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

By Sue Mackey
03/12/2025

Moving Truck Rental: What You Need to Know

Renting a moving truck can be a cost-effective solution, but it requires significant effort. Below are key considerations:

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.

Renting a Moving Truck vs. Hiring Professional Movers

✅ 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.

Renting Cheap Moving Trucks: Pros and Cons

✅ 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 Choose National Van Lines Over a Rental 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.

Final Thoughts

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

📞 Contact National Van Lines