For most Chicago drivers, buying rental truck insurance is a smart decision when moving. Standard Illinois car insurance policies usually do not cover rental moving trucks, leaving you responsible for damages or liability. Rental truck coverage fills that gap, protecting you financially on Chicago’s busy streets and ensuring compliance with Illinois insurance laws. If you’re planning a move and want clarity on your options, call Insure on the Spot in Chicago at 773-202-5060 for expert advice.
1. Check Your Existing Coverage First
Before purchasing rental truck insurance, review what coverage you already have:
- Personal Auto Insurance: Most Illinois policies exclude large rental trucks. Even if you’re covered for rental cars, trucks over a certain weight are usually not included.
- Credit Card Benefits: Some credit cards provide rental coverage, but nearly all exclude moving trucks.
- Home/Renters Insurance: May cover personal belongings in transit, but not the truck itself or liability for accidents.
If you’re relying only on your policy or card, assume you’re not fully covered and consider supplemental protection.
2. Understand the Risks of Driving a Truck in Chicago
Driving a large rental truck through Chicago is different from driving a car. Challenges include:
- Traffic Congestion: Busy expressways like the Kennedy and Dan Ryan increase accident risks.
- Tight Roads and Low Bridges: Many city streets and viaducts pose clearance risks.
- Longer Stopping Distances: Trucks are heavier and require more room to brake.
Without insurance, any accident could leave you paying:
- Truck repair costs or full replacement.
- Liability for injuries or damages to others.
- Rental company fees, including “loss of use” while the truck is out of service.
3. Review Rental Truck Insurance Options
Rental companies like U-Haul, Penske, and Budget offer several types of protection:
| Coverage Type | What It Covers | When to Consider |
| Damage Waiver | Repairs or replacement for the rental truck | Always recommended |
| Supplemental Liability | Additional coverage for damages to others | Essential if your policy doesn’t extend to trucks |
| Personal Accident Insurance | Medical costs for you and passengers | If your health insurance is limited |
| Cargo Coverage | Protects belongings in the truck | Useful if moving valuables |
| Tow/Dolly Coverage | Damages to vehicles you’re towing | If using a trailer or dolly |
At a minimum, most Chicago drivers should buy the Damage Waiver and Supplemental Liability Insurance.
4. Consider Illinois Insurance Laws and Local Risks
Illinois law requires every vehicle on the road to have liability insurance. If your policy doesn’t extend to a moving truck, you’ll need the rental company’s liability coverage to stay legal. Driving uninsured could result in fines, suspension, or worse if you’re in an accident.
Local Chicago risks also make extra protection worthwhile:
- Street Parking: Leaving a truck loaded overnight can invite theft or vandalism.
- Weather Hazards: Heavy rain or icy fall/winter conditions increase accident risks.
- Urban Layout: Many neighborhoods have narrow alleys and parked cars that make maneuvering difficult.
These realities mean that buying extra protection is not just smart—it’s often necessary.
5. Decide If Rental Truck Insurance Is Worth It
Ultimately, yes—rental truck insurance is worth buying for most Chicago movers. The small daily fee ($20–$40) is minimal compared to the thousands you could owe after an accident. Unless you’ve confirmed your auto policy covers the truck, it’s safer to purchase coverage directly from the rental company.
Think of it as paying for peace of mind: moving is stressful enough without worrying about unexpected costs from an uninsured accident.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does Illinois law require rental truck insurance?
A: No, but Illinois requires all vehicles to carry liability insurance. If your auto policy doesn’t cover a moving truck, you’ll need to buy liability coverage from the rental company.
Q: Does my auto insurance cover a rental truck?
A: In most cases, no. Standard auto policies in Illinois exclude moving trucks due to their size and weight. Always confirm with your agent before renting.
Q: Are my belongings covered during a move?
A: Your renters’ or homeowners policy may cover personal items in transit, but not the rental truck itself. Cargo coverage from the rental company offers added protection.
Q: What happens if I damage a truck without insurance in Chicago?
A: You’ll be responsible for the full repair or replacement costs, plus potential liability for injuries or damages to others. The rental company may also charge administrative and loss-of-use fees.
Q: How much does rental truck insurance cost in Chicago?
A: It varies by company and coverage type, but most packages range between $20 and $40 per day. Considering the financial risks, it’s a relatively low cost for strong protection.
Get a Quote Today!
Movington Chicago? Don’t take risks with your coverage. Insure on the Spot has decades of experience helping Illinois drivers stay protected, whether it’s for everyday auto insurance or special situations like rental trucks. Call 773-202-5060 or get a Free Quote Online Today! to make sure your move is safe and stress-free.