Renting a moving truck involves more than just handing over your credit card—you need to know exactly what the rental company provides and what you'll pay extra for. Most rental packages differ wildly between operators, so understanding the baseline coverage saves you money and stress on moving day.
What You Actually Get in a Standard Package
A basic moving truck rental typically includes the vehicle itself, liability coverage (usually up to $25,000–$50,000), and unlimited mileage on certain plans. However, unlimited mileage isn't guaranteed—many regional and budget providers cap it at 100–150 miles per day, charging $0.50–$1.50 per mile beyond that threshold. You'll receive the truck with a full fuel tank and are expected to return it full; failing to do so results in a fuel surcharge of $4–$8 per gallon above market rates.
The rental period matters too. Most companies offer 24-hour rental windows (not calendar days), and you'll pay a flat daily rate ranging from $20–$60 for a 10-foot van, $50–$120 for a 15-foot truck, and $75–$150 for a 20-foot box truck. Hourly rentals exist for local moves, typically costing $15–$35 per hour with a 3–4 hour minimum.
Equipment and Tools—What's Included vs. What Costs Extra
Here's where rental packages diverge significantly. Usually included at no charge:
- Tie-down straps and ratchet straps (2–4 sets)
- Basic blankets or pads for fragile items
- Dolly or hand truck (though availability varies)
- GPS/navigation system in newer vehicles
- 24-hour roadside assistance
What you'll pay extra for ($10–$50 each):
- Furniture pads beyond the basic set
- Additional dollies or equipment
- Wardrobe boxes (specialized cardboard boxes with hanging rods)
- Hand trucks beyond one per rental
- Mattress covers
- Adhesive-backed corner protectors
Some premium providers bundled equipment packages for $25–$75 upfront, giving you access to multiple dollies, full pad sets, and specialty boxes—worth considering if you're moving more than two bedrooms of furniture.
Insurance and Damage Protection
This is critical. Your personal auto insurance typically doesn't cover rental trucks, and credit card coverage is unreliable. Most rental companies offer collision damage waiver (CDW) for $15–$35 per day, reducing your responsibility for damage from $500–$5,000 down to a $1,000 deductible.
Some customers skip CDW and self-insure, but truck rental accidents average $2,000–$8,000 in repairs. If you're uncomfortable with that financial risk, CDW is worth the daily cost. Read the fine print—some policies exclude undercarriage damage or incidents while towing.
Driver Requirements and Hidden Fees
You'll need a valid driver's license and typically be at least 18 years old (25 for some premium trucks). Some companies charge $15–$25 for additional drivers.
Watch for these often-overlooked fees:
- Late return charges: $50–$100 per hour after your 24-hour window closes
- Cleaning deposits: $50–$150 if you return the truck dirty
- Early termination fees: Some long-distance rentals charge $100–$200 if you cancel
- One-way rental surcharge: $25–$200 if dropping off at a different location than pickup
How to Compare and Find the Right Package
When evaluating moving truck rentals, request quotes from at least three providers. Use platforms like Mercoly, which helps you compare and find trusted moving truck and van rental providers in one place, giving you transparent pricing and customer reviews.
Ask specific questions: What mileage limits apply? Is fuel included in the quote? What equipment comes standard? Are there peak-season surcharges (summer moves typically cost 15–25% more)? Compare the total cost, not just the daily rate, since add-ons often inflate the final bill by 30–50%.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to return the moving truck with a full tank of gas? Yes, nearly all rental companies charge a fuel surcharge of $4–$8 per gallon if you return it empty or partially full, so fill up at a regular gas station beforehand.
Q: Can I rent a truck for just a few hours instead of a full day? Many local rental companies offer hourly rates ($15–$35/hour with a 3–4 hour minimum), but national chains typically enforce a 24-hour minimum rental period.
Q: What happens if I damage the truck during my rental? Without collision damage waiver (CDW), you're liable for repair costs up to $5,000; with CDW ($15–$35/day), your liability drops to around $1,000, making it worthwhile for high-risk moves.
Start comparing quotes today to lock in the best rate and package for your move.