Cheapest Moving Truck Rentals (2024)
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Renting a moving truck is more affordable than hiring a professional moving company, and there are many low-budget options that still ensure a quality moving experience. U-Haul is our top recommendation for a cheap moving truck rental because it offers competitive pricing and cost flexibility, allowing you to choose services based on your budget rather than lumping them in as one package.
Quality moving truck rental providers are transparent about billing and insurance policies and may offer additional moving services. Our team has researched the top moving truck rental companies, comparing them on price, services, and reputation. Our guide details our recommendations for the five cheapest moving truck rentals.
5 Cheapest Moving Truck Rental Companies
We found the following truck rental options to be the cheapest providers:
- U-Haul: Most Flexible Moving Container Service
- Budget Truck Rental: Best for Local Moves
- Enterprise Truck Rental: Best for International Moves
- Penske Truck Rental: Best for Long-Distance Moves
- The Home Depot: Best for DIY Moves
What Should I Know About Moving Truck Rentals?
You can find a competitive price for your rental if you know what goes into the cost, your insurance options, and whether or not you need roadside assistance.
What Is Required To Rent a Moving Truck?
Standard requirements exist for who can and can’t rent a moving truck. You’ll need to have proof of and meet the following criteria to rent one:
- Minimum age: Most rental companies require you to be 25 years or older. Sometimes, the minimum age is 21 or 18 if you pay additional fees.
- Payment: Having a major credit card in your name is typically necessary to rent a truck. Debit cards are also often acceptable. Cash or checks are usually not allowed.
- Proof of insurance: You need to show proof of auto insurance coverage. You can purchase supplemental rental truck insurance from the rental company.
- Security deposit: Per industry standards, a company will require a refundable security deposit when you pick up the truck, typically between $100 and $500. This deposit covers damages or cleaning fees if needed.
- Valid driver’s license: You must have a valid driver’s license that you can show upon picking up the rented truck. Your driver’s license can’t be expired or suspended.
What Is Moving Truck Insurance?
Moving truck rental insurance refers to additional insurance options that can protect you against potential damages when renting a moving truck.
Common types of moving truck rental insurance include the following, but be aware that a company might provide these same plans under a different name:
- Collision damage waiver (CDW): Also known as loss damage waiver, this is optional coverage that limits your liability if the rental truck is damaged or stolen. The typical deductible is $250–$500. Some credit cards offer similar coverage for free when renting a moving truck.
- Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI): Extra liability coverage begins when the minimum state or company liability insurance is exhausted. This plan helps protect you from paying large sums if you cause damage to another vehicle or property.
- Cargo insurance: This insurance protects the value of items stored in the truck if the load is damaged, lost, or stolen during the rental period.
- Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): This provides compensation for injuries or death that may occur when using a moving truck. Health insurance policies may already cover these.
It’s not mandatory, but we highly recommend liability insurance when renting a moving truck to protect you from potentially significant risks and expenses if accidents occur. Understanding the protections needed for a move can help determine the right insurance options.
What Is Roadside Assistance?
Roadside assistance is a service that helps you if you encounter a breakdown or other problems while using the rental truck.
Truck rental companies typically offer this as an additional protection plan or include it in the insurance options listed previously.
Typical roadside assistance services include towing, tire changes, jump-starts, lockout services, fuel delivery, and winching.
Do Truck Rentals Have Any Restrictions?
When you decide to rent a moving truck, it’s important to keep in mind that driving such a large vehicle requires good driving skills to ensure safety. Rental companies have limits on the size of the truck you can rent based on the weight and volume of your belongings. Choosing the wrong truck size can result in multiple trips or damage from overloading. If you don’t have professional movers, you’ll need to load and secure items yourself, which can be risky if not done correctly. You must take special care with large, fragile, or valuable items.
Make sure there is adequate parking and access at both locations. Rental companies generally have limited liability unless you purchase additional insurance. You’ll also need to be mindful of time constraints, as rental periods are typically in 24-hour increments, so efficient planning is crucial to avoid late fees. It’s important to consider these factors carefully before renting a moving truck.
How Much Does a Moving Truck Rental Cost?
The cost of renting a moving truck can vary significantly depending on several factors. The main factors are the total distance of your move and the truck’s size. Our research for this guide yielded an average price of $2,945 for a long-distance moving truck rental. Larger trucks generally cost more to rent. For example, a 10-foot truck can start around $30 daily for a local move, while a 20-foot truck may cost more than $100.
Daily and weekly rates are usually cheaper than hourly. Long-distance moves lasting a month or more have the lowest rates. Rates are highest during spring and summer because those are peak seasons. Off-season rates in fall and winter can be cheaper by $50 or more per day.
Renting in a metropolitan area generally costs more than a small town, and some locations have minimum fees. There’s usually a per-mile charge for exceeding the allotted mileage, around 50 cents or more per mile, and one-way rentals include additional fees.
Compare Moving Truck Rental Prices
We received a sample quote from each company and learned which providers include mileage fees.
| Company | Price to Rent | Deposit | Mileage Fee | Truck Size Sampled |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U-Haul | $1,807 | $50 | $1.09 per mile | 20-foot |
| Budget | $1,354.84 | $150 | $0.89 per mile | 16-foot |
| Enterprise | $95 per day (local only) | Varies by location | $0.23 per mile | 20-foot |
| Penske | $2,629 | $100 | $0.79 per mile | 22-foot |
| Home Depot | $139 per day (local only) | $150 | Unlimited | 12-foot |
- Our 2024 survey revealed that 40.3% of consumers were inclined to pick a mover because they were the most affordable option. Overall, moving truck rentals are cheaper. However, if you have some flexibility in your budget, it might be worth considering a full-service mover.
Our Picks for Cheap Moving Truck Rentals
U-Haul
Budget Truck Rental
Enterprise Truck Rental
Penske
The Home Depot
How Do Moving Truck Rental and Full-Service Moving Companies Compare?
Our February 2024 survey of 1,000 moving customers revealed that 75% of consumers hired a moving company “to have peace of mind and a more stress-free move” and “to make the move quicker and more efficient.” You’re probably considering a moving truck rental because it’s cheaper than a professional moving company, but you might want to think about how much full-service movers cost, how they make the moving process easier, and how they compare regarding environmental impact and efficiency.
Cost
Moving Truck Rental
The cost of renting a moving truck can vary significantly depending on several factors. The main factors are the total distance of your move and the size of the truck. Our research for this guide yielded an average price of $2,945 for a long-distance moving truck rental. Larger trucks generally cost more to rent. For example, a 10-foot truck can start around $30 daily for a local move, while a 20-foot truck may cost more than $100.
Full-Service Moving Companies
Hiring a full-service moving company is convenient and provides peace of mind, but it can be expensive. Costs are based on distance, crew members, and weight or volume of items. Full-service movers can charge from several thousand dollars to over $10,000 for a long-distance move. However, the cost includes experienced movers who pack, load, transport, and unload your possessions, along with specialized equipment and materials.
Driving Skills
Moving Truck Rental
If you decide to rent a moving truck, you should know that driving such a large vehicle can be challenging, especially if you lack experience. Moving trucks are usually much bigger and heavier than standard passenger vehicles, so you’ll need to exercise additional caution when navigating tight spaces, making turns, and reversing. Additionally, these trucks have different handling characteristics, blind spots, and braking distances, which may take some time to get used to. Ignoring these factors can increase the risk of accidents, property damage, or personal injury.
Full-Service Moving Companies
Professional moving companies hire experienced drivers who are trained and licensed to operate large trucks safely and efficiently. These drivers are well-versed in handling moving vehicles and are skilled at maneuvering them through residential areas, narrow streets, and loading docks. Also, professional movers are typically trained in the proper loading techniques to ensure that the weight is evenly distributed within the truck, minimizing the risk of shifting cargo or improper handling that could result in damage.
Newer Trucks
Moving Truck Rental
Rental truck companies usually have a fleet of older, well-worn trucks. Although these trucks are maintained regularly, they may not have the latest safety features and amenities available in newer models. Furthermore, rental trucks are more prone to wear and tear due to frequent use, which could lead to a less comfortable or less dependable ride.
Full-Service Moving Companies
Professional moving companies usually invest in newer and more advanced trucks for their fleets. These vehicles are designed specifically for the challenges of moving and are equipped with features that can make the process smoother and safer. Newer moving trucks may incorporate advanced safety systems such as rearview cameras, collision avoidance technology, and electronic stability control to prevent accidents and ensure the secure transportation of your belongings.
Number of Vehicles
Moving Truck Rental
When renting a moving truck, you’ll have access to only one vehicle. The size of the truck depends on your specific needs, but you’ll be limited to one for transporting all of your belongings. This can be challenging for larger moves or when items need to be moved from multiple locations, requiring numerous trips or coordination with friends and family.
Full-Service Moving Companies
Professional moving companies have a range of vehicles to suit different types of moves. For a typical residential move, they may send a large truck accompanied by a smaller shuttle van or cargo vehicle. The larger truck is used to transport the majority of your belongings, while the smaller vehicle is ideal for items that require special handling, such as appliances, electronics, or valuable pieces of furniture. This approach helps to ensure that the move is more efficient and organized, as well as providing additional capacity for situations where a single truck may not be enough.
Packing and Loading
Moving Truck Rental
If you decide to rent a moving truck, keep in mind that you’ll be solely responsible for packing and loading your possessions, along with any help you can gather. This process can be exhausting and time-consuming, particularly if you have a large household or fragile items that require special handling.
You’ll need to find your own packing supplies, such as boxes, bubble wrap, and furniture pads, and make sure that everything is packed and secured appropriately for transport. Loading the truck efficiently and safely while accounting for weight distribution and possible movements during transit necessitates careful planning and execution.
Full-Service Moving Companies
Professional moving companies offer full-service packing and loading as part of their services. Experienced movers are trained in efficient and safe packing techniques and use high-quality materials specifically designed for relocating household goods.
They’ll carefully pack and wrap your belongings to ensure that everything, from fragile items to large furniture pieces, is properly protected and secured for the move. This will save you time and effort and provide added peace of mind, knowing that your possessions are in the hands of professionals.
Movers also strategically load trucks, distributing weight and securing items to prevent shifting. They utilize equipment such as dollies and ramps to safely move heavy, bulky objects, minimizing damage risk and ensuring a smooth move.
Full-Service Moving Companies
If you’re now more interested in a full-service moving company, consider some of our recommendations below.
International Van Lines
Best Service Offerings
American Van Lines
Best Overall Moving Labor
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
Most Efficient
Compare Full-Service Moving Companies
You can contact a full-service moving company if you don’t want the stress of handling your move alone. The movers we’ve listed in the following table can offer more comprehensive assistance for moves of all sizes. You’ll pay a premium for their services but will have a more hands-off experience.
*Sample quotes are for a two-bedroom move from Portland, Oregon, to San Francisco.
What Should You Consider When Renting an Affordable Moving Truck?
Renting a moving truck is no small task and involves a lot of responsibility. You must consider a few factors, such as your move type and the truck size you need, before selecting a provider.
Move Type
The type of move you’re undergoing can drastically impact your cost and the intensity of the move. For example, local moves are typically cheaper and less stressful.
Here’s a look at each type of move:
Local Moves
We find moving truck rentals to be ideal for quick, small local moves. We recommend considering the providers in our review if you’re moving within the same city or less than 150 miles. A moving truck rental is especially useful if many friends and family are willing to help you load and unload the truck.
However, if you have a larger, more complex home, such as one with four bedrooms or more, you may want to consider a full-service mover even for a local move. This task can quickly become daunting, and the more items you have, the more time you’ll have to allocate to deal with the move. We also recommend considering a full-service mover if you’re struggling to obtain assistance for loading and unloading.
Long-Distance Moves
Long-distance moves can get complicated quickly. You can most likely use a moving truck rental as a cheaper solution if you’re moving something smaller than two bedrooms and are willing to do much of the loading and unloading. You might get a competitive offer from a full-service mover, including loading and unloading assistance if your home has four bedrooms or more.
Additionally, your route might pose some difficult conditions, and if you aren’t comfortable driving a large truck around traffic or winding roads, a full-service moving company provides more peace of mind.
Truck Size and Type
You can choose from a wide variety of moving trucks and vehicles, so you’ll need to ensure that you find and reserve the right-sized moving truck in advance. You might be able to save money by renting a cargo van or pickup truck and making multiple trips back and forth if you’re completing a local move. Long-distance moves will probably require larger trucks.
Truck type is extremely important when selecting a rental company for a do-it-yourself (DIY) relocation. U-Haul trucks are fairly easy to drive but offer marginally fewer cubic feet of storage than Penske or Enterprise trucks across all size options. U-Haul trucks feature a lower cab and a familiar Ford F-650 engine in the 26-foot model. Penske and Enterprise, on the other hand, offer more standard trucks with seats that are further off the ground. Consider your overall comfort when selecting a rental truck.
Recommended Truck Options
Here are our recommendations on what truck size you should get based on information from various moving truck rental companies:
Customer Service
Moving truck rentals are a DIY service, but you still want good customer support. An effective way to gauge the quality of a truck rental company’s customer support is to read online customer reviews. Popular review sites such as the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, and Yelp all help provide a window into how a company’s customer service operates.
Quick Tip
- Look into customer service hours for your chosen truck rental company branch. Some may advertise 24-hour customer service, but response times could be slow if calls are bounced to a call center during off hours. This could be of greater concern for long-distance clients who will likely be on the road past business hours.
Contract and Policy Highlights
Understanding the key terms and policies governing a moving truck rental agreement is important. Here are some points to keep in mind:
- Fuel policies: Truck rental companies typically require you to return the vehicle with the same level of fuel as when you picked it up. Failure to do so may result in additional fuel charges, often at inflated prices.
- Limited liability: Truck rental companies usually have limited liability for any damage or loss to your belongings during the move. Their contracts usually include clauses that limit their liability to a minimal amount, such as 60 cents per pound per article, unless you purchase additional protection or insurance.
- Mandatory insurance: Most rental companies require you to purchase their insurance coverage, which can add a significant cost to the rental. This coverage may include a collision damage waiver, cargo protection, and supplemental liability insurance. It’s essential to carefully review the coverage limits and deductibles.
- Mileage restrictions: Rental agreements often include mileage restrictions or charges for exceeding a specified mileage allowance. Long-distance moves may incur substantial mileage fees, so it’s important to understand these charges upfront.
- Size and equipment limitations: Rental companies have specific guidelines regarding the size of the truck you can rent based on the weight and volume of your belongings. They may also limit or charge extra for certain equipment, such as hand trucks, furniture pads, or towing equipment.
- Time restrictions: Rentals are usually based on 24-hour periods, and late returns can incur significant penalties or additional daily charges. It’s important to plan your move carefully and account for potential delays or unforeseen circumstances.
How Should You Prepare for Your Move?
Coordinating and preparing is essential to ensure a smooth and stress-free moving truck rental experience. Below are some tips to help you prepare for moving day and coordinate effectively with the truck rental company:
- Declutter and downsize: Go through your belongings and get rid of anything you no longer need or want to take with you. This will not only reduce the number of items you need to move but also save you time and money.
- Get packing supplies: Stock up on high-quality packing materials such as sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and tape. Proper packing can prevent damage to your belongings during transit.
- Create a labeling system: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to in your new home. This will make unpacking much easier and more organized.
- Measure and plan: Measure all large furniture items and doorways to ensure they can fit through the truck’s loading ramp and into the new home. Plan the loading order carefully to maximize space and protect fragile items.
- Reserve the truck early: Book your moving truck rental well in advance, especially during peak moving seasons, to ensure availability and secure the size you need.
- Gather essential tools: Have tools such as a dolly, furniture sliders, and ropes on hand to make loading and unloading easier and safer.
- Recruit help: Enlist the help of friends or family members to assist with the heavy lifting and loading process. Having extra hands can make the move go much smoother.
- Prepare for the pick up: Ensure you have the necessary documentation, such as a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance, ready when picking up the truck.
- Plan the route: Map out the most efficient route to your new home, considering potential obstacles such as low bridges or narrow streets that could challenge a large moving truck.
- Coordinate arrival times: Communicate with the truck rental company and any helpers to ensure that everyone arrives at the designated locations on time, minimizing delays and additional charges.
What is the Cheapest Moving Truck Rental?
On average, U-Haul and Budget offer the cheapest prices for moving truck rentals. However, we find that you receive a cheaper solution through U-Haul. The company provides one of the most comprehensive selections of additional services, such as loading assistance and insurance plans, and its deposit and equipment fees are cheaper than Budget. You also receive a larger truck for a similar price.
You might receive a better deal with Budget—especially if you need unlimited mileage for a long-distance move. Enterprise is another excellent choice if you want roadside assistance included with your purchase and need flexibility regarding truck size.
We suggest getting a quote from at least three moving truck companies before deciding. We also recommend reading customer reviews and any fine print before signing a contract.
FAQ About Cheap Moving Truck Rentals
What do I need to drive a truck rental?
You need a valid driver’s license or military ID to drive a rental truck. The age to rent a moving truck varies by company, though. For example, you may rent a U-Haul when you’re 18, but Enterprise requires you to be at least 21. These are the standard requirements for a moving truck rental, so be sure to check with the truck rental company you’re considering to ensure you present all required documentation upon pickup.
How can I save more money on my truck rental?
There are a few steps you can take to try to save on your moving truck rental. Typically, the earlier you book, the cheaper the rate you’ll receive, so be sure to book a moving truck rental as soon as you know you need one. Also, check if the company offers any special deals or discounts. Moving truck rental companies may offer standard ongoing promotions, but many include discounts for students, seniors, military members, emergency responders, and more.
Do I have to refill the gas in my rental truck before returning?
You must return your truck in the same condition as when it left the rental agency lot. This includes filling up your tank to the level it was when you were given the keys.
Will a couch fit in a 10-foot truck?
You can fit more in 10 feet than you might expect. A 10-foot rental truck for most couches will be sufficient if you check the measurements. Therefore, always measure furniture dimensions before moving because sizes can vary, and also, remember that proper loading and securing items are vital.
Our Rating Methodology
We back up our moving company ratings and recommendations with a detailed rating methodology to objectively score each company. We conduct research by reading through the company websites, analyzing customer reviews, conducting consumer surveys, requesting quotes, and speaking with customer representatives. We then score each moving company against our review standards for services, contents coverage, scheduling options, additional benefits and custom service options, and reputation among customers to arrive at a final score on a 5-point rating scale.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
