Where Do I Start, I've Never Done This Before!

Before you run out and rent a truck, take some time to plan your move. Give yourself several weeks to pack up your home prior to renting the truck. If you are using U-Haul®, gather all the information you need to order supplies and rent the truck prior to logging into the U-Haul web site. My book, which you can order on this site, provides several planning templates to help you plan a self-move.

I am not physically strong, should I avoid moving myself?

You don't need to lift the heavy furniture yourself to benefit from a self move. You can hire some strong helpers for loading and unloading. All of the household packing can be done yourself. My book steps you through packing and labor options.

I have never driven a large moving truck before, is that a show stopper?

All U-Haul moving trucks have automatic transmissions and do not require special training or licensing. If you have a valid driver's license, and if you are at least 18 years of age, you can rent a U-Haul truck (16 years is the minimum age to rent a trailer). A loaded truck is much, much heavier than a car, so give yourself more time to accelerate and decelerate. The key is to take it slow and easy. If you can drive a car, you can drive a U-Haul truck.

How much can I save with a self-move?

That depends on a number of factors, such as the size of your move, and how much help you need to hire. My book, which you can order on this site, provides a "Cost Calculator" so you can estimate the cost of your move - including the rental truck, supplies and travel costs. The example I use in the book is based on a 4 bedroom house that would cost around $12,000 for a full service move. The estimated self-move cost is $3,000, which totals a saving of $9,000!