PODS vs 1-800-PACK-RAT vs U-Pack: Which Container Company Is Best?
Three of the largest portable container moving companies, three different pricing models. Here's a direct comparison with real route prices — the most thorough three-way comparison you'll find.
Get a Free PODS QuoteSide-by-Side Overview
| Feature | PODS | 1-800-PACK-RAT | U-Pack |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local move cost | $300–$800 | $280–$750 | Not available |
| Long-distance cost | $2,000–$7,500 | $1,900–$7,000 | $1,400–$4,800 |
| US coverage | 48 states | 29 states | 48 states |
| Container material | Steel-frame | All-steel | Standard trailer / ReloCube |
| At-home storage | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✕ No |
| Local moves | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✕ No |
| Customer rating (avg) | 4.1/5 | 4.3/5 | 4.4/5 |
| Best for | National coverage, combined move + storage | All-steel containers, price match guarantee | Long-distance budget moves, pay by linear foot |
Company Profiles
PODS
The biggest name in portable storage
Pros
- ✓Widest national coverage (all 48 contiguous states)
- ✓All-in-one move + storage — no separate storage booking
- ✓Strong brand recognition and customer service infrastructure
- ✓Online booking available for most moves
- ✓Flexible rental periods
Cons
- ✕Not always the cheapest option
- ✕Steel-frame containers (not all-steel like PACK-RAT)
- ✕Premium pricing in some markets
Verdict: Best for: anyone who wants national coverage, convenient booking, and a reliable one-stop-shop for moving + storage.
1-800-PACK-RAT
All-steel containers, price match guarantee
Pros
- ✓All-steel containers — stronger structural integrity
- ✓Price match guarantee against comparable quotes
- ✓Often 5–10% cheaper than PODS for same routes
- ✓Strong customer service ratings
- ✓Same all-in-one move + storage model as PODS
Cons
- ✕Available in only 29 states — not truly national
- ✕Less brand recognition can mean lower demand = better availability
- ✕Fewer container size options in some markets
Verdict: Best for: people in covered markets who want the PODS experience at slightly lower cost. Always get a PACK-RAT quote alongside PODS.
U-Pack
Pay only for the space you use
Pros
- ✓Pay by linear foot — significant savings for smaller loads
- ✓No at-home storage hassle (trailer delivered, loaded, picked up same day)
- ✓Widest long-distance coverage via ABF Freight network
- ✓ReloCube option for container-style loading
- ✓Often 20–40% cheaper than PODS for long-distance small loads
Cons
- ✕No local moves (minimum ~150 miles)
- ✕No at-home storage option
- ✕Loading time is more constrained — they pick up on a scheduled date
- ✕Less flexibility if move dates change
Verdict: Best for: budget-conscious long-distance movers, especially smaller households (1–2 bedrooms) where per-foot pricing beats a full container rental.
Head-to-Head: Common Routes
Chicago to Denver — ~1,000 miles · 3-bedroom
PODS
$3,200
1-800-PACK-RAT
$2,900
U-Pack
$2,400
Full-Service Movers
$5,500
NYC to Los Angeles — ~2,800 miles · 3-bedroom
PODS
$6,500
1-800-PACK-RAT
$6,200
U-Pack
$4,800
Full-Service Movers
$9,500
Dallas local move — under 50 miles · 2-bedroom
PODS
$450
1-800-PACK-RAT
$420
U-Pack
N/A
Full-Service Movers
$1,200
Cost estimates based on 16ft PODS, comparable PACK-RAT container, U-Pack linear foot pricing. Actual quotes vary. Always get quotes from all three for interstate moves — savings of $500–$1,500 are common.
Other Container Companies Worth Knowing
Smaller regional alternatives may serve your specific market:
SMARTBOX
Regional portable storage. Available in 18+ states. Slightly cheaper than PODS in covered markets. Good for storage-only use cases.
Zippy Shell
Available in ~25 markets. All-wood container construction. Good for short-distance moves in covered cities.