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How to Rent a Truck for Moving

Renting a truck is one of many expenses incurred in self-moving. It is often cheaper to hire a mover with uShip once you factor costs such as: fuel, mileage charges, lost work days, highway tolls, food, plane tickets, hotels and etc. While this all depends on the details of your move, determining what size truck you need to rent is the first step. Once you have determined this, add up the total foreseeable costs. Then compare this price against the quotes offered by competitive, customer-rated professional carriers on uShip. With this comparison, you can make an informed decision and be sure that you are saving.

Rental Truck Fees

Some companies charge for truck rentals by day with mileage included. Some charge a flat fee with additional mileage charges. Read your rental contract to understand any mileage limitations or daily fees. Additionally, you may also incur charges for additional equipment such as ramps, dollies, or packing supplies. Finally, you are also responsible for the cost of gas, so be sure to include an estimate in your moving budget.

Rental Truck Insurance

When you pick up your rented moving truck, the company will ask for a valid driver’s license, a credit card, and proof of insurance. Your personal auto policy may already include coverage for a rental truck and you may have additional insurance through your credit card company if you use the card to pay for the rental. If you are not covered by either of these options, the rental company can provide driver’s insurance for the truck. Also, you can ask the company about purchasing additional insurance to cover damage to your belongings.

What Size Truck Should You Rent?

When renting a truck or trailer for a self-move, don’t be confused when you have to decide what size to go with. Most truck rental companies can recommend a size based on how many rooms you are moving. Typically the recommendations are as follows:

  • Studio or small 1 bedroom – 10 feet
  • 1-2 bedrooms – 14 feet
  • 2-3 bedrooms – 17 feet
  • 3-4 bedrooms – 24 feet
  • 4+ bedrooms – 27 feet