Top Tips for Choosing the Right Size Moving Truck Rental
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Moving day can be stressful enough without the added worry of realizing your moving truck is either too big or too small. Choose wisely, and you’ll save time, energy, and money while avoiding the hassle of multiple trips or an overloaded truck. But how can you figure out the right size moving truck rental for your needs?
Whether you're moving out of a studio apartment or packing up an entire house, this guide will walk you through the steps to ensure your truck is the perfect fit.
Why the Right Size Truck Matters
What happens when someone misjudges their moving truck size? Cue a mountain of boxes stacked precariously on the truck roof or multiple trips back and forth in a panic.
Choosing the right size moving truck rental can:
- Save you time by eliminating extra trips or unloading and repacking items.
- Reduce costs by ensuring you don’t pay for more space than you need—or less, resulting in additional charges for another truck.
- Protect your belongings by securing everything safely without risk of damage from overcrowding.
Here are the top tips to ensure your moving truck rental fits your needs perfectly.
1. Start by Estimating Your Load Size
Before you even look at truck options, you’ll need a good idea of how much you’re moving. With moving, size definitely matters—but so does quantity! Take inventory of your belongings:
- Count your furniture including beds, couches, dining sets, and desks.
- Estimate the number of boxes. The average one-bedroom apartment needs approximately 20-30 medium boxes, while a three-bedroom home may require closer to 50.
- Factor in odd-sized items, such as bicycles, lawnmowers, or large mirrors.
A detailed list will help you determine how much space you’ll require—and prevent you from underestimating.
2. Understand Moving Truck Sizes and Capacities
Rental companies typically offer a range of truck options, and understanding their capacities can make a big difference. Here are some common truck sizes and their best use cases:
- 10-foot truck: Perfect for a studio or small one-bedroom apartment (ideal for 1-2 rooms of furniture and around 20 boxes).
- 15-foot truck: A great choice for moving a large one-bedroom or small two-bedroom apartment.
- 20-foot truck: Suitable for medium-sized moves, such as a two or three-bedroom home.
- 26-foot truck: Perfect for larger homes (3-4 bedrooms) with plenty of furniture and boxes.
Many rental companies provide capacity estimates based on the number of rooms, so don’t hesitate to ask for guidance.
3. Consider Special Items and Oversized Furniture
Do you own large or uniquely shaped pieces of furniture that won’t fit neatly in a box? Think dining tables, sectionals, or gym equipment. These bulky items can quickly eat into your truck’s space.
If you have oversized items:
- Check specific dimensions and compare them to the truck’s interior dimensions.
- Ask your rental company if certain trucks are better suited for awkward, bulky items.
- Keep safety in mind—overhanging items can be a hazard if not secured properly.
4. Overestimate if You’re Unsure
When in doubt, go bigger. It might seem counterintuitive to rent a slightly larger truck than you think you’ll need—it feels like unwarranted extra space—but it’s often the safer (and smarter) option. Underestimating and having to take multiple trips or squeezing everything into too small a space can cost you more time and frustration in the long run.
A larger truck gives you wiggle room for last-minute items or packing errors. Plus, it’s easier to safely secure and organize your load with extra space.
5. Think About the Distance and Accessibility
The size of your moving truck rental also depends on how far you’re traveling and where you’re moving to:
- Long-distance moves: Larger trucks are better for cross-country relocations since you’ll want everything to fit in one trip.
- City moves: If you’re moving within the city, smaller trucks are easier to maneuver through narrow streets or tight parking spots.
Additionally, assess the layout of your new home. Can a larger truck easily park nearby? If not, you may have to rely on a smaller-sized vehicle or unload in stages.
6. Factor in Drivers and Driving Comfort
Choosing a moving truck size isn’t just about the storage space—it’s also about who’s driving it. If you're used to driving smaller vehicles, a 26-foot truck might feel overwhelming.
Before making your pick, consider:
- Your confidence and skill level when driving larger vehicles.
- Visibility and maneuverability of the truck.
- Additional features like rearview cameras can make the experience easier.
If you’re still unsure, ask your rental company. They often have recommendations based on driving experience and road needs.
7. Pack Efficiently for Maximum Capacity
Even the right-sized moving truck rental won’t save you if it’s not used wisely. Maximize your space by:
- Placing large, heavy furniture items at the bottom to create a stable base.
- Stacking boxes evenly and using all vertical space.
- Keeping fragile items secured and separate to prevent damage.
- Packing last-minute items near the doors for easy access.
Efficient packing can save space and reduce the risk of damage, allowing you to make the best use of your moving truck.
Wrap Up Your Move with Confidence
Choosing the right moving truck rental is a crucial step in planning a successful and stress-free move. Choose Hawkeye Self Storage in Danville, IN, and get a free moving van rental with a storage unit booking!
We have moving truck rentals that are the perfect size for your needs, making sure you don’t pay for more than you require. And we offer a range of packing supplies to help you organize your load efficiently and safely. Contact us today to learn more!