🚚 The Cold Truth: Risks of Using a Rental Truck for a Long-Distance Winter Move

Moving in winter? Think twice before grabbing the keys to that rental truck

Winter can be beautiful — quiet snowfall, cozy sweaters, hot coco. But it can also be brutal — icy roads, freezing temperatures, and unexpected weather delays. If you're planning a long-distance move and considering renting a moving truck to DIY the job, winter might not be your best friend.

Let’s break down the real risks of driving a rental truck cross-country when temperatures drop and roads get slick.

❄️ 1. Ice and Snow Create Dangerous Driving Conditions

Most rental trucks aren’t equipped with winter tires or traction control systems you'd find in your personal car. Combine that with a high center of gravity and heavy load, and you’re driving a slippery beast on potentially unplowed roads.

Real risk: Black ice, snow drifts, and reduced visibility increase your chances of skidding, jackknifing, or getting stuck — especially if you're unfamiliar with how to handle a large vehicle.

🧊 2. Frozen Fuel Lines and Battery Issues

Diesel fuel (which many large rental trucks use) can gel in freezing temps, especially overnight in colder states. Batteries can also struggle in subzero weather.

Real risk: Waking up to a truck that won’t start — in the middle of nowhere — with all your belongings locked inside.

🕓 3. Delays Are Almost Guaranteed

Storm systems, road closures, and traffic accidents are far more common in winter. A drive that might take two days in summer can easily stretch to four or five in snowy conditions.

Real risk: Missed deadlines, lost hotel reservations, or arriving before your new home is ready — all while paying for extra rental days and food/lodging.

🧰 4. Limited Roadside Support

Rental truck companies may offer 24/7 roadside assistance, but that doesn’t mean help will arrive quickly — or at all — in remote or storm-affected areas.

Real risk:Being stranded on a snowy highway with no cell signal and no idea when help is coming.

🧳 5. Stress & Fatigue = Dangerous Combo

Moving is already stressful. Add poor weather, difficult driving, and tight schedules, and you’re running on fumes — emotionally and physically.

Real risk: Driver fatigue is a major cause of accidents — especially for people unaccustomed to long-haul driving in a 15- or 26-foot truck.

🔑 6. Hidden Costs Stack Up

Winter moves can introduce unexpected expenses:

• Chains or snow tires (not always provided)

• Emergency hotels due to weather delays

• Towing costs if you get stuck

• Broken items from rough roads or icy braking

  
  

Real risk: The “cheap DIY move” ends up costing more than hiring pros.

🧭 Should You Still Do It?

We’re not saying it’s impossible — just that you should know what you’re up against. If you absolutely must drive a rental truck in winter, here are a few tips to lower your risk:

• Check weather forecasts daily and be flexible.

• Pack an emergency kit (blankets, food, flares, phone chargers).

• Drive slower than you think you need to.

• Take breaks often to avoid fatigue.

• Plan for extra time — don’t rush.

But in many cases, the safer (and saner) option is:

✅ Consider Alternatives

• Hire professional movers with winter-ready trucks and trained drivers.

• Use a hybrid solution: Pack and load yourself, but have a service drive the truck.

• Postpone your move if possible until weather improves.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Driving a rental truck cross-country in the winter isn’t just hard — it’s risky. From icy roads to breakdowns in freezing temps, the hazards are real and often underestimated.

Your stuff can be replaced. You can’t. Prioritize safety over savings, and plan smart.