customers in a town where moving equipment and supplies can otherwise be difficult to find.
“If a customer needs equipment, they will service that customer by being available 24/7,” McMeans said. “Bob and his team go above and beyond for all their customers, whether it’s U-Haul or fighting fires.”
The PFD’s commitment shines in everything they do. “If you’ve got your heart in it, it’s the most rewarding work,” Sharp added.
This is the fourth blog in the “8 for 80” Dealer Series. Continue visiting myuhaulstory.com for more posts.
U-Haul Dealer Network
Independent dealers have been the backbone of the U-Haul service model since 1945, accounting for almost 90% of all network rental locations.
Do you own a small business that could benefit from a supplemental income stream while meeting a basic need for your neighbors and community? If so, consider partnering with U-Haul as a dealer and start earning commissions from rental transactions at your site. Learn more at uhaul.com/dealer.
