Hire a Truck Driver for Moving: What You Need to Know

It can be intimidating to drive a large rental moving truck, especially if it’s a long-distance move. Instead, consider hiring a truck driver for moving to handle this tough task for you.

Renting a moving truck and transporting your items on your own is a common moving method. However, driving a large truck with heavy items can be difficult and potentially dangerous for inexperienced drivers. Let’s explore the option of hiring a professional to drive the moving truck to your destination. 

Benefits of Hiring a Truck Driver for Moving

Driving a large moving truck is no joke. Hiring a professional truck driver to transport your belongings comes with several benefits, including the following:

• Safety: Driving a large rental truck filled with heavy items can be very dangerous if the driver doesn’t have prior experience. Professional drivers and movers can navigate hectic highways and get your belongings to the destination safely. 

• Lower risk of damaged items: Professional truck drivers have experience with transporting fragile and heavy items that risk damage on long trips. 

• Convenience: If you’re moving far away, hiring a truck driver means you won’t have to haul and protect your belongings over that long distance. You’ll only need to arrange your travel plans to your destination. 

How to Find a Professional Moving Truck Driver 

When you rent a moving truck, most companies do not provide a driver. Instead, you’re responsible for driving the truck. This task can be daunting and potentially dangerous if you don't have experience driving a large truck. 

If you want to hire a licensed truck driver to transport your belongings for you, consult several local moving companies about driver options. Some full-service moving companies contract professional movers who are qualified to transport your moving truck safely. You can also consider hiring a truck driver through the recommendation of family and friends or your rental company. Once you identify a potential company, be sure to thoroughly read online reviews and testimonials specific to driving services. 

Can I Drive a Moving Truck On My Own?

Aside from hiring a professional driver, you also have the option to rent a moving truck and  drive it by yourself. Renting a moving truck costs anywhere from $30 to $3,500, with the average cost of $1,000. Of course, the exact price will vary depending on distance, vehicle type, rental period, and rental company. 

It’s usually safe to do a DIY move if you’re moving locally and have a small moving truck with lighter items. However, if you’re moving a long distance and with a large truck with many heavy items, consider hiring a local moving company for maximum safety. Professional movers and drivers can ensure your items arrive safely at your destination.

Before Hiring a Moving Truck Driver

When you’re dealing with a hectic move, it may be tempting to hire the first or least expensive moving truck driver available. However, hiring a driver means entrusting them with the task of safely transporting your belongings at a fair price. Before selecting a driver, take the following steps to make sure they’re right for the job. 

Plan Your Upcoming Move for Accurate Quotes 

Hiring professional movers can be expensive. In fact, movers cost anywhere between $25 and $100 per hour. Before settling on a moving company, it would be beneficial to obtain at least three quotes. A quote will be based on the size of your move, distance, vehicle type, and more. These are all details you can work out with prospective companies, which can help you gauge what’s a reasonable price and what’s not.

Check Your Driver’s Qualifications and References 

When reaching out to prospective companies, be sure to ask how about the hiring and vetting process for drivers. A reputable company should be more than happy to provide proof of licensing to ensure their drivers are qualified. 

You can also ask for a company to provide references from past customers who were satisfied with their services. This additional vetting step can help you determine if you’re dealing with a professional and highly trustworthy company. 

Questions to Ask Your Moving Truck Driver

Before hiring a professional driver for your move, it’s important to ask the necessary questions to make sure they’re the right fit for you. You’ll want to choose a driver who is properly licensed, skilled, and experienced for the task. Here are some questions to ask a prospective driver:

• How many years of experience do you have?

• Are you properly licensed? 

• What experience do you have with my specific type of move? 

• What insurance coverage options does your company offer? 

• Can you provide me with any references or testimonials? 

• Are you able to provide a quote?  

• How does your company handle damages? 

When your driver arrives on moving day, it’s important to kindly communicate your expectations and ask any lingering questions to avoid any confusion. You may ask questions like:

• When can I expect my items to arrive at their destination? 

• Can you provide shipment tracking?

• Will my belongings be handed off to a subcontractor during the move? 

• Are there any additional charges I should know about?  

Tips for Hiring a Moving Truck Driver

Once you’ve selected the best driving company for you, you can move forward with the hiring process. Consider using the following tips for success. 

Sign a Contract and Arrange Payments 

Once you’ve worked out the details with your driving or moving company, they’ll draw up a final agreement that spells out the terms and conditions of your service. Before signing a contract, carefully read the fine print to make sure you’re aware of all fees and obligations. If you have any questions about the contents, don’t hesitate to ask. 

If everything looks good with your contract, you can move forward with signing and arranging payment with your driver. Payment details will vary depending on the company, though most companies will require a deposit and partial payment before the service is complete. 

Keep Records of Your Move 

In case any unexpected issues arise, it’s important to keep record of any documentation that relates to your moving service, including your written agreement, shipment tracking, proof of licensing, receipts, and moving insurance. You should consider keeping a written inventory of belongings left in the care of your driver, so you can ensure everything makes it to your final destination. 

Look for Red Flags 

While reputable driving companies are usually professional and handle matters by the book, there are scams and predatory practices. Here are some moving red flags to look out for when hiring a driver.

• A driver demands more money before delivering your items. 

• A company has no local address or reputable website.  

• A company cannot provide licensing, registration, or insurance information. 

• A driver cannot provide any references.  

• A driver expects a large deposit or full payment upfront.

After Your Moving Truck Driver Has Finished

Once your driver has safely delivered your belongings to their final destination, you can make your final payment. You might also consider tipping your moving driver to show your appreciation for a job well done. If you’re especially pleased with your service, you can write a positive review or agree to be a reference for future customers. 

If your driver’s company didn’t provide the truck, don’t forget to return the rental truck at the agreed upon time and location to avoid any additional charges.