Looking closer at PODS^®  alternative?

If you're looking for companies like PODS® to help with your long-distance move, you're in luck! Whether you’re here because PODS® doesn't service your area, because the cost was more than your budget allows, or just because you want to ensure you're making the best choice, we can help you compare PODS® containers to other similar options. Check out the differences below to find the right solution for your long-distance move. 

Are you just starting to research for your move?  Check out this portable storage overview. 

Explore four PODS® competitors 

The companies we’re comparing to PODS® below can all be found nationwide and provide services similar to PODS®: 

• U-Pack® ReloCube®  
• U-Haul U-Box® 
• SMARTBOX® 
• 1-800-Pack-Rat® 

Start with PODS^®

So that you have a reference point to compare to, here’s what you can expect with PODS® 

• Three container sizes – 7', 12’ and 16’ 
• Constructed of metal 
• Located in 44 states (mostly metro areas) 
• Moves span 30 days (loading, transportation, free storage, unloading) 
• ​​​​​​​Additional storage is available 
   

How does the U-Pack ReloCube stack up? 

U-Pack offers two types of equipment for long-distance moving and storage: ReloCube containers or space in a moving trailer. Since Cubes® are most like PODS® containers, that’s what we’ll focus on for this comparison. Like a PODS® container, the ReloCube is a metal container that sits flat on the ground for easy loading and unloading. It measures 6’ x 7’ x 8’, and you can reserve as many as you need (but pay only for the ones you use). And moves are fast compared to PODS® — you get 3 business days to load, transit times average 2-5 business days, then you get 3 business days to unload. Or, if you need storage, it’s available. And, when it comes to serviceability, U-Pack covers more locations — with service in all 50 states, Canada and Puerto Rico.   

For larger homes, the moving trailer is a great option. It's 28' x 8' x 9', and you pay for the space you use.  

How does 1-800-Pack-Rat compare to PODS^®?

Pack-Rat is similar to PODS® in that moves cover 30 days, with additional storage time available. But they are limited to only two sizes of containers rather than three. And the big difference is serviceability — there are Pack-Rat locations in just 30 states and Washington, D.C. 

What about the U-Haul U-Box? 

The construction of the container is the most significant difference compared to the PODS® container.  The 8’ x 5’ x 7’6” U-Box is made of wood rather than metal, and it comes with a soft tarp-like covering. Another difference is that the U-Box has more delivery options. U-Haul offers home delivery, self-hauling, or packing onsite at a U-Haul location, and each is priced differently. Also, though U-Haul offers nationwide service, not all locations carry U-Box containers.  

What's different about SMARTBOX? 

Unlike PODS®, SMARTBOX offers only one size of equipment — a 5' x 7' x 8' container made of wood and topped with a canvas covering. Like PODS®, SMARTBOX includes 30 days' use, with long-term storage available. SMARTBOX also has a smaller service area, covering only 44 metro areas across 23 states and Washington, D.C. 

Selecting a PODS^® alternative 

While each of these services offer moving and storage solutions similar to PODS®, there's a clear choice when you’re moving long distance. With the broadest service area and the most flexibility, U-Pack comes out on top. Take an even closer look at PODS® compared to U-Pack then click or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to get a quote.  

PODS® is a registered trademark of PODS Enterprises, Inc. U-Box® is a registered trademark of U-Haul International, Inc. 1-800-Pack-Rat® is a registered trademark of 1-800-Pack-Rat, LLC. 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.