Step-by-step guide to renting moving truck
Comparing companies and booking early helps you secure the right truck size, avoid price spikes and ensure availability on your preferred dates. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth moving process from start to finish.
1. Research moving truck companies
Start by comparing trusted moving truck rental companies in your area. Check customer reviews, truck sizes, mileage fees and insurance options. Look for companies with flexible pickup and drop-off locations, especially if you’re planning a one-way move.
2. Estimate your truck size and rental needs
Determine how much space you need by considering your home size and number of rooms. Most rental websites have truck size calculators to help you estimate. It’s usually better to choose a slightly larger truck than to risk running out of space.
It’s best to start planning your moving truck rental about two to four weeks before your move, or even earlier during peak moving seasons like summer or the end of the month.
3. Make a reservation early
Book your truck as soon as you know your moving date, especially during weekends or summer, when demand is highest. You can reserve online, through a mobile app or by visiting a local rental office. Confirm your pickup and drop-off locations and the length of your rental.
4. Confirm details before pickup
A few days before your move, double-check your reservation details. Make sure the pickup time, location and truck size are correct. Ask what documents you’ll need, but you’ll usually have to present a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance and a credit or debit card.
5. Inspect and pick up the truck
When you arrive, review the rental agreement carefully before signing. Inspect the truck for damage, fuel level and cleanliness, and take photos for your records. Report any existing damage to avoid being charged later.
6. Pack and drive the truck carefully
Load heavier items first and secure everything with straps or bungee cords. Drive cautiously, and keep in mind that rental trucks handle differently than passenger cars. Keep an eye on fuel and mileage to avoid extra fees.
7. Return the truck on time
Refuel the truck to the agreed-upon level and remove any trash or debris. Return it at the scheduled time to avoid late charges. Some companies allow after-hours drop-off, but follow their instructions carefully.
8. Complete final paperwork
Before you leave, confirm that your final charges match your rental agreement. Ask for a receipt and keep a copy for your records. If you dropped off after hours, check your account or call the next day to ensure the return was processed correctly.
Rental truck sizes
Most rental truck companies offer three to five truck sizes. A good rule of thumb is to pick a rental truck with 10% more room than you think you need. When in doubt, consult consumer reviews or speak to a representative at the truck rental company.
| Truck size | Average volume | Average gas mileage | Weight capacity | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 to 12 feet | 425 cubic feet | 12 miles per gallon | 3,250 pounds | Studios |
| 15 to 16 feet | 825 cubic feet | 10 miles per gallon | 5,400 pounds | One-bedroom homes |
| 17 to 20 feet | 950 cubic feet | 10 miles per gallon | 6,000 pounds | Two-bedroom homes |
| 22 to 26 feet | 1,675 cubic feet | 10 miles per gallon | 10,000 pounds | Three-bedroom homes |
» COMPARE: Best one-way truck rentals
What to consider when renting a moving truck
Before renting a moving truck, think through your needs, costs and comfort level. The right truck depends on how much you’re moving, how far you’re going and who’s coming along for the trip. Keep the following variables in mind when planning your budget and deciding whether it’s worth renting a moving truck:
- Move size: The smaller the move, the easier it is to use a rental truck. Larger moves require larger trucks, which are harder to drive and cost significantly more.
- Move distance: For a long-distance move, renters need a truck that can fit all their possessions. It’s possible to use a smaller truck for local moves if the renter is willing to make multiple trips.
- Gas prices: The cost of fuel falls on the renter, so calculate this expense as part of your budget. Some rental trucks get less than 10 miles per gallon, even when empty.
- Additional fees: Insurance, packing supplies and packing tools cost extra.
- Truck comfort: For cross-country moves, comfort is especially important. Driving a rental truck with an uncomfortable seat across multiple states isn’t advisable. Read reviews to see which trucks are most comfortable and how long and far most renters can drive in a day.
- Driver age: You don’t need to be 25 to rent or drive a rental truck, but most companies require the driver to be at least 18.
- Local regulations: Check to make sure it’s legal to park a rental truck at your starting point and destination for an extended period of time.
- Lodging costs: If a move takes multiple days, factor in the cost of lodging during your trip.
- Number of people moving: Most rental trucks fit two people. If you need to bring more people, factor alternative transportation into your budget.
Rental requirements and documentation
Before picking up a rental truck, make sure you meet the company’s requirements and bring the necessary documentation. Requirements vary slightly by company, but most renters will need:
- A valid driver’s license for anyone who plans to drive the truck
- To meet the minimum age requirement, typically 18 years old
- A credit or debit card for payment and deposit
- Proof of insurance or the purchase of temporary rental coverage
- A refundable deposit, especially for one-way or long-distance rentals
Review your rental agreement carefully and ask about any additional fees, coverage details or mileage limits before signing.
Safety tips and best practices for first-time renters
Driving a moving truck takes practice, especially if you’ve never handled a larger vehicle before. Follow these tips to make your move safer and smoother:
- Load carefully: Place heavier items at the bottom and secure everything with straps or ropes to prevent shifting.
- Plan your route: Map out your trip in advance, avoiding low bridges, tight turns and restricted roads.
- Take breaks: Stop every few hours to stretch, rest and refuel — fatigue makes driving riskier.
- Drive cautiously: Allow extra space for braking and turning, and avoid sudden lane changes.
- Check weather and timing: Try to avoid driving in severe weather or at night if possible.
How much does a moving truck cost?
As of 2025, moving across several states in the summer may cost around $1,200, including gas and full-coverage insurance.
Below are some updated average costs for various routes. These estimates assume a weekend move in the summer, full-coverage insurance and an average gas price of $3 per gallon.
| Move type | Example | Truck size | Average cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local | Within Oklahoma City | 12-foot truck | $120 |
| In-state | Dallas to Houston | 16-foot truck | $500 |
| Interstate | Indianapolis to Kansas City, Missouri | 22-foot truck | $1,000 |
| Cross-country | New York to Los Angeles | 26-foot truck | $4,600 |
What affects the total cost of a moving truck rental?
Your total price depends on several factors, including distance, truck size, rental duration and seasonal demand. Rates are usually higher in the summer and on weekends, when more people move. Additional costs may include mileage fees, insurance coverage, tolls and fuel. Reserving early and comparing quotes from multiple companies can help you get the best deal.
» MORE: How to make a moving budget
Rental truck insurance options
We recommend purchasing insurance for DIY moves. Car insurance and credit cards typically don't provide rental truck insurance, but check with your providers to be sure. If you need additional moving coverage, purchase it through the rental company or an independent party.
Common types of rental truck insurance include the following:
- Damage waiver: This type of insurance relieves the renter of responsibility for damage to the rental truck. These policies vary in coverage, so read the fine print. A damage waiver may also be called a collision waiver, personal damage waiver or limited damage waiver.
- Supplemental liability insurance: This insurance protects renters against damage claims made by other people. The usual amount of coverage is $1 million.
- Personal accident and cargo insurance: This covers costs related to personal injuries, death or damage to items in specific situations. Be sure to ask about exclusions when signing up for this type of plan.
- Personal effects coverage: This coverage protects the financial value of your possessions in the rental truck if they’re stolen or damaged in an accident.
- Auto tow protection: This insurance protects the trailer you’re towing. Make sure you know the deductible before signing up.
FAQ
What is the cheapest moving truck rental?
Prices vary by company, route, season and city. To find the cheapest moving truck rental, compare prices by requesting quotes from several reputable moving companies. Other factors, such as availability and consumer reviews, are also significant when deciding which rental truck company is best for you.
Are movers or a rental truck cheaper?
It’s cheaper to rent a truck than to go with a full-service moving company. Just keep in mind that additional fees add up quickly. It also usually takes longer to move yourself.
Do moving trucks have to stop at weigh stations?
Typically, only commercial trucks have to stop at weigh stations. However, laws differ by state. Look up your state laws or ask the rental company for advice.
What’s the gas mileage on truck rentals?
Gas mileage for empty trucks ranges from 6 to 14 miles per gallon. However, a truck's fuel efficiency significantly decreases once you load it with thousands of pounds of household items.
What’s the biggest moving truck available?
The biggest moving trucks commonly available are 26-foot box trucks. These trucks hold about 10,000 pounds of belongings. That’s equivalent to about eight rooms’ worth of furniture and possessions.
How do you pack a moving truck?
If you want to pack everything yourself, here are some tips:
- Disassemble all furniture.
- Use moving straps, quilts, boxes and dollies.
- Layer the items based on weight. Start with the heaviest, most durable items on the bottom. Load your medium-size items next. The lightest items should go last, and smaller items can fill in the empty spaces.
- Protect your mattresses — place them in a protective mattress bag to keep them safe.
- Roll up rugs.
- Keep your essentials within reach.
- Rest as needed.
Once you’ve packed your moving truck, drive safely. Know your clearance when going under bridges, respect speed limits, and keep your distance from other drivers. Moving trucks don’t brake or handle like cars, so give yourself extra room and time on the road.
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- U-Haul, “Reserving a Moving Truck: What Are the Rental Requirements.” Accessed Nov. 10, 2025.
- U-Haul, “How to Rent a Moving Truck.” Accessed Nov. 10, 2025.
