What Size Enclosed Trailers Does Penske Have? Understanding Penske’s Enclosed Transport Solutions

What Size Enclosed Trailers Does Penske Have? Understanding Penske’s Enclosed Transport Solutions cars.truckstrend.com

When planning a move, transporting large items, or needing a secure, enclosed space for your goods, the question often arises: "What size enclosed trailers does Penske have?" It’s a common query, and one that often leads to a slight clarification. While Penske is a giant in the rental industry, their primary offerings for consumer-level enclosed transport are enclosed moving trucks (box trucks), rather than tow-behind enclosed cargo trailers in the traditional sense that you’d hitch to your own vehicle.

This comprehensive guide aims to demystify Penske’s fleet, explaining the various "enclosed" solutions they offer, their sizes, features, and how to choose the right option for your specific needs. We’ll delve into their robust moving truck fleet, touch upon their specialized trailers, and provide practical advice to ensure a smooth rental experience.

What Size Enclosed Trailers Does Penske Have? Understanding Penske’s Enclosed Transport Solutions

Understanding Penske’s Enclosed Offerings: Trucks vs. Trailers

Before diving into specific sizes, it’s crucial to understand Penske’s rental model for general consumers. Unlike some rental companies that offer a wide array of enclosed utility trailers for general cargo, Penske’s focus is predominantly on:

1. Enclosed Moving Trucks (Box Trucks): These are self-contained, enclosed vehicles designed for transporting household goods, furniture, and other items securely. They come in various lengths and capacities, functioning as your primary "enclosed trailer" solution from Penske.
2. Vehicle Transport Trailers: Penske does offer trailers, but these are specifically designed for towing vehicles (e.g., car carriers and tow dollies). They are not intended for general cargo.

Therefore, when most people ask about "Penske enclosed trailers," they are usually referring to the spacious, enclosed cargo areas of Penske’s well-maintained moving trucks. This article will focus primarily on these enclosed moving trucks, as they represent the bulk of Penske’s enclosed transport solutions for the public, while also briefly covering their actual trailer offerings.

Penske’s Enclosed Moving Truck Fleet: Your Primary "Enclosed Trailer" Solution

Penske’s moving trucks are designed for reliability, comfort, and efficiency, making them a popular choice for both local and long-distance moves. Each truck features a large, enclosed cargo area, offering protection from the elements and security for your belongings.

Here’s a breakdown of the common sizes available:

1. 12-Foot Penske Moving Truck

• Ideal For: Studio apartments, dorm rooms, small one-bedroom apartments, or transporting a few large pieces of furniture.



• Capacity: Roughly equivalent to a 500 sq ft living space. Can hold about 1-2 rooms of furniture.
• Dimensions (Approximate):
  • Interior Cargo Space (LxWxH): 12 ft x 6 ft 6 in x 6 ft 1 in
  • Loading Ramp: Available on some models.

  

• Features: Easy to drive, good fuel efficiency for its class, often comes with an automatic transmission, air conditioning, and a two-person bench seat.
• Driving Experience: Comparable to driving a large van or small delivery truck. Easy to maneuver in residential areas.

2. 16-Foot Penske Moving Truck

• Ideal For: One-to-two-bedroom apartments, small houses, or transporting larger items like appliances and multiple furniture sets.
• Capacity: Roughly equivalent to a 750 sq ft living space. Can hold about 2-3 rooms of furniture.
• Dimensions (Approximate):
  • Interior Cargo Space (LxWxH): 16 ft x 7 ft 7 in x 7 ft 5 in
  • Loading Ramp: Standard feature.
• Features: Often includes an automatic transmission, air conditioning, seating for three, and a robust cargo area with tie-downs. Good balance of capacity and maneuverability.
• Driving Experience: Larger than the 12-foot, requires more awareness, but still manageable for most drivers.

3. 22-Foot Penske Moving Truck

• Ideal For: Two-to-three-bedroom homes, larger apartments, or substantial moving projects.
• Capacity: Roughly equivalent to a 1,200 sq ft living space. Can hold about 3-5 rooms of furniture.
• Dimensions (Approximate):
  • Interior Cargo Space (LxWxH): 22 ft x 8 ft 2 in x 8 ft 2 in
  • Loading Ramp: Standard feature.
• Features: Powerful engine, automatic transmission, air conditioning, seating for three, and a very spacious cargo area. Often equipped with a translucent roof for better interior lighting.
• Driving Experience: A significant step up in size. Requires more caution, wider turns, and careful attention to overhead clearances. Experience driving larger vehicles is beneficial.

4. 26-Foot Penske Moving Truck

• Ideal For: Large homes (3-5+ bedrooms), commercial moves, or transporting a significant volume of goods. This is Penske’s largest consumer rental truck.
• Capacity: Roughly equivalent to a 1,500 sq ft living space or more. Can hold 5-7+ rooms of furniture.
• Dimensions (Approximate):
  • Interior Cargo Space (LxWxH): 26 ft x 8 ft 2 in x 8 ft 2 in
  • Loading Ramp: Standard feature.
• Features: Penske’s largest and most powerful consumer truck. Designed for heavy loads and long distances. Comes with automatic transmission, air conditioning, seating for three, and a large cargo area with ample tie-downs and a translucent roof.
• Driving Experience: Requires considerable driving skill and awareness. Not recommended for inexperienced drivers, especially in urban areas or tight spaces. Always be mindful of height, width, and length.

Beyond Box Trucks: Penske’s Actual Trailer Offerings

While not for general cargo, it’s worth mentioning Penske’s actual trailer options:

• Car Carriers (Auto Transport Trailers): These are open trailers designed to tow a single vehicle behind a Penske moving truck. They typically feature ramps and secure straps. Ideal for moving a car along with your household goods.
• Tow Dollies: A simpler, two-wheel trailer designed to lift the front wheels of a vehicle off the ground while the rear wheels remain on the road. Suitable for front-wheel-drive vehicles. Less expensive than a full car carrier.

Important Note: These trailers are only available for rent in conjunction with a Penske moving truck, not independently for use with your personal vehicle for general cargo.

Choosing the Right "Enclosed Solution" from Penske

Selecting the appropriate size is crucial for a successful and cost-effective move.

• Estimate Your Volume: Walk through your home and make a list of all items you plan to move. Consider the largest pieces (sofas, beds, appliances). Penske’s website and online calculators can help you visualize what fits into each truck size. It’s often better to slightly overestimate than underestimate.
• Consider Weight: While volume is often the primary concern for household goods, be mindful of the weight capacity, especially if you’re moving heavy items like safes, exercise equipment, or large collections of books. Penske trucks have substantial weight limits, but it’s good to be aware.
• Distance and Fuel Efficiency: While Penske often offers unlimited mileage on one-way rentals, fuel costs can add up. Smaller trucks are generally more fuel-efficient.
• Driving Comfort and Experience: Be realistic about your driving abilities. If you’re not comfortable with large vehicles, opt for a smaller truck if your load allows, or consider professional movers.
• Loading and Unloading: All Penske trucks (16 ft and larger) come with a loading ramp, making it easier to move heavy items. The 12 ft truck may or may not have a ramp, so inquire if this is critical.

Benefits of Choosing Penske for Enclosed Transport

• Reliability: Penske’s fleet is known for being well-maintained, reducing the risk of breakdowns.
• Unlimited Mileage: Often standard on one-way rentals, saving you money on long-distance moves.
• 24/7 Roadside Assistance: Peace of mind knowing help is available if needed.
• Fuel Efficiency: Penske trucks are generally considered more fuel-efficient than competitors in their class.
• Professionalism: A reputable company with a strong focus on customer service.

Rental Process and Important Considerations

1. Booking: Reserve your truck well in advance, especially during peak moving seasons (end of month, summer). Book online or by phone.
2. Driver Requirements: You must be 18 years old (21 in some states for certain vehicles) with a valid driver’s license. No special commercial driver’s license (CDL) is required for consumer rental trucks.
3. Insurance: Your personal auto insurance may not cover rental trucks. Penske offers various coverage options (e.g., Limited Damage Waiver, Supplemental Liability Insurance) that are highly recommended.
4. Fuel: Trucks are typically rented with a full tank and should be returned full, or you’ll be charged for fuel at a premium rate.
5. Pickup and Drop-off: Confirm exact pickup and drop-off locations and times. Inspect the truck thoroughly before leaving the lot.

Practical Tips for Renting an Enclosed Penske Vehicle

• Pack Smart: Use uniform-sized boxes, label them clearly, and distribute weight evenly.
• Load Strategically: Load heavy items first and place them low and centered. Secure everything with tie-downs. Use furniture pads to prevent damage.
• Distribute Weight: Ensure the truck is balanced to prevent swaying and make driving safer.
• Drive Cautiously: Remember the truck is much longer, wider, and taller than your personal vehicle. Allow extra braking distance, take wider turns, and be aware of overhead clearances (bridges, drive-thrus, low-hanging branches).
• Mirror Adjustment: Properly adjust your side mirrors to compensate for the lack of a rearview mirror.

Estimated Pricing for Penske Enclosed Transport Solutions

Pricing for Penske rentals varies significantly based on factors like:

• Truck Size: Larger trucks cost more.
• Distance: One-way vs. local (round trip). One-way rentals often include unlimited mileage.
• Duration: Daily, weekly, or longer.
• Location: Pickup and drop-off points.
• Seasonality: Peak moving seasons (summer, end of month) generally see higher prices.
• Availability: Demand can influence pricing.
• Add-ons: Insurance, moving supplies, equipment rentals (dollies, furniture pads).

It is crucial to get a direct quote from Penske for accurate pricing. The table below provides estimated daily or base rates for local rentals, and estimated starting points for one-way rentals. These are highly variable and subject to change.

Penske "Enclosed Solution" Type	Approximate Interior Cargo Dimensions (L x W x H)	Capacity / Ideal For	Estimated Local Daily Rate (Base)	Estimated One-Way Starting Rate
12-Foot Moving Truck	12′ x 6’6" x 6’1"	Studio/1-BR Apt.	$35 – $60 + mileage	$300 – $700+
16-Foot Moving Truck	16′ x 7’7" x 7’5"	1-2 BR Apt./Small House	$45 – $80 + mileage	$400 – $900+
22-Foot Moving Truck	22′ x 8’2" x 8’2"	2-3 BR Home	$55 – $100 + mileage	$500 – $1200+
26-Foot Moving Truck	26′ x 8’2" x 8’2"	3-5+ BR Home	$65 – $120 + mileage	$600 – $1500+
Car Carrier (Auto Transport)	(Open Trailer, for vehicles)	Towing 1 Vehicle	$50 – $100 (daily, with truck)	$150 – $300+ (one-way, with truck)
Tow Dolly	(Open Trailer, for vehicles)	Towing 1 Vehicle	$40 – $80 (daily, with truck)	$100 – $200+ (one-way, with truck)

Prices are estimates only and do not include taxes, fees, fuel, insurance, or additional equipment. Always obtain a direct quote from Penske for current and accurate pricing for your specific rental needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does Penske rent enclosed cargo trailers that I can hitch to my own car?
A1: No, Penske primarily rents enclosed moving trucks (box trucks) for general cargo. Their actual trailers are exclusively for transporting vehicles (car carriers and tow dollies) and must be rented with a Penske moving truck.

Q2: What is the largest enclosed truck Penske offers for consumer rental?
A2: The largest enclosed truck Penske offers for consumer rental is the 26-foot moving truck.

Q3: Do I need a special license to drive a Penske moving truck?
A3: No, for their consumer rental trucks (up to 26-foot), you only need a valid standard driver’s license. A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is not required.

Q4: Are Penske trucks equipped with ramps?
A4: Yes, 16-foot, 22-foot, and 26-foot Penske moving trucks typically come with loading ramps. The 12-foot truck may or may not have one, so it’s best to confirm if a ramp is essential for your needs.

Q5: Is insurance included in the Penske rental price?
A5: Basic liability coverage is often included, but it’s minimal. Penske offers various optional insurance coverage plans (e.g., Limited Damage Waiver, Supplemental Liability Insurance) that are highly recommended to protect you financially in case of damage or an accident. Your personal auto insurance may not cover rental trucks, so check with your provider.

Q6: Can I rent a Penske truck for a one-way trip?
A6: Yes, Penske specializes in one-way rentals, often including unlimited mileage for these trips, making them ideal for long-distance moves.

Conclusion

While the question "What size enclosed trailers does Penske have?" might initially suggest a search for tow-behind cargo trailers, Penske’s strength for consumer transport lies squarely in its fleet of reliable, well-maintained enclosed moving trucks. From the nimble 12-foot truck perfect for small moves to the expansive 26-foot giant designed for large households, Penske offers a range of "enclosed solutions" to fit virtually any moving need.

By understanding the distinct offerings – spacious box trucks for your belongings and specialized trailers for your vehicles – you can confidently choose the right Penske option. Always remember to assess your cargo volume, consider your driving comfort, and obtain a direct quote for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing. With Penske, you’re not just renting a truck; you’re securing a dependable, enclosed space for your most valuable possessions on their journey.