Driving a moving truck isn’t easy, and for most, it’s a new experience completely. You may be nervous about your first moving truck adventure, so we put together a list of everything you need to know to make driving a breeze.
Find the right size
Moving trucks range in size from a conventional pickup truck with an 8-foot bed up to a 26-foot moving truck. The 26-foot truck can move five or more rooms at a time and has a cab that seats three, offering a more spacious ride for two adults. If you’re moving with kids or pets, you’ll want to rent an extended cab pick-up truck and trailer combo, because you’ll need a back seat.
Take time to get used to the handling
Keep in mind, even the smaller 12-foot moving truck handles differently than a car. Your moving truck does not handle like a car or a large SUV. It’s tall and wobbly, with very loose steering. Because it’s so heavy, especially loaded with your stuff, it takes longer to stop in a moving truck than in a regular passenger vehicle.
You won’t want to jump right on the highway when you first pick up the van. Drive it around empty from the rental location, maybe even around the parking lot a few times, to get used to the feel. Remember, it will take even longer to accelerate or stop after it’s loaded.