Are you confused between PODS and U-Box while planning to move? No worries. We are here to guide you; we have spent years researching the moving container industry.
Both come with some unique features and are best at different sections. Hence, if you have a large amount of stuff for a long-distance move, then PODS is your option. However, PODS is not available in four states, so check your moving states before you choose. On the other hand, U-Box is available in all 50 states, so it’s not that good for moving big stuff.
Let’s dive into the section below to learn more about these two companies and get your best match–
Before we learn about the differences between the PODS and U-Box, let’s know their specific pros and cons.
The feature we like about PODS is its refund policy. When you need to change the date or cancel, you can do that, and this company will give you the amount back. This really gives you peace of mind knowing that in any case of emergency.
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With U-Box, you can drive by yourself or hire a professional. Therefore, if you are a pro driver, you can do that and save money. Also, this company has a very convenient website, easy to use and transparent pricing policy.
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PODS and U-Box offer distinct pricing structures and features for moving services. We compared the price based on the moving place and the amount of goods. Generally, PODS costs about 3,500, and U-Box costs up to $3,700.
We do take the research seriously. This way, we collect authentic information and win our customer trust. Hence, we analyzed PODS and U-Box moving quotes and found that they don’t include taxes.
| PODS | U-Box | |
| Cost in general | $3500 | $3700 |
| Discounts | Available | No |
| Taxes included in the quote | No | No |
#What is the difference between UBox and PODS?
U-Box and PODS have many differences in terms of container quality and availability. Also, PODS is cost-effective, offers the best services, and more. At the same time, U-Box has provided services in 50 states.
Let’s compare the prices of the U-Box and PODS based on moving distance and stuff amount–
| U-Box | PODS | |
| 1 bedroom | $150 – $600 | $200 – $400 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $300 – $700 | $300 – $650 |
| 4-5 bedrooms | $300 – $800 | $300 – $800 |
| U-Box | PODS | |
| 1 bedroom | $450 – $1,000 | $450 – $800 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $700 – $2,000 | $750 – $1,900 |
| 4-5 bedrooms | $800 – $3,000 | $900 – $2,100 |
| U-Box | PODS | |
| 1 bedroom | $1,200 – $3,500 | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,500 – $4,500 | $3,000 – $4,900 |
| 4-5 bedrooms | $4,000 – $7,000 | $5,500 – $7,600 |
#Self-storage vs. portable storage
Self-storage means consumer keep their stuff in their storage. Portable storage allows you to store the goods in a container in either your home or company warehouse. And both PODS U-Box offer storage services.
PODS and U-Box differ significantly in availability. U-Box offers its services in all 50 states with over 20,000 locations. Therefore you can easily find that. At the same time, PODS is available in 184 facilities across 46 states. Clearly, in terms of availability, U-Box is ahead of PODS.
| U-Box | PODS | |
| States | 50 | 46 |
| Locations | 20,000 | 184 |
#What are the benefits of UBox?
The main benefit of the U-Box is its presence across the country, which means 50 states. It offers services in more than 20,000 locations.
When comparing PODS and U-Box, customer experience is another essential factor. In this matter, PODS has a higher consumer rating than U-Box. For instance, PODS has a 4.4 rating out of 5 stars, while U-Box got a 3.6 rating out of 5.
The main reason behind these big differences we found out is that their giving answer method. The PODS team offers to answer every question right away. Their communication with consumers is smooth. They are true to their answer, information, and service. And offer on-time delivery and win customers’ trust.
Besides, U-Box consumer support is not that good. Often, their representative offers false information, such as not mentioning the hidden fee, which is $99. Their answers will make you more confused, and you will never know what the overall costs of your move will be, which will be frustrating as well.
Therefore, the choice is whether you want friendly and smooth consumer support or confusing costs. Choose wisely before making your move more stressful.
#What to expect when moving with pods
While we were researching, we found out the best thing about PODS is it does not offer any hidden fees. That means it will charge the actual fees that it says before confirming your shopping.
Container quality ensures the safety of your goods as anything can happen on the road, like rain, heavy wind, and even accidents. Hence, PODS comes with containers made from strong steel. Also, its containers can withstand harsh environments and offer extra protection. Meanwhile, U-Box containers are made from cheap materials and are not that good. So, if you don’t want to put your belongingness at risk, choose PODS.
PODS offered different container sizes for different amounts of stuff. On the other hand, U-Box only comes with one container size. If you have a large home and more belongings items, then PODS is the best option. And you can do the moving with 2 or 3 containers, while U-Box needs containers medium sizes, 6 or 7 containers.
| Container size | U-Box | PODS |
| Large | No | 16 ft. x 8 ft. x 8 ft |
| Medium | No | 12 ft. x 8 ft. x 8 ft |
| Small | 7 ft. 11 in. x 4 ft. 8 in. x 6 ft. 11 in | 8 ft. x 7 ft. x 8 ft |
Overall, PODS and U-Box offer almost same services. They are both moving container companies that offer insurance coverage to make your move smooth.
| Service | U-Box | PODS |
| Coverage name | Safestor Mobile | Contents Protection |
| At-home storage coverage | No | Yes |
| Warehouse storage coverage | Yes | Yes |
| Monthly cost range | $12.00 – $40.00 | $34.95 – $469.95 |
| Protection coverage range | $1,000 – $20,000 | $5,000 – $300,000 |
| Deductible | $100 | $100 |
In this article, if you look carefully, PODS is better than U-Box in almost all features. For instance, PODS has offered more container sizes than U-Box. Also, PODS is best for container quality and customer series. The only drawback of PODS is that it is not available in all the states.
Can you use a moving container as a storage container?
Absolutely, moving containers can be used as storage containers. These containers are designed for transport and can be kept on your property or at a storage facility. For instance, you can use PODS and U-Box to store your stuff.
Is PODS a good moving company?
PODS is a good moving company with many useful features. It has top-class container quality and customer service. Also, its low prices and discount policy attract customers.
Does PODS offer long-distance moves?
With local moves, PODS does offer long-distance moves in 46 states.
What is the best container company?
The best-moving container company is PODS for its cost-effective price and exceptional consumer services. Also, its three different container sizes are made with high-quality materials.
Does U-Box have a moving truck option?
U-Box does offer a moving truck option. Therefore, you can use many rental trucks for moving based on your stuff.
What is not allowed in a UBox?
In U-Box, you can’t pack hazardous things like weapons, organisms, ammonia, flammable items and more. Basically, it’s prohibited to pack any dangerous items, or you can read the U-Box guidelines for the proper idea.
What time of day will my container arrive?
The arrival of the moving container varies from company to company. However, PODS send an email, makes calls, or updates the online dashboard to inform you of arriving scheduled. Typically, its delivery time starts from Monday to Saturday at seven a.m. And on Sundays, it does not do pick-ups or deliveries.
What kinds of items can’t be loaded into a PODS storage container?
PODS storage containers don’t allow for packing important documents like legal notices, deeds, etc. Also, it is prohibited to load hazardous goods such as gas, chemicals, flammables, etc. Again, PODS container prevents living things, motorize vehicles, and more.
How many passengers can ride in a U-Haul truck?
U-Haul truck allows 3 passengers to ride for truck sizes between 15 to 26 feet. However, its cargo vans and 10-foot box trucks can ride only a passenger.
Do I need to put gas in my U-Haul truck before I return it?
Yes, you need to refuel your U-Haul truck before returning it. The truck must have the same fuel level as indicated on your rental contract. If returned with less than a quarter tank, you will incur a $30 service fee. Also, you can either refuel it yourself or opt for U-Haul’s Easy Fuel service.
We follow 5 steps to find the best moving container company–
Step-1: Compare quotes
We analyze 100 quotes from several moving container companies to understand pricing.
Step-2: Analyze reviews
We also read many reviews from different companies. Thus we can learn customers favourite company.
Step-3: Mystery shopping
While researching, we take every aspect seriously. We even call the company representative to learn about its customer services.
Step-4: Site visits
We talk about the company’s executives to get authentic information about prices and everything.
Step-5: Annual review
We do the same process each year, so our company and the price keep changing based on real information. So you can trust us without much thinking.