Moving Box Calculator
How many rooms are you moving?* Don't forget to count your attic,
basement and garage!
basement and garage!
Moving Kits
Moving Boxes
Packing Supplies
If you've never rented a truck before - or haven't done it in a while - this will be a useful primer on how to do it.
What Size Truck do I need to Rent?
If you can craft an inventory with the items you'll be moving and an estimate of the number of boxes by type (small, medium, large), truck rental companies can help you determine the truck size that best suits your move.
You should be somewhat conservative in your choice of truck size - it's much better to have extra space than not enough space because making an extra trip for a local move can add a lot of extra expense and hassle to your move. For a long distance move, it will create even more havoc for you. As a guide, each room you pack will equal 125 and 150 cubic feet. To convert cubic feet to actual truck size, here are some general guidelines:
When Do You Need to Rent your Truck?
Truck rental companies see a rush in traffic in the summer and at the end of the month, so plan ahead and make sure you get a reservation well in advance of when you'll need the truck; the peak rental season begins towards the end of May and runs through the end of September.
Prices also tend to rise during the peak season, because there is more demand. If you are flexible with timing, you may be able to save some additional money on your truck rental. You will also find that the storage facilities will be less busy during the middle of the month, if you need to put some stuff in storage.
Local or One-Way?
If you are moving in your current city, nearly all truck rental agencies will be able to accommodate your needs. However, if moving to another city or state or even across the country, you will likely do a one way trip. The large rental agencies can handle these one way moves; they have many locations across most major cities and can easily support your one way move. Visit their websites or call for availability and pricing.
What Other Supplies Do I Need?
Most truck rental agencies can offer you with pads and dollies. Pads are relatively inexpensive and are useful in protecting furniture, appliances and any other items that have the potential to be damaged during your move. Dollies are needed for moving heavier items.
Purchase your moving boxes and packing supplies separately from renting a truck; buying boxes online is a great way to save substantial amounts over purchasing from a truck rental or box store and you can get overnight delivery of your products. There are very useful box calculators and preassembled moving kits that can make purchasing your packing supplies simple and convenient.
Do I Need Extra Insurance?
Check with your personal credit card company to find out if they have coverage that will protect you when renting a truck. Sometimes credit card companies exclude their insurance coverage on moving vans and moving trucks. If you choose to go with your credit card insurance or select the rental truck insurance options, ask these questions: