Check with the moving or truck rental company you use, but in general, you won’t be able to transport hazardous materials or perishables.  We also recommend that you always keep your sentimental and high-value items with you. 

Perishable are things that may die or spoil during transit, like fresh or frozen food, open food containers and plants. Any of these could attract pests that might damage the rest of your shipment. If your household goods will be picked up and delivered within 24 hours, a moving company might allow the shipment of certain perishables if they’re properly packed.

But why not start fresh at your destination with a newly stocked pantry or refrigerator? Instead of taking up valuable space on a moving truck with these items, plan ahead to use them up or donate them to a food bank.

Quite possibly, but when it comes to renting a moving truck, be sure to budget for these charges and costs:

• Truck rental rates vary by size and destination. Some companies also have a mileage charge.
• Fuel costs will vary based on how far you travel, and most rental companies require you to return the truck with a full fuel tank.
• Motor vehicle insurance for driving a commercial truck isn’t always included in personal auto policies or covered by your credit card’s car rental insurance benefit. Most truck companies offer this insurance as an option for approximately $20 – $50 per day depending on the coverage selected.
• You’ll need other equipment, too, at the loading and unloading site. The truck company will impose a rental fee for items like a dolly, four-wheel carts, a loading ramp, padded blankets, straps and a car tow.

Renting a moving truck isn’t the only way to move your household goods on your own. You may want to get quotes for a portable container or freight shipment. Depending on the volume and distance, this could be just as affordable. You’ll still have the flexibility of loading and unloading at your pace but someone else will deliver your belongings to your new location. Some of these container shipping services even include storage options in case you’re not quite ready to receive your belongings when you get to your new location.

Absolutely! If you plan to move yourself, here are some things to consider:

• Get the right-sized truck. Reputable rental truck companies can help you determine the right size based on things like the size of your family, the size of your current house and a high-level inventory of your major belongings. But a word of caution: In our experience, more often than not people underestimate the size of the truck or container they’ll need.
• Consider hiring professional moving labor. You can hire labor-only movers to assist with moving day loading or unloading. They can also help plan the loading process to maximize the use of space and to keep items secure in transit.
• Get the right types and quantities of packing supplies. Without the right packing supplies, you could end up with broken or damaged belongings. It’s very important to use proper moving boxes and packing supplies when moving yourself. Don’t forget to also have plastic wrap, foam pouches and newspaper on hand. You can help protect our environment, and save a little money, by finding used packing boxes that are in good condition.
• Keep your essentials handy. Plan ahead and pack two boxes with the things you’ll need when you arrive to get you through the first 24 hours or so. One box should include items like cleaning supplies, trash bags, bath towels, lightbulbs, a can opener, toilet paper, paper towels and plastic cups and plates. Pack a second box with personal items like bed sheets, pillows, pajamas, toiletries, medication, chargers, necessary electronics, a change of clothes, outerwear and a first-aid kit. These two boxes should be loaded last so you can easily get to them when you arrive.
• Packing your boxes. Use small and medium boxes when packing heavy items to avoid the tendency to overpack them to the point where you hurt yourself or the boxes fail. Also, don’t think of packing as a one-day event. In the month leading up to the move, begin packing the items you don’t need, like out-of-season clothing, books, knick-knacks, framed pictures and certain electronics. Things like kitchen supplies and clothing can wait until the last day or two.
• Loading the truck. Load the largest and heaviest items first and place them towards the front (nearest the cab). Place lighter items on top of them as well as towards the back. Try to distribute the weight evenly from side to side as much as possible.

We encourage you to look into using a certified auto moving company. You’ll have two options: open and closed car carriers. In general, the most economical option will be an open car carrier. Price shopping for this service can be tricky, though. The lowest price may not be all-inclusive, and the quote may not be binding. Be sure to get multiple quotes and compare apples to apples to find the best deal.