MOVE AHEAD
The Official Blog for Penske Truck Leasing, Truck Rental and Logistics

Truck Rental

Safety Spotlight: Avoid Packing Hazardous Materials

Whether you are planning a household or commercial move, rental trucks are convenient ways to transport a lifetime of belongings and memories to your new destination.

Summer heat and humidity can have an impact on items kept in enclosed spaces such as a rental truck, so great care should be taken when packing items into the truck.

Penske reminds consumers that under its rental agreement flammable, explosive or otherwise hazardous materials may not be transported in its rental vehicles. Consumers should avoid transporting items such as propane tanks, paint thinner, pesticides, fertilizer, charcoal, and lighter fluid.

Fireworks are considered a Class 1 hazardous material by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.There are federal regulations that apply to rental truck operators regarding the transportation of hazardous materials.

Hazardous Materials Best Practices

A general rule of thumb is that all appliances or machinery that hold gasoline or oil should be completely drained before they are loaded into a truck.

You should also avoid packing any type of combustible or highly flammable items like aerosol cans and lighter fluid.

When packing items like a gas generator, lawnmower or weed whacker, make sure to drain the gasoline and oil completely until the tank is dry. Any amount of gasoline and oil can lead to build-up of highly combustible vapor.

When packing your truck, we recommend avoiding the following additional items:

Aerosols, ammunition and guns, antifreeze, automobile batteries, cleansers containing bleach or ammonia, compressed gasses, hazardous waste, marine pollutants, matches, nail polish remover, oil or gas, paint cans, rubbing alcohol, signal flares, and weed killer.

If you have questions about whether specific items are hazardous, or you have general questions about what you are allowed to pack into your moving truck, then contact your local branch of the Department of Transportation or a moving advisor at Penske Truck Rental.

Taking these necessary steps is vital to the protection of yourself and your property. It is also important to your rental truck and the safety of other drivers on the road.

Have a question or want to reserve your next Penske moving truck? Contact the experts at Penske Truck Rental by calling 1-888-996-5415 or chat live with a Penske representative by clicking here.

By "Move Ahead" Staff

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Road to Nationals: Spotlight on the 2025 Tech Showdown

What started with nearly 3,000 competitors has come down to just 44 of Penske’s skilled maintenance technicians and preventive maintenance professionals. These standout finalists are headed to the 2025 National Tech Showdown – a high-stakes competition that celebrates the precision, expertise and pride of our frontline service teams.

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Record Number Expected to Travel Over Memorial Day Weekend

Traveling over the Memorial Day holiday? Make sure to pack a hefty dose of patience as a record number of drivers are expected to share the road to holiday destinations.

Joining holiday travelers will be thousands of do-it-yourself movers heading to new hometowns and professional truck drivers, working hard to keep the supply chain moving.

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Penske Truck Rental Announces 2024 Top Moving Destinations

READING, Pa., (May 1, 2025) – Marking the start of National Moving Month and peak moving season, Penske Truck Rental has released its 15th annual Top Moving Destinations list, identifying the top 10 U.S. cities that recorded the highest volume of one-way consumer truck rentals in 2024.

In addition, Penske published findings from its national Settling In: A Consumer Moving Trends Survey, which examines consumer sentiment and trends around relocation.

The list shows where people are moving, while the survey offers insight into why. This year 82% of respondents viewed moving as a fresh start, and more than half moved to find a greater sense of community.

Top 10 Moving Destinations in 2024 (previous year ranking):

  1. Houston, Texas (No.1 four consecutive years)
  2. Atlanta, Ga. (4)
  3. San Antonio, Texas (2)
  4. Dallas, Texas (6)
  5. Orlando, Fla. (7)
  6. Charlotte, N.C. (3)
  7. Las Vegas, Nev. (5)
  8. Chicago, Ill. (Returning – last ranked in 2021)
  9. Austin, Texas (8)
  10. Tampa, Fla. (9)

The 2024 data reflects continued migration to the Sun Belt, with multiple Texas and Florida cities appearing in the top 10. Houston retained the top position for the fourth consecutive year, followed by Atlanta, which rose to No. 2. Chicago reentered the ranking for the first time since 2021.

“Each year, the Top Moving Destinations list helps track relocation trends and guide how we support customers across the country,” said Kevin Malloy, senior vice president of Penske Truck Rental. “In 2024, we saw people moving with clear intent—driven by lifestyle fit, space, or location. As we look ahead, Penske continues to provide the tools and resources they need to move confidently—and we’re here to support those planning their next move, wherever they’re headed.”

What Drives Moves

According to the survey, the top reasons for moving in 2024 were:

  • Closer proximity to loved ones (28%)
  • Better job opportunities (27%)
  • Lower cost of living (23%)
  • Needing more space (23%)

Overall, 67% of respondents reported that moving had a positive impact on their overall well-being, and 56% viewed the process itself positively. When coordinating a move, 69% preferred to rent and drive their own truck. Among those who rented 57% found that packing and organizing overtime helped reduce stress, and 49% relied on family and friends for support.

Penske Truck Rental offers support across North America. The Penske Truck Rental app enables customers to make and modify rental reservations, access loading guides and how-to videos, connect with Penske's 24/7 roadside assistance, and cancel reservations without fees.

About Penske Truck Rental
Penske Truck Rental is a business unit of Penske Truck Leasing. With one of the newest moving truck rental fleets, Penske Truck Rental provides do-it-yourself movers with clean, well-maintained and reliable rental trucks as well as moving equipment, packing supplies and accessories. Call 1-800-GO-PENSKE for questions about moving.

About Penske Truck Leasing
Penske Truck Leasing is a Penske Transportation Solutions company headquartered in Reading, Pennsylvania. A leading provider of innovative transportation solutions, Penske operates and maintains more than 428,000 vehicles and serves its customers from more than 990 maintenance facilities and more than 2,200 truck rental locations across North America. Solutions from Penske include full-service truck leasing, fleet maintenance, truck rentals, used trucks, and a comprehensive array of technologies to keep the world moving forward. Visit pensketruckleasing.com for more information.

Top Moving Destinations Methodology
For the past 15 years, Penske Truck Rental has been compiling this list using analysis of one-way consumer truck rental reservations made via the company's website, calls to its 1-800-GO-PENSKE call center and through one-way reservations made at Penske's over 2,200 truck rental locations.

Settling In: A Consumer Moving Trends Survey Methodology
The Moving Trends Survey was conducted via a survey fielded online by Big Village among a sample of 279 U.S. adults 18 years of age and older who have moved to a new city or town in the past five years.

More Moving Resources

To explore moving tips, tools and previous Top Moving Destination lists, visit www.pensketruckrental.com.

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Penske Truck Rental Announces 2024 Top Moving Destinations

Marking the start of National Moving Month and peak moving season, Penske Truck Rental has released its 15th annual Top Moving Destinations list, identifying the top 10 U.S. cities that recorded the highest volume of one-way consumer truck rentals in 2024.

In addition, Penske published findings from its national Settling In: A Consumer Moving Trends Survey, which examines consumer sentiment and trends around relocation.

The list shows where people are moving, while the survey offers insight into why. This year 82% of respondents viewed moving as a fresh start, and more than half moved to find a greater sense of community.

Top 10 Moving Destinations in 2024 (previous year ranking):

  1. Houston, Texas (No.1 four consecutive years)
  2. Atlanta, Ga. (4)
  3. San Antonio, Texas (2)
  4. Dallas, Texas (6)
  5. Orlando, Fla. (7)
  6. Charlotte, N.C. (3)
  7. Las Vegas, Nev. (5)
  8. Chicago, Ill. (Returning – last ranked in 2021)
  9. Austin, Texas (8)
  10. Tampa, Fla. (9)

The 2024 data reflects continued migration to the Sun Belt, with multiple Texas and Florida cities appearing in the top 10. Houston retained the top position for the fourth consecutive year, followed by Atlanta, which rose to No. 2. Chicago reentered the ranking for the first time since 2021.

“Each year, the Top Moving Destinations list helps track relocation trends and guide how we support customers across the country,” said Kevin Malloy, senior vice president of Penske Truck Rental. “In 2024, we saw people moving with clear intent—driven by lifestyle fit, space, or location. As we look ahead, Penske continues to provide the tools and resources they need to move confidently—and we’re here to support those planning their next move, wherever they’re headed.”

What Drives Moves

According to the survey, the top reasons for moving in 2024 were:

  • Closer proximity to loved ones (28%)
  • Better job opportunities (27%)
  • Lower cost of living (23%)
  • Needing more space (23%)

Overall, 67% of respondents reported that moving had a positive impact on their overall well-being, and 56% viewed the process itself positively. When coordinating a move, 69% preferred to rent and drive their own truck. Among those who rented 57% found that packing and organizing overtime helped reduce stress, and 49% relied on family and friends for support.

Penske Truck Rental offers support across North America. The Penske Truck Rental app enables customers to make and modify rental reservations, access loading guides and how-to videos, connect with Penske's 24/7 roadside assistance, and cancel reservations without fees.


More Moving Resources

To explore moving tips, tools and previous Top Moving Destination lists, visit www.pensketruckrental.com.

Top Moving Destinations Methodology

For the past 15 years, Penske Truck Rental has been compiling this list using analysis of one-way consumer truck rental reservations made via the company's website, calls to its 1-800-GO-PENSKE call center and through one-way reservations made at Penske's over 2,200 truck rental locations.

Settling In: A Consumer Moving Trends Survey Methodology
The Moving Trends Survey was conducted via a survey fielded online by Big Village among a sample of 279 U.S. adults 18 years of age and older who have moved to a new city or town in the past five years.

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Settling In: A Look at Today’s Consumer Moving Trends

In today’s ever-changing environment, Americans continue to seek new beginnings and connections — whether for loved ones, job opportunities, or a better quality of life. Findings from Penske’s latest annual survey, Settling In: A Consumer Moving Trend Survey, provides fresh insights into how and why people are moving.

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April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

Any situation that competes with a driver’s attention on the road can be a distraction to safe driving.

April has been designated as Distracted Driving Awareness Month to educate drivers about distractions and how to practice good distracted-driving safety habits.

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Penske Truck Rental is New Los Angeles Marathon Truck Rental Supplier and Gear Check Sponsor

Penske Truck Rental is now a part of the Los Angeles Marathon as the race’s Official Truck Rental Supplier and Gear Check Sponsor. On March 16, more than 25,000 participants will navigate the 26.2-mile Stadium to the Stars course, starting at Dodger Stadium and culminating near Avenue of the Stars in Century City.

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Penske Truck Rental is New Los Angeles Marathon Truck Rental Supplier and Gear Check Sponsor

Penske Truck Rental is now a part of the Los Angeles Marathon as the race’s Official Truck Rental Supplier and Gear Check Sponsor. On March 16, more than 25,000 participants will navigate the 26.2-mile Stadium to the Stars course, starting at Dodger Stadium and culminating near Avenue of the Stars in Century City.

Penske Truck Rental will support a seamless marathon experience on the point-to-point course, spotlighting Penske’s commitment to community support and operational excellence.

“The management of gear check is integral to ensuring a world-class experience for our runners, involving the precise coordination of over 20,000 gear bags from start to finish,” stated Murphy Reinschreiber, The McCourt Foundation’s chief operating officer. "Our partnership with Penske provides the dependable support necessary to execute this critical service flawlessly. We are immensely grateful to Penske for their commitment to the success of the Los Angeles Marathon."

Spanning iconic landmarks such as Chinatown, Los Angeles City Hall, and Rodeo Drive, the marathon’s route offers runners a picturesque journey through the heart of Los Angeles.

Beyond the physical challenge, the event champions a larger cause, supporting The McCourt Foundation’s mission to build healthier communities and cure neurological diseases through fundraising and awareness.

“We are very pleased to support this historic race as a first-time sponsor,” stated Kevin Malloy, senior vice president of rental for Penske Truck Leasing.

The marathon's weekend activities also include the LA Big 5K on Saturday, March 15, and a two-day Lifestyle Expo at Dodger Stadium. The expo is free and open to the public, annually attracting over 60,000 attendees with dozens of exhibitors offering the latest in running technologies, health and nutrition, and active lifestyle information.

By "Move Ahead" Staff

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Record Participation for Penske’s Tech Showdown 2025

Celebrating 25 years of excellence, the 2025 National Tech Showdown is shaping up to be a milestone event in Penske Truck Leasing’s history. With record-breaking participation, expanded competition categories, and unprecedented cash prizes, it’s clear why the Tech Showdown has earned its reputation as a premier skills competition in the industry.

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Penske Celebrates National Technician Appreciation Week

Penske celebrates National Technician Appreciation Week Sept. 22 – 28 to spotlight and thank the force behind our fleet.

Please join us in celebrating the more than 11,000 skilled Penske technicians and customer service representatives (CSRs) who keep our customers – and our world – moving forward in the safest, most well-maintained fleet in the industry.

The expertise and commitment of our technicians and CSRs keep Penske’s fleet running and our supply chains and economy moving. Together, our team maintains over 445,000 vehicles from more than 1,000 locations across the country.

“From maintaining industry repair standards to supporting state-of-the-art sustainable technology and innovation, our technicians and customer service representatives are the industry’s experts,” says Gregg Mangione, executive vice president of maintenance at Penske Truck Leasing. “They truly are the force behind our fleet.”

Hear more from Mangione, along with, Art Vallely, president of Penske Truck Leasing, and Mike Duquette, senior vice president of maintenance field operations, in the video below.

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Penske Celebrates Rental Associate Appreciation Week

Penske is proud to recognize its Inaugural Rental Associate Appreciation Week Sept. 8-14.

With the theme, “Your Effort Moves Us,” we celebrate the thousands of Penske Rental associates who help customers move through life’s biggest milestones, businesses navigate their busiest seasons and drivers handle their most hectic days.

We know that effort equals results, and it’s the effort of our exceptional Rental associates that truly move us.

“The summer months are some of the busiest of the year for our Rental associates, and we’re proud to take this week to thank them and their continued dedication to excellence,” says Kevin Malloy, senior vice president of rental at Penske Truck Leasing. “It is truly because of them that our customers continue to rent with confidence.”

“During Rental Associate Appreciation Week – and every day - we appreciate and thank you.”

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Security Tips for Your Household Move

The busy moving season is an attractive time for thieves who prey on unsuspecting consumers.

Many more moving trucks on the road, means more opportunities for thieves seeking to take advantage of unsuspecting motorists.

When a do-it-yourself move is not an option, Penske's security experts encourage consumers to be selective when hiring a moving company.

There are a wide array of scammers offering seemingly inexpensive moving services online. Many use online message boards, shell websites, social media, and other online listings.

Quite often, the prices are unclear, the quotes are unclear, and when the movers show up, they may be using unbranded trucks or trailers.

What can you do if you are the victim of theft or think you've been taken advantage of by a moving scammer?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates moving companies and provides consumers with helpful information to avoid moving scams and how to respond to them. Consumers may also see the mover's bill or rights and file complaints via this website.

If you need a full-service move, consider sourcing your movers from the American Moving and Storage Association.

Security Tips When Moving

  • Lock All Vehicle Doors
  • Secure the Rear Cargo Area with a Hardened Padlock
  • Park in Well-Lit Areas and Under the View of Security Cameras if Possible
  • Make Sure You Have Adequate Theft Insurance in Place with Your Homeowner's Insurance Company While You're Moving to Your New Location - Just in Case
  • Be Mindful of What You Post on social media
  • Consider Packing and Using "Tracker Tags" in Your Boxes
  • Take Photos of Prized Valuables While Packing for Your Insurance Records
  • Take Photos of the Vehicles the movers Are Using (Plates, Truck and Trailer Numbers)
  • Take Photos of the Rental Truck You are Driving (Plates, Truck and Trailer Numbers)

If you are the victim of theft or a scammer using a Penske rental truck, call the police immediately and contact the nearest Penske Truck Rental location. Provide the truck information, moving company, and any other details such as photos, truck plates, truck number, rental agreement number, etc.

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Tips to Beat the Summer Heat

High temperatures and humidity can be a challenging combination bringing with them the threat of heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

For do-it-yourself movers and professional truck drivers alike, experts recommend taking a few precautions to help beat the summer heat.

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Penske exhibiting at Home Delivery World USA 2024

Penske Transportation Solutions is taking part in this year’s Home Delivery World USA 2024 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia June 5 and 6 a Platinum Sponsor and exhibitor.

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Record Number Expected to Travel During Memorial Day Holiday

A record number of travelers are expected to drive to Memorial Day holiday destinations to celebrate the unofficial start to summer.

Joining them will be thousands of do-it-yourself movers heading to new hometowns and professional truck drivers, working hard to keep the supply chain moving.

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Penske Joins Powering America’s Commercial Transportation (PACT) Coalition as Charter Member


Powering America’s Commercial Transportation (PACT), a coalition focused on education and advocacy for accelerating the construction of nationwide infrastructure for medium- and heavy-duty (M/HD*) zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), today announced the addition of Penske Truck Leasing as a Charter Member.

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Penske Truck Rental’s Top 10 Moving Destinations of 2023 Revealed

Each year, Penske Truck Rental reveals the top 10 cities that people are moving to, based on one-way truck rental data. This year’s Top Moving Destinations list features a new addition and one surprising departure on the 14th annual list.

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National Hurricane Preparedness Week, May 5-11

With the official start of the Atlantic hurricane season just a month away, now is the time to get ready for potential storms, as preparation is key to keeping you and your property safe.

National Hurricane Preparedness Week, May 5-11, provides an opportunity to review your safety plans and make any changes long before a storm arrives.

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National Work Zone Awareness Week Spotlights Safety, April 15-19

Road construction and maintenance projects are the keys to maintaining healthy roadways. Yet, these work zones can provide challenges to drivers.

New speed limits, traffic patterns and rights of way, as well as worker and vehicle movement, can all impact work zone safety.

National Work Zone Awareness Week, April 15-19, shines a spotlight on ways drivers can keep themselves as well as work zone workers safe.

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