You do not need to own a truck to get your belongings to a storage unit. Many self-storage facilities expect that a significant portion of their customers will arrive without their own vehicle or without a vehicle large enough for a move. There are several practical, cost-effective ways to arrange transportation, and your choice typically depends on the volume of items you are moving and your budget.
Rent a truck from a local moving company or national rental service
The most common solution for moving items to a storage unit is to rent a truck or cargo van by the hour or day. National rental chains like U-Haul, Penske, and Budget offer a range of vehicles, from pickup trucks to 26-foot moving trucks. Many storage facilities have a U-Haul rental desk on site or partner with a local provider, allowing you to pick up the vehicle at the facility itself. Local moving companies also often rent trucks by the day for a flat fee, which can be cheaper than a national chain if you only need the vehicle for a few hours.
Use a moving container service that delivers to your location
If you prefer to pack at your own pace and then have your items transported, consider a moving container service like PODS, U-Pack, or a local container provider. The company delivers a portable storage container to your home or business. You load it over several days, and then the company picks it up and delivers it to your self-storage facility or a secure storage center. This option works well for larger moves or when you need time to organize before the items leave your property.
Hire a labor-only moving crew
If you have access to a friend's or family member's vehicle but cannot load or unload heavy items yourself, you can hire a labor-only moving crew. Services like Bellhops, HireAHelper, or local "man with a van" listings provide workers who bring their own dollies, straps, and protective materials. You provide the vehicle, and the crew handles the loading and unloading. This can be much more affordable than a full-service mover, especially for a short trip to a storage unit.
Check with the storage facility for free or discounted rental trucks
Many self-storage facilities offer a free or deeply discounted truck rental to new customers as part of a move-in promotion. Always ask the facility manager before you book anything. Even if the facility does not have its own fleet, they may have a partnership with a local rental company that provides a reduced rate for their tenants. This can save you $20 to $50 depending on the distance and vehicle size.
Use a rideshare or delivery service for small loads
For a handful of boxes or small pieces of furniture, you do not need a full-size truck. Services like Uber XL, Uber Connect, or local same-day delivery apps allow you to request a large vehicle or a cargo van for a single trip. Similarly, task-based platforms like TaskRabbit or Thumbtack let you post a job for someone with a truck to come pick up your items and drive them to the storage unit. This is usually the cheapest option for a small load, often costing under $50 for a local move.
Rent a trailer or hitch-mounted cargo carrier
If you own a vehicle with a trailer hitch, renting a small utility trailer from a local hardware store or U-Haul location can be very cost-effective. A 4x8-foot trailer costs about $15 to $30 per day and can hold roughly the same amount as a small pickup truck bed. You will need a hitch and a wiring harness for the lights, but many rental centers offer these as add-ons. Trailers are easier to maneuver than a full truck and do not require a special driver's license.
Borrow a truck from a friend or family member
While not always an option, borrowing a truck or large SUV from someone you know remains the most affordable route. Offer to pay for gas and a cleaning fee, and always confirm the vehicle's insurance covers the load you are transporting. If the vehicle has a covered bed or a hatchback, you can usually pack more than you think by using vertical space with boxes and straps.
Plan for the loading and unloading process
Once you have your transportation arranged, think about how you will get your items out of your current location and into the storage unit. Rent a dolly or hand truck from the rental company or the storage facility itself. Many facilities offer these free of charge for tenants. If you are moving heavy appliances, a furniture dolly with straps is safer than trying to lift them manually. Also, bring moving blankets, tape, and bungee cords to secure the load during transit.
Consider the distance and access hours
Before you rent a truck or hire a service, confirm the storage facility's access hours. Most facilities allow access from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, but some have 24-hour access for a higher monthly rate. If you are moving during off-peak hours, you will have less traffic and more time to unload. Also, factor in the distance from your current location to the facility. Some rental companies charge by the mile, while others have unlimited mileage for local moves.
Moving items to a storage unit does not have to be a logistical headache. By matching the transportation method to the size of your move and your budget, you can get your belongings safely and efficiently to your unit. Always confirm pricing and availability with the rental company and the storage facility in advance, and check the terms of your storage lease for any restrictions on vehicle loading and unloading.