Renting a moving truck versus hiring a professional moving company does have its pros and cons. Whether you are relocating to a new city because of your work or following the kids to the state where they attend college, getting your belongings to the new house doesn’t have to be a struggle. Renting a moving truck puts more of the responsibility on you, but it also means you are going to be in the position to save quite a lot of money.
These are some of the pros and cons of renting a moving truck for your next move.
Pros of Renting a Moving Truck
1. Less Expensive Way to Move
The cost to rent a moving truck is far less than hiring the professionals because you will be doing all the work. You will be loading the truck, driving the truck, and unloading the truck, before returning it to the drop-off. If you don’t mind all that extra work, this is a great way to cut your moving costs in half.
2. Leave and Arrive on Your Terms
When renting a moving truck, you choose the date you want to pick up the truck, how long you need it, and which location you will be returning the vehicle. If you need extra time, you simply call the rental company and extend the rental.
3. No Hidden Surprises
Since you secured your truck rental online, you know all the costs upfront. There will be no surprise fees added to the bill or your belongings held hostage unless you come up with surcharges that were added on top of your estimate.
Cons of Renting a Moving Truck
1. Running Out of Moving Space
Without moving experience, many homeowners underestimate the size truck they need and wind up running out of room on moving day. Now things are left curbside that couldn’t make the trip. It isn’t uncommon for the homeowner to unpack and reposition items in the truck several times to squeeze everything inside.
2. Protecting Your Belongings
It takes more to move your belongings safely than stuff them tightly in a truck. You need to learn quickly how to load the moving truck, protect certain items, and keep them safe while driving long distances on the highway. Every inch of bubble wrap costs more money, as well as protective blankets and padding for things like mirrors, glassware, and fragile items.
3. Running Out of Time
Many homeowners don’t realize how slow you need to drive to keep your items safe and wind up taking more time than they allotted for on the move. Although you can call to add time to the rental, it isn’t as cheap as had you booked the extra days in advance, so your costs begin to soar.
Keep in mind that not all moving truck rental companies are equal. Get estimates in writing and compare apples to apples before investing in the truck and committing to a certain time slot.