Moving Truck vs. Car: How To Choose

When it's time to move, you have a big decision to make: Should you rent a moving truck or try to do it with your own vehicle? While using your car, SUV or pickup truck might seem like a budget-friendly option, it can actually lead to more trips, higher fuel costs and unnecessary stress. Renting a moving truck offers a more efficient, cost-effective and hassle-free way to go. Here’s why.

Fewer Trips, Faster Move

One of the biggest drawbacks of using a personal vehicle is space. Even if you have an SUV or a pickup truck, you’ll likely need to make multiple trips back and forth to move all your belongings. This means more time, more gas, and more wear and tear on your vehicle.

With a moving truck, you can take everything in one trip, making your move faster and easier. Our vehicles range from cargo vans to 12 to 26 foot trucks, so whether you're moving a studio apartment or a full house, there’s a size that fits your needs.

Save on Gas and Reduce Wear on Your Car

Long-distance moves can take a toll on your car. If you’re stuffing your hatchback or SUV with furniture and boxes, you’re putting strain on your vehicle’s suspension, tires and engine. Plus, the added weight will reduce fuel efficiency, costing you more at the pump.

Moving trucks are designed for heavy loads, meaning you can move everything in one go without overloading your car. And with the well-maintained and fuel-efficient trucks at Penske, you can make your move without worrying about costly vehicle repairs later.

Easy Loading and Secure Boxes

Unlike personal vehicles, moving trucks are built for moving. With features like:

• Spacious cargo areas to fit furniture, appliances and boxes securely
• Loading ramps and liftgates to make heavy lifting easier
• Tie-down points to keep your items safe and in place during the drive

In contrast, trying to squeeze furniture into a car often results in damage to your belongings — or worse, unsafe driving conditions with items blocking your view.

Comfort and Convenience

Driving long distances in a packed car can be uncomfortable, with limited legroom and poor visibility. Moving trucks typically offer comfortable seating, air conditioning and modern safety features to make your drive smoother and safer. Plus, many locations offer one-way rentals, so you don’t have to worry about making a return trip. And at Penske, those one-way rentals always come with free, unlimited miles.

Making that one-way trip by yourself? Rent towing equipment to safely pull your vehicle behind the moving truck and have one less thing to worry about.

Ready To Move Like a Pro? Follow These Tips

1. Choose the right truck size – Use the Penske Truck Wizard tool to determine what truck size will work best for you.
2. Pack efficiently – Load heavy items first and in the shape of an “I”, distribute weight evenly and protect furniture with moving blankets.
3. Secure everything – Use straps and tie-downs to prevent shifting while you’re driving.
4. Plan your route – Plan your route in advance, especially for long one-way moves. But if you have time, enjoy our free, unlimited miles and add some fun stops along the way to make your one-way journey more enjoyable.
5. Streamline your pickup – Need hand trucks, furniture pads or towing equipment? We have you covered, and we’ll put it all with your truck to streamline pickup.
6. Save money – Look into discounts a company may offer. For example, Penske offers discounts to college students, AAA members and the military, as well as limited-time discounts to everyone.

Don’t waste time making endless trips in a cramped car. Make your move faster and more enjoyable by renting a moving truck.