If you are in need of renting a pickup truck, whether to pick up some furniture you just purchased or to haul items you are bringing to the local recycling center, it is important not to rush into the decision. There are quite a few mistakes people make when renting a vehicle if they are not accustomed to the practice. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when renting a truck.

Renting From the Wrong Place

Unless you just got off the plane and need to rent a truck immediately, you should avoid renting one from the airport. These are going to be overpriced due to the convenience of having your rental vehicle available right away. A better option in this situation is to get a taxi cab to a local rental car company that isn't right at or near the airport. You will likely save money on this taxi ride than if you had paid for the rental at the airport. Another option is to rent from a place further away ahead of time, and ask if they can pick you up at the airport. Also consider looking at neighborhood rental vehicle places that aren't necessarily a known rental brand. You are likely to find some good deals there.

Not Asking For an Inspection First

If you are renting a truck, you should be allowed to see and inspect the vehicle before you sign the rental agreement. This is a good idea because the last thing you want is a truck that has major exterior issues or mechanical problems. Not only is it good in general to have a truck in good shape, but the inspection keeps the rental place from assuming these issues were your fault. Most rental companies are more than happy to let you see the truck first. Another good reason for an inspection is to see that the truck is large enough to accommodate what you need it for.

Getting Insurance When You Don't Need It

If you have your own vehicle, but are renting a truck due to needing the extra space or because you are traveling, you don't need additional insurance from the rental company. This insurance is helpful if you don't own a vehicle and have no vehicle insurance, but not if you already have a policy. Ask your insurance company if they cover rental cars and trucks, and if they do, don't pay extra for insurance you don't need. Even if you don't have your own vehicle insurance, you might have it through your credit card company.

Paying For Unnecessary Accessories

It is sometimes helpful to have a GPS unit in the vehicle, but if you have a smartphone, you don't really need it. You can get a cheap mount for your phone and have a perfectly fine GPS that works just as well as the one the rental car company charges you extra for.

Contact a company that specializes in truck rentals for more information.