Are you planning a move that does not require the storage space of a large moving truck, but needs more room than what your car offers? Then choosing to rent a cargo van might be your best bet. A cargo van is perfect for smaller moves such as when someone is moving into a dorm or an apartment. A cargo van rental is also a good choice for office relocations.

For those who don’t know, a cargo van is like a regular van except that it has no seats in the back. There are the two front seats like normal, and the back of the van is completely clear so that items can easily be transported. Cargo vans normally come equipped with standard features like bucket seats, automatic transmission, air conditioning, and AM/FM stereo, and anti-lock brakes.

Generally speaking, there are three different sizes to choose from: regular, full-size, and extended. A regular size cargo van is around 10′ long. Depending on the size, most of the cargo van rentals provide 235 – 250 cubic feet of storage space. The load capacity is normally around 2000 pounds.

How To Rent A Cargo Van

Renting a cargo van is similar to renting a car. You can handle the process in one of three ways: by phone, online, or in person at the rental company’s office. You can rent a cargo van at most truck rental companies, as well as, some of the major car rental agencies. Some of the car rental companies have separate websites to handle their truck and vans. For instance, Budget uses BudgetTruck.com and Enterprise uses EnterpriseTrucks.com. There are also some smaller local companies that you can find by searching online or in your phone book.

Before you select a company to rent a cargo van with, it is a good idea to check around for the best rates. Prices will vary depending on a number of factors. Are you needing it for a local move or across the country? What time of the year and week will you be renting? If you want to rent a cargo van one way, make sure that the renting company allows it. Some large companies like Budget do not. Uhaul and Budget charge around $20 per day plus around $.60 for each mile traveled. While other companies have unlimited mileage rentals.

Cargo Van Rental Tips

As I mentioned earlier, renting a cargo van is a lot like renting a car. Therefore, you can follow some similar steps that will help you save some money and make your moving experience more enjoyable.

• To give yourself the best chance of renting the cargo van of your choice, make your reservation ahead of time.
• Measure how much space you are going to need before you move to avoid unexpected headaches during your move.
• Search online for discount coupon codes.
• If you can, rent a cargo van during the week and/or during the winter months. Rental rates go up during peak times like the weekends and summer.
• Compare rates from all of the different companies.
• Always read the fine print and terms and conditions when you rent a cargo van. If something seems to good to be true, it usually is.