Updated 2018
People often ask how we manage big DIY projects without owning a truck. We used to be a single-car household with a compact Nissan Altima (now we have a small SUV, a Toyota Highlander), so over the years we learned a lot of practical ways to transport large items — furniture, lumber, appliances, tools — without needing to buy a pickup. If you drive a smaller vehicle and occasionally need to move bulky things, here are tried-and-true options that work well and won’t break the bank.
Hauling Tip #1: Ask at the Store
Many big-box stores rent pickup trucks by the hour for a modest fee, which makes them an excellent option for short trips. Renting a truck for an hour or two is often less expensive and far less stressful than trying to cram a big load into a small car. We’ve used rental trucks to pick up everything from long PVC pipe and drywall sheets to hardwood flooring and oversized bathroom renovation materials. These rentals are convenient because the store handles the availability and insurance paperwork, and you only pay for what you need. Occasionally we’ve even seen people rent a truck to do a quick Craigslist pickup, which can be faster and cheaper than borrowing a friend’s vehicle.
Most of these trucks are intended for hauling items bought at the store, but in practice they’re very flexible. If you plan ahead, rent during a slower time of day, and secure your load properly, you’ll have a smooth and inexpensive solution for transporting oversized pieces.
Hauling Tip #2: Find a “Man With a Van”
Local neighborhood boards and apps are full of people offering pickup and delivery help for a small fee. Platforms that connect helpers with homeowners often include tasks like furniture pickup or short-distance moving. Hiring a person with a van or pickup can be especially helpful because they can assist with loading and unloading, saving you the strain of lifting heavy items yourself. When using a service or hiring someone locally, check references, communicate clearly about the size and weight of the items, and be flexible about scheduling. Someone with a trailer can also be a great option for hauling demolition debris or renovation waste, often cheaper than a dumpster rental.
Hauling Tip #3: Give It Away
If your goal is to get rid of a large item, consider donation centers that offer free pickup. Many charities will collect furniture, appliances, and other household items at no cost, and you can often receive a tax-deduction receipt for your donation. We once had an old sink and faucet collected after a bathroom renovation; the process was simple — a quick phone call to schedule pickup, and the crew arrived on time to take everything. Another quick method is listing items as “free with pickup” on local marketplaces to clear them out without any driving on your part.
Hauling Tip #4: Phone a Friend
Borrowing a friend’s larger vehicle is a classic solution. Offer to cover gas or buy lunch in return — most people are happy to help for a small favor. We often call family members when we need to transport bulky items or make a big run to the recycling center. There are also fun challenges: once we squeezed two bifold doors into a tiny ten-year-old car and managed to get them home. If you have willing friends or family nearby, it’s one of the easiest ways to get a load moved fast and affordably.
Hauling Tip #5: Rent a Moving Truck
Traditional moving trucks and rental companies offer a range of sizes and equipment options, from small trailers to larger trucks with ramps. This can be the best choice for heavier, awkward items like vintage stoves, large appliances, or when you need a loading ramp. Renting from a moving company may cost more and require a bit more logistics than a short-term pickup rental, but it gives you the specific features you might need for a tricky job. For one project we rented a truck specifically because the ramp was essential to move a heavy stove safely.
Between store truck rentals, hiring local helpers, using charity pickups, borrowing friends’ vehicles, and renting moving trucks when necessary, you can handle almost any hauling task without owning a truck. These options are flexible, often affordable, and let you keep the convenience of a smaller car while still tackling big projects. Have another creative hauling trick? Share what’s worked for you — we’re always looking for clever, efficient ways to move bulky items without investing in a large vehicle.