Compare U-Box to U-Pack

Choosing between U-Haul’s U-Box and U-Pack’s ReloCube

Not all moving containers are the same, and picking the right one for your out-of-state move can feel like an impossible task. How many containers will you need, and will your belongings be protected?

If you’re considering U-Haul’s U-Boxes®, it’s helpful to understand how their containers and services compare to other DIY container moving options, like U-Pack’s ReloCube, before making a decision.

How do U-Boxes compare to ReloCubes?

U-Pack and U-Haul offer similar portable storage services for a move. This chart provides an overview of the specs for U-Haul’s U-Box and U-Pack’s ReloCube.

 ReloCubeU-Box
External dimensions (approximate)6' × 7' × 8' (LWH)7' × 5' × 8' (LWH)
Loading capacity308 cu ft, up to 2,500 lbs.257 cu ft, up to 2,000 lbs.
ConstructionWeather-resistant metalPlywood with tarp cover or steel-framed with composite panels*
DoorsDouble swing doors, lockableSingle swing door, lockable
LoadingGround levelGround level
StorageOptional, only pay if needed30 days of container use included (transit time counts towards this)
Average transit times4–6 business days 7–14 business days


*Inventory at each U-Haul location will vary, and customers may not select a container type preference.

A U-Haul U-Box plywood moving container.

 

U-Box dimensions vs. ReloCube size

Size is an essential feature for any moving container. You want to have enough space to move your belongings.

Both U-Box models are 7'6"× 5'× 8' (LWH). They have 257 cubic feet of loading space for shipments weighing up to 2,000 pounds.

U-Pack’s ReloCube is larger, measuring 6'3" × 7' × 8'4" (LWH) with 308 cubic feet of loading space. The containers can hold shipments weighing up to 2,500 pounds.

A U-Pack ReloCube metal moving container.

 

Container construction 

Both U-Boxes and ReloCubes have ground-level loading and lockable doors, but they are made of different materials.

U-Haul’s U-Boxes come in two models: one type is plywood with a weather-resistant tarp cover, and the other is a steel-framed container with engineered composite panels. Both models have a single swing door, so you’ll need clearance at the front for the door to open fully. Customers will receive whichever container type is available, and pricing is the same.

All ReloCubes are constructed of weather-resistant metal. The ReloCube’s double swing doors require less clearance. 

With both U-Haul and U-Pack, you’ll provide your own padlock.

Learn more about securing U-Pack moving equipment

Service options and transit times differ between U-Haul and U-Pack

U-Boxes are available for local and long-distance moves with storage on-site or in a U-Haul storage facility. U-Pack specializes in out-of-state moves and offers storage in secure service centers.

With both services, transit times will vary based on the timing and distance of the move. If you need your things quickly, U-Pack is typically quicker. 

U-Haul’s average transit is 7-14 business days, while U-Pack’s average is only 4-6 business days.

Is U-Box cheaper than U-Pack?

To help you compare costs, we reviewed quotes for moving a 3-bedroom home from Seattle, WA, to Nashville, TN, in late July 2026, using each company’s recommended equipment. 

Prices were accurate at the time of posting and rounded to the nearest dollar. Actual moving costs will vary based on equipment needs and the timing of your move.

For this move, U-Pack’s price was lower. Check out the rates below.

U-Pack ReloCubes: $6,418
The price included 3 ReloCube moving containers, delivery, transport and standard liability coverage. Taxes do not apply.

U-Haul U-Boxes: $6,664*
The price included 4 U-Boxes (remember that the containers are smaller than U-Pack’s ReloCubes), delivery, transport and shipping insurance. *Taxes are not included.

Storage costs

The price of a U-Haul box included up to 30 days of use (which also included transit time). Additional monthly storage was available for $380 per U-Box per month, plus a $164 monthly fee for storage insurance to cover all four boxes.

U-Pack only charges for storage when needed, and monthly rates start at only $150 per Cube.

Get a free U-Pack quote to see how we stack up against U-Box pricing

U-Pack is often a better option for long-distance moves than U-Haul U-Boxes. Get a free, no-obligation quote online or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant. 

If you have questions about how U-Pack works or how we compare to U-Haul’s rental truck services, let us know in the comments. We’re here to help!

U-Box® and U-Haul® are registered trademarks of U-Haul International, Inc. Use of third-party or registered trademarks does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by such third party.