Hiring movers can be expensive, and depending on the value or fragility of your items, it can be risky. It might make more sense to get your family and friends to help you move in some situations. If you’re willing to do the heavy lifting yourself, you could save some money and possibly some frustration. However, when you decide to move yourself, there are some things to consider. One of the biggest things you will need to figure out is how you will move your belongings. Often, people doing a DIY move will need a rental truck. When the move comes, nothing will make a bigger difference than selecting the right truck and rental company.
Trying to move everything in pickup trucks could prove costly and take a significant amount of time to make several trips. Renting a large box truck will help simplify the process and make your move a little easier. If you are considering a rental truck for your move, there are a few things that you need to think about in terms of truck rental companies and the actual rental. Let’s look at some of the things you should know about getting a rental truck for your move.
Renting and Driving Requirements
Depending on the rental company, you probably have to meet a certain age requirement to rent a box truck. All rental companies will require that you have a valid driver’s license and be at least 18 years old. However, some rental companies require that renters be at least 21 years of age. Additionally, rental companies usually have policies that allow up to four drivers per truck. You will want to check with your rental company to understand their specific allowances. In all cases, additional drivers must have a valid license and be included in the rental contract. In some situations, a fee may be charged for additional drivers. It is important to note that the person who signs the truck rental lease is responsible for the truck.
Insurance Requirements
Similar to a valid driver’s license, you will also be required to have valid auto insurance. Before renting a moving truck, you should check with your insurance company to see if you will be covered when driving the vehicle. If not, you may need to purchase additional insurance coverage. The truck rental company may offer additional coverage for damage to the truck or cargo. You need to consider insurance coverages carefully, as it could be very costly to repair a box truck without proper coverage.
Moving Truck Size
Like renting a storage unit, the size of the truck you need will dictate your price for the rental. You need to consider the size of your truck very carefully. If you get a truck that is too small, you will end up making several trips. On the other hand, if you get a truck that is too large, you will be paying for space that you don’t need. Take stock of what you will need to move and calculate how much space will be required. Rental truck sizes usually range from 10 to 26 feet. Taking advantage of packing tips can help you maximize your space. Depending on your situation, a truck for a local move could cost around $130 while a long-distance move could cost around $1,700. The price will depend on the size of the truck you need.
Additional Fees
Be sure to consult with your rental company to understand what’s included in the rental price. You will usually be paying for any gas, taxes, or tolls required during your move. Aside from this, however, the company may charge a per-mile fee on top of the base rent. You might also be subject to a fee if you return the truck with insufficient gas or after a designated time.
A rental truck can be the perfect solution for your DIY move. If you are renting a truck, you will want to consider size, fees, and requirements to get the most affordable option.
