Moving can be both exciting and stressful. Those of us who move frequently know the level of planning that goes behind it. From comparing moving companies to finding the right truck that will fit all your things, it can be quite comprehensive. You’ll have to familiarize yourself with the moving truck, make sure you have insurance, etc.
However, there’s no need to feel down, this is where we step in! With the 8 essential tips that you should know before you rent a moving truck, your moving experience will be so much easier than it was before.
So, let’s get started, shall we?
1. Comparing Companies
Not all moving truck rentals are the same, it’s best to check out some beforehand before you make a decision. Some might charge you a large sum upfront, while others may charge you to pay per mile.
Even if you do pay per mile, is there somewhere near your destination where you can drop off the truck? Do you have to go all the way back to return the truck? Will those miles count as well?
These are the types of questions you should be asking when you’re comparing companies. Find out what works best for you and use that information to make your move as smooth as possible.
Keep in mind there are certain companies that have expensive insurance companies under them. In case of any fallout, things can get messy real fast. It’s best to hire a truck accident attorney by your side.
2. The Right Size
It should come as no surprise that size does matter when it comes to renting a moving truck. A truck too big will leave you with not only more space, but you’ll also be spending more money on it.
They are also tricky and hard to operate if you’re not used to it. Similarly, a truck too small won’t fit all your things and you’ll be left feeling disappointed.
One easy way to find the right truck for yourself is by going on the internet. Yes, it’s that easy, just type in “truck size estimator” in any search engine and you’ll be presented with a list of pages.
There are pages that will give you an accurate size after you put in your moving information. Keep in mind that finding the right sized truck is very important when you’re moving. Do your research well before you rent one!
3. Always Book in Advance
Another important tip is to book your truck in advance. Never make the mistake of waiting till the last minute. Chances are you will get the truck you’re looking for if you book early.
There are specific times of the year where reservation or booking a moving truck may be hard. It’s never a good idea to wait until the last minute to book a rental truck. Booking a month to a week in advance will do just fine.
This small precaution will make your moving experience so much easier.
4. Get Comfortable With the Truck
Before you actually book the truck, ask to take a closer look at it.
You can sit inside, get the feel and sense of the truck to see if you’re going to be comfortable or not in it.
Contrary to popular, it’s not that hard to drive a moving truck. Adjust the side mirrors to your liking, this will help you to see the left and right and you should be good to go.
When you’re on the road, it’s important to drive carefully and pay attention to your surroundings. Checking your mirror before changing lanes and giving yourself a little bit of room before making a turn onto a road is extremely vital.
It’s time to look at other options if you don’t feel safe driving your truck. You can get a small truck and make two trips out of it or have a friend help you out.
5. Be Prepared With Insurance!
Before renting a truck, check with your car insurance company to see if they cover rental trucks as well or not. Find out what they cover if they do have something about rental trucks.
They might provide full coverage to no coverage and in case there is an accident, you’re going to need insurance. Purchase additional insurance if your company doesn’t provide any.
There’s no reason to believe an accident is bound to happen. However, it’s best to be prepared than be sorry later!
6. Vehicle Check
After you’ve rented your truck and are done with all the formalities with the insurance, the rental company will do a check-up on the truck before you head out with it.
This is done by a technician who will have official paperwork and a diagram of your vehicle. They’ll take notes about the damages the truck already has like dents, scratches, etc.
In the event that the rental company doesn’t do a spot check, be sure to remind them right away. It’s vital because when you return the truck they’ll know you’re not responsible for the damages.
7. Smart Packing
It’s always a good idea to ask for help when you’re moving. Even more so if you’re moving all by yourself.
Tugging along large furniture or items is not really a job for one person. Unless you have minimal stuff, then it’s fine to do it by yourself. It’s a smart move to utilize the space of the truck before you start loading your things.
Next is having some basic moving equipment at your disposal, like bungee cords to secure your belongings, moving pads or blankets to help pull and push things, hand truck and some ropes.
There are trucks that will have a ramp for you to pull and push your things off of it. This will make moving heavy items much smoother, so make sure to get a truck with a ramp in it!
8. Plan Out Your Trip Beforehand
Planning out your trip beforehand can save your life, literally. Knowing where you can stop for gas and some food can be a real blessing when you’re moving somewhere far.
You can rent a room in a hotel in advance and find out which roads allow trucks on them and which don’t. You can take help from some smartphone apps where they will show you the right roads to take.
Finally, it’s essential that you are fill-up the truck before you return it. The company requires you to return it with a full tank otherwise they can charge you.
The price will not be reasonable so it’s best to save yourself from losing unnecessary money. Have everything planned beforehand so that you face the minimum of hassle when you’re finally moving, it’s the smart way.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, we’d like to say that moving itself doesn’t have to be something tricky or hard. With a bit of careful planning and thinking, you can easily overcome the hassle that comes with it.
We hope the tips we’ve provided come in handy and make your moving experience an easy one. Remember to share these tips with your friends, family or anyone you know who is moving!
