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PODS vs U-Pack vs 1-800-PACK-RAT: Container Comparison

Updated 30 March 2026

You pack it, they drive it. Portable containers cost $2,500 to $5,000 for a cross-country move and eliminate the stress of driving a truck. But pricing, sizes, and delivery timelines vary significantly between the three major providers.

Provider Comparison

FeaturePODSU-Pack (ABF)1-800-PACK-RAT
Container sizes8, 12, 16 ftYou use linear feet of a 28-ft trailer8, 12, 16 ft
2BR, NYC to LA$4,200 - $5,500$2,800 - $3,800$3,500 - $4,800
2BR, Chicago to Phoenix$3,500 - $4,500$2,400 - $3,200$3,000 - $4,000
Delivery timeline7-14 business days3-10 business days7-14 business days
Packing time at originUp to 30 days3 business daysUp to 30 days
Storage at facilityYes ($150-$350/mo)No long-term storageYes ($110-$250/mo)
Storage at your locationYes (keep container in driveway)No (trailer is picked up)Yes (keep container in driveway)
Pricing modelMonthly rental + delivery feesPay per linear foot usedMonthly rental + delivery fees
Locations44 states, most coverageAll 50 states via ABF network38 states
Best forFlexible timelines, need storageCheapest option, partial loadsCompetitive pricing, good service

The Best Container for Your Situation

Choose PODS if you need storage flexibility

PODS is the best choice when your move-out and move-in dates do not align. You can keep the container at your location (driveway or parking area) for up to 30 days while you pack. At the destination, you can store it at a PODS facility for as long as needed. This flexibility comes at a premium: PODS is typically the most expensive of the three providers, about 15-25% more than U-Pack.

Choose U-Pack for the lowest price

U-Pack consistently offers the lowest prices for cross-country moves because of their unique model: you share a commercial freight trailer with other shipments and pay only for the linear feet you use. A 1-bedroom move might use 5 linear feet at $200-$250 per foot. The trade-off: you only get 3 business days to load before ABF picks up the trailer. There is no option to keep the trailer at your location long-term.

Choose 1-800-PACK-RAT for the middle ground

1-800-PACK-RAT offers PODS-like flexibility (keep the container, storage options) at pricing that is typically 10-15% less than PODS. Their coverage area is smaller (38 states vs PODS's 44), so check availability at both your origin and destination. Customer satisfaction ratings are competitive with PODS, and their containers are weather-resistant steel construction.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many PODS containers do I need for a 3-bedroom house?
Most 3-bedroom homes require two 16-foot PODS containers or one 16-foot and one 12-foot container. PODS offers 8-foot ($150-$250/month storage), 12-foot ($175-$300/month), and 16-foot ($200-$350/month) sizes. A 16-foot container holds roughly one and a half rooms of furniture. As a general guide: studio or 1BR needs one 12-foot, 2BR needs one 16-foot, 3BR needs two containers, and 4BR+ needs two to three containers.
Can I store my container if move-in dates do not align?
Yes, this is one of the biggest advantages of containers over truck rentals. PODS, 1-800-PACK-RAT, and U-Pack all offer storage at their facilities. PODS charges $150-$350 per month per container depending on size and location. 1-800-PACK-RAT charges $110-$250 per month. U-Pack does not offer long-term storage since you are using a section of a commercial freight trailer. If you need storage flexibility, PODS or 1-800-PACK-RAT are the better options.
How far in advance should I book a moving container?
Book 4 to 6 weeks in advance for the best availability and rates. During peak season (May through August), book 6 to 8 weeks ahead. Last-minute availability exists but costs 10-20% more and your preferred dates may not be available. PODS in particular has limited container inventory in smaller cities, so early booking is especially important outside major metro areas.
What happens if I damage the container?
Moving containers are built to withstand weather and transport, so minor cosmetic marks are expected and not charged. If you cause significant structural damage (puncturing the wall, breaking a door), you may be charged repair costs. All three providers include basic cargo protection in their pricing. For additional coverage, PODS offers Contents Protection Plans starting at $10/month, and you can also use your homeowner's or renter's insurance for items in transit.