What You Should Know About Renting A Moving Truck

1. Determining Truck Size
2. Truck Cost
3. Obtain Several Estimates
4. Have Proper Tools & Materials

One of the best ways to save a bit of money on your move is by doing it yourself. This usually means renting your own moving truck. Even still, if you are considering this, you will need to do some research and a bit of careful planning. Here is what you need to know to be successful in this process.

Determining Truck Size

This is the most logical place to start when renting a moving truck. Obviously, this will depend on the amount of stuff you actually have in your home, but the following is a general estimate:

• 10 Foot Truck: Smallish one bedroom apartment
• 14 Foot: Truck: 1-2 bedrooms
• 17 Foot Truck: 2-3 bedrooms
• 24 Foot Truck: 3-4 bedrooms
• 26 Foot Truck: 4 or more bedrooms

Truck size can also be determined by calling a rental company and giving them your inventory list. However, this can be a trick and more problematic, as most people tend to forget some things.

Truck Cost

There are several factors which contribute to the overall cost of the truck rental, including:

• Truck size
• Number of days the truck is needed
• Time of the year you are moving (busy season versus off-season)
• Distance you will be traveling
• One-way rental (a long distance move) or a local, round trip rental

You will also need to pay for the fuel costs along the way. Most companies will also require you return the truck with at least half a tank of fuel, or more. Always inquire about any possible extra charges that could be imposed.

Obtain Several Estimates

Before actually making a final decision, it is important to shop around and obtain at least two or three estimates. This will also help you to compare moving services in addition to the costs. Be sure to also ask a number of questions:

• What is included in the price?
• Is there a per mile charge?
• What size truck would you recommend for this move?
• Are there any available discounts?
• Is it more expensive for a one-way move?
• How much gas needs to be in the tank upon return?
• Are there any cancellation fees?
• Do you require a deposit?

Have Proper Tools & Materials

While the truck may have some special features for helping out with a move, make sure you have other items to help protect and safely load your things onto (and off of) the truck. This can include a dolly or hand truck for help actually moving your items around. Pads and Blankets are also beneficial in protecting furniture and other items from damage while on the truck.

The final step of the process is to inspect the truck, sign your documents and then take your truck.