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Renting a Moving Truck vs. Hiring Professional Movers: A Clear Comparison

By Sue Mackey
03/12/2025

If you’re reading this, you’re likely planning a move right now (either locally or
long distance). If you’re thinking about renting a moving truck, you probably have a lot of questions. Is it really the cheaper option? What size truck do you need? What extra fees should you expect? And at what point does doing it yourself stop feeling practical?

At National Van Lines, we’ve helped people plan long distance moves for nearly a century. We know that for some moves, a rental truck may make sense. But we also know many people do not realize how much work, coordination, and physical effort comes with that choice until they are already in the middle of it. Understanding the pros, cons, and real responsibilities of truck rental can help you make a more confident decision.

In this article, you’ll learn:

  • What affects the cost of renting a moving truck
  • Which truck rental companies are most commonly used
  • How renting a truck compares to hiring professional movers
  • The pros and cons of choosing a cheap moving truck rental
  • When a full-service mover may make more sense

What should I know about moving truck rentals?

Renting a moving truck can save money, but it also means taking on a lot of the work yourself. Here are the top things to keep in mind:

Costs of Renting a Moving Truck

  • Rental rates vary based on truck size, location, and rental duration.
  • Additional costs include fuel, insurance, mileage fees, and equipment rental.
  • Most companies require a valid driver’s license and a credit card hold.

Top Moving Truck Rental Companies

U-Haul

  • Nationwide availability with various truck sizes.
  • Offers one-way and local rental options.
  • Additional services include storage and moving assistance.

Budget Truck Rental

  • Competitive rates with discounts for AARP and military members.
  • Available truck sizes: 12’, 16’, and 26’.
  • Includes roadside assistance.

Penske Truck Rental

  • Well-maintained, newer fleet.
  • Unlimited mileage options for one-way moves.
  • Offers towing equipment and moving supplies.

Enterprise Truck Rental

  • Ideal for local moves (limited one-way availability).
  • Pickup trucks, cargo vans, and box trucks available.
  • Business and personal rental options.

Home Depot Truck Rental

  • Suitable for small, local moves with hourly rental options.
  • No mileage fees for local rentals.

What should I know about renting a moving truck vs. hiring professional movers?

When you compare renting a moving truck to hiring professional movers, it helps to look at more than just the starting price. A truck rental may cost less at first, but it also means you have to do the lifting, driving, and planning yourself. For a small local move, that may work well. But for a bigger move or an interstate move, hiring professional movers can make the process easier, safer, and less time-consuming.

Pros of Renting a Moving Truck

  • Lower base cost compared to hiring movers.
  • Greater flexibility in scheduling and packing.
  • Suitable for small, local moves.

Cons of Renting a Moving Truck

  • Requires heavy lifting and physically demanding work.
  • Additional costs such as fuel, insurance, and mileage fees.
  • Driving a large truck can be challenging and stressful.
  • Potential risk of injury or property damage.

Pros of Hiring Professional Movers

  • Full-service movers handle packing, transport, and unloading.
  • No need to drive a large vehicle.
  • Movers are insured and experienced, reducing risk.
  • More convenient for long-distance or complex moves.

Cons of Hiring Professional Movers

  • Higher upfront cost than renting a truck.
  • Requires advance scheduling and coordination.

What are the pros and cons of renting a cheap moving truck?

Pros of Renting a Cheap Moving Truck

  • Lower rental fees compared to premium providers.
  • Ideal for very short-distance moves with minimal items.
  • Available through local rental providers and hardware stores.

Cons of Renting a Cheap Moving Truck

  • Older vehicles with potential maintenance issues.
  • Higher likelihood of hidden fees (fuel charges, mileage limits, deposits).
  • Limited availability of larger trucks or one-way rentals.
  • Less customer support and fewer roadside assistance options.

Why should I choose a company like National Van Lines instead of renting a moving truck?

For long distance or full-service moving needs, National Van Lines offers a more convenient, reliable option.

Benefits of National Van Lines

  • Over 90 years of experience in long-distance moving.
  • Professional packing and secure transport services.
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
  • Fully licensed and insured movers.

Making the Right Choice for Your Move

Renting a moving truck is a viable option for cost-conscious DIY movers, but hiring a professional moving company like National Van Lines ensures a smoother, stress-free experience. If you’re unsure which option is best, get a free moving quote today.

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