Hiring a Local Moving Van

Self-service moving is becoming a popular option for planning a move. This is good news for consumers, as the increased competition has helped lower rates and increase customer options. If you’re considering a self-service move, the first place to start is by choosing a truck rental business that you can trust.

Because you are moving locally, you may know someone who has recently made a similar move in your area. Ask them if they liked their movers and if they have any advice. You can also take advantage of our Truck Rental Quotes tool to collect bids from businesses in your area that provide the services you need. Simply enter some basic information about your move, and within hours you’ll receive several quotes from pre-screened truck rental companies.

Once you’ve gathered these estimates, you can start calling and asking about specifics. Make sure you understand exactly what the price includes, what extra charges you might incur, and that you are getting all the services you want. Some details to ask about include:

• Will you be paying for gas and mileage on top of your rental fee?
• Is insurance provided?
• Is road service available if the truck breaks down?
• Are packing materials provided?
• Are moving tools (two-wheelers, ramps, freight straps) included with the rental?

Work with the rental company to determine what size truck you need. The larger the truck, the more you will pay. If you are making a short move, it may be more economical to rent a smaller truck and make more than one trip (if you choose this option, factor in mileage fees if you must pay them).

Renting a moving truck and handling the details of your move is a great way to save money. You may be worried, however, that you can’t handle all the aspects of the move yourself. Fortunately, the self-service moving industry now offers several different options to suit the needs of its customers. For example, if you are physically unable to load or move furniture, ask the rental company if they provide this additional service and at what price. If you are uncomfortable driving a truck, they may be able to provide a professional driver. These services will cost you extra, but if you need them you probably won’t mind paying for them.

Packing Your Belongings

You can start the packing process as soon as you know you are moving. Your truck rental company may be able to provide free packing supplies with your rental, or at a discounted price. Otherwise, ask local stores, schools and businesses for their extra boxes and start packing your nonessential items.

Don’t pack anything you don’t need. If you no longer use an item, throw it out, donate it, or sell it. This is a great opportunity to clean out closets, and you won’t waste truck space moving unnecessary items.

Always pack your essential items last, and clearly label their contents. It’s a good idea to set aside boxes with a change of clothes for the next few days and everyday kitchen items that you will want to use right away. You should also keep handy any household tools that you may need for assembling furniture and hanging wall décor.

Even if you are moving across the street, you will still need to notify your local utilities. Designate the date they should turn off services at your old house, as well as the date you need services turned on at your new location. You will need to call about:

• Gas
• Electrical
• Phone
• Satellite or cable
• Internet service providers

You must also notify the postal service of your new address, as well as your bank, credit card companies, and anyone you have financial accounts with.

If you have family and friends available to help, make arrangements to have someone watch your children and your pets. Moving can be stressful on both, and knowing they are with a trusted adult will give you one less thing to worry about on moving day.

If you signed up for a self-service move, you will find yourself in the middle of a long, hard day of loading, unloading, unpacking and arranging. But you can take comfort in knowing how much money you have saved.