Comparing PODS® Competitors
Dec 12, 2025
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PODS® alternatives: How the competition stacks up
PODS® is a well-known moving company offering portable storage, but it is not the only solution. When relocating to another state, it’s best to weigh your options for services and prices to get the best value.
Let’s compare four other companies with moving services like PODS® to help you plan for your long-distance move.
Movers comparable to PODS®
U-Pack®, 1-800-Pack-Rat®, U-Haul® and SMARTBOX® offer services like PODS® for out-of-state moves. Check out these criteria to start your comparison:
1. Coverage areas
When considering a moving service, you’ll need to confirm they offer coverage in your area. PODS® serves 46 states and Washington, D.C., according to their website. PODS® has better coverage than Pack-Rat, which has locations in 33 states and Washington, D.C., and SMARTBOX, which services only major metro areas in 24 states.
U-Pack and U-Haul have locations in all 50 states and D.C., unlike PODS®.
2. Containers
PODS® has 8-, 12- and 16-ft metal moving containers. Like PODS®, Pack-Rat offers 3 sizes of containers, but the exact dimensions and weight limits vary between the companies. Plus, neither company’s 12-ft containers are available for long-distance moves.
The other moving companies each offer one equipment size comparable to the PODS® 8-ft containers. U-Pack’s ReloCube® is made of weather-resistant metal. In contrast, most U-Haul U-Box® and SMARTBOX containers are made of tarp-covered plywood.
The chart below shows a breakdown of each company’s equipment features:
| Provider | Container Size(s) | Cubic feet | Weight Limit (lbs.) | Container material | Door type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PODS® | 16' | 835 | 4200 | Metal | Roll-Up |
| 12'* | 689 | 4700 | Metal | Roll-Up | |
| 8'** | 402 | 5200 | Metal | Roll-Up | |
| U-Pack ReloCube® | 6'x7'x8' (LWH) | 308 | 2500 | Metal | Double swing doors |
| 1-800-PACK-RAT® | 16' | 830 | 6000 | Metal | Double swing doors |
| 12'* | 620 | 6000 | Metal | Double swing doors | |
| 8' | 404 | 4000 | Metal | Double swing doors | |
| U-Haul U-Box® | 8' | 257 | 2000 | Wood | Single swing door |
| SMARTBOX® | 8' | 280 | 3000 | Wood | Single swing door |
*12’ containers are only available for local moves. **According to their website, some older PODS® containers might be 7’.
3. Rates and deposit requirements
Like PODS®, Pack-Rat charges premium rates for moving and storage. PODS® requires a payment 7 days before equipment delivery, while Pack-Rat’s $500 deposit is due 5 days before a long-distance move.
SMARTBOX is a budget-friendly option for local moves compared to PODS® but has higher prices and limited out-of-state availability. All first-time orders require a 50% deposit.
U-Pack and U-Haul typically have lower costs than PODS® for long-distance moves. However, U-Haul adds extra fees for delivery and liability coverage. U-Pack is often the most affordable portable storage service for out-of-state moves — the rate includes equipment, delivery, transportation and standard liability coverage. Neither U-Haul nor U-Pack requires deposits; however, U-Pack won’t charge until the shipment is in transit, and U-Haul charges for the delivery and the first month of storage when you receive the equipment.
4. Requesting a quote
PODS®, Pack-Rat and SMARTBOX start online, but you’ll have to call or provide your email to get the final price.
U-Pack and U-Haul offer a free instant quote online, available without requiring contact information.
5. Storage
Pack-Rat, SMARTBOX and U-Haul offer storage solutions and moving options like PODS®. Each company includes the first 30 days of container use in the rate, which includes loading, transit and unloading. Additional storage is available for a monthly fee.
U-Pack storage differs from PODS® because it is not charged up front. You get 3 business days to load and 3 more to unload. If you need storage, it’s available for a monthly fee.
6. Transit times
Transit times vary for each company, and PODS®, SMARTBOX and U-Haul will provide estimated transit times on their quotes.
According to Pack-Rat’s website, their transit times are up to 10 business days for moves up to 1,500 miles. Transit can take up to 14 business days for moves exceeding that distance.
U-Pack transit times average only 4 to 6 business days, separate from storage and loading/unloading times.
Need a PODS® moving alternative? Get a U-Pack quote today!
U-Pack is an excellent alternative to PODS®, offering stress-free long-distance moves. Call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant or use our free online quote form.
If you have questions about how U-Pack services compare to PODS®, please let us know in the comments!
Suggested reading: Why customers choose U-Pack.
PODS® is a registered trademark of PODS® Enterprises, Inc. 1-800-Pack-Rat® is a registered trademark of 1-800-Pack-Rat, LLC. U-Box® is a registered trademark of U-Haul International, Inc. SMARTBOX® is a registered trademark of SMARTBOX Solutions, Inc. Use of third-party trademarks or registered trademarks does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by such third party.
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