|
Do It Yourself Moving
 Looking for ways to save money during your next move? Renting
a moving truck is one of the more cost-effective ways to relocate
a whole household or even a small office. Just like renting a car,
you can rent a truck or van to personally transport your articles
and belongings anywhere within the continental United States.
The rental cost of a self-move truck depends on the size of the
truck and the distance traveled. Most moving truck rental companies
maintain branches in almost all of the major cities in America,
which allows them to offer one-way truck rentals for the renters'
convenience.
Moving Truck Rental Guide:
- Inquire about the rental prices to gauge which moving truck
rental company best meets your budget. Truck rental rates are often
on a per-day basis. Some truck rental companies, however, quote
higher than others because they have new and well-maintained trucks,
offer free unlimited mileage, or provide special services and conveniences.
Some truck rentals come with a standard free mileage plus charges
per additional mile. Estimate the number of miles you will need
to travel, so that you can have an idea of your total rental expense.
- Make reservations at the truck rental office, online, or over
the phone, preferably a week or two before the day of the move.
Make reservations for towing equipment and accessories, too, if
you will need them.
- Present the required documents. The moving truck rental company
will need to see some documents before they release their vehicle
to you. These documents include: a valid driver's license (to see
if you’re an authorized and legally qualified driver); a
major credit card (for payment or as a form of security); proof
of insurance (to see if you are personally covered in case of untoward
incidents).
- Give information about your intended move.
The moving rental company will also ask you about some details
about your trip and
use of their vehicle. You will need to tell them where your destination
is, when you will pick up the truck and when you will return it,
and what cargo you are loading (household items, office equipment,
or other goods).
- Consider truck rental insurance options. You
will also be offered optional insurance plans that you may want
to avail of, such as
personal accident insurance, cargo insurance, and limited loss
and damage waver. Inquire about the coverage and decide if you
want to add any to your rental package.
- Consider moving supplies and packing materials. Packing cartons,
adhesive tape, bubble wraps, cords, and protection bags are
all available at the rental office. You may want to purchase them
before you start packing. Furniture pads, hand trucks and towing
equipment
are also available for rent.
- Pay the deposit. As part of the reservation process, you
will be asked for an initial deposit on the estimated total
charges.
You may always opt to pay the full amount for convenience.
- Inspect the rental truck. Before you drive away with the rental
truck, inspect the vehicle closely. The rental company usually
has a standard form, the Truck Inspection Report, to fill up. Note
all existing scratches or damage that could otherwise be attributed
to your use when you return the vehicle. Confirm the accuracy of
the fuel gauge and odometer readings.
- Secure copies of all the pertinent documents of the your rental,
i.e., the Truck Rental Agreement, the Truck Inspection Report,
and Driver Trip Report. You will need these documents when you
go through weigh stations along the highways, and when you return
the vehicle.
- Load and drive. Load your items into the truck and drive safely.
For information on how to pack a truck visit our moving guides.
- Return the truck to the designated location and close your
account with the rental company. Settle all additional charges
or collect refunds.
|
 |
|
Do It Yourself Moving