Looking for cheapest moving containers to match with your tight budget? Well, we have comes with top 6 low price moving containers company with high quality services. Also, some of them offer discounts often to attract more customers.
However, you have to read whole article without skipping and understand the services of the each company. After that, choose one from our below mention list–
Moving containers can save money and reduce stress for local and long-distance moves. And moving container companies offer different prices and services. Even the cheapest one comes with different sizes of containers and offers discounts. The lowest price the company can charge you is around $2,000 to $4,000. Despite the costs, they offer the best services. All you have to do is pack and unpack your stuff by yourself.
Using a PODS container is generally cheaper than hiring a full-service moving company. However, professional movers offer services like loading and unloading, which are hassle-free but expensive. While with PODS, you have to pack your stuff and unload.
| Company | Avg. moving container price | Instant online quotes | Discounts available | Details |
| Zippy Shell | $2925 | No | Yes | Check Price |
| PODS | $3700 | Yes | No | Check Price |
| U-Haul U-Box | $3080 | No | Yes | Check Price |
| U-Pack | $3,900 | Yes | No | Check Price |
| 1-800-PACK-RAT | $6190 | No | Yes | Check Price |
| MovingPlace | $3,225 | No | Yes | Check Price |
Zippy Shell is recognized as one of the affordable options for moving containers. We reviewed over 140 quotes and found that customers can save up to $1,000 on average. And its low price does not affect services. For example, Zippy Shell’s containers are built with a strong steel frame to protect your items. Also, it offers storage options at your home or in the facilities. Not to mention that, its containers are street legal and can offer service in urban without concern about parking issues.
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Here, we will discuss some more additional features about Zippy Shell–
When you compare the Zippy Shell price to the different companies, you will see this company can save you around $1000. For instance, it is less price than U-Pack, U-Haul U-Box, and many more. Every year, companies increase the prices like U-Haul raise the price up to 30% from 2020. And Zipply Shell only enhances around a 10% rate. So, you can see that in terms of the lowest price, Zippy Shell is ahead of any other company.
Zippy Shell offers lightweight moving containers. However, these containers are made from steel and are more durable enough than U-Pack and U-Haul. This is a reason that this company can offer low prices. More specifically, the container weight fell, impacting gas mileage, and it saves more for long-distance travel. Therefore, you can save up to $240 for a 100-mile move and more for a farther distance.
| Distance | Price | Amount above or below industry average | Learn more |
| 2,050 miles | $3940 | $630 ↓ | |
| 1,050 miles | $4060 | $240 ↓ | |
| 450 miles | $2310 | $320 ↓ | |
| 100 miles | $1500 | $240 ↓ |
PODS is one of the industry-leading companies that can save you about 100 dollars for local services. Besides that, it is also best at everything else. For instance, PODS are available in 47 states across the country. And it comes with containers in different sizes and offers excellent consumer support.
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For local moves, you will get more savings with PODS than other companies. For instance, if you use the PODS for 100 miles, it can cut around $400 off your total bill. You can also use the additional $400 to purchase a moving box or hire labor to move it.
The most affordable PODS option is the 8-foot container, with prices ranging between $225 to $848 for local moves. Remember, the prices can fluctuate based on distance and services. However, this size is well-suited for relocating a one-bedroom home or a studio apartment.
U-Haul U-Box is not as affordable as Zippy Shell or PODS, but it can still save money. Specifically, this company can be cheaper, around $390 for one bedroom. And the best part about it is available in 50 states. Therefore, U-Haul offers both local and long-distance moves. However, the company has a size container and requires a hidden $99 charge.
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Let’s learn more about U-Box in the section below:
This company is best for one bedroom apartment moves and can save up to $390. Therefore, it is famous among college students in summer moves. However, the prices have increased over the 3 years to 30%. Despite the increasing prices, U-Haul is still best for moving a small amount of things.
| Moving container company | Average cost | Learn more |
| U-Haul U-Box | $2240 | Check Price |
| PODS | $2560 | Check Price |
| Zippy Shell | $2950 | Check Price |
| U-Pack | $2,600 | Check Price |
| 1-800-PACK-RAT | $2760 | Check Price |
| MovingPlace | $2,555 | Check Price |
U-Haul’s online quote system is famous as a convenient feature for busy consumers. Unlike other companies who needed call for a quote, U-Haul provided it in 2 minutes. But the fact is there are extra $99 hidden fees, which this company adds without telling you. So, whatever your bill is, there will be around $100 more.
U-Pack is one of the largest moving companies available in all 50 states. It is also cost-effective for small apartments to be moved 100 and 250 miles. Also, you will only pay for the space you use. Besides, it provides ReloCube services to Canada, Alaska, Hawaii, and more.
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| Distance/home size | 1 bedroom | 2 or 3 bedrooms | More than 3 bedrooms |
| Under 250 miles | $1,000 – $1,450$ | 1,100 – $1,700$ | 1,250 – $1,950 |
| More than 250 miles | $1,500 – $2,600 | $2,450 – $3,900$ | 3,550 – $6,650 |
This moving container company offers prices that match those of other companies like PODS. So, using 1-800-PACK-RAT, you can save around $100. Also, it offers 24/7 services to all the customers. Again, this company offers strong, weather-resistant, high-quality containers.
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We can say low price is the main reason–
Every moving container company brings some unique features to the table, and 1-800-PACK-RAT has no different. And this company is best for pricing matches with other moving companies.
Although our first pick is Zippy Shell, 1-800-PACK-RAT is not far away from it. While each moving company increased from 2020 to 2025 up to 30, this company only enhanced around half of them. After spending years analyzing 300 quotes, we came up with the idea that 1-800-PACK-RAT can save you about $350.
This doesn’t just lower your costs; it shows that 1-800-PACK-RAT can become even more affordable. With price matching, this company can offer prices as low as competitors.
MovingPlace is popular among consumers because of its cost-effective prices, flexibility, and best consumer support. Along with containers, it offers 53 ft trailers and 28ft trucks. Also, its trailers come with straps, pads, dollies, etc.
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When you compare the moving container pricing, keep these factors in mind–
While selecting a cheap moving container company, you have to take into account a few things. These are–
Container size
When choosing a cheap moving container company, check the size of the containers. As many companies offer different sizes of containers, you select the one that matches your stuff or belongingness. Thief flexibility can help avoid unnecessary costs associated with renting a larger container than needed.
Shipping distance
The moving distance affects the pricing and service options. All the moving companies offer different price ranges based on your moving distance, like locally, regionally, or long distance. So, consider the distance that will help you make your budget more effective and choose the company that offers reasonable price rates.
Storage options
Almost all moving companies offer storage solutions to keep your items in transit or when your new home is under construction. So, if you need storage options before selecting a cheap company, you also have to look for a company that offers storage for short or long periods without charging extra fees.
Delivery and Pickup Services
Check the delivery and pickup service offered by the company. And ensure that they deliver the container to your current location and pick it up from your new one without hassle.
If you still want to cut money from the cheapest moving container, follow these steps–
Deal hunting
You can start this by comparing quotes from different moving container companies. This way, you can find the best rates and service companies. Also, ask the company if they offer any discounts for new consumers.
Shop around and haggle
Don’t hesitate to negotiate with container rental companies. If you find a better price elsewhere, use it as leverage to ask for a lower rate from your preferred provider. Also, always ask about potential hidden fees that could inflate your moving costs.
Consolidate your load
Reducing the number of items you need to move can lead to significant savings. So if you have unnecessary stuff, it’s best to donate them. This will make your move easy and cheap.
To make moving smooth and hassle-free, you can follow some tips and tricks–
Pack strategically
Packaging organized way can save you some room and save from damage. So, you can divide belongingness into categories, such as placing heavier items at the bottom of the boxes and lighter ones at the top. Also, you can label each box clearly to make unpacking more efficient and stress-free.
Pack the essentials
While packaging separate bags or boxes for essential items, you’ll need them immediately upon arrival at your new home. This should include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and basic kitchen supplies.
Boxes and padding
Invest in sturdy boxes and ample padding materials like bubble wrap or packing paper. This ensures that fragile items are well-protected during transit. Also, you can use smaller boxes for heavy items to avoid strain and larger boxes for lightweight goods. Remember, proper packing reduces the risk of damage and makes loading easier.
Let’s see a breakdown of the costs associated with each option based on various moving distances–
Moving containers often come with lower overall costs compared to hiring full-service movers. For long-distance moves where expenses can escalate quickly.
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Hiring professional movers tends to be more expensive but offers significant advantages in terms of convenience and efficiency. And movers handle all aspects of the move, including packing, loading, and transportation.
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Zippy Shell is the first choice of the cheapest container company. Generally, its prices are less than %400. Although PODS can offer low prices for one bedroom apartment moving, Zippy Shell is cheaper for almost every other home size. Along with the low price, this company also offers the best services, such as a strong container made from steel, and ensures your product’s safety.
What is the cheapest way to travel long distance?
Moving containers are the cheapest way to move in long-distance. As there are many companies available, the one with the lowest prices is Zippy Shell. Also, PODS, 1-800-PACK-RAT, and U-Pack offer cost-effective options in some particular features.
What are the best U-Box alternatives?
PODS, U-Pack, and 1-800-PACK-RAT are among the best alternatives to U-Box. For instance, PODS offers durable steel containers and excellent customer service. At the same time, U-Pack provides flexible pricing for space used. On the other hand, 1-800-PACK-RAT is best for local moves and price matching. Hence, each option has unique benefits that are adjusted to different moving needs.
How much does it cost to rent a moving container?
Renting a moving container typically costs between $3,000 to $4,000 for larger moves. It depends on factors like rental duration and shipping distance. However, additional fees can apply for delivery and loading services. With Zippy shell, consumers can save around $100 for each move.
What are the best moving companies?
The best-moving container company is PODS, which is well-known for its nationwide coverage and flexible storage options. And U-Pack is noted for its overall value and transparent pricing. Other strong contenders are 1-800-PACK-RAT and Zippy Shell. They are ideal for which offers various container sizes and city-to-city moves simultaneously.
Is labor included in the price of a moving container rental?
When renting a moving container, labor is typically not included in the rental price. Therefore, customers are responsible for loading and unloading their belongings. However, some companies often offer assistance for an additional fee.
How much does a moving container cost for a cross-country move?
The cost of using a moving container for a cross-country move typically ranges from $1,500 to $4,500 for a one-bedroom home. In contrast, the two-bedroom homes can cost between $2,865 and $7,560. The prices can change depending on distance and service type.
Do all portable containers come with storage options?
Not all the portable containers come with storage options. Therefore, if anyone needs the storage, it is best to ask the company for it to ensure.
We analyze the company by following the six steps. And this way, we filter the best-moving container companies–
Annual update: We do the same process each year to get the latest information and update our website for valuable consumers. So, our chosen company and their information can change yearly.