3 Things to Do Before Booking Your Truck Hire

1. Assess Your Truck Hire Situation

The first thing you have to do is fully evaluate your situation. This means clearly determining what you need to transport (i.e. things to move vs. things to throw away), what truck/s you need for transporting these items, and how many trips back and forth between destinations you have to make. The better you evaluate your situation and consider all relevant factors, the less unwanted surprises you’ll have on moving day.

🔍 Start by listing everything you’re moving and estimating volume in cubic metres. Note access issues like stairs, lifts, loading docks, or low clearances. If you’re in an apartment or inner-city area, check for street parking and height limits for pantech bodies.

📦 Match your load to the right vehicle. A 3–4.5t moving truck suits most apartments or small homes. Smaller loads might be cheaper in a van hire or ute hire, while larger homes may need an 8–10 pallet box truck. If you’re unsure, call the branch with your item list for a quick size recommendation.

✅ Confirm licence requirements. Most self-drive truck hire up to 4.5t GVM can be driven on a standard car licence, but bigger trucks may need an LR/MR licence. Ask about tie-down points, trolley availability, and whether moving blankets are included or extra.

2. Look For The Best Truck Hire Deals Available

The truck hire market is just as competitive as the car rental industry so you’ll likely find several choices for your truck hire if you look hard enough. The key here is to do your research and look for the best deals in price and value. Find the ones that best fit your budget and – more importantly – your needs and situation. When it comes to getting the best deals for your truck hire, a little advanced research goes a long way. Some companies (like our truck hire Brisbane service, for example) even offer special rates for online bookings.

💡 Compare total cost, not just the day rate. Look at the included kilometre allowance, additional km charges, fuel policy, after-hours fees, and insurance options. Check for self-drive truck hire promos, one-way truck hire availability, weekday discounts, and coupon codes. Booking early and choosing flexible pickup/return times often unlocks better value.

Pro tip: If your load is borderline, get two quotes: one for a larger moving truck and one for a smaller truck or van hire. The bigger truck might be cheaper overall if it reduces trips and fuel. Likewise, a smaller vehicle may be more economical if your route includes tight access or paid parking.

3. Time Your Move

When it comes to truck hires, remember that your rental dates will make a huge difference to your quoted price. Much like other vehicle rentals, weekend rates for truck hires are usually higher than rates on weekdays.

If your schedule permits, consider timing your move on weekdays rather than on weekends. That way, you can take advantage of cheaper rates and more complete services that weekday rentals typically have. In some cases, you’ll save so much renting on weekdays that you’ll never think of renting on weekends again.

And if you do have to rent it on a weekend, then make sure you at least book it early so that you have a better chance of getting lower rates.

⏰ Also avoid public holidays, end-of-month, and school holidays when demand spikes. Early morning pickups give you the whole day and reduce the risk of late fees. Keep some buffer time in case of traffic, rain, or elevator delays so you can return the vehicle on time.

How To Choose The Right Truck Size

Picking the right size is where many people overpay or under-book. Too small and you’ll make multiple trips; too big and you’ll pay for space you don’t use. A clear inventory and a rough volume estimate will guide you to the best option.

For studios and 1-bed apartments, a small pantech or large van hire usually works. Two-bedroom moves often suit a 3–4.5t moving truck, while larger homes may need an 8–10 pallet box body. If access is tight, consider splitting the move with a van hire for fragile items and a truck for furniture.

Think beyond volume. Measure your largest items (fridges, sofas, beds) and check doorways, lifts, and stairwells. Height restrictions in carparks and inner-city streets can make a smaller vehicle or a ute hire more practical, even if it adds an extra run.

If you’re unsure, ask the branch for guidance. A quick phone call with dimensions or photos can save hours on move day. Many teams will advise whether upsizing is worth it given your route, parking, and item mix.

Truck Hire Costs, Insurance, And Fees Explained

Price isn’t just the sticker rate. The real cost of a truck hire includes the base day or hourly rate, included kilometres, per‑kilometre charges, fuel, tolls, and optional extras. Compare the full quote so you aren’t surprised at return.

Insurance matters. Standard cover usually carries an excess. You can often reduce it with an excess reduction or damage waiver. Weigh the extra cost against your risk tolerance and the replacement value of what you’re moving. Ask what’s covered (windscreen, tyres, overhead damage) and what isn’t.

Expect a bond or pre‑authorisation. Bring a physical credit card and matching ID. Returning late can trigger extra day charges, so plan your run. Cleaning, fuel, and damage fees are avoidable: refuel to the same level, sweep the cargo area, and photograph the truck at pickup and drop‑off.

Finally, check policies for cancellations and changes, especially on weekends or peak dates. If you’re considering one-way truck hire, confirm drop fees and allowable routes. For long distances, compare unlimited km packages with per‑km options to see which is cheaper.

Pickup, Returns, And Move‑Day Logistics

On pickup, inspect the vehicle thoroughly. Note existing dents and scratches on the form and take timestamped photos of all sides, the roof line, and the cargo box. Confirm the fuel level, spare tyre, and that your trolley, straps, and blankets are on board.

Plan your route ahead of time. Avoid low bridges and tight streets. Keep cashless payment ready for toll roads if your journey requires it. In busy areas, arrange parking or permits so you’re not circling while the clock runs.

Load smart. Put heavy items low and forward over the axle, protect furniture with blankets, and use tie‑downs to stop movement. Keep tools and essentials in a clearly labeled box so you’re not unpacking the truck to find them.

Returns are just as important. Refuel at the nearest servo to the branch, sweep the tray or box, and arrive a little early to avoid after‑hours fees. If you’re using an after‑hours drop, follow the instructions exactly and photograph the odometer and fuel gauge for your records.