Jan Alaska

We used a 20ft uhaul truck with a car carrier when we moved last year. In retrospect we should have gone with the 26ft truck as the motor is more of a truck motor than the 20ft which was underpowered.
We didn't have the option of Penske but they are cheaper and their trucks do look to be in better condition. Gas mileage will be @ 9mpg.
If he has pets he will probably be wise to book hotels/motels in advance. Motel 6 are pet friendly and we found the rooms clean and staff were friendly.

Trailers are a way to go too however, I towed a 20ft trailer from MI to WA a few years back and its not fun. We purchased our own but you can rent although they will check whatever vehicle you have is able to tow before renting it to you. Friends of ours moved AK to FL with a uhaul trailer towing with their Durango, cost was cheaper to rent but they went through 13 tires which not only slowed them down but also left them stranded a couple of times.

Sally Redux

We used a company called NorthStar to move locally, they might just operate out of LA though. They seemed good because they gave a 'not to exceed' price.

RICH

Probably not much use to you, but, he used a guy he was recommended, who had worked for 20 years for http://www.gentlegiant.com/default.aspx

Harry the Mover is a start up. Go his phone# if interested, but it seems he prefers Boston to FL jobs.(Family here).

Anyway, my mate got quotes from the big guys, all around $6k. A quote for a POD(load/unload yourself) was $2900. He offered Harry $3500 and that's what he paid. Harry rented a truck (he has his own 2 for local jobs). Delivered in 3 days. Move was from 4th floor condo to 2nd floor apartment. Two guys. Mate was happy.

Lion in Winter

Sounds excellent. This is going to be a west coast to Midwest move, so probably out of this guy's range but might be worth getting the number if you can pm it. Maybe he has a friend out west.