Best Moving Container Companies in Arizona (2024)
Whether you’re preparing to move out of state or need extra storage during a renovation, a moving container is a great way to maximize your budget. As long as you’re willing to handle loading and unloading yourself, moving containers eliminate the hassle of transportation while giving you a budget-friendly moving option.
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On average, the top moving container companies charge between $2,300 and $4,200, although pricing will vary depending on your situation. Every company has its pros and cons, but based on our research and feedback from Better Moves Project participants, U-Pack offers the best balance of affordability, quality, and availability for Arizona residents.
Need help deciding which company to choose? We’ve got you covered. Check out this moveBuddha guide to find the right moving container company for your Arizona move.
The 5 best moving container companies in Arizona
- U-Pack: Best overall
- PODS: Best for long-distance moves
- MovingYourself: Best for large moves
- 1-800-PACK-RAT: Best containers
- Zippy Shell: Best for city moves
How we picked the best Arizona moving container companies
moveBuddha takes customer experiences seriously. We follow a carefully weighted methodology to choose the best possible container companies for Arizona customers based on:
- Customer satisfaction: What do moveBuddha Better Moves Project participants say about this company? We also check customer reviews and review aggregators such as Better Business Bureau, TrustPilot, and Google Reviews.
- Services: We compare a moving company’s services to its competitors’ offerings.
- Reputation: moveBuddha considers industry ratings, insurance, and compliance when recommending quality container companies. This includes U.S. Department of Transportation registration and membership in organizations like the American Moving and Storage Association.
- Add-on services: If businesses offer junk removal, cleaning, or storage options before and after transport, that does weigh into our decision to feature them because they provide more convenience to their customers.
- Availability: Not all moving companies operate nationwide. We assess how available a moving container company is for customers and how easy it is to work with that company across state lines.
- Payment: How efficient is it for customers to render payment, make deposits, and review charges? How many payment options does the moving company offer?
- Scheduling: We analyze each company’s lead times, delays, pickup and delivery windows, and ease of booking.
Comparing the best moving container companies in Arizona
You’ve got a lot of options to choose from here, whether you’re relocating to a new home in Phoenix or planning a cross-country move out of Arizona. Let’s see how some of the top moving companies stack up against each other.
| Company | BBB rating | State availability | Average pricing | Container options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U-Pack | A+ | 50 | $2,300 | One (8-foot container) |
| PODS | A+ | 46 (not in AK, MT, ND, or WY) | $4,000 | 8-, 12-, and 16-foot |
| MovingYourself | A- | 48 (not in AK or HI) | $3,000 | Up to 52 feet |
| 1-800-PACK-RAT | A+ | 31 (not in AL, AK, AR, DE, HI, IA, KS, ME, MS, MT, NE, NH, ND, RI, SD, VT, WV, WI, or WY) | $3,500 | 8-, 12-, and 16-foot |
| Zippy Shell | A+ | 34 34 (not in AK, AR, DE, HI, KS, ME, MS, MT, NE, NH, ND, RI, SD, VT, WV, or WY) | $3,100 | 10-foot (limited availability) and 16-foot |
U-Pack: Best overall
rating
5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
U-Pack operates in all 50 states, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Its ReloCubes are some of Arizona’s most affordable options for container moving, thanks to its “pay-only-for-what-you-use” model.
Book as many ReloCubes as you think you might need. If you don’t end up needing them all, simply send them back to U-Pack, and rest assured that you won’t pay for what you don’t use.
You can choose between booking ReloCubes or opting for a U-Pack trailer instead, which charges by square foot. U-Pack also offers short- and long-term storage services for ReloCubes. So, if you aren’t ready to unload just yet, this is always an option.
Pros/Cons
- Pay only for the space you use
- No-hassle online quotes and booking
- Uses steel storage containers to protect your items
- Only available for moves over 100 miles
- Long-term storage is limited six months
How much does U-Pack cost?
On average, customers pay $2,300 for a U-Pack move. That’s the most affordable average rate of any reputable moving container company on this list.
Why we like U-Pack
U-Pack is affordable, but it doesn’t compromise on quality of service. moveBuddha customers praise the company’s proactive communication and transparency.
- Digital dashboard for move planning and ReloCube tracking
- Three business days to load and unload
- Choose between ReloCubes or a trailer
- Affordable pricing
PODS: Best for long-distance moves
rating
4.8 / 5
89% of users select this mover
moveBuddha readers consistently rate PODS as one of the top moving container companies, and we agree, especially when it comes to out-of-town, out-of-state, or cross-country relocations. It is the most well-known of the moving container brands, and its popularity is evidenced by the number of physical locations nationwide (even though it isn’t available in all 50 states).
While U-Pack gives you just three business days to load the container, you get unlimited time with PODS. It includes 30 days of storage at no additional cost, too. Choose to store your POD onsite in your driveway or at a PODS facility for safekeeping.
Since you have the freedom to store everything on your property, PODS is popular for long-distance moves and temporary onsite storage during home renovations. Not all moving containers service local moves, but PODS does that, too, making it a great option for in-town moving and bigger relocations alike.
Pros/Cons
- 30 days of free storage
- Choose from onsite or facility storage
- 8-, 12- and 16-foot containers available
- Offers local moving services
- Not available in all states (isn’t in Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, or Wyoming)
- No online tracking
How much does PODS cost?
PODS is pricier than other moving containers, but you get a lot of bang for your buck. The 30 days of free included storage and metal containers are a big hit with customers. On average, PODS customers pay around $4,000.
Why we like PODS
moveBuddha readers say PODS has some of the most accurate pricing in the industry, and its reputation for white-glove service is a big plus, too.
- Unlimited loading and unloading time
- Car shipping available through a partnership with Acertus and Mr. Car Shipper
- Money-back guarantee
- No hidden fees
MovingYourself: Best for large moves
rating
4 / 5
89% of users select this mover
MovingYourself is a you-load-we-drive company with 52-foot trucks at your disposal. It might not be a traditional moving container company, but have you seen how much stuff fits on a 52-foot truck? This setup makes MovingYourself ideal for large moves. If you need to get everything across state lines in a single trip — without driving a truck yourself — this is an affordable option.
But don’t worry, you don’t have to rent out the entire truck. MovingYourself only charges you for the space you use, so the more efficiently you pack, the more you save. moveBuddha readers consistently praise this company for its airtight estimates with zero surprise fees, so what you see is what you get.
Pros/Cons
- Pay-for-what-you-use model
- Inclusive estimates
- Five days of free storage
- Offers vehicle shipping
- No local moves available
- Doesn’t service rural areas
How much does MovingYourself cost?
Costs vary because you only pay for the space you use on the truck. However, you can expect to pay around $3,000 for a long-distance move.
Why we like MovingYourself
While they don’t offer multiple container sizes, the one-size-fits-most solution allows you to take up the space you need and pay only for what you use.
- Pay only for the space you use and worry less about the weight of your shipment
- Specializes in interstate moves
- Provides professional equipment like loading ramps
1-800-PACK-RAT: Best containers
rating
4.45 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Look, moving is nerve-wracking. Having the right moving container company — and a solid container — can make all the difference. If you’re anxious about moving furniture, antiques, or valuables in a moving container, 1-800-PACK-RAT’s sturdy containers will put your mind at ease.
1-800-PACK-RAT uses state-of-the-art metal storage containers (in three sizes) to keep your belongings secure in transit. Its barn-style doors make it a cinch to load and unload and the ground-level containers mean you don’t have to fuss with ramps, either.
If you’re still anxious about the move, 1-800-PACK-RAT also offers some of the most robust insurance protection options in the biz. For $9.99 per container per month, you get a minimum contents protection plan that protects you against accidents while the container is in 1-800-PACK-RAT’s possession. You can also buy additional protection up to $75,000.
Pros/Cons
- Durable metal containers
- Provides free locks
- 8-foot, 12-foot, and 16-foot containers
- Unlimited loading time
- No online quotes
- Available in only 31 states and no international moves
- No Sunday delivery
How much does 1-800-PACK-RAT cost?
Average pricing varies, so it’s best to call for a free quote. Cross-country moves for four- to five-bedroom homes average about $3,500, but you could pay as little as $150 to $500 for a small local move.
Why we like 1-800-PACK-RAT
1-800-PACK-RAT services both local and long-distance moves. You’ll have to call to get a quote and make a reservation, but its all-in-one services it a popular option for moveBuddha readers.
- Packing services and loading available through third-party providers
- Robust insurance coverage options at affordable prices
- 30 days of storage included
Zippy Shell: Best for city movers
rating
4.2 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Many customers choose container companies because of the ease of storage. Only some people are ready to move into their new location ASAP, and solutions like Zippy Shell make it a cinch to manage tricky city moves in tight spaces.
You can’t keep Zippy Shell indefinitely at your property like a PODS container, but it’s perfect for short-term storage. Zippy Shell’s containers have mesh walls to promote airflow, and the company stores all containers at a climate-controlled facility. This is your best option for protecting your belongings from the elements in the short term.
Best of all, Zippy Shell’s narrow shipping containers fit in standard parking spaces, making them the perfect option for shipping in cramped urban areas that might not allow larger moving containers.
Pros/Cons
- Street-legal containers for city parking
- Offers expedited and guaranteed delivery for a fee
- Local and long-distance moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- 30 days of free storage for long-distance moves
- Charges a cancellation fee
- Limited availability on 10-foot containers
- Only available in 33 states
How much does Zippy Shell cost?
On average, moveBuddha readers pay around $3,100 for Zippy Shell, although costs depend on container size and how long you rent the container.
Why we like Zippy Shell
Zippy Shell’s containers and climate-controlled storage make them a good fit for customers needing a little reassurance. moveBuddha readers also highly rate the company’s add-on services.
- 30 days of free storage
- Door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal delivery options
- Highly rated for customer service
- Moves containers in weatherproof trailers, which provides an additional layer of protection
Moving container sizes
Some moving companies only offer one container size, while others provide a variety of sizes. Sometimes ordering multiple small containers might be the way to go, while booking one larger container could save you more time and money.
| Container Size | Move Size |
|---|---|
| Small (7–8 feet) | Studio apartment (about 500 square feet of items) |
| Medium (10–12 feet) | One- to two-bedroom home (about 500–800 square feet of items) |
| Large (16 feet) | Two- to three-bedroom home (about 1,200 square feet of belongings) |
Moving containers vs. full-service movers
When you plan a move, you’ll pick one of two approaches: hire a full-service moving company to handle nearly everything for you or DIY most of the move.
Full-service moving companies save you a lot of hassle by managing the packing, loading, transportation, and unloading. The downside is that they’re usually more expensive than a moving container. Some customers think the additional cost is worth it, especially for long-distance moves that require long drives. Just make sure you’re picking the best long-distance movers and not a fly-by-night company.
Do your homework to find a reputable mover who will take care of your belongings. If you aren’t sure where to start, we (and our readers) rate Mayzlin Relocation, Safeway Moving, and JK Moving Services as some of the best moving companies.
Moving containers, on the other hand, are great for folks on a budget who don’t mind handling the loading and unloading themselves. Moving containers are typically more affordable than full-service movers, making them a great option for cost-conscious customers. Plus, with moving containers, you can pack and load your belongings at your convenience. Our take
Every moving container company offers something different, but U-Pack is the leader of the, well, pack. It’s available in all states, has the lowest average pricing, and only charges you for what you use.
However, U-Pack only offers one container size. If you want more options, PODS is a close second. It’s only available in 46 states and has higher pricing, but moveBuddha readers consistently rave about the company’s accurate quotes and great customer service.
FAQ
Are PODS available in Arizona?
Yes, PODS is available in Arizona and 45 other states. Whether you’re in Phoenix, Tucson, or making an out-of-state move to California, PODS is there to simplify your relocation. However, it isn’t available in Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, or Wyoming.
How do you determine what size moving container you’ll need?
To determine what size moving container you’ll need, consider the volume of your belongings, the size of your home, and any large items or furniture you need to transport.
Most moving container companies have online tools to help you estimate the right container size for your needs. If you’re concerned about needing additional containers, work with a provider like U-Pack that only bills you for the containers you use.
Are moving containers better than hiring movers?
Moving containers can be better than hiring movers in terms of cost. But the decision between using containers and hiring movers depends on various factors, including your budget, timeline, and personal preferences.
Moving containers offer flexibility and affordability, while hiring movers provides more convenience. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your needs and situation.
How much do shipping containers cost in Arizona?
Shipping containers cost between $2,300 and $4,200 in Arizona, on average. However, it’s always best to request a quote for your individual move, since pricing can vary a lot. Use our moving cost calculator to get started on estimating your moving expenses and comparing quotes.
What is the cheapest container shipping company?
Overall, U-Pack is the cheapest container shipping company that balances affordability with quality service. You can always reduce the cost of your quote by using fewer containers, asking for moving discounts or promo codes, and requesting quotes from at least three companies to find the best deal.
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