PODS Competitors & Alternative Moving Container Companies
Quick answer: The top competitors to PODS are U-Pack, 1-800-Pack-Rat, Zippy Shell, MovingPlace, and U-Haul U-Box.
While PODS is one of the best in the moving container business, the competitors below may offer better pricing, faster delivery, or more flexible services for some moves.
Jump to the top 5 PODS competitors and alternatives:
- U-Pack: Better for long-distance moves on a budget
- 1-800-PACK-RAT: Better for hassle-free loading
- Zippy Shell: Better for city moves with tight parking
- MovingPlace: Better for large DIY moves
- U-Haul U-Box: Better for small, flexible moves
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Compare PODS competitors: Sizes, costs, and services
| U-Pack | PODS | 1-800-PACK RAT | Zippy Shell | Moving Place | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Container sizes | 28-ft freight trailers, 8-ft containers | 8, 12, and 16-ft containers | 8, 12, and 16-ft containers | 15-ft containers with 10-ft in some areas | 28- and 53-ft trailers |
| Material/design | Enclosed, metal | Enclosed, metal | Enclosed, metal | Metal cage | Enclosed, metal |
| Storage availability | At a facility | At your place or theirs | At your place or theirs | At a facility | Up to three months at a facility |
| Average local move cost* | No local moves | $200 – $800 | $150 – $790 | $190 – $750 | No local moves |
| Average long-distance move cost* | $900 – $6,600 | $450 – $7,600 | $910 – $6,900 | $500 – $7,000 | $1,100 – $4,700 |
| Why it’s better | Covers all 50 states, lower prices | Unlimited loading time | Barn-style doors are easier to load | Metal cage containers for items that need airflow | No advance notice needed for last-minute moves |
*We calculated these local and long-distance cost figures using data from moves of various sizes and distances, gathering quotes from verified moving customers and through secret shopping.
Alternatives to PODs
We’ve tracked thousands of moves through our Better Moves Project, where actual customers share their experiences with moving container companies. Using that first-hand data and in-depth research, we’ve built a comprehensive comparison of PODS’ top competitors.
ABF U-Pack: Better for long-distance moves on a budget
rating
5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why choose U-PACK
U-Pack is one of the best PODS competitors. They’re hard to beat when it comes to competitive prices and a large national coverage area, but PODS may be a better choice if you’re moving locally or need more than three days to load and unload.
Here’s how PODS and U-Pack match up in the following key areas:
| U-Pack | PODS | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $$ | $$$ |
| Types of moves | Only long-distance moves | Local and long-distance moves |
| Coverage area | 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada | 46 U.S. states |
| Interior space | 28-ft trailers have 1,944 cubic feet of interior volume. You only pay for the space you use. | 16-ft containers have 857 cubic feet of interior space (if one 16-footer isn’t big enough, you’ll pay for a second) |
| Loading/unloading time | Three business days | Unlimited |
| Parking | Trailers require 40′ of parking space | Containers can fit in the driveway/on the street |
| Insurance included | Yes | No |
Key considerations
Here are the biggest factors to consider as you compare PODS and U-PACK:
- Availability: PODS offers local and long-distance moving services, while U-Pack only handles long-distance moves. On the other hand, PODS covers 46 U.S. states compared to all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada for U-Pack.
- Container sizes: Both companies offer multiple container sizes, but PODS customers get unlimited loading and unloading time, while U-Pack customers are generally limited to three days for each.
- Insurance: It’s also worth noting that U-Pack’s quotes include basic insurance, but PODS’ quotes do not.
Janna’s experience with U-Pack
1-800-PACK-RAT: Better for hassle-free loading
rating
4.45 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why choose 1-800-PACK-RAT
If you like the convenience and flexibility of PODS but want a more durable container and easier loading experience, 1-800-PACK-RAT might be the better choice for your move.
Both companies offer similar container sizes and unlimited loading time, but PACK-RAT’s all-steel containers and barn-style doors give them an edge for protecting your belongings.
Here’s how 1-800-PACK-RAT and PODS compare:
| 1-800-PACK-RAT | PODS | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $$$ | $$$ |
| Types of moves | Local and long-distance moves | Local and long-distance moves |
| Coverage area | About 30 U.S. states | 46 U.S. states |
| Largest container | Largest option is a 16-ft container (you’ll pay for a second container if you need more space, but you can choose an 8′ or 12′ unit) | Their largest option is a 16-ft container (you’ll pay for a second container if you need more space, but you can use a smaller 8-ft or 12-ft unit) |
| Loading/unloading time | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Interior space | 16-foot containers have 830 cubic feet of interior space | 16-foot containers have 857 cubic feet of interior space |
| Door style | Barn-style | Roll-up |
Key considerations
Here are the biggest factors to consider as you compare PODS and 1-800-PACK-RAT:
- Similarities: Both 1-800-PACK-RAT and PODS offer similar pricing, identical container sizes (8′, 12′, and 16′), and unlimited loading and unloading time.
- Design: 1-800-PACK-RAT’s containers have barn-style doors that open outward, whereas PODS doors open up and back into the container. Loading and unloading are easier with barn-style doors, but door type isn’t usually an issue unless you plan on packing your container from floor to ceiling.
- Coverage: Before choosing one of these companies, keep in mind that PODS has a larger national coverage area and is sometimes a better option for long-distance moves than some of PODS’ other competitors.
Batool’s experience with 1-800-PACK-RAT
Zippy Shell: Better for city moves with tight parking
rating
4.2 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why choose Zippy Shell
Zippy Shell and PODS both offer container moves, but Zippy Shell’s street-legal containers give them an edge for urban relocations. However, PODS offers more container sizes and has a wider coverage area. Choose Zippy Shell if you live in a city where parking might be an issue.
Here’s how Zippy Shell and PODS compare in the following key areas:
| Zippy Shell | PODS | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $$ | $$$ |
| Types of moves | Local and long-distance moves | Local and long-distance moves |
| Coverage area | About 30 U.S. States | 46 U.S. states |
| Space | Largest option is a 15′-ft container with about 625 cubic feet of interior space (they also have 10′ units, but they’re not available everywhere) | Their large 16’ containers have 857 cubic feet of interior space |
| Loading/unloading time | Three days each for loading and unloading | Unlimited |
| Parking | Street-legal containers are perfect for city parking | Containers are smaller and can fit in the driveway/on the street |
| Container material | All metal cages that promote airflow | Enclosed, all metal |
Key considerations
Here’s what you need to know as you compare PODS and Zippy Shell:
- Coverage: Zippy Shell and PODS both offer local and long-distance moving services, but PODS has a significantly larger national coverage area.
- Load time: PODS allows customers unlimited time to load and unload, making for a more flexible move.
- Containers: Zippy Shell’s cage-style containers are the way to go if you’re shipping or storing items that need to breathe or have a tricky parking situation.
Read our comprehensive Zippy Shell review here.
Danielle’s experience with ZippyShell
MovingPlace: Better for large DIY moves
rating
4.0 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why choose MovingPlace
MovingPlace specializes in large, long-distance moves using full-size freight trailers, offering far more space than PODS containers. MovingPlace is definitely worth considering if you’re okay with doing the loading and unloading yourself but would rather leave the driving to professionals.
That said, PODS may be more convenient for smaller households or moves requiring on-site storage.
Here’s how MovingPlace and PODS’ prices, services, and equipment compare:
| MovingPlace | PODS | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $$ | $$$ |
| Types of moves | Moves over 250 miles only | Local and long-distance moves |
| Coverage area | National coverage (the number of states isn’t specified) | 46 U.S. states |
| Space | Their largest 53-ft trailers have more than 3,600 cubic feet of interior space | Their large 16-ft containers have 857 cubic feet of interior space |
| Loading/unloading time | Three days for loading and three days for unloading | Unlimited |
| Parking | Parking can be an issue with 28-ft and 53-ft trailers | Containers are smaller and can fit in the driveway/on the street |
| Availability | Often available on short notice | Need to book well in advance (especially during the peak summer moving season) |
Key considerations
- Size: MovingPlace’s cavernous 28′ and 53′ trailers are solid choices for big DIY moves.
- Availability: Trailers are only available on moves over 250 miles, and parking can be a problem in tight urban areas and apartment complexes, which aren’t issues for PODS.
- Loading: Customers generally get three days each for loading and unloading compared to unlimited time with PODS, but we love that MovingPlace can often provide equipment on short notice when container companies can’t.
Matt’s experience with MovingPlace
Read our comprehensive review of MovingPlace review here.
U-Haul U-Box: Better for small, flexible moves
rating
3.95 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why choose U-Haul U-Box
U-Box containers are smaller and often cheaper than PODS, making them a great fit for smaller moves or tighter budgets. However, PODS offers more durable containers and better coverage for larger moves.
Here’s how PODS and U-Box stack up in a head-to-head competition:
| U-Box | PODS | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $ | $$$ |
| Types of moves | Local and long-distance moves | Local and long-distance moves |
| Coverage area | All 50 U.S. states, Canada, and many foreign countries | 46 U.S. states |
| Space | U-Box only offers one container size that has about 257 cubic feet of interior space | Their large 16-ft containers have 857 cubic feet of interior space |
| Loading/unloading time | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Pick-up/delivery | Optional. You can choose to pack and unpack at a U-Haul facility to save money | Customers can choose door-to-door, door-to-terminal, or terminal-to-terminal service |
| Container material | Treated plywood (each container comes with a weatherproof cover) | Enclosed, all metal |
Key considerations
Consider the following as you compare PODS vs. U-Box for your move:
- Cost: U-Box consistently delivers far lower prices than the competition, and the company’s small wooden containers are great choices for cost-conscious customers who are moving locally, from state to state, or to another country.
- Loading time: Similar to PODS, U-Box customers have unlimited time to load and unload their containers.
- Pickup/delivery: With U-Box, you can choose door-to-door service or load and unload at a company facility to save a few bucks.
Read our comprehensive U-Haul U-Box review here.
Jarom’s move with U-Box
See how U-Box compares to PODS and U-Pack here.
And now, without further ado, let’s talk about PODS.
PODS: container moving and storage from an industry pioneer
rating
4.8 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why choose PODS
Peter Warhurst founded PODS in 1998 after coming up with a unique moving and storage container concept that ultimately reshaped the relocation industry.
As a market leader with more than five million moves under its belt, it’s no wonder that so many customers rely on PODS for their local and long-distance moving and storage needs.
With three convenient container sizes, a large national coverage area, and competitive prices on moving and storage, we definitely recommend getting a quote from PODS.
Read our comprehensive PODS review here
Bethany’s experience with PODS
How does PODS cost stack up?
PODs costs are generally competitive, but some moving container companies are more budget-friendly for certain types of moves. To help you compare costs, we collected data for PODS and their competitors.
Keep in mind that these are only averages. With so many factors affecting moving costs, it’s always a good idea to request personalized quotes from the companies you’re considering.
Estimated container costs on local moves
| PODS | U-Box | U-Pack | Zippy Shell | Pack Rat | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 bedroom | $200 – $400 | $150 – $600 | Not available for local moves | $190 – $240 | $150 – $500 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $300 – $650 | $300 – $700 | Not available for local moves | $300 – $630 | $200 – $630 |
| 4-5 bedrooms | $300 – $800 | $300 – $800 | Not available for local moves | $350 – $750 | $340 – $790 |
Experiencing information overload? If so, check out this head-to-head comparison between PODS, 1-800-PACK-RAT, and U-Pack.
Estimated costs for container moves under 250 miles
| PODS | U-Box | U-Pack | Zippy Shell | Pack Rat | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 bedroom | $450 – $800 | $450 – $1,000 | $900 – $1,300 | $500 – $920 | $465 – $910 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $750 – $1,900 | $700 – $2,000 | $1,100 – $1,700 | $730 – $1,600 | $660 – $1,900 |
| 4-5 bedrooms | $900 – $2,100 | $800 – $3,000 | $1,200 – $1,900 | $1,100 – $3,100 | $1,000 – $3,400 |
Estimated costs for cross-country container moves
| PODS | U-Box | U-Pack | Zippy Shell | Pack Rat | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 bedroom | $2,000 – $4,000 | $1,200 – $3,500 | $1,500 – $2,500 | $1,800 – $3,900 | $1,200 – $3,800 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,000 – $4,900 | $2,500 – $4,500 | $2,400 – $3,900 | $2,800 – $4,500 | $2,400 – $4,600 |
| 4-5 bedrooms | $5,500 – $7,600 | $4,000 – $7,000 | $3,500 – $6,600 | $5,200 – $7,000 | $5,100 – $6,900 |
Cost is important, but you’ll also want to consider services, coverage area, availability, reputation, and experience when choosing a moving container company. You might also qualify for discounts that could make your move more affordable.
For instance, PODS offers new customers 10% off their initial delivery and 10% off the first month’s rental for local moves. And for long-distance moves, they offer 10% off initial delivery, 10% off the first month’s rental, and 10% off long-distance transport. Check out our moving estimate calculator for a better idea of pricing.
How our readers rated their moves with PODS competitors
At moveBuddha, we’ve surveyed hundreds of moving customers to get real firsthand insight into their moving experiences. Here’s what we’ve learned about how PODS competitors stack up:
- Costs & budgeting: Final costs for PODS competitors generally range from $2,500 to $4,500, with PODS falling toward the higher end, especially for long-distance moves or extended storage. Across all companies, 45-55% of customers reported unexpected fees, most commonly due to storage extensions, rescheduling, or third-party labor.
- Delivery timelines: Delivery delays were reported in 20-40% of moves, with U-Pack customers experiencing the fewest delays and Zippy Shell, 1-800-PACK-RAT, and PODS customers seeing higher rates of scheduling issues, especially in urban areas.
- Damage & loss rates: 5-20% of customers reported damaged or missing items, with U-Pack having the lowest rate and 1-800-PACK-RAT the highest. PODS customers reported damage in about 10% of cases, often linked to loading/unloading rather than container issues.
- Would they use the company again? Most customers would use the container company they chose again, with U-Pack leading at 90%, PODS close behind at 85%, and Zippy Shell and 1-800-PACK-RAT lower at around 60-65%, often due to communication challenges or delays.
PODS vs. the competition: which moving company is right for you?
Every move is unique, and it’s up to you to find the moving company that best matches your own needs. In some cases, you may even have better luck renting a truck (from a company like Penske) or biting the bullet and hiring a full-service mover.
Either way, we recommend you compare prices from different service providers you can trust (including PODs competitors), all in one place. moveBuddha can help with instant quotes from full-service, container, and DIY movers.
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