Planning on Renting a Truck? Some Tips for the Self-Mover

* Stack cartons in the truck by weight, from heaviest to lightest, floor to ceiling.

* Keep refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers and other major appliances upright to avoid damage.

* Place extra-long items such as mattresses, box springs, sofas and large mirrors along the walls of the truck. Use mattress bags sold at most truck rental locations to help prevent soiling.

* Roll up and tie rugs and carpets. Disassemble bed frames and tie the rails and crosspieces together with rope or tape. Load these items lengthwise on the floor in the center of the truck.

* Using wardrobe cartons, clothing can be packed on hangers. This also cuts down on packing and unpacking time, and helps to avoid wrinkling during transport.

* Always bend your knees and lift with your legs, never with your back. Get help moving large or heavy items. Use hand trucks with load-locking straps; both are available at most rental facilities.

* Place the heaviest items, such as major appliances and furniture, on the truck first. Use rope or cord to secure doors on appliances and dressers. Protect these items with blanket-style furniture pads available with most rental trucks. Place cartons around and on top of the heavy items.

Source: Penske Truck Rental, www.pensketruckrental.com/