Using a rental truck for a move can be one of the smartest and best financial ideas you’ve made. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you won’t need to break your back either. Follow this checklist to help you find the right size truck, figure out if you need to hire moving labor, and learn how to load the moving truck properly.
8 WEEKS BEFORE
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Compare Quotes
Start shopping around for truck rental deals two months prior to your move. Truck rental companies to consider include Penske, Budget, U-Haul, Enterprise and Ryder. All companies offer numerous locations, as well as a variety of truck rental sizes. To compare quotes, check out Moversnearyou.info’s truck rental center.
Check Truck Rental’s Seating
Are you planning to drive the truck rental by yourself or with a friend? Before booking a truck rental, make sure that it comes with the right number of seats and seatbelts needed for your move.
Determine the Right Size Truck Rental
The size of your truck rental can make or break your move. For this reason, it’s extremely important to choose your size wisely. To help with this, truck rental companies should be able to provide you with size guidelines. Overall, the number of rooms and amount of things you have will determine what size moving truck you need to rent. Most truck rental companies offer at least three different sizes. When in doubt, always size up – especially if you plan to make only one trip. Those moving a three to four bedroom home should opt for a 26 foot truck rental, the largest truck rental available. If still unsure which truck rental size is right for you, call and speak to a truck rental company representative directly about the various sizes offered. Read more tips on how to choose the right size truck rental.
Check Truck Rental Return Fees
Not sure how long you’ll need the moving truck? Many truck rental companies will charge you extra for additional days and/or additional miles not purchased in advance. Before booking a truck, make sure you understand the truck rental company’s policy on late returns.
Understand Your Insurance Options
First, check to see if the truck rental company offers roadside assistance in the case of an emergency. Second, check your auto insurance policy to see whether or not it covers truck rentals. Finally, understand the type(s) of coverage that a truck rental company offers. From cargo coverage to damage waivers, you may be able to purchase additional coverage from your truck rental company.
Find Out If Truck Rental Offers Additional Equipment
Need to rent towing equipment, a dolly or other moving accessories? Find out if your truck rental company of choice offers everything you need for your move before booking a truck.
6 WEEKS BEFORE
Book Truck Rental
There are plenty of moving truck rental companies to choose from when planning your next relocation. Just make sure to choose the one that best fits your budget and needs. To book your next truck rental, check out Moversnearyou.info’s truck rental center for information and discounts.
Recruit Moving Help
Taking on a DIY move is never easy. However, with an extra set of hands (or two), it can be done. Fortunately, Moversnearyou.info has partnered with HireAHelper to help you find the best local moving labor professionals to move all of your stuff onto and off of the moving truck. All you have to do is enter your zip code and moving date. From there, the moving labor website allows customers to compare and book available labor professionals in the area.
Read Tips on Driving a Truck Rental
Driving a large moving truck down busy roads is no joke. Before hitting the road, be sure to research tips on how to properly operate the vehicle. Several important things to remember include reducing your speed when turning corners, using caution when in reverse and familiarizing yourself with height clearances. Read more safety tips on driving a truck rental.
Find Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations
When booking your truck rental, check all pick-up and drop-off locations. If you’re planning a one-way trip, make sure that the pick-up location is near your old home and the drop-off location is near your new one. Also, be aware that not all drop-off locations accept one-way truck rentals. In other words, you may not be able to rent a truck in one place and return it in another.
Check State Transportation Requirements
Setting out on a long distance move? Be sure to check whether or not you’ll have to stop at weigh stations while on the road. While laws vary by state, most truck rental customers driving non-commercial vehicles won’t be required to stop at weigh stations when crossing state lines. However, some states do require that all trucks weighing a certain amount stop at weigh stations when in transport. To find out if you’ll be required to stop at weigh stations while you’re on the road, call the specific Department of Transportation office for each state that you plan to pass through.
MOVING DAY
Familiarize Yourself With the Truck Rental
Before getting on the highway, take your truck rental for a spin around the neighborhood. Spend time locating windshield wipers, blind spots and turn signals in the car. Don’t forget to adjust the mirrors as well. Be sure to review the owner’s manual to find specific details about your truck, such as height clearance for passing under bridges and the type of gas the truck requires.
Load Moving Truck Correctly
Disassemble all furniture before loading it onto the truck. Be sure to place heavier items on the bottom and lighter items on top. The heaviest items such as couches and dressers should go in the front end of the truck rental (near the cab). Also, save space in your truck rental by placing mattresses and headboards in a vertical position. All rugs should also be rolled up and secured in plastic wrap to conserve room in the truck. Wrap upholstered couches, chairs and other furniture in moving blankets to prevent damage while in transport. Finally, leave moving day essentials in a readily accessible spot towards the back of the truck (near the door). That way you’ll be able to easily grab whatever you need during the day. Read more tips on packing a moving truck like a pro.
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