The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.
Moving can be exciting but also one of the most stressful experiences of your life.
Whether you are relocating for a new job, upgrading to a bigger home, or simply seeking a change of scenery, the task of moving all your belongings from one place to another can be stressful.
But as they say, proper preparation makes the journey smoother, and one of the first steps in preparing for your move is choosing the right moving truck rental.
Did you know that about 14% of people in the United States move every year?
That’s roughly 40 million people relocating across the country annually.
According to a survey, the average cost of a moving truck rental for a local move ranges from $100 to $400, while long-distance moves can cost upwards of $1,000 or more.
In this blog, we will discuss everything related to moving truck rental, from understanding the cost to figuring out how to pick the best truck size for your move.
It doesn’t matter if you are searching for affordable moving truck rental options or wondering how much a moving truck rental for a long-distance move might cost; we've got you covered.
What Is a Moving Truck Rental?
A moving truck rental is a service where a company provides you with a truck to rent for the purpose of moving your items.
It’s a convenient option for those who are moving themselves rather than hiring full-service movers.
You can rent these trucks from several rental companies, often for a day, a few days, or even a week, depending on your needs.
But with so many options, how do you know what’s best for your move?
Types of Moving Trucks
Choosing the right truck size is critical to a smooth move.
Renting a truck that's too small could lead to multiple trips while renting one that's too large might cost you more in gas and rental fees.
Here’s a rundown of common truck sizes and when to use them:
Cargo Vans: Great for small moves such as moving a few items or a small apartment. These are best for studio apartments or dorm rooms.
10-foot Trucks: Ideal for one-bedroom apartments. If you're moving into a small apartment, this size is perfect.
15-foot Trucks: Suitable for a two-bedroom apartment or a small house. It offers more space and flexibility.
20-foot Trucks: If you're moving from a larger apartment or a small house, this truck should give you enough room for most of your belongings.
26-foot Trucks: Perfect for larger moves. If you're moving to a large house with several bedrooms, this is likely the size you need.
How Much Does a Moving Truck Rental Cost?
When it comes to moving truck rental, the cost can depend on several factors.
Now, if you’re thinking about renting a truck for your move, you might be asking: How much is this going to cost me?
The price of renting a truck isn't just the base rental fee. There are several elements that contribute to the final price, and the key to saving money is understanding each one.
Base Rental Fee
First, the base rental fee is the most straightforward cost. This is the daily charge you pay to rent the truck.
Typically, the base price is determined by the truck size and rental duration.
So, if you need a larger truck for a long-distance move, expect to pay more.
For local moves, the base rental fee usually ranges from $19.95 to $39.95 per day. However, remember that this only covers the truck and doesn't include any additional services or charges.
Rental Price Estimates by Truck Size
| Truck Size | Base Daily Rental Fee |
|---|---|
| 10-foot Truck | $19.95 - $29.95 |
| 15-foot Truck | $29.95 - $39.95 |
| 20-foot Truck | $39.95 - $49.95 |
| 26-foot Truck | $49.95 - $69.95 |
| Cargo Van | $19.95 - $24.95 |
Mileage Charges
Now, mileage charges can really affect the final cost, especially for long-distance moves.
For local moves, many companies offer unlimited mileage, meaning you pay a flat daily rate and can drive as much as you want within that period.
But if you’re making a one-way move (moving to a different city or state), you'll likely face a mileage charge.
This typically ranges from $0.59 to $0.99 per mile.
Mileage Charges for One-Way Moves
| Distance | Average Mileage Fee |
|---|---|
| Local (Within City) | $0.00 (Usually Unlimited) |
| Long-Distance (Interstate) | $0.59 - $0.99 per mile |
Fuel Costs
You’re also responsible for the fuel in the truck, which is another big cost factor.
Most truck rental companies require you to return the vehicle with the same amount of fuel it had when you picked it up.
This means you'll need to fill up the tank before returning the truck.
The fuel cost can add up, especially for long-distance moves, so it's important to calculate how much fuel you'll need.
For example, a 26-foot truck can average around 8-10 miles per gallon, while a smaller truck or van might get 12-15 miles per gallon.
So, if you're moving 500 miles and your truck uses about 10 miles per gallon, you’ll need about 50 gallons of fuel, which could cost you anywhere between $150 and $250.
Estimated Fuel Cost for a 500-Mile Move
| Truck Size | Miles Per Gallon (MPG) | Gallons for 500 Miles | Estimated Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-foot Truck | 12 MPG | 42 gallons | $120 - $150 |
| 15-foot Truck | 10 MPG | 50 gallons | $150 - $200 |
| 20-foot Truck | 8 MPG0 | 62.5 gallons | $180 - $250 |
| 26-foot Truck | 8 MPG | 62.5 gallons | $180 - $250 |
Insurance
While you might hope to avoid this cost, insurance is important when renting a moving truck.
Insurance can protect you from costly damages that might happen during the move.
You will be offered several options, including:
Damage Waiver (DW): This is the most basic coverage that protects against damage to the truck itself. It typically costs $15 to $30 per day.
Cargo Insurance: This coverage is for your belongings in case something happens during transit. It usually costs $10 to $20 per day.
Personal Injury Protection: This covers medical expenses if you or someone else gets injured while driving the truck. It can range from $10 to $15 per day.
Additional Equipment Rentals
You may need additional equipment, such as dollies, furniture pads, or straps, to help you move your stuff.
These tools help protect your furniture and make the process much easier.
Dollies: $7 - $15 per day
Furniture Pads: $10 - $20 per day (you can also buy them)
Tie-Down Straps: $5 - $10 per day
Drop-off Fees for One-Way Moves
If you’re doing a one-way move—say, from New York to California—you’ll likely be charged a drop-off fee.
This is because the rental company will need to transport the truck back to the original location.
These fees can range from $50 to $200 or more.
Drop-off Fees for One-Way Rentals
| Distance (One-Way) | Drop-off Fee |
|---|---|
| Local (Within City) | $0 |
| Short-Distance (State) | $50 - $100 |
| Long-Distance (Cross-Country) | $150 - $300 |
Taxes and Fees
Don’t forget about taxes and miscellaneous fees. These vary by state and city but typically range from 5% to 10% of your total rental cost.
Some companies might also charge environmental fees, road taxes, or cleaning fees if the truck is returned dirty.
Total Cost Breakdown
Here’s a complete cost breakdown for a typical local move with a 15-foot truck rental:
| Cost Factor | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Base Rental Fee (per day) | $29.95 |
| Mileage (50 miles) | $30 (50 miles at $0.60/mile) |
| Fuel (for 50 miles) | $15 |
| Insurance (Damage Waiver) | $20 |
| Equipment (Dolly, Furniture Pads) | $25 |
| Taxes & Fees | $10 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $130.95 |
For a long-distance move, the total could easily exceed $1,000, depending on the distance, truck size, and additional charges like drop-off fees, mileage, and fuel costs.
Factors Influencing Rental Costs
Truck Size: The larger the truck, the higher the price. Expect to pay more for a 26-foot truck compared to a 10-foot one.
Distance: The price is generally lower if you're moving locally, but for long-distance moves, expect to pay more for mileage and gas.
Duration of Rental: The longer you rent the truck, the more you’ll pay. Most rental companies offer daily, weekly, or monthly rental options.
Insurance: If you want to ensure your belongings are covered during the move, you’ll need to add insurance to your rental.
Mileage: Some rental services charge a set amount per mile. If you're moving a long distance, this can add up quickly.
Fuel Costs: Don’t forget that you’re responsible for refilling the truck before returning it. Be sure to factor in fuel costs for longer trips.
Affordable Moving Truck Rentals
If you're on a budget, you might ask: What’s the cheapest moving truck rental option?
It's important to compare quotes from different companies and to consider what each rental package offers.
Companies like U-Haul, Penske, and Budget Truck Rental have competitive pricing.
But remember that the cheapest option may not always be the best if it means cutting corners on customer service or reliability.
If you are renting a moving truck for a local move, you can find a cheap rental for as little as $20 per day.
But for long-distance moves, even with affordable moving truck rental options, you should expect a higher cost.
How to Choose the Best Moving Truck Rental Company
Choosing the right moving truck rental company is just as important as picking the right truck size for your move.
After all, the last thing you want is a company with hidden fees, poor customer service, or unexpected problems with your rental.
So, how do you go about choosing the best company for your needs?
Determine Your Moving Needs
Before even starting to compare rental companies, it’s essential to understand exactly what you need from a moving truck rental.
Do you need a small cargo van or a large 26-foot truck for a cross-country move?
Knowing your specific requirements helps you narrow down your options.
Start by asking yourself these questions:
· How far are you moving? (Local or long-distance?)
· What size is your current home, and how much stuff are you moving?
· Do you need additional equipment (dollies, moving blankets, etc.)?
By answering these questions, you’ll already have a clearer idea of what kind of services and truck sizes you require.
Research and Compare Prices
Price is a significant factor when choosing a moving truck rental company, but it’s not just about finding the cheapest option.
You need to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Here’s how to compare prices:
Get multiple quotes: Reach out to at least 3 or 4 rental companies for quotes. Most companies will provide free estimates online or over the phone.
Look beyond the base rate: A low base rate might be appealing, but make sure to factor in other costs like mileage, insurance, fuel, and extra charges.
Check for discounts and deals: Some companies offer seasonal discounts or promotional offers. Be sure to ask if there are any discounts you can apply to your rental.
Check for Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are a goldmine when it comes to understanding how a company operates.
You want a reliable moving truck rental company that offers good customer service and provides well-maintained trucks.
Check online review platforms like Google and Yelp to see what other customers have said about the companies you’re considering.
If you have friends or family who’ve recently moved, ask them about their experiences with moving truck rentals.
Evaluate the Condition of the Trucks
It’s essential that the trucks you rent are in good condition.
A poorly maintained truck can lead to delays or breakdowns during your move, which can add stress and cost.
Always check the company’s maintenance policy before booking.
Look for Additional Services
Some companies offer added perks or services that could make your move easier, especially if you’re doing it on your own.
These additional services can save you time and effort and help with any problems that might come up.
Here are a few services you should ask about:
- One-way rentals
- Moving equipment rental
- Extra drivers
Check the Fine Print and Rental Terms
Before committing to a rental, make sure to carefully read through the company’s rental terms and policies. You don’t want any surprises when it comes to hidden fees or charges.
