PODS is a well-rounded option if you want a balance between total DIY and a full-service move. Use our estimated costs, container specs, and coverage information for PODS and competitors like U-Pack, 1-800-PACK-RAT, and U-Haul U-Box to narrow down your moving container company choices.
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PODS vs. Competitors: Features & Coverage
Use this table to narrow down your choices based on sizes, features, and coverage.
Note: LTL stands for “less-than-truckload.” This shipping method is a cost-effective way to move, combining multiple shipments into one truck to share space and costs.
| Company | Container Sizes (approx.) | Materials & Security | Coverage | Standout Feature | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PODS | 8-foot, 12-foot, 16-foot | Steel frame, weather-resistant; lockable | US + parts of Canada | Strong nationwide network and month-to-month storage | Balanced choice for local and long-distance with storage |
| U-Pack | ReloCube (~6 feet x 7 feet x 8 feet), 28-foot trailer (pay by linear feet) | Steel/aluminum; lockable; freight network | 48 states + Canada + Puerto Rico | Pay-for-space model; fast transit on LTL network | Cost control for long-distance; flexible space |
| 1-800-PACK-RAT | 8-foot, 12-foot, 16-foot | All-steel, barn-style doors; lockable | Most major metros (not fully nationwide) | Heavy-duty containers with strong weather sealing | Security-focused long-distance and storage |
| Zippy Shell | ~15-foot street-legal trailers | Steel frame with weatherproof cover; lockable | Selected metro areas | Street-legal delivery in dense cities | Urban moves where driveway space is tight |
| U-Haul U-Box | ~8 feet x 5 feet x 7.5 feet | Wood with weather-resistant cover; lockable | Nationwide | Broad availability and DIY cost control | Budget-friendly, small loads, widespread access |
| MovingPlace | 53-foot trailer space by 5-foot increments | Freight trailer; lock partition | Lower 48 | Only pay for the linear feet you use | Large long-distance moves on a budget |
Real-World Price Comparisons
Container prices fluctuate by date, demand, geography, and container count. These examples and ranges are based on customer-reported moves and typical quotes we track across the market. Your price may vary, so always compare several of the top moving container companies for your exact route and timing.
| Scenario | PODS | U-Pack | 1-800-PACK-RAT | Zippy Shell | U-Box | MovingPlace |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local (1–2 rooms, 1 month) | $400–$800 | Not typical; use ReloCube if applicable | $400–$800 | $500–$900 | $300–$700 | N/A |
| Regional (500–1,000 miles, 1 container) | $1,800–$3,000 | $1,600–$2,800 (ReloCube or trailer space) | $1,700–$3,000 | $1,800–$3,200 | $1,400–$2,800 | $1,700–$3,000 (5 feet–15 feet of trailer) |
| Cross‑country (1,800–2,800 miles, 1 large unit) | $3,200–$5,500+ | $2,400–$4,800 | $2,800–$5,200 | $2,700–$5,000 | $2,200–$4,500 | $2,800–$5,000 (10 feet–20 feet of trailer) |
| Monthly storage (per unit) | $149–$349 | Limited; short-term only | $149–$349 | $150–$320 | $80–$160 | N/A |
Note: Look for military, student, and off-peak discounts. Container parking permits and third-party labor can add costs, so factor those into your comparison.
PODS Overview
Company Profile
- Background: After the company launched in 1998, “PODS” (Portable On Demand Storage) soon became a name that’s interchangable with “moving container.” PODS popularized the modern portable storage container model that’s used across the industry today.
- Coverage: PODS offers service across the United States and in some parts of Canada.
- Containers: The lineup includes 8-foot, 12-foot, and 16-foot steel-framed units. The ground-level containers are designed for easy loading and unloading.
- Storage: You can select month-to-month storage at your home or at a secure PODS facility.
PODS Pros
- A range of services: PODS is a solid option for local moves, long-distance shipping, or flexible storage.
- Multiple container sizes: Reduce the risk of paying for space you don’t need by mixing and matching 8-foot, 12-foot, and 16-foot units to dial in the right capacity for your home.
- Broad network and availability: A large footprint can mean greater flexibility on pickup or delivery windows.
PODS Cons
- Not always the lowest price: On some cross-country routes, competitors that use freight networks can be cheaper.
- Peak-season delays: Summer moves and end-of-month dates may stretch delivery windows.
- Access-related fees: Challenging placements, such as narrow streets or zones requiring permits, may trigger extra charges. Ask about site constraints and any related fees up front.
Pricing Examples
Pricing varies by distance, dates, container count, and storage needs. These examples illustrate typical ranges we see reported by customers across the country.
- Local moves: One small container for two to three rooms often ranges from $300 to $1,100 for a month and local transportation. Rates depend on demand and weekend pickup or delivery.
- Regional moves (500-1,000 miles): One 16-foot unit commonly falls between about $2,000 and $4,500, depending on mileage, timing, storage days, and access challenges.
- Cross-country moves (over 1,000 miles): One 16-foot container typically lands between roughly $3,000 and $7,500, with additional charges for extra months of storage if needed. Larger homes may need multiple containers.
Real-World Data Points
- Arizona to Washington: One 16-foot container was quoted at $3,252, with delivery occurring earlier than expected but the move completing on time.
- California to Virginia: One container with unloading help totaled about $4,540, and the ability to stage over a month made the cost worthwhile for the shipper.
Top PODS Alternatives
U-Pack
Why it’s a top PODS competitor: U-Pack’s pay-for-space model (ReloCubes or 28-foot trailers) can be cheaper and faster on long-distance routes because it uses a national less-than-truckload freight network for transit.
- Background: U-Pack launched in 1997 under ABF Freight and brings freight-network reliability to consumer moves.
- Coverage: Service spans 48 states, Canada, and Puerto Rico.
- Equipment: Choose ReloCubes (about 6 x 7 x 8 feet) or reserve space in a 28-foot trailer and pay only for the linear feet you use.
- Storage: Short-term options exist, but long, at-home storage is not the focus — U-Pack is better suited for straight-through transit.
U-Pack Pros
- Pay-for-what-you-use pricing: You only purchase the trailer space or number of cubes you need.
- Fast long-haul transit: U-Pack’s well-established LTL network offers predictable timing across major corridors, including coast-to-coast moves.
- Flexible delivery options: If your access is limited at either end of the move, you can opt for door-to-door or terminal services — with their Service Center Delivery, you can pick up or drop off at a local facility.
U-Pack Cons
- Limited long-term storage: U-Pack is focused on transit rather than extended storage. If you need weeks or months between homes, a container-based storage model may be a better fit.
- Compact cubes: At 308 cubic feet of loading space, each ReloCube can fit about one room of goods. You’ll need multiple units or trailer space for larger homes.
1-800-PACK-RAT
Why it’s a top PODS competitor: 1-800-PACK-RAT’s all-steel, heavy-duty containers are reassuring if you value security and weather resistance. Pricing is often competitive for long-distance moves with storage flexibility.
- Background: The company began in 2001 and continues to expand across many major metropolitan areas.
- Coverage: Availability is strong in cities but not fully nationwide, so check your origin and destination early.
- Containers: The 8-foot, 12-foot, and 16-foot units have barn-style doors, which many customers find easier to secure.
- Storage: You can store your items month-to-month, either at home or in a secure facility.
1-800-PACK-RAT Pros
- Rugged construction: The all-steel build and robust weather sealing help protect your goods from the elements. That durability is key if you’re storing for an entended period, or in stormy regions.
- Competitive long-haul pricing: 1-800-PACK-RAT often lands close to PODS on cost, and can beat it on specific routes.
- Comparable size options: Since sizes mirror PODS, it is easy to compare pricing.
1-800-PACK-RAT Cons
- Uneven coverage: Because the network is not fully nationwide, availability and scheduling can vary by market.
- Service variability: Delivery and pickup timeframes can shift, especially during peak demand. Look elsewhere if you have a very tight schedule.
Zippy Shell
Why it’s a top PODS competitor: Zippy Shell is a strong option for apartment-to-apartment relocations because its street-legal, trailer-mounted units are easier to place curbside in dense urban areas.
- Background: Zippy Shell started in 2007 and focuses on metro markets and urban-friendly delivery.
- Coverage: Service is available only in select cities, so be sure to verify coverage for both ends of your move.
- Containers: Units are about 15 feet, which is suitable for a small apartment or partial-home shipment.
- Storage: Warehouse-based storage is available if you need time between pickup and final delivery.
Zippy Shell Pros
- Urban placement: Street-legal trailers simplify parking and may reduce permit requirements. That is a real win where driveways or loading zones are limited.
- Apartment-friendly capacity: The container size works well for one-bedroom moves or a focused set of belongings. It can be a practical alternative to a small rental truck.
Zippy Shell Cons
- Smaller network: Compared with national brands, coverage gaps can limit date flexibility and availability. Confirm timelines in writing before booking labor.
- Service consistency: Communication and scheduling can vary by local market. Have a backup plan in case delivery windows shift.
U-Haul U-Box
Why It’s a top PODS competitor: U-Box has broad availability and simple pricing, and the smaller container size lets you scale up or down easily. It’s a popular choice for studio and one-bedroom moves.
- Background: U-Box debuted around 2009 under the U-Haul brand, which has served movers since 1945.
- Coverage: Availability is nationwide, with a large network of company-run facilities.
- Containers: Wooden boxes measure roughly 8 x 5 x 7.5 feet and include weather covers to protect against the elements.
- Storage: Month-to-month storage is widely available at U-Haul locations, making it easy to bridge time between leases.
U-Box Pros
- Widespread access: The large network enables flexible pickup and drop-off options across most cities and towns. That reach can also minimize your wait for container availability.
- Budget-friendly for small loads: Small boxes keep costs in check for partial shipments or small moves.
U-Box Cons
- Wood construction trade-offs: Covered wood often can’t compete with steel containers in severe conditions. You may need to use plastic wrap to help manage damage risk.
- More units required for large homes: It will take multiple boxes to match the volume of a 12-foot or 16-foot unit you’ll find from competitors.
MovingPlace
Why it’s a top PODS competitor: MovingPlace sells space in a 53-foot trailer in 5-foot increments, so you pay only for the linear feet you need. Even for larger moves, this can be a great value if you’re comfortable with freight-style shipping.
- Background: The company launched in 2004 and focuses on long-distance, cost-efficient transport.
- Coverage: Service extends across the lower 48.
- Equipment: You’ll load into a freight trailer, and a secure partition locks off your space from other shipments.
- Storage: Service is focused on transit, not long-term storing.
MovingPlace Pros
- Cost per cubic foot: Pricing can be excellent for big moves because you purchase only the linear feet you need.
- Transparent pricing: Paying by the foot creates clarity when you are comparing quotes.
MovingPlace Cons
- Potential terminal loading: In some markets, you may need to load at a freight terminal instead of your driveway.
- Less staging convenience: Because it is not a container that sits in your driveway, you lose the ability to load gradually over days. Instead, you’ll have to load in one or two focused sessions.
Other Notable Regional Providers
Several regional or franchise-driven container companies can compete head-to-head with national brands in their service areas.
- UNITS (regional and national blend): UNITS offers 12-foot and 16-foot containers and often provides strong local franchise support.
- Go Mini’s (regional): Go Mini’s features 12-foot, 16-foot, and 20-foot containers that work well for local moves and storage. Availability is market-dependent, so request quotes early for peak-season dates.
Which Moving Container Company Is Best for You?
Use these differentiators as a starting point, then compare quotes and availability for your specific dates and locations.
- Budget, long-distance: U-Pack, MovingPlace, and U-Box often quote lower prices on long corridors.
- Long-term storage: PODS and 1-800-PACK-RAT shine when you need month-to-month storage at home or in a facility.
- Urban and apartment moves: Street-legal or small-footprint options from Zippy Shell and U-Box are easier to place in tight city environments.
- Security and durability: 1-800-PACK-RAT’s all-steel construction is the most rugged, with PODS’ steel-framed units close behind.
- Flexible space: U-Pack and MovingPlace let you pay by linear feet in a trailer, which is ideal if you’re having a hard time estimating your volume. You can add footage without committing to a second container.
- Small loads and students: U-Box keeps costs down for one to two rooms or dorm moves.
Quick Decision Checklist
Answer these questions to narrow your list to two or three providers before you start calling for quotes.
- Do you need month-to-month storage? If yes, prioritize PODS or 1-800-PACK-RAT, since both allow you to keep a unit at home or in a facility.
- Are you minimizing long-distance costs? Compare U-Pack, U-Box, and MovingPlace for pay-for-space models and smaller-box flexibility. Ask about any access fees at pickup and delivery.
- Is parking tight at either end? Zippy Shell or U-Box can be more practical with curbside placement or smaller footprints.
- Shipping high-value goods? You’ll appreciate 1-800-PACK-RAT’s all-steel construction. Opt for quality locks and consider contents protection.
How Do Moving Containers Work?
A moving container is a portable storage unit delivered to your driveway. You load it on your schedule, and the company picks it up and sends it to your next home or a secure storage facility. It’s a middle ground between renting a truck and hiring full-service movers.
- When moving containers make sense: They are ideal when you want flexible timelines, month-to-month storage, or long-distance shipping without driving a rental truck yourself. Containers are also a popular option for those staging a home before a sale.
- When to choose full-service movers: If you have a tight schedule, complex packing needs, or a large home that requires disassembly and heavy lifting, full-service crews can handle the process end to end.
Expert Tips and Industry Insights
We gathered these strategies from real customers and logistics pros to help you lock in the right capacity and keep your costs in check.
- Book early for peak months: From May through September, demand is high and containers sell out quickly. Reserve several weeks ahead and ask about price holds so you are not caught by a last-minute spike.
- Take a realistic inventory: Slightly overestimating is cheaper than scrambling for an extra container or added trailer feet on moving day. Inventory each room and measure large items so your estimate reflects reality.
- Confirm access rules and permits: Consider street permits, HOA restrictions, and placement rules before delivery day.
- Bundle labor: Vet any local crew you’re considering for labor and confirm arrival windows and minimum hours in writing. Ask your container provider whether they coordinate with labor partners.
- Protect your valuables: Use double-wall boxes, furniture blankets, and plastic wrap to prevent abrasion and moisture. Consider a third-party insurance policy for high-value items.
Insurance, Damage, & Claims
Most container companies sell contents protection or valuation coverage rather than full insurance. Because you pack and load yourself, coverage can be limited for improperly packed items or restricted goods. Read the terms closely and photograph everything before pickup.
- Container brands with contents protection: PODS, PACK-RAT, Zippy Shell, and U-Box all offer protection plans with declared value limits. Exclusions typically apply for electronics, fragile items, and improper packing.
- Freight-style models and coverage: U-Pack and MovingPlace include mover liability for the container or trailer during transit, but your packed goods may need a separate third-party moving insurance policy. Request evidence of coverage in writing before your move date.
- Claims best practices: Document the container’s condition at drop-off and pickup and keep photos of packed items. If damage occurs, submit the claim immediately with itemized lists, serial numbers, and receipts when available.
Accessibility and Special Needs
Access drives cost and timing more than most people realize. Clear your driveway, obtain street permits, and plan loading routes early, especially in dense cities and HOA communities.
- Ground-level loading: All container brands load from ground level, which reduces heavy lifting compared with a high-deck moving truck. Ramps are commonly available for smaller boxes like U-Box.
- Permits and parking: Many urban areas require permits for street placement, and HOAs may restrict placement times. Zippy Shell’s street-legal trailers can help where access is tight.
- Discounts worth asking about: Many providers offer military, student, and senior discounts that can meaningfully lower your bill. Ask about off-peak pricing if your dates are flexible.
Environmental Impact
Shared transportation and reusable equipment can lower your carbon footprint.
- Shared freight efficiency: Models like U-Pack and MovingPlace consolidate loads and can reduce emissions per household.
- Reusable container lifecycles: Moving containers are reused for years, supporting a lower-impact moving ecosystem.
FAQ
Which is cheaper: PODS or U-Pack?
For long-distance routes, U-Pack often costs less because you pay only for the space you use in cubes or a trailer. For local moves that include storage, PODS can be competitive thanks to month-to-month flexibility and convenient at-home staging.
What’s the most secure moving container?
1-800-PACK-RAT’s all-steel containers are widely regarded as the most rugged, with strong door hardware and weather sealing. PODS’ steel-framed units are a close second and offer good protection during long dwell times.
What if my items are damaged?
Report issues immediately based on the instructions in your agreement, and be mindful of deadlines. If you purchased contents protection or third-party insurance, file a detailed claim with photos, itemized lists, and receipts to speed review. Without coverage, reimbursement may be limited to mover liability, which is usually not nearly enough to replace damaged goods.
Are there eco-friendly moving container options?
Yes, and the biggest gains come from efficiency. Reusable containers reduce waste, and shared-freight models like U-Pack and MovingPlace lower emissions by consolidating shipments. You can further cut impact by avoiding multiple trips and using recycled packing materials. When possible, schedule weekday pickups to help providers route trucks more efficiently.
