Should You Buy Rental Truck Insurance?

Most people incorrectly assume that their personal auto insurance or credit card covers them for damage to a rented moving truck. While individual policies vary from person to person, the fact is that the great majority of auto insurance companies and credit cards do not cover damage to a rented moving truck. But why is that the case? It's because a rented moving truck is classified differently, notably because the height and weight of a rental truck doesn't fit the normal definition of a personal vehicle or automobile.

Types of Moving Truck Insurance

Each truck rental company has its own line of insurance coverages they offer. Similar to a car rental, the two most important coverages are those that cover physical damage of the rented truck and your liability if you cause bodily injury or property damage to another.

Should I Buy Moving Truck Insurance?

That’s a decision that you will have to make on your own. Let’s look at the factors you will want to consider when deciding if you need to purchase truck rental insurance:

1. Are you moving locally or long distance?
2. Do you have experience driving a moving truck?
3. Is the insurance affordable?
4. If I purchase the insurance, what is not covered?

Generally speaking, it’s a good idea to purchase coverage from your truck rental company if you lack experience in driving a large vehicle or moving truck. We recommend purchasing the insurance if you are completing a long-distance move since you are more likely to be in an accident than someone who is moving locally.

Does Insurance Cover my Personal Items?

Most truck rental companies have an insurance option to cover your personal items. However, these coverages apply to damages sustained in an accident, catastrophe or similar incident while the truck is being driven. They are not meant to cover damage from items shifting during transit or improper loading by you, your friends or hired moving help.

Resources for Truck Rental Insurance

Before purchasing insurance it’s best to know what is covered and what isn’t. Get the details directly from the truck rental companies themselves:

Penske Truck Rental
Budget Truck Rental
U-Haul