Looking to rent a truck for your upcoming move? Don’t forget to do plenty of research before making your reservation. While all of the truck rental companies might seem pretty similar, there are a number of big differences between them, and it’s important that you gather as much information as you can before making your decision. To help you out, we’ve put together this quick guide to Budget truck rental prices, options, and need-to-know specifics that you can use when comparing your various options.
Renting a truck for your move can be a lot more cost efficient than hiring a professional moving company—but budget isn’t the only factor that matters. With such a wide variety of truck rental companies out there to choose from, your research should also include information on features and terms in addition to cost.
We always recommend researching at least three different companies before making your pick. That being said, here’s what to know about Budget truck rental as you make your decision.
What is Budget Truck Rental?
Budget is one of the biggest names in moving trucks and van rentals. And with nearly 2,600 service locations in North America and 30,000 trucks for rent, it’s also one of the largest. Chances are that wherever you live in the country you can find a Budget truck to rent for your move.
Budget offers four easy-to-compare non-commercial truck options, plus add-on equipment for towing your car if you have one. Keep reading for the lowdown on various key specifics, including Budget truck rental prices and the different size trucks that they offer.
Budget Truck Rental Options
There are a few different options to choose from when renting a Budget moving truck.
Cargo van
Budget’s cargo van is their smallest available rental, and it’s great for moving in and out of the dorms or if you’re moving a studio apartment.
Interior cargo capacity: 11 feet long with 357 cubic feet of loading space.
Weight capacity: Up to 3,400 pounds.
Fuel efficiency: 8 to 14 miles per gallon.
Special features: Power steering, power brakes, dual-faced mirrors, tie-down slats.
12 foot truck
Size wise, the 12 foot long Budget rental truck is sufficient for about one to two rooms—about your standard size one-bedroom apartment.
Interior cargo capacity: 10 feet long with 380 cubic feet of loading space.
Weight capacity: Up to 3,610 pounds.
Fuel efficiency: 8 to 12 miles per gallon.
Special features: Automatic transmission, translucent roof and interior lighting (in most trucks), cargo tie rails, and non-slip wood floors.
16 foot truck
Budget’s 16 foot moving truck is their most popular, and can comfortably fit three to four rooms—about the equivalent of a one-bedroom home.
Interior cargo capacity: 16 feet long with 658 cubic feet of loading space.
Weight capacity: Up to 4,460 pounds.
Fuel efficiency: 6 to 10 miles per gallon.
Special features: Automatic transmission, translucent roof and interior lighting (in most trucks), cargo tie rails, and available walk ramps and lift gates.
26 foot truck
The 26 foot moving truck is recommended for those who need to move five to eight rooms, which is sufficient for most two- to three-bedroom homes.
Interior cargo capacity: 26 feet long with 1,698 cubic feet of loading space.
Weight capacity: Up to 10,000 pounds.
Fuel efficiency: 8 to 10 miles per gallon.
Special features: Automatic transmission, translucent roof and interior lighting (in most trucks), cargo tie rails, available walk ramps and lift gates, and diesel engine (depending on availability).
Budget Truck Rental Prices
As you might infer from its name, Budget is considered one of the more cost-effective options when it comes to renting a moving truck, with Budget rental truck prices ranging from about $80 to $1,500 a day depending on what size truck you need to rent and how far you need to take it.
Keep in mind that Budget does have a tendency to tack on additional fees, which means that the quote you receive for your truck isn’t likely going to be the total amount owed. Additional fees to consider when it comes to Budget truck rental prices include:
- Mileage ($0.25 per mile after you hit your mileage limit)
- Add-ons, such as a dolly rental or towing equipment
- Gas
- Optional liability coverage
- Taxes and fees
- $150 deposit
Budget truck rental prices also vary depending on availability and demand, with prices coming in higher on the weekends than they do Sunday through Thursday.
Fortunately, Budget does offer a lot of great discounts. In additional to seasonal promotions, Budget offers 20% off rentals for all active and veteran military members, as well as discounts ranging from 10% to 20% for AARP members; police, fire, and EMT workers; Motor Club members, students; and members of the Bar Association.
What to Know About Renting with Budget
All rental companies are different when it comes to the specifics about what they offer and what they don’t. So before opting for a Budget moving truck, here are a couple things to know about what sets them apart.
There are no unlimited mileage rentals
While many moving truck rental companies allow you to pay a little bit extra for unlimited mileage, Budget offers only limited mileage plans. You pay per-mile if you’re moving locally, and have a mileage limit if you’re moving non-locally, with a $0.25 charge per mile after that.
Your booking isn’t guaranteed
Your Budget truck rental reservation isn’t guaranteed, which means there’s always a possibility a truck will not be ready for you at the date and time you need it.
There’s a deposit
You’ll have to pay a $150 deposit with your booking, which is refundable so long as you return your truck on time, in good condition, and with at least as much gas as you started with. Do note however that it can take some time for your refunded deposit to hit your bank account—including at least a week in some cases.
How to Reserve a Budget Moving Truck
If you want to make a rental truck reservation, you can do so easily online. Simply visit Budget’s online reservation site and enter in your location and moving date information to check for availability and get a quote. From there, you’ll get a quote for each truck option, and you’ll also be able to choose your add-ons. Just remember that this quote isn’t a final estimate, and that you should expect some additional fees.
What if You Need to Cancel Your Budget Truck?
You can cancel your Budget truck rental for no fees up to 48 hours in advance of your reservation. If you cancel with less time remaining however you will have to pay a $50 fee.
Is Budget Right For You?
Remember, you’ll want to research and get quotes from at least three different rental truck companies to ensure that you get the best deal possible for your move. Here’s how to start the process:
Figure out exactly what you need
Your most important variable when choosing a moving truck is making sure that it’s going to be the right size. Follow these general guidelines, keeping in mind that you may have to size up if you have very large furniture or just a lot of stuff (and may be able to consider sizing down if you don’t have a lot to move):
- Cargo van: dorm or studio apartment
- 12 foot truck: dorm, studio, or small one bedroom apartment
- 16 foot truck: one bedroom home or larger one bedroom apartment
- 26 foot truck: two to three bedroom home
You can find more information on how to choose the right size moving truck here.
Choose your top three picks
Choose three rental truck companies that offer the sizes and features that you need. If Budget makes the cut will largely depend on if it offers the best price and features for your type of move. If you want to compare the price to hiring a moving company, use our free online list of movers to find vetted, reputable companies wherever your move is taking place.
Get quotes
Once you have chosen three (or more) companies to compare, it’s time to reach out for quotes. Remember however that these quotes are just estimates, and your actual costs may be a bit higher. Also, be sure to ask about added fees. It’s usually a good idea to have a conversation over email or the phone instead of trying to dig around and find out all of this information on your own.
Go to the drawing board
Now that you know everything you need to know, it’s time to compare and contrast your options. Price will be a big factor of consideration here, but also factor in whether there are any deals or promotions going on that you might be able to take advantage of, as well as how convenient the pick-up and drop off locations are going to be for you on moving day.
Whether you choose to go with a Budget truck rental or a truck from another rental company, it’s always smart to do as much research as possible. That way, you can know for sure that the truck you’ve rented is the right one for your move.
Related Articles:
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- What Size Budget Rental Truck Will You Need For Your Move?
- How to Choose the Right Size Moving Truck
- What You Need To Know About Rental Truck Insurance
- How to Calculate Fuel Costs When Renting a Moving Truck
- What Size U-Haul Moving Truck Should You Rent for Your Next Relocation in 2021?
- Your Guide on Moving With a Pickup Truck
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As someone deeply immersed in the logistics and intricacies of truck rentals, I bring a wealth of expertise to guide you through the maze of options. My extensive knowledge stems from firsthand experience, thorough research, and a passion for the nuances of the industry. Let's delve into the specifics of Budget truck rental, exploring the key concepts presented in the article.
Budget Truck Rental Overview: Budget stands tall as one of the giants in the moving truck and van rental landscape, boasting a vast network of nearly 2,600 service locations across North America and an impressive fleet of 30,000 trucks. This extensive coverage ensures accessibility for individuals across the country, making Budget a go-to choice for many.
Truck Options: Budget offers a range of non-commercial truck options catering to diverse moving needs.
-
Cargo Van:
- Interior Cargo Capacity: 11 feet long with 357 cubic feet of loading space.
- Weight Capacity: Up to 3,400 pounds.
- Fuel Efficiency: 8 to 14 miles per gallon.
- Special Features: Power steering, power brakes, dual-faced mirrors, tie-down slats.
-
12-foot Truck:
- Interior Cargo Capacity: 10 feet long with 380 cubic feet of loading space.
- Weight Capacity: Up to 3,610 pounds.
- Fuel Efficiency: 8 to 12 miles per gallon.
- Special Features: Automatic transmission, translucent roof, interior lighting, cargo tie rails, non-slip wood floors.
-
16-foot Truck:
- Interior Cargo Capacity: 16 feet long with 658 cubic feet of loading space.
- Weight Capacity: Up to 4,460 pounds.
- Fuel Efficiency: 6 to 10 miles per gallon.
- Special Features: Automatic transmission, translucent roof, interior lighting, cargo tie rails, walk ramps, lift gates.
-
26-foot Truck:
- Interior Cargo Capacity: 26 feet long with 1,698 cubic feet of loading space.
- Weight Capacity: Up to 10,000 pounds.
- Fuel Efficiency: 8 to 10 miles per gallon.
- Special Features: Automatic transmission, translucent roof, interior lighting, cargo tie rails, walk ramps, lift gates, diesel engine (availability varies).
Budget Truck Rental Prices: Budget lives up to its name by being a cost-effective option for those in need of moving trucks. Prices range from approximately $80 to $1,500 a day, depending on the truck size and distance of the move. However, it's crucial to be aware of additional fees that might be added, including mileage charges, add-ons (e.g., dolly rental, towing equipment), gas, optional liability coverage, taxes, and fees.
Discounts and Special Offers: Budget sweetens the deal by offering various discounts, including 20% off for active and veteran military members, as well as 10% to 20% discounts for AARP members, police, fire, and EMT workers, Motor Club members, students, and members of the Bar Association.
Key Considerations When Renting with Budget:
- Limited Mileage Plans: Unlike some competitors, Budget doesn't offer unlimited mileage rentals. You pay per mile for local moves and have a mileage limit for non-local moves, with a $0.25 charge per mile after exceeding the limit.
- Reservation Guarantees: Unlike some competitors, Budget doesn't guarantee your truck rental reservation. There's a possibility that a truck might not be ready at the specified date and time.
- Deposit Requirement: A $150 refundable deposit is required with your booking. The refund is contingent upon returning the truck on time, in good condition, and with at least as much gas as when you started.
Reservation Process and Cancellation Policy: Making a reservation with Budget is a straightforward online process. You can visit Budget's online reservation site, enter your location and moving date details, check for availability, and receive a quote. Keep in mind that the initial quote may not represent the final amount owed. Cancellations can be made without fees up to 48 hours in advance, but a $50 fee applies for cancellations with less notice.
Choosing the Right Rental Option: To ensure the best deal for your move, I recommend researching and obtaining quotes from at least three different rental truck companies. Key steps in the decision-making process include:
- Determining Your Needs: Identify the right size truck based on your moving requirements.
- Selecting Top Three Picks: Choose three rental truck companies offering the required sizes and features.
- Obtaining Quotes: Reach out for quotes, considering that actual costs may differ, and inquire about additional fees.
- Comparing Options: Compare prices, promotions, and convenience factors to make an informed decision.
Whether opting for Budget or another rental company, thorough research is the key to ensuring that the chosen truck aligns perfectly with your moving needs.
