Moving to a new home is exciting but can also drain your wallet. If you’re looking for ways to save money, renting a moving truck can be more effective than hiring expensive moving companies. You can enjoy a do-it-yourself moving experience with rental trucks that won’t break the bank. The average cost of moving truck rent varies based on several factors, such as the truck’s size, the type of vehicle, and the distance you’ll be traveling.
You can expect to spend around $130 for local moves, while long-distance moves cost approximately $1,780. However, consider that alternative options are available, including moving containers and full-service movers, depending on your specific needs. In this comprehensive guide, the This Old House Reviews Team explores the intricacies of renting a moving truck, delving into pricing details, and offering valuable tips to maximize your savings. If you’re planning a move, explore SecureSpace Self Storage for reliable storage solutions to accompany your moving process.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Renting a Moving Truck
Size of the Moving Truck
The size of the moving truck is one of the primary factors determining the cost. Moving truck rental companies offer a range of truck sizes to accommodate different moving needs. The larger the truck, the higher the rental price is likely to be. It’s important to assess your belongings and choose a truck size that can comfortably accommodate all your items without being too spacious, as you don’t want to pay for unnecessary space.
Duration of Rental
The duration of the rental period also plays a significant role in determining the cost. Moving truck rental companies typically charge based on 24 hours. If you require the truck for an extended period, such as a week or more, the cost will be higher than a shorter rental duration. It’s advisable to plan your moving schedule to ensure you rent the truck for the required time without incurring unnecessary costs.
Distance of the Move
The distance of your move is another critical factor influencing the cost of renting a moving truck. Rental companies often charge a base rate for the truck rental and then add a per-mile fee for the distance traveled. If you’re moving locally, the per-mile fee may not significantly impact the overall cost. However, the distance traveled can substantially increase the cost of long-distance moves. Be sure to factor in the distance and estimate the mileage for an accurate cost estimate.
Seasonal Demand
The time of year also affects the cost of renting a moving truck. The peak moving season is the summer, particularly between May and September. During this time, demand for moving trucks is high, and rental rates are higher than in other seasons. If you have the flexibility to schedule your move during off-peak months, such as winter or early spring, you can secure a lower rental rate.
Additional Costs
Compared to even the most budget-friendly moving companies, a rental truck is often the most economical choice for your move. However, it’s essential to consider additional expenses beyond the basic rental rates and mileage charges. These include:
- Insurance: Rental companies typically provide insurance options to cover the rented truck and your belongings during the move. Carefully review the terms and conditions of any damage waiver or moving insurance policy to understand what is included and excluded.
- Packing supplies: If you plan to pack your belongings, purchase packing materials. To save money, you can check online marketplaces for used supplies or ask local businesses for free boxes from deliveries. Alternatively, compare prices at stores like The Home Depot, Lowes, and Walmart. Many truck rental companies and office supply stores also stock packing materials.
- Moving services: Packing and loading personal belongings into a rental truck can be significant, especially if you handle it alone. For local moves, you may save money by enlisting the help of friends and family. However, professional movers might be worth considering to make the process more manageable for long-distance moves. Although this incurs an additional cost, it can save you time and effort.
- Moving equipment rentals: You may only need to hire professional loaders to rent moving equipment, such as dollies, furniture pads, and straps. These extra rental charges can accumulate rapidly.
- Fuel and tolls: You may encounter toll roads if you’re traveling a considerable distance. Some rental companies offer toll packages to help mitigate toll costs, so it’s worth inquiring about these options when reserving your truck. Additionally, consider the cost of gasoline, especially for long-distance moves.
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What is the average cost of a truck rental?
The typical expense associated with renting a truck averages around $1,550. However, the actual cost can depend on various factors, such as the truck’s size and the journey’s distance. For shorter local trips, prices can start as low as $130; for more extensive long-distance moves, the cost can increase to approximately $3,250.
Here is a breakdown of the average costs for truck rentals at different distances:
| Distance | One-Room Apartment | Two-Room Apartment | Three-Room Home | Five-Room Home |
| 50 miles | $130 | $130 | $140 | $190 |
| 450 miles | $710 | $750 | $800 | $1,030 |
| 1,750 miles | $1,640 | $1,690 | $1,790 | $2,140 |
These figures provide a general overview of the average truck rental prices. Prices may vary based on specific rental companies, additional services, and ongoing promotions or discounts.
How much does a truck rental price to move locally vs. one way?
The cost of moving locally differs from that of a one-way trip, with rental truck expenses being more affordable for local moves. On average, local rentals cost approximately $150, while one-way trips cost around $1,780. Typically, as the distance increases, so does the overall cost.
Comparison between local and one-way truck rental costs:
Local:
| Property Size | Average Cost |
| 1-room apartment | $130 |
| 2-room apartment | $130 |
| 3-room home | $140 |
| 5-room home | $190 |
One-way:
| Property Size | Average Cost |
| 1-room apartment | $1,570 |
| 2-room apartment | $1,610 |
| 3-room home | $1,740 |
| 5-room home | $2,210 |
How does moving truck size affect the cost?
The cost of your moving truck is influenced by its size. Generally, larger trucks tend to be more expensive. However, it’s important to note that different rental truck companies may offer different truck sizes based on the size of your home.
We contacted the three leading rental truck companies and asked for their recommendations on truck sizes for various home sizes. U-Haul’s 10-foot rental truck is the smallest option available, while both U-Haul and Budget Truck Rental offer a 26-foot truck, the largest truck in their fleet.
Here are the recommended moving truck sizes based on home size:
Budget Truck Rental:
- 1-room apartment: 12 ft. truck
- 2-room apartment: 12 ft. truck
- 3-room home: 16 ft. truck
- 5-room home: 26 ft. truck
Penske Truck Rental:
- 1-room apartment: 12 ft. truck
- 2-room apartment: 16 ft. truck
- 3-room home: 16 ft. truck
- 5-room home: 22 ft. truck
U-Haul:
- 1-room apartment: 10 ft. truck
- 2-room apartment: 15 ft. truck
- 3-room home: 20 ft. truck
- 5-room home: 26 ft. truck
By considering these recommended truck sizes, you can make an informed decision based on the size of your home and the corresponding truck options provided by these rental companies.
How much are moving truck fees?
The fees of renting a moving truck can accumulate considerably, typically reaching several hundred dollars. These charges may vary depending on the rental truck company, but they are unavoidable for everyone. It’s a common occurrence to end up spending more on your truck rental than initially anticipated.
Several fundamental costs are not usually included in your initial quote, but they contribute significantly to the overall expenses:
- Fuel: The fuel cost is not in the original quote, and rental trucks tend to have poor gas mileage.
- Insurance: To safeguard against potential damages, purchasing insurance coverage typically amounts to over $100.
- Mileage: For local moves, a mileage fee is often charged (although long-distance moves usually have unlimited mileage).
- Supplies: If you require additional items such as boxes, furniture pads, or tie-down straps, expect to pay extra.
- Taxes: While taxes are mandatory, they are not always included in the initial quote.
- Towing Equipment: Renting a car trailer or tow dolly comes with an additional cost.
Which moving truck company is the cheapest?
Budget Truck Rental is known for offering the most affordable rates among moving truck companies. Their cost of $1,520 is approximately $30 lower than the industry average. However, it’s important to consider that the cheapest option may vary depending on specific circumstances. Each major truck rental company tends to have the lowest prices in different situations.
You can refer to our list for a comprehensive breakdown of the cheapest rental truck companies. Nonetheless, here are some noteworthy highlights:
- Budget Truck Rental: This company is ideal for customers moving locally. They offer competitive rates and cost-effective solutions for shorter-distance relocations.
- Penske Truck Rental: If you’re moving long distances or have a large home, Penske Truck Rental is often the most affordable choice. They cater to customers with substantial moving needs and offer competitive pricing.
- U-Haul: U-Haul is recommended for those seeking low-cost insurance coverage along with their rental truck. They provide budget-friendly insurance options to ensure peace of mind during the moving process.
By considering your specific requirements and comparing the offerings of these rental truck companies, you can find the most economical option for your move.
When should I use Budget Truck Rental?
If you are looking for an affordable option for your move, Budget Truck Rental is a great choice. There are certain situations where using Budget Truck Rental would be beneficial. Firstly, if you are moving within the same town or city, Budget Truck Rental is a cost-effective option. Their prices for local moves are, on average, $70 less expensive than other companies, making it the cheapest overall.
In addition to being affordable, Budget Truck Rental offers various discounts, making it even more appealing. Various discounts are available for groups, including AARP members, Bar Association members, military personnel, Motor Club members, online orders, police, firefighters, EMTs, and students. These discounts can reduce the cost of your rental.
When comparing the average costs of truck rentals, Budget Truck Rental stands out as the most affordable option. Their average cost of $80 is $30 lower than other companies, such as Penske Truck Rental and U-Haul, which have average costs of $110 and $260, respectively.
When should I use Penske Truck Rental?
Penske Truck Rental is an excellent choice for several situations. Firstly, opting for Penske Truck Rental makes sense if you have a large home. Their trucks are spacious and can accommodate your belongings with ease. Additionally, Penske Truck Rental is a reliable option if you embark on a long-distance journey. They offer competitive prices for large home sizes and extended moves, ensuring affordability throughout your trip.
One standout aspect of Penske Truck Rental is its transparent pricing policy. Unlike other rental truck companies, Penske provides nearly 100% accurate estimates, covering all costs except gas. It eliminates any surprises or hidden fees, giving you peace of mind during the rental process. Comparatively, other companies like U-Haul may initially quote lower prices but charge approximately 60% more than the initial estimate. Penske Truck Rental’s commitment to upfront pricing is commendable and sets them apart from the competition.
To illustrate this further, let’s consider the following examples of initial quotes and their corresponding final costs:
| Truck Rental Company | Initial Quote | Final Cost | Amount Above Quote |
| Penske Truck Rental | $1,360 | $1,540 | $180 |
| Budget Truck Rental | $1,170 | $1,520 | $350 |
| U-Haul | $1,180 | $1,580 | $400 |
Penske Truck Rental is a trustworthy option when you require a rental truck, especially for a large home or long-distance move. Their transparent pricing and accurate estimates ensure you receive a reliable, cost-effective service without any surprises.
When should I use a U-Haul truck?
When considering renting a truck, U-Haul is a suitable option in certain circumstances. One should opt for a U-Haul truck when seeking affordable insurance coverage or when alternatives such as Budget Truck Rental or Penske Truck Rental are not easily accessible. U-Haul provides insurance for $70, significantly lower than other rental truck companies, whose average insurance cost is around $130.
How To Find a Moving Truck Rental Company
When searching for a moving truck rental company, it’s essential to follow a few steps to ensure you find a reliable option:
- Conduct thorough research: Begin by researching various rental companies. Look for online reviews and ratings to gauge the quality of their services. Additionally, seek recommendations from friends, family, and neighbors who have previously used rental services.
- Compare rental rates: Once you have a list of potential rental companies, compare their rates and fees. Consider all the associated costs, such as mileage, fuel, and insurance. Transparent pricing is crucial, so opt for companies that provide clear information regarding their charges.
- Evaluate truck sizes: Not all rental companies offer the same range of truck sizes. Determine the type and size of truck you require for your move and eliminate companies without suitable options.
- Check availability: If you’re moving on short notice or during peak seasons, availability may be limited. It’s best to book your rental well in advance to avoid any complications.
- Review the rental agreement: Carefully read the terms and conditions before signing any rental agreement. Pay attention to hidden fees that might be added to your rental costs. Ensure you fully understand the company’s insurance, fuel, and mileage policies.
- Consider additional services: Some rental companies offer additional services like packing, loading, and unloading assistance. If you require extra help with your move, consider these services. However, remember to factor in the additional cost they may incur.
Following these steps, you can find a moving truck rental company that meets your needs and ensures a smooth moving experience.
FAQs about Renting a Moving Truck
Can I rent a moving truck for a one-way move?
Yes, most moving truck rental companies offer one-way rentals, allowing you to pick up the truck at one location and then drop it off at your destination. However, remember that one-way rentals typically incur higher costs due to the logistics involved.
Are there age restrictions for renting a moving truck?
There are age restrictions for renting a moving truck. Rental companies require the driver to be at least 18 or 21 years old, depending on their policies. Additionally, some companies may have specific requirements for drivers under 25, such as higher insurance fees.
Do I need a special license to drive a moving truck?
A regular driver’s license is usually sufficient to drive a moving truck. However, it’s always a good idea to check the specific requirements of the rental company and the regulations of the state or country where you’ll be driving.
Can I tow my car behind a moving truck?
Some moving truck rental companies offer towing options for vehicles. However, it’s essential to inquire about this in advance and understand the requirements, fees, and limitations of towing a vehicle.
Can I cancel or reschedule my truck rental reservation?
Yes, most rental companies allow you to cancel or reschedule your reservation. However, cancellation fees or restrictions may exist, especially if you cancel at the last minute. It’s best to review the rental company’s policies regarding cancellations and rescheduling before making a reservation.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a moving truck?
While reputable rental companies strive to be transparent about their fees, it’s essential to carefully review the rental agreement and ask about any potential hidden fees. Additional charges may include cleaning fees for returning the truck in poor condition or late fees for exceeding the rental duration.
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