Helpful tips on how and why to use a moving truck company.

You’ve probably heard more than a few horror stories about the major moving truck companies. Things like being overcharged for some damage on the truck, not being able to find the drop off point, or having an impossible time parking the truck. But when you think about it, what are the alternatives? You could try to cram everything you own into your car, but that’s probably not going to work unless you’re planning on getting more in touch with your inner anti-materialist self. On the other hand, you could bother a friend with a pickup truck, pack it all up, and pray it doesn’t rain on your way to your new place. Or you could hire a professional moving company, risking someone else looking through all your stuff, throwing it around the truck, and marking up the walls of your old and new places. Once you measure out all the options, it makes the most sense to go ahead and rent your own truck. This is a quick guide to moving truck rentals.

Honestly, it’s easy to bribe a few of your friends with some drinks and promises of dinner once the job is done. Plus, you know they all owe you a favor or two, so it’s time to cash it in. Then you’ve got complete control over your stuff, where it goes, how it’s packed and who sees what. Now all you’ve got to do is rent the truck, being sure to buy insurance in case something happens, and save up your energy.

Choosing the proper moving truck rental companies can be tricky. You’ve got to make sure that the place is reputable, that the trucks are in good working condition, and you’ll have a place to drop it off at your destination. This is, of course, much easier if you’re just moving to a new apartment or house in a neighboring town. If that’s the case, pick the cheapest option and be sure you’ve got their phone number in case something happens. But if you’re moving across the state, or to another state altogether, make sure you won’t have to drive for hours just to drop it off. Most of the major truck rental retailers have pick up and drop off locations in every major city through the nation.

Then, you’d better make sure you talk to someone working there about the proper size of truck. As a rule, it’s always better to have too much truck then not enough. There’s nothing more frustrating on moving day then realizing you don’t have enough room in your truck after it’s halfway packed. Talk to a professional who can help you determine the proper size of truck. Once you’ve figured out the place you’re going to rent, drop off, and the size of the truck, you need to make sure you reserve the truck as early as you can and confirm your reservation at least 48 hours in advance. Oh, and trust us on this one, get the insurance. A few bucks for insurance is certainly worth the peace of mind.