Understanding U-Pack Pricing

Why do moving prices change over time? 

Moving to a new state can be an exciting adventure, but questions about pricing can quickly turn a happy time into a stressful experience. While pricing factors like distance and the amount you’re moving can be pretty easy to understand, others aren’t as straightforward. And if you’re getting multiple quotes (even from the same company), you may see price changes you weren’t expecting.   

U-Pack® specializes in affordable, long-distance moves, and we understand that price transparency is important for making a decision. Keep reading to learn how U-Pack rates are calculated, why they fluctuate over time and what you can do to control costs for your move.  

What affects U-Pack costs 

Let’s explore the different factors that go into U-Pack rates:  

Home size (space used in moving equipment) 

When you move with U-Pack, you pay only for the space you use in the moving trailer (down to a 5-foot minimum) or the number of ReloCube® containers you use. Reducing or increasing the amount of space used will affect the total cost of your move. It’s easy to adjust the number of ReloCube moving containers or linear feet in a moving trailer on your quote to see how it changes your price. 

Learn more about how U-Pack works. 

Distance and fuel costs 

While U-Pack doesn’t charge a separate fee for fuel, it does play a role in your rate. When diesel prices increase, U-Pack rates may have to be adjusted to help offset the costs. And if fuel prices decrease, we can pass along those savings to you. The farther you’re moving, the more you may see the impact of high gas prices.  

Learn more about how moving prices are affected by gas prices. 

Date of the move 

Typically, moving during peak moving season — the summer months — is more expensive than moving during other seasons because more people need equipment and services. You can expect lower rates if you’re able to relocate during less busy times like winter. 

Mid-week or mid-month moves are generally more cost-effective than weekend moves or those at the beginning or end of the month because fewer people choose to move on those days. You can adjust dates on the quote to see how it changes the price or call us at 844-362-5303844-594-3077, and a moving consultant can help find the cheapest date for your move.  

Equipment availability 

When you get a quote from U-Pack, it’s based on the equipment we have available at the time, considering all the details of your move (home size, distance and date). If you request a new quote — even with the same moving details — days or weeks later, your preferred equipment (ReloCubes or a moving trailer) might already be reserved. Changing equipment or booking a move during times of high demand can affect the total cost. 

Freight industry changes 

Our main transportation partner, ABF Freight®, handles most U-Pack shipments. And freight transportation costs can be affected by factors like inflation, driver availability and the amount of goods that need to be shipped.  

But what does that mean for U-Pack? If ABF costs go up, U-Pack rates may increase as well. 

Read more about how much it costs to move. 

How often do U-Pack prices change?  

Moving prices can change daily based on equipment availability and freight costs. The most significant changes happen seasonally — you can expect to see higher prices during the peak moving season (May-September) and lower costs outside that time. 

What can I do to avoid price changes for my move?  

At U-Pack, once you book a move, your price won’t increase as long as you don’t change the moving details. But pricing can differ until you make a reservation, so it’s best to get a quote early and lock in the price with a free reservation. Quotes are free, and so is booking a move. We understand that plans can change, so you’ll have up to 7 days before the move to cancel at no cost.  

Learn more about U-Pack billing. 

Lock in your U-Pack rate  

Request a no-obligation quote online and make a free reservation to lock in your rate. If you have questions about your bill, let us know in the comments or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant. We’re always happy to help!