1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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).
4. 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).
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. Load and drive. Load your items into the
truck and drive safely. For information on how to pack a truck
visit our moving guides.
11. Return the truck to the designated location
and close your account with the rental company. Settle all additional
charges or collect refunds. |
Truck Rental
Moving
Tip #17
After you have thoroughly cleaned and dried the inside of your refrigerator, put a handful of fresh coffee, baking soda or charcoal in a sock or nylon stocking and place it inside to keep the interior smelling fresh. If you need to store it, be sure that it is as dry as possible to avoid mildew.