Going It Alone: A Self-Move Can Be A Great Alternative
Each year at least 17 million American households move, according to Movecentral, Inc., a Boston-based company serving the relocation industry. Corporate transferees account for forty percent of these households, according to American Moving and Storage Association.
Up until recently, many companies assumed that all employees required a full-service move. After closer study, and with an eye toward the bottom line, some companies have begun expanding relocation options to include two practical alternatives -- the rental truck self-move and the pack and load self-move.
The Benefits
Both types of self-moves benefit families as well as companies. Employees like the flexibility. You, rather than the van line, drive the schedule. And because you pack and load the truck (and sometimes drive it), you maintain greater control over your possessions.
Companies find that self-moving helps to control or trim the enormous expenses associated with corporate relocation. Thus, companies have an incentive to add this option to their benefits package. Some even go so far as to "share the savings" with employees. According to Mobility Magazine, self-moves are approximately half the price of a van line move which can amount to several thousand dollars saved. If you’re being relocated, ask your company’s benefits manager about this program.
Rental truck self-move
Although driving a rental truck requires extra precaution due to the height and visibility limitations, most drivers shouldn’t have a problem handling a truck. Self-movers can expect rental trucks to come equipped with automatic transmission and power steering, air conditioning and an AM/FM radio. In most states, no special license or training is required for renting a truck.
The rental truck self-move is the most physically demanding option. You pack, you load, you drive. But when you are packed and ready to roll, you can leave immediately. All styles and models of trucks may not be available at all rental locations. It’s advisable to reserve your truck in advance, especially during busy times, such as at the beginning or end of the month, to be assured of securing a right-sized vehicle for your move. You may want to check out Web sites for Internet specials and printable coupons or to reserve a truck.
Pack and load self-move
This alternative rates high with many customers. Do-it-yourselfers stay off the highway and out of the truck rental office. On an agreed-upon day, the moving company delivers a clean, right-sized trailer to your door. You load the trailer and pay for only the space used. After you’ve finished loading, a professional driver picks up the trailer and delivers it to your new home. You unload at your convenience and call to have the trailer removed.
What about insurance?
Truck rental companies offer inexpensive protection plans that generally include some form of loss damage waiver, supplemental liability, personal accident, and cargo protection insurance. Standard auto, home, credit card and auto club insurance does not usually cover the physical damage or theft of rental trucks, so you may want to consider purchasing added protection. Before deciding, check your policies or call your agent to verify your insurer’s current policy provisions.
Is a self-move right for you?
Before you decide whether to move yourself or have a professional move you, consider these questions: Do I have the time to drive the truck? Can I get strong helpers in each location? Should I use this opportunity to see some of the country and vacation along the way? Will I need to drive my car to the new location? What are the likely weather conditions and how might they affect me?
Self moves aren’t for everyone. Time constraints, family issues, or physical limitations might prevent you from packing, loading and unloading, or driving a long distance. But for those who are prepared to exchange some elbow grease for substantial savings , a self-move can be a great alternative.
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