How Much Does PODS® Cost Compared to U-Pack?

Choosing between PODS® and U-Pack based on pricing

When choosing a moving service to help you relocate to another state, cost matters. Two options you might consider are PODS® and U-Pack®.

Although the companies work differently with operations and pricing structures, PODS® and U-Pack offer comparable services.

Learn more about PODS® pricing and how it compares to moving costs with a U-Pack ReloCube® — a convenient and budget-friendly alternative.

Person compares PODS cost to U-Pack with a laptop, calculator and pen and paper.

 

How much does PODS® cost vs. U-Pack?

To help you understand how PODS® and U-Pack rates compare, we looked at an example move for a 3-bedroom home from Boulder, CO, to Minnetonka, MN, in April 2025. The prices were accurate at the time of posting. Actual moving costs will vary based on origin, destination, availability of moving equipment and dates.

PODS® price for an example move

The total quoted price for 2 PODS® 16-foot moving containers was $7,654.65 (including taxes). The estimate included delivery, transportation, $10,000 in contents protection, 30 days of container rental and pickup of the empty container.

How did U-Pack’s price compare?

For the same move from Boulder to Minnetonka, U-Pack recommended:

4 ReloCube moving containers: $5,689

Have less stuff? If you used 3 ReloCube moving containers, your price would only be $4,649 since U-Pack picks up unused containers at no cost!

Prices included delivery, transportation, standard liability coverage and pickup of the empty containers (taxes do not apply).

Storage cost comparison between PODS® and U-Pack

Storage costs are likely another consideration when choosing a long-distance mover. If you need extra time while moving, PODS® and U-Pack offer container storage, but the pricing and services work differently.

PODS® storage cost example

PODS® prices include 30 days of storage (or container usage), but the days you spend loading and transit to the new location are subtracted from that time. That means if you take 3 days to load and shipping takes 7 days, you only have 20 days left of storage (on-site or at a service location).

The cost for additional storage varies based on the details of the move. For the example move from Boulder to Minnetonka, PODS® quoted $707.95 to store the containers for an additional 30 days.

U-Pack storage cost example

U-Pack offers ReloCube storage at our local service centers. While the cost varies by location, it starts at $150 per container for each 30-day period. And right now, for a limited time, you can call for 30 days of free storage!

You get three business days to load and three business days to unload — and that’s included in your price. You’re only charged for storage if you need it.

How does the quoting process compare between PODS® and U-Pack

Like most moving companies, PODS® costs vary based on location, equipment availability and the move date. Here’s what you should know about getting a quote from PODS®:

  • Instant online quotes are not available. To get your PODS® price, you’ll need to call or connect through online chat during business hours.

  • Pre-payment is required. With PODS®, the balance is split into three separate payments. Each payment is due at least one week before the service is rendered. (You’ll make a payment for the initial delivery/pickup and rental, a second payment for the transportation of the container, and a final payment for the redelivery and pickup of the empty container.)

U-Pack specializes in long-distance moving, and rates also vary based on location, equipment availability and the move date. Here’s what you should know about getting a quote from U-Pack:

  • Easy instant online quotes. Get an instant online quote 24/7/365 without having to call. Our moving consultants can also help if you prefer to speak with someone!

  • All-inclusive prices. U-Pack quotes include equipment, transportation, liability coverage, fuel and door-to-door delivery, and there’s no tax charge.

  • No deposit or prepayment. With U-Pack, you make only one payment after you’ve loaded and your ReloCube is picked up.

Compare the cost of PODS® and U-Pack for your move

Get a free, no-obligation online U-Pack quote today or give us a call at 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant.

If you have questions about how PODS® costs compare to U-Pack or portable storage, let us know in the comments below. We’re happy to help!

PODS® is a registered trademark of PODS® Enterprises, Inc. Use of third-party trademarks or registered trademarks does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by such third party.