Moving home is always a huge task, no matter how well you organize it. One of the most important considerations is what size U-Haul truck you need. Renting the wrong size truck can easily add to the stress of a move, so it’s important to get it right. Here’s what you need to know to make sure you get the right size vehicle for the job.
Determining the Size of Your Move
The size of U-Haul truck you need is largely determined by the size of your move and the distance you plan to travel. To get an idea of what size truck you need, you’ll need to estimate the size of your move. This includes how many rooms of furniture and how many boxes you plan on moving. Also, consider how much bulky or oversized items you plan on transporting, such as a piano or large pieces of furniture.
Types of U-Haul Trucks
U-Haul has a number of different truck sizes available for rent. The smallest size is a 10-foot truck, which is suitable for small moves of one or two rooms. The next size up is a 15-foot truck, which is suitable for moving a two to three bedroom home. For larger moves, you can choose a 20-foot truck, which is suitable for four to five bedroom moves. For very large moves, U-Haul also offers a 26-foot truck.
Load Capacity
U-Haul trucks are rated by their load capacity, which is the total weight of the items you plan to move. The load capacity of a 10-foot truck is 3,650 pounds, while the load capacity of a 15-foot truck is 5,500 pounds. The load capacity of a 20-foot truck is 7,400 pounds, and the load capacity of a 26-foot truck is 10,000 pounds.
Loading Your Truck
When loading your truck, it’s important to remember to distribute the weight evenly. If your load is too heavy on one side, it can cause the truck to be unstable and potentially dangerous to drive. To ensure your load is evenly distributed, spread the heaviest items across the floor of the truck. Place the lighter items on top of the heavier ones, and make sure to secure them with straps or bungee cords.
Renters Insurance
It’s also important to remember that U-Haul does not provide insurance for your move. You must purchase renters insurance to cover any potential damages to the truck or your belongings during the move. U-Haul does offer a number of rental insurance packages, so be sure to speak to a representative about the best option for you.
Fuel Costs
U-Haul trucks run on gasoline, so you should also factor in the cost of fuel when considering your move. The size of truck you rent will affect the amount of fuel you need to purchase. The larger the truck, the more fuel it will consume. To save on fuel costs, you can also opt for a “hybrid” U-Haul truck, which runs on a combination of gasoline and electricity.
Getting the Right Size U-Haul Truck
Choosing the right size U-Haul truck for your move is an important decision. Take the time to accurately estimate the size of your move and the distance you plan to travel. Consider the load capacity of the truck and the cost of fuel. Finally, remember to purchase the necessary renters insurance to cover any potential damages. With the right size U-Haul truck, your move should go smoothly and stress-free.
