(NAPSI)—Once your college years are behind you and your future before you, the first step into that future is to move out of your dorm or college apartment.
Here, from the experts on moving at Penske Truck Rental, are 10 ways you may make that transition a little easier:
Moving Idea
Plan your trip. Determine how long it’ll take you to get to your destination—and then add in extra time for the unexpected. Take into account the time of day, likely traffic patterns and necessary stops.
Share. Ask around. Perhaps a schoolmate is going your way. Sharing the drive can help you save money, time and effort.
Reserve the moving truck in advance. For most students, a 12- or 16-foot truck is right for the job. Just remember, you’re not the only one moving out. Try to reserve the truck and any accessories—boxes, packing tape, bubble packing material, moving blankets, hand trucks and so on—at least two weeks before you plan on leaving.
Look for discounts. College students receive 10 percent off their truck rentals.
Try it before you drive it. Before you load up and drive away, familiarize yourself with the truck’s switches and gauges. Adjust the seat and side mirrors so they match your height and comfort zone. Remember, it’s likely to be taller, wider and heavier than the vehicles you’re used to driving. That means you may have to drive more slowly and carefully, particularly on turns. Also, be aware that trucks have oversized blind spots. Know where these are on the truck you get.
Make sure you understand the rental agreement. Most include language from the U.S. Department of Transportation that prohibits the “carrying or hauling of explosives and other dangerous articles.” That means you can’t pack paint, chemicals and cleaning materials, flammable solvents, propane, gasoline and the like.
Pack the back properly. Load the heaviest items on the truck first. Always bend your knees and lift with your legs, never your back.
Don’t pack everything. Things you may need to have in a hurry—paperwork, credit cards, identification, a change of clothes, drinks and snacks—should be kept close at hand in a travel bag with you in the truck’s cab.
Be prepared for emergencies. You should know that most insurance and credit card companies won’t cover truck rentals. You may want to sign up for additional coverage options to protect yourself and your belongings. Also, if you run into a problem, remember that you can call Penske for 24/7 roadside assistance.
Park thoughtfully. If, when on your travels, you have to park the truck—to get food, if you stay somewhere overnight and so on—be sure you do so in well-lit areas only and keep a padlock on the rear door.
Learn More
For more useful moving and traveling tips, call (800) GOPENSKE or go to www.PenskeTruckRental.com.