Penske Truck Rental

I rarely give 5-star ratings, but this is one I feel truly deserves a 5-star rating. My experience with Penske was GREAT. I will call this Penske v. U-Haul. My detailed summary is as follows: I first contacted U-Haul. I went to their store located in S. Austin, TX along I-35. None of the employees seemed well versed on what size or type of truck I needed to move my household goods and effects. I was moving from Austin to Las Vegas, across the country, so I wanted to ensure a smooth, safe, hassle free move. This was a 1,400+ mile move and I wanted a truck that would safely handle my belongings, get decent fuel mileage, and could be operated by a person who has no truck driving experience. I dont remember the total cost U-Haul quoted, but it was close to $3,000 for a 26 truck and, in addition, there would be a mileage charge, something you have to consider, along with diesel fuel for a truck that large. Answers to my questions from the manager at U-Haul left me wanting. They didnt seem to know or care about anything. I called Penske. Their phone service was great. I could reserve the truck for free and make changes to any schedule for no charge; this gave me added flexibility. I didnt want to drive a large truck across the country during inclement weather, so I took the flexible schedule changes into consideration. I looked at Penskes website and it was easy to follow. I reviewed every YouTube video I could about the experience of moving with a large truck and how to operate it. There are a number of Penske videos that are very helpful, from how to pack the truck, to driving it. The total cost for the truck with unlimited mileage was around $2,100.00, BUT if you are a AAA member, you get $400 off the cost! Thats a substantial savings, considering it might almost pay for the diesel fuel the truck would use. Therefore, my total was going to be around $1,700.00. They offer various insurance coverages. With this kind of truck and the load it was going to carry, I opted for the best they had available. If I were involved in any kind of mishap or crashed the truck, it was walk away no deductible, and everything was covered for a $500.00 insurance premium. For my peace of mind, even if it was for a week, it would be worth it to me. I took it. Note here: You are not required to pay a deposit or up-front fees with Penske. Just reserve the truck for free for the week you want to make the move. I got the truck for a week with unlimited mileage. Again, no up-front fees or costs were required. I did give them a credit card to reserve the truck, but it was not charged. I also reserved the truck 2 months in advance of my projected move date of 02/07 - 02/14/2022. Early on the morning of February 7th, I arrived at the Penske office in s. Austin. I was met by the boss lady, Ms. Hernandez. She was very nice, courteous, and professional. At this time, we reviewed my needs and costs and I tendered the credit card for payment in full for the truck and insurance. I executed the contract and then we went outside to do a walk around on the truck. She indicated everything had been inspected and it was full of diesel. I took a 3 minute video of us doing the walk around and any minor wear and tear the truck had; just like you would do with a car rental. She said it was full of diesel, but upon starting the truck, it showed on 3/4 full. I would not accept it that way and it had to be completely full of diesel or I wouldnt take it. Penske wants you to return it full and if you dont, she warned that they charge $6.00 a gallon. Therefore, one of the service attendants drove the truck to the pump and made sure it was completely full. It will show 16/16, and that is the way you want to return it. Driving the vehicle is easy. The truck had over 100,000 miles but it was in great shape. The trip went perfect and overall it was a GREAT experience.
Feb 14th, 2022

Nov 29th, 2021

Super fast. Super easy. Highly recommend using them.
Sep 30th, 2021

The nicest staff, fastest checkout, brand new trucks, affordable prices and they will work with you. Penske never disappoints! 5 stars for me!
Jul 18th, 2021

Very amazing experience! I made an appointment a week ago before I went in. They were waiting for me and knew me by name. Very nice people working here. Both ladies helped me out and I was in the truck within 10 to 15 minutes after getting there. Word of advice, always pay a little extra for the insurance. You can never predict an accident and you are better off paying a few dollars more rather than paying for the entire truck. Never got a refund from the deposit that was made.... telling me it's my bank when my bank has no idea what they're saying.
Apr 30th, 2020