Moving Office : A Quick Guide to Renting a Moving Truck or Van

One of the most cost-effective methods of moving, renting a truck or a van can also be quite convenient. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. This quick guide to renting a moving truck or van will help you make the most of the situation.

1. Shop for the best rates

In a lot of cases, weekday rates are lower than weekend rates because moving trucks tend to sit idle Monday through Friday. If you can swing it, you might save some cash by doing your move on a Wednesday, as opposed to a Saturday. Similarly, the last week of a given month tends to be busier because apartment dwellers usually move at the end of the month. High demand means higher prices, so try to time your move when other people are standing pat.

2. Get a slightly larger truck than you think you’ll need

The size of the truck you choose will be determined by the amount of furniture and accessories your current place holds. A 12-foot truck is usually good for the typical one-bedroom apartment. Lengths usually run from 12 to 26 feet. Most rental companies offer a calculator tool to help you determine what you’ll need based upon what you have. It’s always better to get a slightly larger truck than you think you’ll require so you can still make the move in one trip if you underestimate.

3. Always get the insurance

Yes, it costs extra, but if something happens, you walk away with no hassles. This is particularly important in the case of moving vehicles because your personal car insurance typically excludes them. Get insurance coverage for your belongings too; if a calamity occurs with everything you own on board, you’ll be very glad you paid for the extra insurance. Whether you’re renting a moving van or using your own vehicle(s) to haul your stuff between locations, you’ll want to check out auto insurance quotes to make sure you have the coverage you need before you hit the road.

4.Conduct a thorough inspection before driving away

Set your smartphone to video mode and walk all the way around the truck recording its appearance. If you see damage, go back and take still photographs to document the appearance of the truck before you take possession of it. Smartphone pictures automatically record the time, date and location of their creation. If you’re accused of inflicting damage upon the vehicle, you can show it was pre-existing.

5. Practice driving before loading your things

A moving truck is considerably larger than your car or SUV, so practice with it a bit to make sure you can comfortably maneuver the vehicle. Before you go home and start loading, take the truck to an empty parking lot to practice backing up and turning so you can get a feel for its responsiveness. Once the truck is laden with your possessions, it will handle a bit more sluggishly, so take your time. Don’t expect it to accelerate rapidly, stop quickly or turn with agility. Most rentals come with automatic transmissions. Even if you are good with a stick, that’s one less thing to think about while piloting an oversized vehicle—get the automatic.

6. Clean and refuel the truck before you take it back

Sweep out the cargo area and vacuum the cab. If you drove the truck through mud or over a very dusty road, give it a quick wash. If it was full of fuel when you got it, make sure it’s full when you take it back. Hand trucks, cushioning blankets and any other equipment should be properly stowed and secured. Your diligence in these areas will help you avoid supplemental charges for cleaning, fuel and lost or damaged equipment.

This quick guide to renting a moving truck or van will help you avoid costly mistakes and keep your possessions safe during your move. Moving can be a lot of work, but if you’re smart, it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money.