Penske Review

Penske is the best truck rental service for moving long distances.

Penske review
(Image: © Penske)

Top Ten Reviews Verdict

With unlimited mileage on one-way moves, Penske should make any truck rental shortlist for long distance moves. All the additional equipment you need for a move can be bought or hired at Penske too, while a discount or promotion should be available to most as well.

Pros

  • +

    Unlimited mileage on one-way travel

  • +

    Good truck choice and other rental options

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    Support for moving available

Cons

  • -

    Can't hire moving trailers

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Penske is the third largest and one of the best truck rental for moving services in the US. Founded in 1969, Penske is well known for its yellow trucks. And as one of only three companies to offer one-way truck rentals, Penske should always be on the shortlist of anyone looking to move a long distance. 

The service has more than 2,500 locations across the US, and is also proactive when it comes to the environment, using recycled materials in its trucks, moving blankets, and boxes. Trucks are also limited to a maximum speed to make the fuel go that bit further. And if you're renting a truck because you're on the move, remember you'll need the best home owners insurance too, to protect everything about your new home.  

Penske review: Truck options

Penske has four trucks suitable for home moves in its fleet, available in lengths of 12, 16, 22 and 26-feet. The two longest trucks can accommodate three adult passengers, while if you need to tow your car, you'll need to rent a 16-foot truck at the very least. The trucks have non-slip floors to prevent spills and your cargo sliding, and all bar the 12-foot option have a 1,000 lb. loading ramp to save your back when loading. Importantly for long distance moves, all truck options can be hired on a one-way basis, with Penske giving you nine days to complete the trip.

Penske review: Additional rental options

If you're very light on possessions, Penske has a high-roof cargo van for hire too. There's tow dollies and car carriers for rent as well, but no moving trailers. 

When it comes to the move itself, there's a packing kit you can buy which includes boxes of various sizes, bubble wrap and packing tape. You can also buy tie-downs, locks and protective covers, and rent hand trucks and furniture pads. And for moving day itself, Penske partners with Simple Moving Labor to offer loading and packing assistance, and the option to hire a driver if you're not comfortable driving the truck yourself.

Penske review: Price

Penske is open about its pricing, and of all the national truck rental companies, only Penske offers free unlimited miles on one-way truck rentals anywhere in the US. While other companies charge for miles over a certain amount, Penske includes everything in the daily rate, which will depend on truck size and the time of the year you're hoping to move. 

Penske review

(Image credit: Penske)

Seniors, students and military personnel are all entitled to discounts, while money saving promotions are usually available on the website too. Penske also guarantees reservations if you reserve your truck at least 48 hours before the pickup time.

Penske review: Service

Penske's website is easy to navigate and a great resource to sort through the truck options and various services on offer. The reservation process can be completed online, or you're free to call a representative to obtain a quote, while there's a live chat option for a quick response to any questions you might need to ask. 

When you move, you can also pick up and drop off a Penske truck rental at select Home Depot stores, providing greater convenience, savings and one-stop shopping for any moving supplies and home improvement needs.

Should you use Penske?

Penske is a great truck rental option if you're planning a one-way move and relocating a long distance away. The pricing is competitive and clear, while taking an unexpected detour won't cost you, as Penske is the only truck rental service to offer free unlimited miles on one way hire. All the support services and additional rental options you might need are available, and there's a decent chance you'll be able to secure a discount too. 

Tim Leonard

With over 20 years’ experience in the financial services industry, Tim has spent most of his career working for a financial data firm, where he was Online Editor of the consumer-facing Moneyfacts site, and regularly penned articles for the financial advice publication Investment Life and Pensions Moneyfacts. As a result, he has an excellent knowledge of almost areas of personal finance and, in particular, the retirement, investment, protection, mortgage and savings sectors.