HAULa Named Arch Grants Finalist Before Launch

HAULa, a St. Louis startup founded by Christian Roberts, plans to launch its oversized-item transportation marketplace in the St. Louis metropolitan area this summer. The platform connects people who need items moved with local owners of pickup trucks, trailers, cargo vans, and flatbed trucks seeking extra income. Ahead of launch, HAULa was named a finalist in the 2026 Arch Grants Startup Competition and one of 11 “Startups to Watch 2026” by the St. Louis Business Journal. The service is aimed at homeowners, contractors, businesses, and consumers moving goods that will not fit in a standard passenger vehicle.

Marketplace For Oversized Items

HAULa is designed for short-distance jobs such as collecting furniture, appliances, building materials, landscaping supplies, recreational equipment, estate sale finds, and Facebook Marketplace purchases. It offers an on-demand option for people who might otherwise rent a truck, pay delivery fees, or ask friends and family for help.

The company says its marketplace includes pre-screened drivers, upfront pricing, real-time tracking, in-app communication, and performance-based incentives. Vehicle and trailer owners can use the service to earn income from equipment that may otherwise sit unused.

“My wife and I were doing an extensive rehab of our home, and we constantly found ourselves needing a truck or trailer to pick up materials. We were fortunate to have a friend who let us borrow his truck, but it made me realize how many people don't have that option. Renting a truck isn't always convenient, and delivery fees can be surprisingly expensive. I started wondering why there wasn't an easier way to connect people who own trucks and trailers with people who simply need to move something across town.”

Options For Customers And Drivers

HAULa positions itself between traditional delivery services, truck rentals, and moving companies by matching available local vehicles with transport requests. The service is intended to provide a right-sized option for moves across town rather than a full moving service.

“Truck and trailer owners already have the equipment. HAULa simply helps connect them with people who need it. It's a win for customers who save time and money, and a win for drivers looking to earn additional income using assets they already own.”

St. Louis Launch Plans

As part of its launch activity, HAULa is partnering with Mound City Fund and White Box Labs on a limited-edition soccer jersey. Proceeds will support Mound City Fund’s work helping low- to moderate-income homeowners restore vacant and deteriorated homes in St. Louis City and County.

HAULa expects to begin in St. Louis before expanding into other markets. Customers interested in booking transport and vehicle owners interested in driving can learn more through the company’s website.