Your Guide to Renting a Moving Truck
Moving truck for hire near me is one of the most common searches when planning a DIY relocation. While renting a truck can save money, it requires careful planning. This guide will help you steer the process.
What to Consider When Renting:
When comparing truck rental companies in the Chicago area, look beyond the initial price. Consider these key factors:
- Fleet Size and Availability: Does the company have a wide range of truck sizes and numerous locations for convenient pickup?
- Pricing Structure: Do they charge per mile, or do they offer unlimited mileage packages for long-distance moves?
- Flexibility: Look for features like 24/7 self-service pickup and drop-off, which can be a lifesaver for tight moving schedules.
- Additional Costs: Remember to budget for fuel, insurance, mileage fees, and necessary supplies like dollies and furniture pads.
The rental process is generally straightforward. You can typically reserve online, pick up your truck at a local branch, and return it to the same or a different location depending on your agreement. Base rates for local moves often seem low, but per-mile charges can add up quickly.
I’m Mina Georgalas, owner and president of Bernard Movers, and I’ve spent nearly 30 years helping families and businesses steer the complexities of relocation throughout Chicago, Melrose Park, and Illinois. Whether you’re considering a moving truck for hire near me or exploring full-service options, understanding your choices helps you make the best decision for your move.
Find more about moving truck for hire near me:
- local packing and loading services for moving
- full service moving cost estimate
- local professional moving services
When planning a DIY move in Chicago, finding a moving truck for hire near me is the first step. This guide covers selecting the right truck, understanding rental policies, and ensuring a safe move. While a DIY approach can save money, it requires careful planning for local moves within Illinois or one-way long-distance relocations.
Key Factors for a Moving Truck for Hire Near Me
What Size Moving Truck Do I Need?
Choosing the right truck size is crucial. A truck that’s too small means multiple trips, wasting time and money. One that’s too large is difficult to maneuver on Chicago’s streets.
Rental vehicles generally fall into three categories: Cargo vans are perfect for studio apartments or small loads. Pickup trucks have an open bed for bulky items, but offer no protection from weather. Box trucks, ranging from 10 to 26 feet, are the standard for most moves. These enclosed trucks often include loading ramps and sometimes have an overhead storage area (a “storage loft”) for lighter items.
Here’s a practical guide to help you match truck size with your actual needs:
| Truck Size (Approx.) | Cubic Feet (Approx.) | Best For (Home Size) | Typical Items | Key Features (General) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cargo Van | 250-350 cu. ft. | Studio/Small 1-Bedroom | Boxes, small furniture, appliances | Easy to drive, good MPG |
| 10-foot Box Truck | 400-450 cu. ft. | Studio/1-Bedroom Apartment | Mattress set, sofa, dresser, boxes | Easy to park, low deck |
| 15-foot Box Truck | 700-800 cu. ft. | 1-2 Bedroom Home/Apartment | Multiple furniture pieces, appliances, many boxes | Loading ramp, storage loft |
| 20-foot Box Truck | 1,000-1,100 cu. ft. | 2-3 Bedroom Home/Apartment | Large appliances, dining sets, multiple bedrooms | Loading ramp, good capacity |
| 26-foot Box Truck | 1,600-1,700 cu. ft. | 3-4+ Bedroom Home | Large furniture, multiple appliances, extensive boxes | Largest capacity, can tow |
When choosing your truck size, it’s wise to err on the side of slightly too large rather than too small. Making a second trip will cost you more in time, fuel, and mileage fees. Be sure to consider all your belongings, including items stored in a garage, basement, or attic. For dense urban areas like Chicago, a slightly smaller truck might be easier to park and navigate, but you must balance maneuverability with capacity. Most box trucks come with a loading ramp, which is essential for safely moving heavy appliances like refrigerators and washing machines. Before you reserve, create a detailed inventory of your bulkiest items—sofas, mattresses, dining tables—to ensure you select a truck that can accommodate everything in a single trip.
Decoding Rental Costs and Policies
Understanding the true cost of a moving truck for hire near me requires looking beyond the advertised price. The low base rate for a local move typically covers a short rental period with minimal mileage. The real cost often comes from per-mile charges, which add up quickly on trips around the Chicago area.
For longer moves, look for unlimited mileage options, which are common with one-way rentals and offer more predictable pricing. In-town rentals (round-trip) are great for local moves in Chicago or nearby suburbs like Melrose Park, but remember those per-mile fees. One-way rentals let you drop the truck off at a different location, ideal for moves across Illinois or out of state.
Fuel policies are simple: return the truck with the same amount of fuel it had at pickup, usually a full tank. Failure to do so results in expensive refueling fees. Also, your personal auto insurance likely won’t cover a rental truck. Rental companies offer insurance coverage options that, while an added cost, provide crucial financial protection.
Expect to pay a rental deposit with a credit card, which is refunded after the truck’s safe and clean return. This deposit can range from $100 to over $500, depending on the company and rental type. For a money-saving tip, try booking your truck for a mid-week, mid-month move. Weekend rates and end-of-month dates are almost always higher due to peak demand. Booking several weeks in advance can also help you lock in a lower rate and ensure availability.
For more detailed information on keeping your move affordable, explore our affordable moving truck rental services.
How to Find a Moving Truck for Hire Near Me in Illinois
Finding a moving truck for hire near me in Illinois is simple. We serve communities across the Chicago area, including Melrose Park, Des Plaines, Franklin Park, Park Ridge, Elmhurst, and many others.
Start by searching online. A quick search on Google Maps for “truck rental Chicago” will show nearby locations, hours, and reviews. Visiting rental company websites directly allows you to use their location finders to see available branches by zip code (e.g., 60601 for Chicago or 60160 for Melrose Park).
Always check operating hours, as they can vary between large corporate centers and smaller neighborhood dealers. Some services now offer convenient 24/7 pickup and return options via smartphone apps, which is ideal for unconventional moving schedules.
For more insights specific to our area, check out our Chicago Moving Truck Rental Guide.
What Are the Requirements for a Moving Truck for Hire Near Me?
Before renting, you’ll need to meet a few standard requirements.
Age requirements in Illinois typically start at 18, but some companies or larger trucks may require you to be 21 or 25. Always call ahead to confirm if you’re under 21.
You will need a current, valid driver’s license from the U.S. or Canada. For most rental trucks, a standard license (Class D in Illinois) is sufficient, as they fall below the commercial weight limit. For official requirements, you can consult the Illinois Secretary of State. Always confirm with the rental company, especially for their largest trucks.
For payment, expect to need a major credit card in your name for the rental fee and security deposit. Some companies accept debit cards but may have additional requirements. If you’re an international driver, you can usually rent with your passport, home country’s license, and an International Driving Permit, but confirm the policy beforehand.
Essential Tips for Safe Loading and Driving
Driving a large moving truck is different from a car. Safety is essential for protecting your belongings and others on the road.
Weight distribution is key. Load your heaviest items first at the front of the truck (closest to the cab) and centered on the floor. This keeps the truck stable. An unbalanced load can negatively affect steering and handling.
Securing your load with straps or rope prevents items from shifting and breaking. Wrap furniture in pads or blankets and fill gaps with boxes or packing material to create a tight, secure load.
When driving, remember these tips:
- Increase Stopping Distance: A loaded truck needs more room to stop. Leave extra space between you and the vehicle ahead.
- Take Wider Turns: Swing wide, especially on right turns, to avoid hitting curbs or other objects.
- Watch for Clearance: Know your truck’s height (usually posted in the cab) and be mindful of low bridges, overhangs, and tree branches.
- Use Your Mirrors: With no rearview visibility, your side mirrors are critical. Adjust them before you start and check them constantly for blind spots.
Drive slower than you normally would, stay alert, and be patient, especially on busy Chicago streets.
Don’t Forget the Extras: Supplies and Labor
The truck is just one part of the move. You’ll also need the right supplies and maybe some help.
Dollies and hand trucks are essential for moving heavy boxes and appliances. Furniture pads (moving blankets) protect your belongings from scratches and dings during transit. Don’t forget quality packing supplies like sturdy boxes, packing tape, and bubble wrap.
This is where Bernard Movers can make your DIY move easier. Even if you rent your own truck, the physical labor can be exhausting. We offer professional loading and unloading help, providing experienced movers who know how to pack a truck efficiently and safely. This saves you time and prevents injury.
To compare prices for various moving supplies and labor assistance, visit our main site: Compare Prices.
For those needing local moving assistance in Chicago, Melrose Park, or any of our Illinois service areas, our team is ready to help. Find more about our services for local movers near me.
Your Best Move in Chicago
Renting a moving truck for hire near me and managing a DIY move is a major undertaking. While it can seem like a budget-friendly choice, the time, physical labor, and stress of navigating a large truck through Chicago can be overwhelming. Is that how you want to spend your moving day?
At Bernard Movers, we believe moving should be about the excitement of a new chapter, not logistical nightmares. When you choose our full-service moving company, you’re choosing peace of mind.
Here’s what we handle for you:
Our team provides professional packing services, carefully boxing everything from delicate china to bulky furniture. With our loading services, you won’t lift a single heavy box. Our experienced crew understands weight distribution and how to secure items for safe transit through Chicago, Melrose Park, and across Illinois.
Our professional drivers handle the transportation. They know the streets of Illinois and will get your possessions to your new home safely and efficiently. No white-knuckle driving required.
When you work with us, you gain partners who are dedicated to making your relocation smooth. Instead of coordinating a DIY move, you can focus on what matters: preparing for life in your new home.
And here’s something that might sweeten the deal: We’re currently offering a 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025. If you’re heading south, we can help you get there for less.
Whether you’re moving across Chicago or relocating from Illinois to another state, we’re here to help. To find more about how we can make your local move seamless, visit our page on Chicago local moving.
At the end of the day, renting a moving truck for hire near me is one option, but letting professionals handle the hard work is often the best move you can make.
