Using a moving truck ramp sounds like a really simple task—and it is! But, if it’s your first time renting a moving truck, using the ramp may be a complete mystery to you. I’ve heard stories about how people moved their entire home and didn’t realize their moving truck had a ramp. I’d hate for anyone to go through the same exhausting fiasco. So, here are some tips to help make the task an easier and smoother process.
First, you’ll want to make sure you’re renting a truck with a ramp. Be sure to check the deck height of your rental truck. You’ll want a truck with a lower deck height than a regular freight truck. U-Haul trucks are lower to the ground than most rental trucks and are proven to be 50 percent easier to load.
Moving truck ramp securely hooked to truck deck.
5 Simple Steps for Using a Moving Truck Ramp:
- Open the rear door of the moving truck.
- Push down on the latch that keeps the ramp securely under the truck and pull the ramp out slightly.
- Use the straps on the ends of the ramp to slowly and carefully pull the ramp out until it is fully extended.
- Gently set the ramp on the ground. Watch your toes!
- Grab both sides of the ramp near the rear of the truck and lift up. You will see two hooks. Place these hooks over the slots on the truck deck to secure the ramp in the loading position. This will create a smooth transition from the ramp to the truck deck.
Here’s a video that demonstrates how to use a moving truck ramp.
Once the ramp is in place you’ll want to follow some simple guidelines.
- When loading goods on the truck using a utility or appliance dolly, walk backwards up the ramp.
- Make sure you can see clearly while walking up the ramp and that your view isn’t obstructed by whatever you’re carrying.
- Don’t let children play on the ramp. Have a friend or family member watch them while you load and unload your truck, if possible.
Once the loading process is complete, follow these steps to secure the ramp before driving.
Moving truck ramp in place with latch.
- Unhook the ramp from the moving truck deck.
- Using the straps at the end of the ramp, lift the ramp level with the truck and walk it approximately halfway back under the truck.
- Give the ramp a good shove, and it should slide all the way back under the truck.
- Check that the ramp latch is secure.
- Close the rear door of the moving truck and, if needed, secure it with a lock.
Follow these simple steps for using a moving truck ramp and the loading and unloading of your belongings should be a whole lot easier!
Have you used a moving truck ramp before? We’d love to hear how using a truck ramp made your move easier. Tell us your moving story in the comment section below.
