Moving can be an expensive venture and renting a truck to do it in is a huge part of that. We’ve gone ahead and compiled a list of some things we think might be overlooked when considering renting a moving truck.
- Rental Requirements – While rental moving trucks don’t require a commercial driver’s license to operate, they do require that you have a valid driver’s license, a credit or debit card, and be at least 18 years old.
- Rates Aren’t All Inclusive – Quotes include a base rate, which is based on things like equipment size, move date, pick-up and drop-off locations, and a set number of days and miles for you to use the truck. This rate does not include fuel, liability insurance, and tolls. Make sure you budget for these additional costs.
- Moving Trucks Are Not Very Fuel Efficient – Unfortunately, being a large truck that isn’t particularly aerodynamic cuts down on fuel-efficiency. As a result, moving trucks require frequent fuel fill-ups. Moving trucks on average, get just about 10-12 mpg, and with tanks that are roughly 30-60 gallons, you can expect to have to stop for gas about every 300-400 miles.
- Moving Trucks Are Used Often – Moving trucks get used by lots of people some moving short distances some long distances so be aware, the equipment you’re renting is usually decently used. Make sure you perform an inspection of the truck prior to driving away.
- Reservation Details – Making a reservation for a truck does not always guarantee the equipment being available. There are only so many trucks and if one isn’t dropped off on its scheduled day and time, it may not be available when it was expected to be. Usually, a moving truck representative will call you the day before to cement your reservation and make it official that your truck will be where it needs to be. If it isn’t compensation is usually available, or another truck may be offered to you.
- Driving A Moving Truck Can Be Challenging – If you have multiple potential drivers, make sure you choose one that is up to the task. Maneuvering such a large vehicle or a trailer takes some skill and experience to move safely. Be mindful of the difference between moving an empty moving truck versus an empty one too, it makes a difference.
Want More Tips and Tricks?
There are a lot of factors to consider when renting anything. You’re borrowing something for a set period of time and that means liability concerns and reservation details among other things. When you’re moving, you have a lot on your mind already so it can be easy to glaze over some details that might make a huge difference in the end. If you’d like to learn more, call Family Moving & Storage at 321-372-1005 or visit our contact page. We’re experts when it comes to moving and we’d love to do it with you.