How Much Does PODS® Cost Compared to U-Pack

PODS® moving cost vs. U-Pack: How do they compare?

If you’re considering PODS® for an upcoming out-of-state move, it helps to make sure you understand how their pricing works and how costs compare to other self-moving options like U-Pack®.

Comparing prices helps you understand what you’re really paying for so you can avoid overpaying for the same service. 

How much is PODS® rental pricing compared to U-Pack costs?

PODS® and U-Pack offer comparable services, but their pricing models and equipment recommendations vary. To help you understand how rates differ between the two companies, we looked at an example move for a 1,000-square-foot condo from Russellville, AR, to Grand Prairie, TX, in May 2026.

Note: The prices below 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 the example move

PODS® recommended a 16-foot moving container at $2,479 (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 Russellville to Grand Prairie, U-Pack recommended 7 linear feet in a moving trailer for $2,210.

Have less stuff? Unlike PODS®, where you pay for the whole container whether you fill it or not, U-Pack’s moving trailers allow you to adjust down to a minimum of 5 linear feet. For the example move, this would reduce the rate to $1,984. You can also use more space in the moving trailer if needed. For the same move, 9 linear feet of space was only $2,436. 

Prices included delivery, transportation, standard liability coverage, and equipment pickup (taxes do not apply).

Note: ReloCube® moving containers are also available for most moves. 

Storage cost comparison between PODS® and U-Pack

Storage costs are another factor to consider. PODS® and U-Pack both offer storage, but their pricing and services differ.

PODS® storage cost example

PODS® prices include 30 days of container usage if you need storage, but days spent loading and in transit to the new location are included in 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 Russellville to Grand Prairie, PODS® quoted $359 to store the containers for an additional 30 days.

U-Pack storage cost

You get three business days to load and three business days to unload U-Pack moving equipment — and that’s included in your price. You’re only charged for storage if you need it. Trailer storage for up to 120 days is subject to availability. Prices vary depending on the location and dates. Learn more about moving trailer costs.

U-Pack also 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! Read more about ReloCube costs.

Quoting process differences 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 container's transportation, 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 moving trailer or ReloCube(s) are picked up.

Read more about how U-Pack figures pricing.

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

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

If you have questions about how PODS® costs compare to U-Pack or how U-Pack’s portable storage service works, 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.