Best Moving Container Recommendations for Stress-Free Relocation
Best Storage & Moving Container Companies
Looking for the best storage and moving container companies for your next move? Then, this article is for you.
We have spent years analyzing each company and mentioned here the 5 best moving companies. We also separate them based on the best features and categorize them into 1 to 5. All you have to do is read the whole article without skipping and learn about each one's specific features. So let's find your best match.
What Is A Moving Container?
A moving container is a portable storage unit used to move belongings from one place to another. More specifically, you can rent moving companies and then store your home or business furniture or other things in the container. After that, the company will deliver the container to your new place.
The best part about moving containers is that you can choose the right size based on your items. Also, it is more cost-effective as you don't have to hire a full-service moving company.
How Do Moving Container Companies Work?
First, you have to book the moving company, and most companies rent containers for 30 days. Then, the company will send the container to your place, and you can pack your items during your leisure time. At the same time, you can hire movers to pack.
When the container is loaded, they will drop it off at your destination. After that, you have to unpack your item and call them to pick up the containers.
Apart from container fees, you have to pay the pickup or transportation fees based on the company. Often, some can ask for fuel money.
First time hearing moving container? Yes, they exist! Here, we guide you on how to choose the best company for your next move. Relocating long distance from another state or just the same town, a moving container is a budget-friendly and effective way to make your moving experience a lot easier.
Top 4 Best Moving Container
4.5 Stars
1. U-Pack Review: Cost, Service, and Real Customer Experience
When compared to other finest moving container companies, U-pricing Pack’s save you around $400. You’ve probably heard the adage, “More money, more problems,” and now you can find out whether it’s true.
However, it does not end there. U-Pack also features a pay-for-what-you-use policy, which means that you only pay for the space you utilize. You may even order more containers and return them for free if you don’t need them. U-Pack also delivers excellent customer service and rapid online quotations to make your life simpler (who likes to wait on hold these days?). On the disadvantage, U-Pack does not allow you to store the U-Pack ReloCube at your house (which is an issue if you want to empty the container over several days) and only provides long-distance relocation.
2. 1-800-PACK-RAT Review: Secure, Easy, and Efficient Moving Containers
More savings and price matching deals are available with 1-800-PACK-RAT than through any other moving container provider. Its high-quality containers come at a premium price—but only at first. Because of several reductions, 1-800-PACK-costs RAT’s for moving containers are frequently lower than the national average. And that’s saying a lot for a moving firm that uses the toughest containers on the market.
1-800-PACK-RAT also provides both local and long-distance delivery (some companies do only one or the other). The major disadvantage is that 1-800-PACK-invoices RAT’s can be confusing (it divides your invoice into so many separate costs that you may leave feeling unsure of your ultimate pricing).
PODS goes above and above to provide you with an exceptional client experience. PODS provides three container sizes to give you greater choice, and its customer service representatives receive the greatest ratings in the industry. PODS is also accessible in almost every state, and it provides both local and long-distance coverage. On the negative, it does not include taxes in your estimate, and for moves above 50 miles, you must phone for a quotation. However, with such excellent customer service, this is less of a disadvantage than it may be with other organizations.
4. SMARTBOX Review: Affordable and Convenient Moving Container Option
SMARTBOX removes the mystery from the process of purchasing a moving container. While many firms charge hidden costs or do not include taxes, SMARTBOX provides you with a single total pricing from the start. SMARTBOX also offers college students discounts and provides weatherproof coverings for their containers. However, there are certain drawbacks. In addition to exorbitant charges, SMARTBOX receives negative feedback from consumers who have difficulty contacting its phone agents and are not generally available.
Zippy Shell is the moving container company you can trust to get your stuff from point A to point B with no hassles. Our goal is to simplify the long-distance moving process for you by moving on your terms and budget. No renting a truck for long-haul driving or packing and loading multiple times. No worry and no stress – your belongings are always safe and secure and moved quickly when you work with Zippy Shell.
What should you look for in a moving container company?
When looking for a moving container firm, keep the following points in mind:
Low prices. The average moving container price is about $3,030. Try to find a company that is near or below the industry average.
Container sizes. Every move is different. Look for a moving container company with several size options so you can tailor them to your personal belongings.
Local and long-distance delivery. If you’re moving across town, make sure the container company offers local moves. Similarly, look for a moving container company with long-distance service if you need to plan a cross-country trip.
Positive customer reviews. The average customer review score for moving container companies is about 3.5 out of 5 stars. Try to find a company that scores higher than the average.
Container quality. Moving container construction materials range from plywood to steel. We recommend using a company that uses metal in its container construction.
U-Pack
What sets U-Pack apart?
It has the lowest prices
U-Pack provides the lowest costs of any moving container provider. We compared U-Pack quotes to hundreds of different moving container businesses’ bids. We looked at tiny and large houses, short distances and cross-country travels, and everything in between. What did we discover? On average, U-pricing Pack’s are around 15% lower than rivals’.
Relocating into a small apartment? U-Pack is $820 less costly than competitors. Have a five-bedroom brownstone that looks like the ritzy suburb mansions in Christmas movies where everyone gathers? U-Pack will save you $720 above the competition. It’s difficult to compete with pricing this low.
Moving container prices
U-Pack
Industry average
$2,610
$3,000
Data as of 8/10/20. Offers and availability may vary and are subject to change.
U-Pack has a pay-for-what-you-use policy
U-Pack makes it simple to plan for a large relocation without breaking the bank. Moving firms sometimes charge by container, so the more items you have, the more it costs. U-Pack, on the other hand, does things differently. It costs by the amount of containers you fill up rather than the number of orders you place. So, if you’re unsure how many containers you’ll need, go ahead and acquire an additional one. You will not be charged any return costs if you do not utilize it (although delivery fees may apply).
1-800-PACK-RAT
What makes 1-800-PACK-RAT different?
It has serious about discounts
Discounts and price matching compensate for the initial high pricing charged by 1-800-PACK-RAT. Almost every time we phoned 1-800-PACK-RAT, cheerful staff offered to match or beat PODS’s pricing (businesses with flimsy containers don’t get the same deal). If 1-800-PACK-RAT is prepared to price match, it corresponds to an immediate 5% discount.
And the price cuts keep coming. 1-800-PACK-RAT has tons of moving cAnd the price discounts just keep on coming. 1-800-PACK-RAT offers a wide range of moving container discounts to everyone from college students to medical professionals:
Best price guarantee
Local moves
First responders
Medical professionals
Military members
Senior citizens
Teachers
Most of the 1-800-PACK-RAT offers save you an additional 10%, putting the firm on par with other low-cost players such as U-Pack and U-Box. That’s even more astounding when you consider 1-800-PACK-next RAT’s selling point: robust moving containers.
It has the strongest moving containers
When it comes to container quality, 1-800-PACK-RAT is the finest of the best. Moving container construction spans from low-quality wood to generic metal to steel. The second best container firm (PODS) uses a steel frame to construct its containers. 1-800-PACK-RAT, on the other hand, takes things to a whole new level. The steel frame of 1-800-PACK-RAT is complemented by steel walls and doors. The company doesn’t say whether its containers could withstand a missile strike—but if anyone stood a chance, it would be 1-800-PACK-RAT. There is no firm that offers stronger moving containers.
PODS is the leading moving container company in terms of client service. We calculated that PODS’s average customer review score of 3.8 out of 5 stars is half a star higher than the industry average. People like the company’s constantly competent drivers and on-time delivery. And they frequently compliment PODS’s customer care representatives; to test if the compliments were genuine, we repeatedly contacted PODS acting as customers. We were consistently amazed by how simple it was to obtain correct responses to our inquiries.
A PODS transfer costs around $3,160. PODS’s starting pricing are little expensive, but the moving container firm erases that problem with a large discount. Because moving can cost thousands of dollars, the savings add up quickly. When you compare PODS to the industry average for small or medium houses, the average price reduction is almost $300.
The size of your home also impacts the cost of your PODS move. A one-room apartment, for example, costs around $1,760, while a five-room house costs around $4,550. PODS are less expensive than the industry average in each situation.
Data as of 8/10/2020. Offers and availability may vary and are subject to change.
SMARTBOX
What sets SMARTBOX apart?
It has straightforward pricing
SMARTBOX provides a unique service in the moving container industry: clear pricing. While many other companies charge hidden fees, split your final bill into multiple payments, or leave you guessing about how much taxes will cost and when you’ll pay them, SMARTBOX makes it simple. You only have to pay one simple bill (taxes included). That’s all. If only every moving company was as easy to work with.
It has deals for college students
College is expensive, and SMARTBOX provides unique moving container deals to ensure that coming on college isn’t too pricey. That includes college instructors and personnel. For almost everyone who spends time at school, SMARTBOX has a $20 off coupon:
Dormitory students
Faculty and staff
Individual students
International students
Off-campus students
Sororities / Fraternities
Study abroad students
Moving container FAQ
How much do moving containers cost?
The estimated cost of moving containers is around $3,000.00. Costs vary based on the size of your home, the distance traveled, and the time of year.
How much do moving containers cost for long distances?
The estimated cost of moving a container over a distance of more than 1,000 miles is around $3,390. Costs range from roughly $2,780 (U-Pack) to $3,730 (1-800-PACK-RAT) (1-800-PACK-RAT).
Portable storage containers are sold by several firms, including 1-800-PACK-RAT, Zippy Shell, and SMARTBOX, in addition to PODS. Moving containers are frequently stored at your house or at a business storage facility.
Are there moving companies that allow you to pack your own stuff?
Yes, you can pack your own belongings if you use a moving company that allows you to do so. Because you pack your own belongings, both rental truck companies and moving container businesses are less expensive than full-service movers.
Where can I find small moving storage containers?
Contact U-Pack or U-Haul to find tiny moving storage containers. Small containers may frequently store the contents of a single room.
Data as of 10/23/2020. All measurements are approximate.
What are the best U-Box alternatives?
U-Pack (cheap pricing), 1-800-PACK-RAT (high-quality containers), and PODS are the top U-Box alternatives (excellent customer service).
How much does it cost to rent a moving container?
The typical cost of renting a moving container is around $3,000. Costs vary based on factors such as container size, time of year, and distance traveled. When compared to the industry average, the cheapest moving container companies may typically save you hundreds of dollars.
What are the best moving cube companies?
U-Pack, 1-800-PACK-RAT, and PODS are the top moving cube businesses. Each organization has its own unique set of strengths. U-Pack, for example, provides inexpensive prices, whereas 1-800-PACK-RAT has sturdy containers and PODS has exceptional customer service.
What is portable storage?
Moving containers are referred to as portable storage in the moving industry (or moving cubes). A portable storage firm transports a storage container to your home rather than storing your items in a storage unit.
What companies have portable storage containers?
PODS, U-Pack, 1-800-PACK-RAT, Zippy Shell, and SMARTBOX are just a few of the firms that offer portable storage containers. The cost varies based on how far you are hauling the storage containers and the size of your property.
For long-distance migrations, PODS is frequently less expensive than U-Hau. While U-first Haul’s quotations appear to be lower, they sometimes include extra fees—and do not cover the food and housing required for cross-country travel.
Data as of 12/6/2021. PODS container sizes are estimates.
What can you put in a portable moving container?
Most household items may be stored in a portable moving container. Hazardous materials, flammable liquids, and firearms are generally prohibited in most workplaces.
How much is a SMARTBOX container?
A SMARTBOX container costs around $3,020. Moving a tiny apartment across town costs roughly $1,450, while moving a three-bedroom home across the nation costs around $5,010. SMARTBOX also provides college discounts.
Yes, PODS can handle long-distance migrations. The average cost of transporting a portable storage container over 50 miles is around $3,160.
What is a portable storage unit?
A portable storage unit is a movable container that may be used for temporary storage or to transport your stuff. The possibilities for containers differ depending on the storage organization. PODS, for example, offers three steel-framed sizes, but U-Haul only offers a single plywood storage box.
Can I use a moving storage container for long-distance moves?
Yes, moving storage containers may be used for long-distance transfers. The cost of a container is often less than that of a moving service with professional movers. However, for minor transfers, a rental vehicle is frequently less expensive.
How much is a moving storage container rental?
The cost of renting a moving storage container is around $3,000. The cost of mobile storage varies based on your storage requirements and if you engage professional movers to manage loading and unloading. Long-distance relocation are also more expensive than local moves.
How do I get a moving quote for long-distance moves?
Contacting a moving container business and providing basic information about your shipment will provide you a moving quotation for long-distance relocation. Most businesses will request your approximate relocation date, departure and destination zip codes, and the number of containers you require.
Are moving containers cheaper in the summer or winter?
Moving containers are often less expensive during the winter. Prices are at their highest during the summer when everyone else is seeking to sell. As a result, the optimum period to hire a moving container is often from November to February, when the moving business slows.
What should I not pack in my moving container?
You should not pack anything precious, harmful, dangerous, perishable, or living in your moving container (same laws apply to storage containers). Food, animals, and machines are only a few examples of forbidden items:
Animals
Financial documents
Fireworks
Food
Fur or clothing with fur linings
Gas
Lawn mowers
Medications
Plants
Valuable jewelry
Why you can trust WOW Mover
WOW Mover spends years understanding a company and collecting authentic information before rating it. Then, we compare the companies and decide which one is the best. So, if you want real details and the best company, WOW Mover is your option.
What Are The Best Storage & Moving Container Companies?
PODS: Best for affordable price
UNITS: Best for customer service
1-800-PACK-RAT: Strong containers
U-Pack: Best for long distance move
Zippy Shell: Best for reviews
Comparison Of The Best Container-Moving Companies
Company
Least expensive quote
Median quote
Most expensive quote
of states
Details
PODS
$848
$4,511
$13,040
46
UNITS
$973
$4349
$8708
37
1-800-PACK-RAT
$1170
$2887
$6572
33
U-Pack
$1151
$3065
$7876
50
Zippy Shell
$1111
$2743
$6243
34
Best Storage & Moving Container Company Reviews
1. PODS: Best at affordable price moving container company
PODS is one of the best and most well-known storage and moving container companies. This company was founded in 1998 and offers services in 46 states except AK, MT, ND, and WY. This way, it became a leader of the moving company. Besides, it has 8, 12, and 16 ft-size containers so that you can choose one based on your items.
Pros
✓Available in different-size containers
✓Offer 30 days for loading and unloading
✓Local and long-distance moving capacity
✓Online shipment tracking
✓New customer discounts
✓Services available in 46 states
Cons
✗Poor online services
✗Reservation can be tough during the summer season
How Much Does PODS Cost?
The cost of the PODS varies depending on the item and distance. For example, if you want to move one bedroom item, the cost will be around $850 for 100 miles. In general, the overall cost can be approximately $3,810.
Who Is Better Than PODS?
Although PODS is best overall, UPack is better in terms of availability. For instance, UPack offers services in 50 states, while PODS is available in 47 states. But if you consider things like container sizes, PODS has three different container sizes, and UPack has only one container size. Besides, PODS provides local and long-distance moving options.
Is It Cheaper To Use A Pod Or A Moving Truck?
Using a moving truck is cheaper compared to the pod. However, the costs mainly depend on distance, gas prices, and your item's weight. Therefore, it's best for you to use a moving truck for small items and short-distance destinations. This way, you can save some money. But for large amounts of goods, choose pod for better services and safety.
Flexibility To Move Or Store
PODS is mainly famous for its flexible option to move depending on your timeline. Besides moving and storing, PODS offers moving boxes, loading assistance, car shipping, and many more.
Customer Reviews
PODS is one of the high-rating moving container companies among its competitors. On its website, PODS has 4.4 out of 5 stars from 63,868 reviews. Let's see an overall review of the consumers we notice on its website–
Fast service
It offers quick services and transports items fast to the destinations. Hence, the customers don't have to wait much to arrive.
Friendly response
When you ask or have any queries regarding moving, it will respond to all your questions.
Low prices
PODS's low prices make it more popular among consumers. If you move average items for more than 2,000 miles, the cost will be $540, which is cheaper than other companies.
2. UNITS: Best customer service moving container storage
UNITS offers 24/7 customer service and is known for its high customer satisfaction. Also, it has climate control storage capacity and is available in 12 and 16-inch sizes. It uses advanced technology to deliver containers. Although it currently operates in 37 states, it will expand more in the future.
Pros
✓Consumer are satisfied
✓Weather resistance container
✓Can deliver containers in tight places
✓30-day free storage
Cons
✗Little expensive
Customers Love UNITS
UNITS is very popular among consumers because of its outstanding services, despite the fact that it is not available in all states.
Stellar service
This company got higher consumer review scores than other moving companies. Mainly, customers love it because of its availability of seven days and fast customer delivery for long-distance travel.
High-quality containers
Although it offers two sizes of containers, its quality is the highest. This way, it ensures good drying and safety while moving throughout the season.
Every Location Is Locally Operated
UNITS owns and operates each location, so you can solve any issue and ask any queries in your place without needing to refer to a large city center. This is very convenient for all the customers in all states. However, you have to know that, in different locations, pricing and container size availability can vary.
3. 1-800-PACK-RAT: Strong-moving containers
1-800-PACK-RAT is a leading portable storage and moving company founded in 2002 and headquartered in Wake Forest, North Carolina. Also, it offers services in 34 states. The company specializes in providing all-steel, weatherproof containers for various needs, including local and long-distance moves.
Pros
✓Offer third-party packing services
✓Many insurance options
✓Climate control containers
✓Container available in three different sizes
Cons
✗No online quotes
✗Adds a per-mile fuel surcharge
Kryptonite-proof Containers
It offers all containers made of steel; these are weatherproof and designed to withstand different environmental conditions. Thus, it ensures your good's safety while storing and moving.
Price Matching
The most excellent feature of the 1-800-PACK-RAT is that it matches the price of other companies, especially PODS. Its representative inquired about the different companies' quotes and offered prices based on them.
#Need help packing?
If you need help packing, you can use HireAHelper at 1-800-PACK-RAT to form a partnership with this company. Basically, it can help you pack items for moving local or long distances. And HireAHelper requires hourly payment.
Hassle-Free Orders
1-800-PACK-RAT only requires basic details to confirm the move. Hence, the whole process only takes around 5 minutes to be done. This enhances user experience.
4. U-Pack: Best for long distance move
U-Pack is often highlighted for providing the best overall value in moving container services. For example, customers only pay for the space they use, which can lead to significant savings compared to traditional moving methods.
Pros
✓Fast delivery time frames
✓Lowest cost for long-distance moves
✓Offer online shipment tracking capacity
✓Service is available all across the US and in Canada
Cons
✗Not available for local moves
✗Give three days to load and unload
Other Moving Container Companies
Let's see some more of the moving container company here-
U-Haul U-Box
This company is famous among college students. U-Haul offers services like moving cargo, trucks, and wooden shipping containers. It is less expensive and offers 24/7 services. However, it is ideal for smaller moves.
SmartBox
If you want to save money, use SmartBox to move your goods. It does not take any hidden fees and offers a price match guarantee. Besides, SmartBox offers both local and long-distance moving options.
COWs (Containers on Wheels)
Almost all the Cows offer two sizes of containers, 8 and 16 ft. The best thing about this company is that it offers daily, weekly, and even monthly rentals. Therefore, you can book the schedule based on your needs.
United and Mayflower
United and Mayflower offer containers made from weatherproof steel to ensure the safety of your goods. This company offers two services: you can either pack yourselves or hire its full services.
Perfect For City Moves
As you can see, there are several storage and moving container companies available. So choosing the best one, you have to consider a few things–
Container sizes
You have to choose the container sizes depending on your belongingness. Different companies offer containers in multiple sizes, so select the one that matches your item's size. However, you can rent multiple containers if needed.
Durability and security
Before renting, the company checks that the container is durable and can withstand different environmental changes. And inspect security features like locks and insurance options to safeguard your belongings during transport and storage.
Delivery and pickup flexibility
Different companies offer different types of delivery and pickup options. Hence, analyze and select the one that is flexible about time and narrow street delivery.
Pricing structure
Companies vary pricing models based on container size, rental duration, and distance of transport. And inquires if the company has a policy about hidden fees.
Customer reviews and reputation
Research customer reviews and reputation before making a decision. Also, look for testimonials that highlight experiences related to customer service, delivery punctuality, and overall satisfaction.
Licensing and certifications
Last but not least, ensure that the company has proper licensing and certifications. This guarantees that they comply with industry standards and regulations.
Moving Container Vs Truck Rental: Which One Is Better For Moving?
Here, let's see the difference between moving containers and truck rental and find which one is best-
Timeline For Packing
One of the significant advantages of using moving containers is the flexibility they offer regarding packaging time. Many companies allow you to keep the container for up to 30 days. This way, you can take as much time as needed and pack items at your convenience.
In contrast, truck rentals typically require you to load and unload your belongings within a single day. This can create time stress and pressure. Also, the time limitation can lead to rushed packing and unpacking, potentially resulting in disorganization.
Quantity Of Furniture And Belongings
Containers come in multiple sizes made from metal. Therefore, you can easily store your 2 bedroom belongings and furniture in 16-foot containers. However, if you have small items then you can rent the trunk.
Driving
With a moving container, you do not need to drive; the company handles transportation. This can significantly reduce stress for those uncomfortable with driving large vehicles. While renting a truck means you must drive it yourself. This can be daunting, mainly for long distances or in urban areas with heavy traffic.
Size
Both moving containers and rental trucks come in various sizes. However, containers often provide more flexibility in terms of space management during the moving process.
Storage
Many container services offer storage options as part of their package. You can keep your belongings in the container at your location or at a facility until you're ready to unpack. However, truck rentals do not typically include storage options once you unload the truck.
Safety And Security
Containers provide enhanced security for your belongings. They are typically weatherproof and can be locked. Also, many companies allow you to keep the container on your property or at a secure facility. This adds an extra layer of safety as you can monitor your items closely.
In comparison, truck rentals do not offer that level of security and protection from weather conditions.
Pricing
Moving containers is generally more expensive than truck rentals. For example, local moves with containers can range from $150 to $600 for a one-bedroom home. Whereas, trucks are more cost-effective for DIY movers. Typically, local moves can cost as little as $20 to $200.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best moving company is International Van Lines, which is known for its comprehensive insurance plans. And American Van Lines is ideal for long-distance moves. However, the best moving container company is PODS.
Moving container costs vary depending on size, distance, and rental duration. Local moves typically range from $150 to $600 for a one-bedroom home, while long-distance moves can cost between $1,000 to $4,000 or more.
Other companies similar to PODS include U-Pack ReloCubes, SMARTBOX, U-Haul U-Box, 1-800-PACK-RAT, and Zippy Shell. Each offers portable storage containers with different features, sizes, and pricing structures.
PODS offers more flexibility and control over your timeline, allowing you to pack at your own pace. It's often more cost-effective for DIY movers. However, traditional moving companies provide full-service options with professional packing and loading, which may be better for those who prefer hands-off moving.
Portable storage is a service where a storage container is delivered to your location. You can pack it at your convenience, and the company picks it up for transport or storage. It combines the flexibility of self-storage with the convenience of delivery services.
Major companies offering portable storage containers include PODS, U-Pack, SMARTBOX, 1-800-PACK-RAT, U-Haul U-Box, Zippy Shell, United Mayflower, and COWs (Containers on Wheels). Each company offers different container sizes and service areas.
You can store furniture, appliances, clothing, books, electronics, and most household items in portable moving containers. However, avoid storing perishables, hazardous materials, flammable items, plants, pets, or valuable documents that require special handling.
Don't pack hazardous materials (paint, propane, chemicals), perishable food, plants, pets, important documents, jewelry, cash, firearms, ammunition, or items with sentimental value that can't be replaced. Check with your container company for their specific prohibited items list.
A moving pod is a portable storage container that's delivered to your location for packing. Once loaded, it can be transported to your new location or stored at a facility. The term "pod" is often used generically, but PODS is actually a specific company brand name.
PODS' biggest competitors include 1-800-PACK-RAT, U-Pack ReloCubes, and SMARTBOX. These companies offer similar portable storage and moving container services with competitive pricing and nationwide coverage.
How We Reviewed The Best Storage And Moving Container Companies?
We rank the best moving container companies in the USA after analyzing them closely. The process starts with researching several companies' 300 quotes for more than five years. We then review each company's website and customer reviews.
We often pay customers for real feedback to understand the company's quality. We repeat this process annually to keep our consumers up to date with the information. So, the prices of the companies mentioned change every year based on the actual prices posted on the website.
4
3.5
4.5 Stars 
