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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