So, are you confused and unable to decide between PODS and U-Pack? Our top pick is PODS because of its cost-effectiveness, quick service, 30-day storage, and more. Although U-Pack has covered 50 states, it does not offer local services.
In this article, we compared both of them in detail, including costs, pros, drawbacks, services, and more. So if you want to get the best one, read thoroughly–
PODS and U-Pack are popular options for moving and storage, each with distinct features. In general, the PODS price is $3,810, And it comes with three container sizes such as 8, 12, 1 and 6 feet. Also, this company offers storage for 30 days.
On the other hand, the U-Pack cost is higher at $4,500. In terms of container sizes, this moving company offers ReloCube 6x7x8 feet. However, U-Pack does not offer any storage capacity.
| Company | Avg. cost | Number of container sizes | Included storage |
| PODS | $3,810 | 3 | 30 days |
| U-Pack | $4,500 | 1 | 6 days |
PODS is known for its competitive pricing and a wide range of service options, making it a top choice for moving containers. On the other hand, U-Pack charges based solely on price. It’s important to note that both companies frequently offer discounts, so be sure to check or inquire about them before finalizing your booking.
| Details | PODS | U-Pack ReloCube |
| Container size | 8 x 7 x 8 ft | 6 ft. 3 in. x 7 ft. x ft. 8 ft. 4 in |
| Move distance | 2,060 mi | 2,060 mi |
| Capacity (rooms of furniture) | 1 room | 1 room |
| Interior space (cu. ft.) | 385 | 308 |
| Weight limit (lbs.) | 5,200 | 2,500 |
| Total moving estimate | $4,714 | $2,714 |
The best part about U-Pack is its price transparency. You only pay what you use. Suppose you order 4 ReloCubes and use only 3; you have to pay for 3. So you don’t have to pay for the space you don’t use.
However, PODS containers are large in size, and you have to pay for the whole container, whether it is half empty or not. Therefore, it’s hard to fix the size of your stuff and PODS containers.
PODS and ReloCube 12-foot containers are the same in size and room capacity. However, the PODS containers can support over twice the ReloCube weight. When you move normal household items, there is not much difference. For moving heavy goods like any equipment and motorcycle, your U-Pack pound limit can be a concern.
Often, moving container companies offer free locks for the container. This way, the item remains safe in the containers. Unfortunately, PODS and U-Pack both do not offer free locks. However, you can buy the lock on your own for protection.
U-Pack and PODS offer services countrywide. U-Pack is available in 50 states, and PODS 46 states. Besides national service, both of them are available internationally. For example, PODS offers services in Canada, Australia, and the UK, while U-Pack has extended its services in Canada.
Both the moving container companies have easy-to-use websites and impressive reviews. When it comes to the best consumer experience, U-Pack has slightly higher ratings than PODS. For instance, U-Pack got a 3.5-star rating out of 5, and PODS got 3.1 stars.
In addition, Customers review the U-Pack for safe deliveries, the surprising space of ReloCubes, and significant savings compared to professional movers. Also, U-Pack wins this comparison with instant online quotes, while PODS often requires a call unless the move is under 50 miles.
PODS does not offer online reservations, so you have to call and confirm moving. But the U-Pack allows online confirmation.
Although both companies provide the same kind of services, PODS outsmarts U-Pack. For instance, PODS offers local services, facilities and at-home storage. Notably, PODS is the only company on our top list offering car shipping. While U-Pack comes with larger trailers for big household moves, PODS provides three container sizes.
| Company | Local moves | Long-distance moves | Trailers | At-home storage | Facility storage | Car shipping | Website |
| PODS | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Check Price |
| U-Pack | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | Check Price |
PODS offers more container size options compared to U-Pack. For instance, it has 8, 12, and 16 feet for both local and long moves. Basically, it is useful to move huge amounts of stuff in a container without splitting them into more than one cube.
While U-Pack offers different moving trailer sizes, and you can use them to move big houses like a family of 6. At the same time, if you want small and several containers, use ReloCube.
Storage options can make your moving more easy and convenient. The best thing is that PODS offers 30-day storage services for at-home and family. However, U-Pack only has a storage option for facility access. PODS also is best for offering weather-resistance storage capacity for things like books and photographs.
U-Pack does not offer local services, which makes it more convenient than PODS. So, for local moves, your option is PODS.
Again, PODS comes with auto transport facilities. This feature also makes it more outstanding than U-Pack. Hence, it has a partnership with Mr. Car Shipper or ACERTUS. If you need a car shipment, it’s best to talk about it with the PODS representative for detailed information.
If you live in urban areas or any palace where street parking is needed for PODS containers, you have to get a permit. Usually, for U-Pack ReloCubes normal parking is enough. However, if you need a U-Pack trailer, then you may need a parking permit.
As other insurance gives you peace of mind and security, many moving container companies offer insurance. While researching both PODS and U-Pack, we found out that U-Pack has the best insurance plans. It even adds 2 safety plans with every move. In contrast, PODS offers $10,000 in content protection for long-distance moves, though its coverage details aren’t as clear as U-Pack’s.
Here’s a breakdown of both.
Carrier Negligence: If you find your items broken or damaged after unloading the container, U-Pack will pay for you. This company will give a $0.10 pound for each item.
Catastrophic Liability: Catastrophic liability covers everything from theft, fire, and accidents when the container is on the road. And it will compensate $3.00 pounds for every item. However, moving trailers are covered up to $60,000, and ReloCubes are $7,500.
| Coverage Plan Cost | $75 | $125 | $175 |
| Amount covered per pound per item | $1.00 | $2.00 | $3.00 |
| Maximum coverage (trailer) | $20,000 | $40,000 | $60,000 |
| Maximum coverage (ReloCube) | $2,500 | $5,000 | $7,500 |
Content Protection Insurance: In this coverage, PODS include any damage to your stuff while moving. However, it does not have a policy for the water and flooding damage. We know it’s best to have insurance cover every damage, but you know it’s still better than nothing.
Container Only Insurance: This policy means you don’t have to worry about the container while it is in the street or driveway. Whether it’s raining, fire, or any other accident, PODS will cover everything. So you don’t have to pay for the container dings and dents.
Well, PODS and U-Pack are the best and most well-known moving container companies. And PODS is better than U-Pack in terms of services and qualities. While PODS offers both local and long-distance moves, U-Pack only offers local moves. Also, PODS is cheaper and has more container sizes. However, with U-Pack, you only use what space you use, which can save you money.
Do you still want options other than PODS and U-Pack to move your stuff? Then check these below-mentioned companies–
U-Pack trailers are approximately 28 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 9 feet tall. They provide about 1,944 cubic feet of space, accommodating up to 22,500 pounds of cargo. This size is suitable for moving the contents of a three-bedroom apartment or similar volume.
U-Pack allows for short-term storage of its ReloCubes at their service terminals, typically up to 120 days. However, access to your items is restricted during this period. In contrast, PODS containers can be stored at your location or in a facility for as long as needed. This offers greater flexibility.
A U-Pack ReloCube measures approximately 6′ x 7′ x 8′ and offers 308 cubic feet of space, suitable for one room’s worth of furniture. It can accommodate items like sofas, mattresses, dressers, and appliances. Also, each container has a weight limit of 2,500 pounds, excluding the container’s weight.
Determining the number of ReloCubes required depends on the volume of your belongings. A single ReloCube typically holds about one room’s worth of items. This way, you can find out or ask the U-Box representative for an accurate answer.
We follow some processes while researching the best moving container companies-