Moving containers have become one of the most flexible alternatives to rental trucks and full-service movers for relocations. Among the different providers, Packrat and PODS are two of the most well-known names, but they aren’t identical. Each has its own approach to pricing, availability, and container design, which can make one a better fit depending on your move.
This guide lays out what you need to know — from costs to customer reviews — so you can make a choice with confidence. In general, if you’re short on time, our research shows PODS edges out Packrat for overall convenience, container variety, and nationwide reach.
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How do Moving Containers Moves Work?
With both Packrat and PODS, the idea is pretty simple. A moving container shows up in your driveway or at the curb, you fill it up with your belongings on your own timeline, and once it’s loaded, the company hauls it away. From there, it can either head straight to your next place or sit in storage until you’re ready. That extra breathing room is what makes containers so appealing compared to a rental truck that you have to load in a single day.
- Pros: You can pace yourself, skip the stress of driving a big truck cross-country, and use storage if your move-in and move-out dates don’t line up.
- Cons: They usually cost more than a basic truck rental, and you’ll need enough room outside your home for delivery — sometimes even a permit if it has to sit on the street.
Packrat vs. PODS:
- Packrat gives you three container sizes (8, 12, and 16 feet) and says it can reach 97% of ZIP codes, even in places without a nearby facility. They also have a partnership with Lowe’s, so it’s not uncommon to see their units parked outside the store.
- PODS also offers 8-, 12-, and 16-foot containers, but rentals can also be month-to-month. That means the same container can sit in your driveway, travel across the country, or stay in one of their 240+ storage centers without you needing to rush. PODS is also known for its PODZILLA lift system, which helps drivers place containers more precisely in tight spots.
Both options take the pressure off moving day. Packrat is often a fit for people in less central areas, while PODS tends to be the go-to in bigger markets thanks to its wider footprint and storage flexibility.
Packrat vs. PODS At a Glance
This side-by-side view gives you the main differences between Packrat and PODS without diving into all the details. Here’s how the two providers compare on availability, pricing, and what customers can expect.
Quick Comparison: Packrat vs. PODS
| Feature | Packrat | PODS |
| Availability | Serves 97% of U.S. ZIP codes, even outside metro hubs | 240+ storage centers, 46 states + Canada, easy access in most cities |
| Pricing Structure & Typical Cost | Flat 30-day rental; price based on container size and delivery | Month-to-month rental; container cost + storage flexibility built in |
| Customer Service | Phone support, Lowe’s retail visibility | Large network, online booking, wide service coverage |
| Key Benefits | All-steel containers, multiple sizes, strong coverage outside major metros | Broad footprint, storage built in, PODZILLA precision placement, flexible timelines |
| Key Drawbacks | Fewer storage facilities; limited online booking options | Can cost more for smaller/local moves; space and permit needs |
We built this comparison using secret-shopped quotes, Packrat and PODS websites, and third-party cost benchmarks. Our team tested sample moves across different distances and home sizes, then cross-checked with customer reviews and container specs to make sure the table reflects real differences people will notice when booking.
Packrat Overview
1-800-PACK-RAT started up in 2001 and has grown into one of the main names in container moving. It isn’t as large as PODS when it comes to storage facilities, but the company says it can still handle moves to 97% of U.S. ZIP codes. A big piece of visibility comes from its partnership with Lowe’s — you’ll often see Packrat containers parked at those stores.
“Loading and unloading is still your responsibility unless you book movers. Many people hire hourly labor for the heavy lifting — it’s an added cost, but it can make the process safer and faster.”
The setup is pretty straightforward. A Packrat driver brings the container to your driveway or curb, and you get about a month to load it. Their lift keeps the container level while it’s dropped off and picked up, which helps keep your stuff from shifting around. Once it’s ready to go, you can have it sent directly to your new place or stored at one of Packrat’s warehouses until you need it.
They offer three sizes: 8-foot containers that fit about a room, 12-foot containers for two to three rooms, and 16-foot containers for three to four rooms. All of them are made from steel, have locks, and are designed to handle weather, which gives people some peace of mind during long-distance moves or storage.
| Packrat Pros | Packrat Cons |
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What Surprised Us About Packrat
Packrat’s claim to cover 97% of U.S. ZIP codes is notable, especially since many people assume PODS is the only provider with near-national reach. The Lowe’s partnership is another unique angle, giving Packrat a retail presence that most moving container companies don’t have.
PODS Overview
PODS has been around since the late 1990s and is now one of the biggest names in moving and storage. The company has completed millions of moves and operates more than 240 storage centers across the U.S. and Canada, plus service in parts of the UK and Australia. With coverage in 46 states, it’s often the brand people think of first when portable storage comes up.
Here’s how it works: a PODS driver drops off a container at your home using their PODZILLA system, which lets them place the unit without tilting it. You get 30 days included in the base rental to load on your own timeline. When you’re ready, PODS picks up the container and either delivers it to your new place or moves it into one of their secure facilities for storage. If you need more time, you can extend the rental month by month.
PODS containers come in three sizes: 8-foot, 12-foot, and 16-foot. They’re steel-framed with weather-resistant panels, roll-up doors, and tie-down points inside. The different size options make it easy to match a container to your household, whether you’re moving a studio apartment or a three-bedroom home.
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PODS Pros |
PODS Cons |
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What Surprised Us About PODS
A lot of people know PODS as the “big name” in moving containers, but fewer realize they also operate in Canada, the UK, and even Australia. Another detail that comes up a lot is their PODZILLA lift. Customers talk about how it can set the container down exactly where it needs to go, which makes a difference if your driveway is short or crowded.
Packrat vs. PODS Comparison
While both companies offer similar types of portable storage containers, the way they price, deliver, and support customers can look pretty different once you dig in. Below, we break down the main points — cost, container options, service coverage, flexibility, delivery, reputation, and company operations — so you can see which one fits your move.
Cost Comparison
On average, PODS tends to be the more cost-predictable option, especially for local and regional moves where their flat-rate structure makes budgeting simpler. Packrat may come in cheaper for some long-distance moves, especially when promotions or price-matching offers are applied.
Average Container Move Costs: Packrat vs. PODS
| Feature | Packrat | PODS |
| Cost Structure | Space used + delivery | Flat price + delivery |
| Average Local rental (~12–23 miles) | ~$516 | $612–$825 |
| Average Regional Rental (~45–50 miles) | ~$516 | $633–$963 |
| Average Cross-Country Rental (~2,500 miles) | No quote returned in secret shop | $4,484–$7,385 (avg. ~$5,935) |
How we researched: We ran quotes using each provider’s online tools and customer service reps, across multiple ZIP code pairs (urban, suburban, rural) and three move types: local, regional (~500 miles), and cross-country (~2,500 miles). Each quote included base price plus delivery and pickup, but excluded promotions or coupons, so the comparisons stayed fair. We averaged results across small (1-bedroom), medium (2–3 bedroom), and large (4+ bedroom) scenarios.
Caveats:
- Packrat often runs aggressive discounts or price-matching, which can change the math.
- PODS pricing scales with container size and length of rental (per month), while Packrat’s pricing is tied more closely to distance and space.
- Seasonal demand (summer peak months) can push either provider higher, sometimes significantly.
Container Sizes, Options, and Capacity
Both companies offer three container sizes, but there are small differences in design and how they’re used.
| Size | Packrat | PODS |
| 8-foot | Holds ~1–1.5 rooms | Fits a studio/1 room |
| 12-foot | Holds ~2–3 rooms | Fits 2–3 rooms (local moves only) |
| 16-foot | Holds ~3–4 rooms | Fits 2–3 bedrooms, most popular |
Packrat containers are all steel, lockable, and weatherproof. They’re marketed heavily on durability and climate protection.
PODS containers use a steel frame with weather-resistant panels and roll-up doors. Their tie-down points inside help secure loads, and they can be mixed and matched for larger homes.
Pricing impact: With both companies, larger containers or multiple units drive up cost. With PODS, if you need to add additional months to your rental, that can add to your total before or after your delivery. Packrat’s pricing doesn’t flex with rental time in the same way — you get 30 days included as standard, and you can rent the container for longer as needed.
Service Area & Availability
Packrat: Covers 97% of U.S. ZIP codes, even without a nearby facility, often relying on extended delivery zones. They have fewer storage centers overall compared to PODS, but their partnership with Lowe’s adds visibility.
PODS: Available in 46 states, Canada, the UK, and Australia, with 240+ storage centers. Easier to find service in most metro areas, with more facility-based storage options.
Flexibility & Storage
Packrat: Flat 30-day rental period, with the option to extend, and there’s storage available at secure warehouses. Access to these units requires notice (24–48 hours).
PODS: Rentals billed month-to-month. Containers can stay at your home or in a PODS storage center as long as you need. Storage facilities are widespread, making it easy to access or extend storage between homes.
Convenience & Delivery
Packrat: Requires clearance of ~13.5 feet height, 12 feet width, and 55 feet length for delivery trucks. The lift keeps containers level during placement. Good for standard driveways, but tight urban placement may be harder.
PODS: Uses the PODZILLA hydraulic lift system, which allows for more precise placement and can handle tighter driveways or angled approaches. Requires ~12 feet wide, 15 feet high, and 40 feet long clearance.
Customer Reviews & Reputation
| Source | Packrat | PODS |
| BBB | A rating, accredited | A+ rating, accredited |
| Trustpilot | ~2.5/5 (common complaints: communication, delivery changes) | ~4.2/5 (praise for smooth delivery, some billing complaints) |
Packrat: Customers like the durability of the containers but often note scheduling or communication hiccups.
PODS: Reviews highlight the convenience and professionalism of drivers, though some mention surprise fees or rescheduling issues in peak season.
Company Operations
Packrat: Founded in 2001, privately held. Known for its Lowe’s partnership and aggressive promotions, including price matching.
PODS: Founded in 1998, privately held, and one of the largest container movers in the world. Runs over 240 storage centers globally. Expanded internationally (Canada, UK, Australia).
When to Choose Packrat
Packrat is often a better fit when you’re planning a long-distance move and want predictable pricing tied to container space rather than monthly extensions. Because every rental comes with a flat 30-day period, you know up front how much time you’ll have without worrying about extra fees if loading takes longer than expected.
It’s also worth considering Packrat if you live outside a major metro area. The company advertises service to 97% of ZIP codes, including places that aren’t always covered by other container brands. That reach can be especially helpful if your move starts or ends in a smaller town.
Packrat’s three container sizes — 8-, 12-, and 16-foot — also work well for households that don’t need multiple large containers. Smaller families, singles, or people downsizing may find it easier to match a container size to their needs without overpaying for unused space.
In short, Packrat makes sense for people moving long distances who want a straightforward rental window, or for anyone outside the big city who needs a container company that will actually deliver to their driveway.
When to Choose PODS
PODS is often the stronger choice if you need flexibility or built-in storage as part of your move. Every rental includes 30 days automatically, which gives you time to load and unload at your own pace. If your move-in date is uncertain, you can extend the rental month by month or store the container at a PODS facility until your new home is ready.
It’s also a good fit for local or regional moves where convenience matters more than shaving every dollar off the price. Instead of rushing to fill a rental truck in one day, PODS lets you spread the work out, which is especially helpful if you’re moving while balancing work, kids, or home projects.
The multiple size options make PODS appealing to larger households too. You can mix and match 8-, 12-, and 16-foot containers to fit a two- or three-bedroom move without juggling different companies. And with more than 240 storage centers across the U.S. and Canada, finding service in a major city is usually straightforward.
In short, PODS is a good call if you want more control over timing, easy access to storage, or the flexibility to right-size containers to your household.
Alternative Storage Container Providers
While Packrat and PODS are two of the biggest names, they aren’t the only portable container companies out there. Depending on your budget, location, or move type, it can be worth looking at a few other providers before making your decision.
- 1-800-PACK-RAT: Similar in model to PODS, with all-steel containers and nationwide delivery reach. Sometimes runs aggressive discounts or price-matching, which can make it competitive if you’re shopping around.
- Zippy Shell: Known for containers that come inside a trailer, making them easier to park in tighter driveways or city neighborhoods. Service areas are smaller, but it can be a smart pick for urban moves where space is limited.
- U-Haul U-Box: A budget option with wooden containers wrapped in weatherproof covers. They can be shipped almost anywhere, making them a low-cost alternative for smaller loads. The trade-off is durability — they’re not as strong as steel containers.
These options may not have the same footprint or flexibility as PODS, but they can fill gaps in coverage or help if you’re trying to cut costs. Always compare quotes side by side so you know what you’re getting for the price.
Final Verdict: Packrat vs. PODS
Both Packrat and PODS make moving easier by letting you load on your own timeline and skip driving a rental truck. Packrat’s appeal is its claim of reaching 97% of U.S. ZIP codes and its straightforward 30-day rental, which can be helpful outside metro areas.
But PODS generally comes out ahead for most households. With a larger network, built-in storage options, month-to-month flexibility, and the PODZILLA system for precise delivery, it’s the easier choice to book and use in more places. For most moves, PODS is the stronger all-around option.
What to Know Before a Moving Container Move
Before you book a container, there are a few things worth planning for. The first is space. Both Packrat and PODS include about 30 days with each rental, but you’ll need somewhere for the container to sit during that time. A driveway usually works, but if you live in an apartment or don’t have off-street parking, ask your property manager about placement options. In some cases, you’ll also need to check with your city about permits for curbside delivery.
“[A moving container] it can either head straight to your next place or sit in storage until you’re ready. That extra breathing room is what makes containers so appealing compared to a rental truck…”
Timing is another factor. Containers are in high demand during summer and at the end of each month, so it pays to schedule well in advance if that’s when you’re moving.
Loading and unloading is still your responsibility unless you book movers. Many people hire hourly labor for the heavy lifting — it’s an added cost, but it can make the process safer and faster.
Finally, review what’s included in your estimate. Supplies, insurance, and extended storage may be billed separately, and those extras can change the total more than you’d expect. Taking the time to compare quotes line by line helps you see where one provider may offer more value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Packrat better than PODS?
It depends on what you need most. Packrat is often cheaper up front, and some customers prefer the feel of its containers. PODS usually costs more, but it wins on reliability, customer support, and storage options — which makes it the stronger choice for most households.
What is the difference between Packrat and PODS?
Both bring a container to your home and handle transport, but the details differ. Packrat includes a set 30-day rental, while PODS runs on a month-to-month model that’s easier to extend. Packrat claims it covers 97% of ZIP codes. while PODS has a bigger physical footprint with 240+ storage centers and its PODZILLA lift system, which many customers say makes placement smoother in tight driveways.
Who is PODS’ biggest competitor?
Packrat is the closest competitor, with similar sizes and services. Other alternatives include Zippy Shell, which is easier to park in city neighborhoods, and U-Haul’s U-Box, which is cheaper but less durable. Still, PODS’ scale and flexibility keep it ahead of the pack.
What is the most affordable pod company?
U-Haul’s U-Box usually comes out cheapest. Packrat often beats PODS on price — but you’ll give up some of the convenience and coverage PODS is known for.
What is the cheapest moving container company?
If cost is the only factor, U-Box usually wins, with Packrat close behind when discounts apply. But if you want a balance of price, service, and storage flexibility, PODS is often the better overall value.
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