Moving into a new apartment or home in Plano often begins with one important question: Should I rent a moving truck or hire professional movers? Many residents search for the best moving truck rentals in Plano, hoping to save money by going the DIY route. While truck rentals can be useful, it’s essential to understand the true costs, hidden fees, and alternatives—especially when local movers like The Move Place can sometimes provide a better value.
This guide compares the top truck rental options in Plano, examines costs, and explores why hiring movers may actually save you money and stress in the long run.
Popular Moving Truck Rental Companies in Plano
If you’re considering a DIY move, here are the most common moving truck rental providers in Plano:
- U-Haul
- Offers a wide variety of truck sizes (10ft to 26ft).
- Daily rental fee: $40–$80.
- Mileage: $0.79–$1.29 per mile.
- Widely available, with multiple Plano locations.
- Penske Truck Rental
- Trucks in excellent condition with roadside assistance.
- Daily fee: $60–$100.
- Mileage: $0.79–$1.09 per mile.
- Discounts for long-distance moves.
- Budget Truck Rental
- Known for competitive base rates.
- Daily rental: $50–$90.
- Mileage: $0.89–$1.19 per mile.
- Limited Plano locations compared to U-Haul.
- Enterprise Truck Rental
- Offers pickup trucks and cargo vans for smaller moves.
- Daily fee: $70–$110.
- Best for students or small apartment relocations.
Hidden Costs of Truck Rentals
While advertised rates may look affordable, there are several hidden costs renters should prepare for:
- Fuel Charges: Expect $60–$120 for a local move.
- Insurance: Collision and liability coverage add $20–$40 per day.
- Equipment Rentals: Dollies, blankets, and straps can cost $100+.
- Mileage: Long-distance moves can easily add hundreds of dollars.
- Late Fees: Extra charges for late returns.
👉 A typical 2-bedroom apartment move in Plano with a truck rental can total $500–$750, even before factoring in labor.
DIY Moving with a Truck Rental: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Lower base cost if you only have a few items.
- Flexible schedule—you control the timing.
- Wide availability of rental locations in Plano.
Cons:
- Heavy lifting is your responsibility.
- Higher risk of damage to belongings.
- Driving and parking large trucks can be difficult.
- Time-consuming—moves can take 10–12 hours.
- Final costs often approach professional mover rates.
Professional Movers vs Truck Rentals in Plano
To put things into perspective, let’s compare:
DIY Move with Truck Rental (2-bedroom apartment):
- Truck + mileage: $150
- Fuel: $80
- Equipment: $100
- Supplies: $150
- Food for helpers: $75
- Damages/replacements: $200+
- Total: ~$755
Professional Movers (3 movers + truck, 5 hours):
- $180/hour x 5 = $900
- Truck, labor, supplies, and insurance included
- Total: ~$900
👉 For only a small difference in price, movers provide efficiency, safety, and peace of mind.
Why Many Plano Residents Prefer Apartment Movers
Instead of renting a truck and handling everything yourself, hiring apartment movers offers key advantages:
- All-Inclusive Pricing – Truck, supplies, and labor are bundled.
- Time Savings – Movers finish in half the time of DIY.
- Insurance Coverage – Protects your belongings during transit.
- No Heavy Lifting – Prevents injuries and property damage.
- Stress-Free – Professionals manage logistics so you can focus on settling in.
How to Choose Between Truck Rentals and Movers
Ask yourself these questions before deciding:
- Do I have a lot of heavy furniture?
- Do I have help from friends or family?
- Am I comfortable driving a large truck?
- Do I want the move done in half the time?
- Is peace of mind worth a slightly higher cost?
For small studio moves, truck rentals may suffice. But for most apartment relocations in Plano, professional movers deliver far greater value.
Why The Move Place is the Best Alternative to Truck Rentals
At The Move Place, we specialize in affordable, stress-free apartment moving in Plano. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Transparent Rates: No hidden fees for mileage or supplies.
- Apartment Specialists: Familiar with Plano complexes, stairs, and parking rules.
- Optional Services: Packing, unpacking, storage, and specialty moves.
- Flexible Scheduling: Moves available 7 days a week.
- Trusted Reputation: Licensed, insured, and recommended by Plano residents.
Instead of worrying about truck sizes, mileage, and equipment, we handle everything from start to finish.
Final Thoughts
Searching for the best moving truck rentals in Plano is a good first step when planning a move. But once you consider hidden costs, time, and effort, hiring professional movers often provides the best value.
For apartment moves in Plano, The Move Place combines affordability with efficiency, making your relocation smooth and stress-free.
