U-Haul Provides Disaster Relief Following Derecho in North Dakota and Minnesota
U-Haul Offers 30 Days of Free Storage Support to Communities in North Dakota and Minnesota Impacted by Derecho and Tornado Outbreak In the aftermath of a powerful derecho storm system and multiple tornadoes that ravaged parts of eastern North Dakota and northern Minnesota, U-Haul® has stepped up to offer critical assistance to affected residents. The Company announced a disaster relief initiative providing 30 days of free self-storage and U-Box® portable storage container usage at seven of its facilities across the impacted region.
The devastating storm system swept through the Upper Midwest beginning late Friday evening and lasting into the early hours of Saturday. Packing winds of over 100 miles per hour, the derecho carved a trail of destruction across several counties, flattening trees, toppling power lines, damaging homes and businesses, and leaving thousands without electricity. Alongside the straight-line winds, the storm produced multiple tornadoes, intensifying the scale of destruction and complicating recovery efforts.
Among the hardest-hit areas were Enderlin, North Dakota—a small town southwest of Fargo—and Bemidji, Minnesota, a regional hub in northern Minnesota. Both communities, along with several others, are now facing an uphill battle to restore essential services, assess property damage, and begin the rebuilding process.
Recognizing the urgent need for secure, dry storage during this time of displacement and uncertainty, U-Haul acted quickly to provide practical aid.
Supporting Recovery Through Storage Relief
“When disasters like this strike, having access to safe and reliable storage solutions can be critical for families and small businesses as they work to recover and rebuild,” said U-Haul Company President John “JT” Taylor. “Our goal is to ease some of the burden by providing free access to storage space during this difficult time.”
The 30-day offer applies to both traditional self-storage units and the Company’s signature U-Box containers, which can be used for flexible, portable storage needs. This assistance is being extended to new customers who were directly impacted by the storm event and is subject to availability at the participating locations.
The seven U-Haul locations currently participating in this emergency relief effort are spread across the affected region, ensuring coverage for the most severely impacted communities. These sites are offering clean, dry, and secure storage units for families who may have lost access to their homes or need temporary space to protect salvageable belongings while they repair or relocate.
U-Box containers, which offer a convenient and mobile solution, can be used in two primary ways. Affected residents can opt to pick up and tow their own U-Box container, or they can arrange for delivery and pickup by U-Haul for a modest fee. The U-Box program is particularly useful for those without a permanent address following the storm, as containers can be stored on-site at U-Haul centers or moved to a different location based on customer needs.
How to Access the Program
Individuals and families seeking to take advantage of the 30 days of free storage are encouraged to contact the nearest participating U-Haul location directly. Trained staff at each center are ready to assist residents with storage arrangements, assess availability, and offer guidance on the most appropriate solutions based on the customer’s specific situation.
The program is designed to be as flexible and inclusive as possible, ensuring that no one in need is turned away due to red tape or logistical hurdles. In similar past emergencies, U-Haul has worked with city and county governments, local relief organizations, and nonprofits to amplify its reach and streamline the distribution of support services.
Here are the seven U-Haul facilities currently offering disaster relief storage services:
- U-Haul Moving & Storage of Fargo – Fargo, ND
- U-Haul Moving & Storage of Moorhead – Moorhead, MN
- U-Haul Moving & Storage of Bemidji – Bemidji, MN
- U-Haul Moving & Storage of Grand Forks – Grand Forks, ND
- U-Haul Moving & Storage of East Grand Forks – East Grand Forks, MN
- U-Haul Moving & Storage at University Drive – Fargo, ND
- U-Haul Storage of South Fargo – Fargo, ND
These centers are equipped with climate-controlled units, 24/7 security monitoring, and on-site staff ready to assist customers through the intake and move-in process.
A Longstanding Commitment to Community Support
U-Haul has a long history of stepping in to support communities in the wake of natural disasters. From hurricanes and wildfires to floods and tornados, the Company regularly deploys its resources to assist in both immediate response and long-term recovery. Through its disaster relief program, U-Haul has provided free storage to tens of thousands of families over the past two decades, offering peace of mind during some of the most stressful periods of their lives.
In addition to storage solutions, U-Haul’s expansive fleet of trucks, trailers, and moving supplies are also available to customers at standard rates for those who may need to transport belongings, relocate temporarily, or assist others in the community.
“We are proud to serve as a reliable partner in times of crisis,” Taylor added. “Whether it’s providing shelter for belongings or simply offering a sense of stability when everything else feels uncertain, we want people to know they are not alone.”
Safety and Recovery First
Emergency responders and public works crews continue to clear debris, restore power lines, and ensure roads are accessible across the affected counties. U-Haul urges residents to prioritize personal safety and follow local guidance before attempting to access damaged property or move belongings.
For those still waiting for the all-clear to return to their homes, U-Haul’s free storage program offers a way to plan ahead and reserve space in anticipation of clean-up efforts. Individuals can call or visit U-Haul’s website to check availability at local facilities and schedule service.
While full recovery from the recent derecho and tornado outbreak will take time, community resilience is already on display. Neighboring towns have mobilized to support one another, local businesses are donating supplies, and volunteers are helping residents clear fallen trees and secure temporary shelter.
U-Haul’s contribution represents one piece of a larger network of recovery support. As more damage assessments are completed and insurance adjusters begin their work, the need for flexible, short-term storage is expected to grow.
For residents and small businesses navigating the difficult road ahead, U-Haul’s disaster relief storage program offers immediate relief and a practical solution to protect belongings while rebuilding lives.