Are You New to Driving a U-Haul Truck?

Driving a U-Haul Truck

Now that we’re well into 2023, are you making plans to upgrade your home or relocate your business? If so, it’s a good idea to keep the cost of moving in mind. Like everything else in the past year, it has been impacted by inflation.

In fact, move.org reveals that the increased cost of moving is a standout in this year’s inflation trends. Professional moving costs jumped by nearly 12% in the past year. In line with this increase, you might want to explore the cost of a DIY move.

Depending on the magnitude of your move, a professional company might be your only option. On the other hand, if you have friends or family who can help, consider using a U-Haul truck. This might be the least expensive option for your needs.

If you’re concerned because you are a U-Haul truck newbie, the friendly, professional staff at one of our Trusted Self Storage locations can fill you in on the details. In the meantime, check out the following tips and tricks to help you get started with your first U-Haul driving experience.

U-Haul Trucks Are Designed For You

U-Haul is unique because they work with manufacturers to design a truck specifically for household or small business moving. You’ll find more safety features on U-Haul than any other rental truck. Gentle ride suspension and high visibility mirrors help an inexperienced driver to navigate the roads with ease.

A few benefits of driving a U-Haul truck are:

• It’s 50% easier to load. A stable EZ Load Ramp makes loading your large, heavy items a breeze.
• Your furniture will stay safe and secure. Gentle ride suspension and aerodynamic styling keep your furniture stable.
• Three people can ride comfortably in a quiet cab. Drivers and passengers enjoy a peaceful, comfortable driving experience.
• You’ll save money. This is important with current inflation and gasoline prices. While many trucks use expensive diesel fuel, these trucks use cleaner, cheaper, and use more convenient unleaded fuel.

It’s great to have a truck at your disposal, but If you have no previous truck-driving experience, you’re going to need a little help. We want to share the following tips to get you started on your journey and keep you safe.

First Time Driving a U-Haul

If you’re driving a U-Haul for the first time, it can be daunting. Make sure you pick the perfect size vehicle, and don’t hesitate to ask the office staff any questions you may have. They have a lot of expertise and will be delighted to help.

• We have a wide selection of the newest trucks to fit your moving and storage needs.
• U-Haul trucks are hefty, particularly when filled to the brim. Stopping takes longer than with a car, so make sure you give at least four seconds of space between you and the car in front of you (five seconds in unfavorable weather).
• Since a truck is longer than your regular car, you’ll need additional time and space to overtake traffic. Don’t move ahead on hills or turns.
• Go into lower gears while driving up a slope to stop jerking caused by the engine lugging.
  Before going downhill, slow down and shift into a lower gear to let the engine take control of your speed. Don’t continually press the brakes on a drop.
• If your vehicle veers off the main road, don’t panic! Don’t make a sharp turn and don’t apply the brakes. Slow down to a speed lower than 25 mph and make your way back to the pavement gradually.
• When going around a sharp turn, drive slightly past the turn or make a wider turn than you would if you were in a car. Try to avoid parking on steep slopes. The parking brake might not hold, and the bumper might drag or get stuck.

Using a Truck Ramp for the First Time

Using a truck ramp for the first time isn’t difficult, but like any first-time experience it can be confusing. The following tips will help you through the process.

• Start off by opening the back of the truck.
• Use the straps on the end of the ramp to slowly and carefully pull the ramp out until it is completely extended.
• Set the ramp on the ground gently.
• Grab both sides of the ramp near the back of the truck and lift it up. You will see two hooks.
• Put the hooks over the back of the truck, and you’re good to go.

If you’re thinking about towing your car or a trailer. U-Haul has an easily understandable series of videos to help with that.

Whether you’re moving to a three-bedroom home or a medium-sized business, U-Haul is your solution. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. We’d love to help you have a safe and successful trip!