Self-Move Tips
A Self-Move means that you will acquire your own packing materials,
and arrange for people to help you load and unload your belongings. Below
is a list of items that you should consider when moving yourself.
- Moving Truck - size depends on need
You will need to know how to drive the truck that you rent. Some
companies offer units with power steering and power brakes, others
do not. An automatic transmission may or may not be available.
Remember that these are real trucks, not modified cars. They handle
differently than a car. They have large blind spots, and are top
heavy so they must be driven slower and braking distances are longer.
Also be aware of overhangs that do not normally pose
problems to cars.
- Towing a Vehicle
When reserving a rental truck, be sure to indicate if you have a
vehicle to be towed. Also indicate the make, year and model. This way
the self-move dealer can reserve the proper type of towing
item.
- Furniture/Appliance Dollies & Furniture Pads - for
leverage and protection
Your rental dealer can supply you with tools to help make moving
certain items easier. These include dollies, which you place heavy
items upon to give you leverage; furniture pads for surface protection;
and straps to tie down the load. Bungee cables are not recommended.
Also hand trucks may be necessary to help move bulky and heavy
items.
- Fuel
Like rental cars, if you bring the truck back at a lower gas level,
the rental company will charge for the amount of gallons it takes
for them to re-fuel. It is more cost effective for you to fill it
up before you return it.
- Supplies - boxes, tape, mattress bags, mirror boxes
This is an additional expense of moving. As soon as you know you are
moving, you may want to start accumulating packing materials from
various sources to help save money. Otherwise rental facilities and
package stores carry this type of material.
- Reservations & Deposits
Be sure to reserve the rental truck as soon as you know the date you
are moving. This insures that you will have the truck available on the
days that you need it. Most rental companies will require a deposit
to secure the reservation.
- Rental Insurance Protection
Many times your homeowner or rental insurance may not
protect your household goods while in transit. You should check
with your current insurance agent. Also ask your self-move dealer what
protection they can offer you for the rental period. When you pick up
your truck, review the paperwork to see that the rental protection is
included.
Remember that when you pick up your truck, the dealer will show you
everything you need to know. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Be sure
to keep receipts of all of your expenses, including the rental, gas,
food and lodging. The receipts may be needed for your taxes and/or if
you are working with a relocation company or a corporate move.
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