U-Pack vs. U-Box: A Side-By-Side Comparison

Is U-Haul’s U-Box® or U-Pack’s ReloCube® the best option for a long-distance move?

If you’re researching moving container options for an out-of-state move, you’ve likely encountered information about U-Haul’s U-Boxes®.

While U-Boxes work well for in-state moves, what’s it like to use the service to relocate to another state? Is there a better option for long-distance moves?

Let’s review everything you need to know about U-Boxes and compare them to U-Pack’s ReloCube®, another portable storage moving solution.

U-Box compared to U-Pack’s ReloCube

U-Pack and U-Haul offer similar services for a DIY container move. This chart provides an overview of the specs for the U-Box and the ReloCube.

*Select U-Haul locations may have metal U-Boxes available.

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. 

The U-Box is 7'6"× 5'× 8' (LWH). It has 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.

Container construction

U-Boxes and ReloCubes serve the same purpose, but they are not identical. Both moving containers offer ground-level loading and lockable doors, but that’s where the similarities end.

While most U-Boxes are made of plywood with a tarp cover, ReloCubes are constructed of weather-resistant metal. 

U-Haul containers have a single swing door, which means you need clearance in the front for the whole door to open. The ReloCube’s double swing doors require less clearance. With both containers, you’ll provide your own padlock.

Learn more about securing U-Pack moving equipment. 

Transit times

With both services, transit times will vary based on the timing and distance of the move. U-Haul’s average transit is 7-14 business days, while U-Pack’s average is only 4-6 business days.

Is it cheaper to move with U-Box or U-Pack?

To help you understand costs, we looked at quotes to move a 3-bedroom home from Salt Lake City, UT, to Charlotte, NC, using each company’s recommended equipment. Prices were accurate at the time of posting for a move taking place in late November 2025.

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

U-Haul U-Boxes: $6,275
The price included 4 U-Boxes (remember that the containers are smaller than U-Pack’s ReloCubes), delivery, transport and shipping insurance.

U-Pack ReloCubes: $4,913
The price included 3 ReloCube moving containers, delivery, transport and standard liability coverage. Taxes do not apply.

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 $240 per U-Box per month.

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

Request your free U-Pack quote today as a U-Box alternative

U-Pack is often cheaper than using U-Haul U-Boxes without sacrificing quality or service. 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 U-Pack services or how we compare to the U-Box, 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.