Portable moving containers have become a go-to alternative to rental trucks and traditional movers. Instead of rushing through a move in a single day, you can instead load at your own pace and let the company handle transportation and storage. Among the most popular moving container options are U-Haul’s U-Box and PODS. At first glance, they seem similar, but there are clear differences in construction, pricing, and flexibility that may make one a better fit for your situation.
This guide compares U-Box and PODS on cost, container design, availability, and reputation so you can book with confidence. For most households, PODS ends up being the stronger choice thanks to its larger network, sturdier build, and built-in storage options.
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How do Moving Container Moves Work?
When you rent a moving container, the company brings a unit to your home and leaves it in your driveway, parking spot, or curbside. You load it on your own timeline, then schedule a pickup. The container can either travel to your new address or be stored until you need it. For many families, the biggest draw is having more time and not needing to drive a moving truck long distance.
- Pros: Extra time to pack, less physical stress on moving day, and the ability to use containers for storage if your move-in date doesn’t line up with your move-out.
- Cons: Containers cost more than a basic truck rental, and you’ll need enough space outside your home for delivery — or a permit if it sits on the street.
U-Box vs. PODS:
- U-Box containers are made from treated plywood with a weather-resistant cover. Each one holds about 1.5 rooms of belongings. U-Haul can deliver them to your home, or you can tow them yourself using a U-Haul trailer. Storage is available in U-Haul facilities, and shipments can even go overseas.
- PODS containers come in three sizes (8, 12, and 16 feet), built with steel frames and durable panels. Every rental includes 30 days, whether the container stays in your driveway, in transit, or at one of their 240+ storage centers. PODS also uses its PODZILLA lift system to place containers level, which helps with tricky driveways.
U-Box vs. PODS At a Glance
This section lays out the biggest differences between U-Box and PODS side by side. It highlights availability, pricing, and what you can expect as a customer.
Quick Comparison: U-Box vs. PODS
| Feature | U-Box | PODS |
| Availability | 21,000+ U-Haul locations; international shipping | 240+ storage centers; 46 U.S. states + Canada, UK, Australia |
| Pricing Structure & Typical Cost | Pay per container; local starts $398–$418; long-distance $3,587–$3,775 | Flat monthly rental; local $612–$825; long-distance $4,484–$7,385 (avg. ~$5,935) |
| Customer Service | Managed through U-Haul: phone, app, in-person at U-Haul centers | Dedicated PODS support: online scheduling and a strong driver reputation |
| Key Pros | Budget-friendly, easy to book, tow yourself option, and global reach | Flexible month-to-month rental, wider U.S. network, PODZILLA has precise placement |
| Key Cons | Wooden construction, smaller size (~1.5 rooms each), and you may need multiple boxes | Higher base cost, higher space requirements for delivery, and permits are typically needed in cities |
We built this comparison using secret-shopped quotes, official FAQs, and third-party cost benchmarks. We tested local, regional, and long-distance moves across different home sizes, then cross-checked results with customer reviews and specs to make sure these differences reflect real experiences.
U-Box Overview
U-Box is U-Haul’s entry into the portable container market. Backed by one of the largest rental truck and storage networks in North America, U-Box has a reach that PODS and Packrat can’t quite match in terms of location count. With more than 21,000 U-Haul centers and dealers, U-Box containers are available in most places you’d find a U-Haul truck.
Here’s how it works: you reserve the number of containers you think you’ll need — each one holds about a room and a half. U-Haul delivers them to your home, or you can pick them up yourself using a trailer. There’s no strict time limit to load or unload, which makes U-Box appealing if you want flexibility. Once you’re finished, U-Haul can ship the containers across town, cross-country, or even internationally. They can also be stored in a secure U-Haul facility until you’re ready for delivery.
U-Box containers are built from treated plywood with a weather-resistant cover. They’re lockable and breathable, which helps protect against mold and mildew. However, they don’t have the same all-steel build that Packrat or PODS offer, so the lack of durability is one of the downsides.
| U-Box Pros | U-Box Cons |
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What to Know About U-Box
One thing that stands out about U-Box is its reach. Thanks to U-Haul’s nationwide (and international) network, you can book a container almost anywhere — and even ship it overseas. Another detail many people like is the ability to tow a container home yourself, which isn’t something PODS or Packrat offer. That flexibility makes U-Box a strong budget option, even if the container build isn’t as durable as its competitors.
PODS Overview
Since 1998, PODS has been the name most people think of when it comes to moving containers. The company operates in 46 states, plus Canada, the UK, and Australia, with more than 240 storage centers in its network. That reach makes it one of the largest container providers you can book, and millions of people have used PODS for everything from short local moves to long cross-country relocations.
“You should also keep in mind that loading and unloading are still your responsibility unless you book movers. Many people hire hourly labor to handle the heavy lifting, especially for furniture and appliances.”
When you rent a container, a PODS driver brings it to your home with their PODZILLA lift system. That piece of equipment sets the unit down level and lets them place it in spots where a regular truck might not fit. Rentals are month-to-month, so the same fee covers time in your driveway, in storage, or on the road. Once you’re ready, PODS comes back to pick it up and either delivers it to your next place or stores it until you need it.
PODS offers three container sizes: 8, 12, and 16 feet. Each one has a steel frame, weather-resistant panels, roll-up doors, and tie-downs inside to secure furniture and boxes. Having different sizes means you can choose the right fit for your home instead of paying for space you don’t need.
| PODS Pros | PODS Cons |
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What to Know About PODS
Beyond its scale, PODS is known for innovations like PODZILLA, which many customers call out as a difference-maker for tight driveways. Another detail people don’t always realize is that PODS is international, serving Canada, the UK, and Australia. That reach makes it easier to plan complex or multi-stage moves with one provider.
U-Box vs. PODS Comparison
U-Box and PODS both give you a container that you load on your own timeline, then pick up and deliver where you need it. But how they price, what the containers are like, and how wide their coverage is can make one a better fit depending on your move.
Cost Comparison
U-Box often comes in cheaper for small or short-distance moves. PODS tends to be more predictable, especially for regional and cross-country relocations where its flat-rate structure makes budgeting easier.
Average Container Move Costs: U-Box vs. PODS
| Feature | U-Box | PODS |
| Cost Structure | Space used + delivery | Flat monthly rate + delivery |
| Average Local Rental | $398–$418 | $612–$825 |
| Average Regional Rental (~45–50 miles) | ~$700 | $633–$963 |
| Average Cross-Country Rental (~2,500 miles) | $3,587–$3,775 | $4,484–$7,385 (avg. ~$5,935) |
How we researched: We ran quotes across multiple ZIP code pairs (urban, suburban, rural) and tested local, regional, and cross-country scenarios. We pulled sample costs for different home sizes (1-bedroom, 2–3 bedroom, 4+ bedroom) and averaged them. Quotes came directly from U-Haul and PODS reps or online calculators.
Caveats:
- U-Box pricing is flexible, but it can add up fast if you need many small boxes.
- PODS is usually more expensive, but costs are easier to predict since one large container can often do the job.
- Seasonal demand (summer, end-of-month) raises prices for both providers.
Container Sizes, Options, and Capacity
| Size | U-Box | PODS |
| Small | One size only: ~257 cu. ft. (fits ~1.5 rooms) | 8-foot: ~402 cu. ft. (studio/1 room) |
| Medium | N/A (order multiples) | 12-foot: ~689 cu. ft. (2–3 rooms, local use only) |
| Large | N/A (order multiples) | 16-foot: ~835 cu. ft. (3–4 rooms, most popular) |
- U-Box: Built from treated plywood with a weather-resistant cover. Their smaller size means most households need multiple units.
- PODS: Steel-framed, weather-resistant panels, roll-up doors, tie-down points. Multiple sizes make it easier to match the container to your household size.
Pricing impact: With U-Box, more rooms = more containers. PODS pricing scales with container size, but one 16-foot unit often replaces several U-Boxes.
Service Area & Availability
U-Box: Available through U-Haul’s 21,000+ rental centers and dealers, plus international shipping options. Coverage extends across the U.S. and overseas, but storage centers themselves vary in size and quality depending on the local U-Haul facility.
PODS: Available in 46 states, Canada, the UK, and Australia, with more than 240 dedicated storage centers. They’re easier to book in metro areas, with more purpose-built facilities for long- and short-term storage.
Flexibility & Storage
U-Box: There is no strict limit on how long you can keep a container. Units can sit at your home, be stored in a U-Haul warehouse, or be shipped overseas. Storage fees are monthly, and access is free while units are in U-Haul facilities.
PODS: Rentals are billed month-to-month, covering time at your home, in storage, or in transit. Containers can stay put as long as needed, and PODS’ wide storage network makes extending or accessing your container simple.
Convenience & Delivery
U-Box: Containers can be delivered curbside, stored at a U-Haul location, or towed home using a U-Haul trailer. Their smaller footprint makes them easier to fit in city neighborhoods or tight driveways.
PODS: Delivered with the PODZILLA hydraulic lift system, which sets units level and allows for precise placement. Requires ~12 feet wide, 15 feet high, and 40 feet long clearance, and they’re more reliable in suburban settings or when space is limited but still accessible.
Customer Reviews & Reputation
Review Roll-Up: U-Box vs. PODS
Ratings change over time and experiences can vary by local branch and route, so always check recent reviews for your pickup and delivery areas.
| Source | U-Box | PODS |
| BBB | A- rating | A+ rating |
| Trustpilot | ~2.3/5 (complaints: container quality, customer service varies by location) | ~4.2/5 (praise: delivery reliability, drivers; complaints: higher cost) |
| Customer reviews (forums, social, Google) | Often praised for lower upfront cost and wide availability, but there are mixed reports on durability and scheduling consistency. | Frequently cited as more reliable and less stressful, while critiques focus on higher cost and permit/space needs. |
Summary: U-Box earns points for low cost and wide reach but sees mixed reviews tied to container build and uneven service. PODS costs more but generally delivers a smoother experience, reflected in higher review scores.
Company Operations
U-Box (U-Haul): Part of U-Haul International, it’s one of the most established moving brands in the U.S. Its publicly traded parent is Amerco. The company has an enormous reach, but service quality depends heavily on local franchises.
PODS: Founded in 1998, and is privately held. The company runs 240+ storage centers worldwide. It’s known for investment in tech like PODZILLA, and is consistently ranked among the top moving container companies in the U.S.
When to Choose U-Box
U-Box can be a smart pick if you’re looking for a lower-cost option for a long-distance move. Pricing is tied to the number of containers you use, so smaller households often come out ahead compared to renting one large steel container. Because each U-Box fits about a room and a half, it’s easy to order what you need and only pay for the boxes you actually use.
It’s also worth considering U-Box if you live in an apartment or a dense neighborhood. The smaller size makes delivery easier in tight spots, and U-Haul offers the option to tow containers yourself using a trailer — something competitors don’t. International moves are another case where U-Box stands out, since U-Haul can ship containers overseas, which makes it especially useful for military families or anyone relocating abroad.
When to Choose PODS
PODS is the better fit if you want flexibility built into your move. Every rental includes 30 days of use automatically, and you can extend by the month, whether the container sits at your home, in storage, or in transit. That makes it especially helpful if your closing date shifts or your new place isn’t move-in ready.
It’s also a good option for local or regional moves where you want more convenience than a rental truck. Instead of loading and unloading in one exhausting day, PODS lets you pace yourself. Larger households benefit too, since PODS offers three container sizes — 8-, 12-, and 16-foot — and you can mix and match them to fit your space needs.
With more than 240 storage centers across North America, PODS is also easier to book in major metro areas. In short, PODS is a strong choice if you want control over timing, easy storage options, or container sizes that scale with your home.
Alternative Storage Container Providers
U-Box and PODS aren’t your only options for container moves. A few other providers may be worth a look depending on your budget and where you’re moving.
- 1-800-PACK-RAT: Offers steel containers in multiple sizes. Known for running price-matching promotions and covering smaller towns that some competitors skip.
- Zippy Shell: Uses smaller containers housed in licensed trailers, which makes them easier to park in tight neighborhoods. Coverage is limited to certain regions, but it can be a fit for city moves.
- U-Haul U-Box: The budget-friendly choice with broad availability through U-Haul’s nationwide network. Containers are wooden with weatherproof covers, so they’re less durable than steel but cost less for small households or international moves.
These companies don’t match PODS on scale, but they can fill gaps in coverage or offer cheaper options when price is the top concern.
Final Verdict: U-Box vs. PODS
Both U-Box and PODS help you move on your own schedule without driving a rental truck. U-Box is appealing for smaller households, budget-conscious moves, or international shipping. But PODS usually comes out ahead for most families. With sturdier containers, multiple size options, and a large storage network across North America, PODS is the more reliable all-around choice.
What to Know Before a Moving Container Move
Before booking a container, there are a few practical details worth keeping in mind. The first, and most important one, is space. You’ll need a driveway or curbside spot big enough for delivery. In many cities, a permit is required if the container will sit on the street, and if you live in an apartment, ask your property manager about placement rules, and
Timing is another factor. Availability gets tight in summer and at the end of the month. Reserving early gives you the best shot at the date you want.
“U-Haul offers the option to tow containers yourself using a trailer — something competitors don’t.”
You should also keep in mind that loading and unloading are still your responsibility unless you book movers. Many people hire hourly labor to handle the heavy lifting, especially for furniture and appliances. It adds to your final cost, but letting the pros handle it can save you time, effort, and prevent injuries.
Finally, check what’s included in your estimate. Supplies, insurance, and storage extensions can raise the total. Comparing line by line helps you see the real value. With a little planning, container moves can offer the right balance of flexibility and convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is U-Box different from U-Haul?
U-Box is U-Haul’s portable storage product. Instead of renting a truck, you load a small wooden container that U-Haul can deliver, store, or ship across the country (or even overseas).
Which is cheaper, U-Haul or PODS?
In most cases, U-Box comes in with a lower price tag, especially if you’re moving a smaller home and don’t need a big container. PODS usually costs more, but people often say the extra money feels worth it because the containers are sturdier, you can pick from different sizes, and the storage options are easier to use. The best way to know for sure is to run quotes for your own move and compare them side by side.
Who has better reviews, U-Box or PODS?
PODS generally scores higher on review sites. Customers highlight on-time delivery and professional drivers. U-Box reviews are more mixed: some users praise the price, while others note quality issues or trouble tracking shipments.
What is not allowed in a U-Box?
You can’t pack plants, perishable food, flammables, hazardous materials, or compressed gases. Motorized items like lawnmowers need to be drained of fuel and oil.
How does U-Box compare to competitors?
U-Box is the budget choice, best for smaller households and people who need international shipping. PODS is more expensive but offers multiple sizes, a bigger storage network, and stronger overall service.
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