Hand Truck Rental: Why You Need One and How To Use It
Moving day often involves lifting furniture, appliances and lots of boxes. While it might be tempting to carry everything by hand, doing so can slow you down and increase the risk of injury.
That's why many people choose to add a hand truck rental when they reserve a moving truck. A hand truck, also called a two-wheel dolly, helps you move possessions faster, reduces strain on your back and knees, and helps you load your truck more efficiently.
To help you plan your move, we answer the question: What is a hand truck? We also discuss how to use a hand truck safely and where to rent hand trucks for moving day.
What Is a Hand Truck?
A common question from first-time movers: What is a hand truck?
A hand truck is a two-wheeled moving tool designed to transport heavy objects with minimal lifting. It has a small platform at the bottom (called the toe plate) where items rest, and long handles that allow you to tilt and roll the load. Many people also call it a dolly.
Instead of carrying these belongings by hand, you can tilt the hand truck back and roll them to your destination.
Why Renting a Hand Truck Makes Moving Easier
A hand truck may seem like a small addition to your move, but it can make a big difference in how quickly and safely you finish the job.
Move heavy items with less effort
Instead of lifting and carrying heavy boxes one by one, you can stack multiple boxes on a hand truck and move them in a single trip.
Reduce the risk of injury
Repeatedly lifting heavy objects can put stress on your back, shoulders and knees. A hand truck helps reduce the amount of lifting required during your move.
Speed up loading and unloading
Using a hand truck lets you move more items at once, making loading and unloading your rental truck much faster.
Make better use of truck ramps
Many vehicles — including 16, 22 and 26 foot trucks at Penske — are equipped with loading ramps, making it easier to roll rather than lift.
When Should You Use a Hand Truck During a Move?
A hand truck is especially useful for moving heavy, bulky or awkward belongings.
Use a hand truck when moving:
- Appliances, such as refrigerators or washing machines
- Large stacks of boxes
- Office equipment or storage bins
- Furniture, such as bookshelves, dressers or couches
- Other large items that are difficult to carry alone
Even if your belongings aren't extremely heavy, a hand truck can still help reduce the number of trips between your home and the moving truck.
How To Use a Hand Truck Properly
Knowing how to use a hand truck properly helps prevent injuries and protect your possessions during the move.
1. Position the hand truck correctly
Slide the toe plate under the item you want to move. For boxes, stack them neatly so the weight is balanced.
2. Keep heavier objects on the bottom
When stacking boxes or moving tubs, place the heaviest items closest to the base of the hand truck.
3. Tilt the hand truck carefully
Grip the handles firmly and gently tilt the hand truck back toward you until the weight balances on the wheels.
4. Move slowly and steadily
Walk slowly while pushing or pulling the hand truck. Keep your back straight and let the wheels carry the weight.
5. Use ramps whenever possible
If your rental truck has a loading ramp, roll the hand truck up or down the ramp instead of lifting belongings into the truck.
Tips for Using a Hand Truck Safely
Following a few simple safety tips can help prevent accidents on moving day.
- Secure with straps if needed, especially tall loads
- Don't overload the hand truck beyond what you can safely control
- Keep your path clear of obstacles
- Wear gloves for better grip and protection
- Ask for help when moving especially large or heavy objects
Can You Use a Hand Truck on Stairs?
Another common question people ask: Can you use a hand truck on stairs?
The answer is yes. Many hand trucks — including those available at Penske — feature stair climbing wheels, also known as stair climbers. These help you move items up and down stairs safely.
When using a hand truck on stairs:
- Move slowly and maintain control of the load
- Keep both hands firmly on the handles
- Guide the wheels carefully over each step
- Ask for help when needed
Even with stair climbers, it's important to take your time and ensure the item is balanced before moving it up or down a staircase.
Where To Rent Hand Trucks
You’ve selected your moving date and scheduled your family and friends to help. The next step is figuring out where to rent hand trucks for moving day.
Many moving truck rental locations also offer hand truck rentals, along with other moving supplies, such as moving blankets. At Penske, once you choose the right size moving truck, you can add a hand truck and other moving equipment directly to your reservation. Your equipment will be ready and waiting in your truck at pickup.
A hand truck is a simple way to make moving easier, especially when you're transporting heavy furniture, appliances or stacks of moving boxes.
With the right tools and a little planning, you can move more efficiently and safely from start to finish.