Read about truck rental facts that will help you understand how truck rentals work. Find out if anyone can drive a truck rental, which vehicle size to rent and typical add-on fees.
If you're planning to rent a truck for your next move, you'll undoubtedly have questions about truck rentals. After all, there's much more to it than simply renting the vehicle and driving off the lot. Listed below is a list of general truck rental questions and answers.
Can anyone drive a truck rental?
As long as you have a current and valid drivers license, you can drive a rental truck. However, there is a restriction. The vehicle cannot weigh more than 26,000 pounds. But most truck rental companies only carry trucks up to 25,000 pounds so you won't have any problem with the weight restriction.
How far in advance to I need to book the truck rental?
It really depends upon the time of year. Summer months (June through September) are the busiest times of the year. You'll need to reserve a truck at least eight weeks in advance to make sure you get the move date you want. During the rest of the year, depending upon how many companies service the area, a few weeks notice should suffice.
Another factor to consider (even during the slow season) is the day of the week you plan to rent the truck. Weekends are the busiest, so plan accordingly.
How do I know what size truck to rent?
Either look on the truck rental company's website where you'll see a chart depicting the various vehicles and their capacity (usually noted in number of rooms) or ask the rental agent for details.
What are the usual fees besides the daily rental rate?
If you only want to drive one way, there might be a return trip fee if the company doesn't have any branches nearby. There might also be a per mileage charge over a certain amount of miles, so read the contract prior to signing. Insurance fees are another expense if you choose to purchase insurance from the truck rental agency. Fees vary depending upon the coverage, as there is Supplementary Liability Insurance (against a claim by a third party) and Limited Damage Waiver insurance (covers damage to the truck). And if you want to protect your belongings against theft or damage, that's an extra fee for assessed value or cargo insurance.
