PODS vs U-Pack
Last updated July 2026
PODS
Portable moving and storage containers with flexible timelines
Advantages
- Container stays at your home for up to a month before pickup
- Month-to-month storage at PODS Storage Centers between move dates
- Container sizes 7', 12', or 16', match to your needs
- Available in nearly all major U.S. metros and Canada
- Ground-level loading, no ramp required
Drawbacks
- Priciest DIY container option, $1,500-$3,500 for local, $3,500-$7,000+ for long-distance
- Delivery lead time longer than U-Pack for immediate needs
- Not available in every small metro
U-Pack
Low-cost DIY moving via ArcBest trailers or ReloCubes
Advantages
- Consistently cheaper than PODS for long-distance moves
- Trailers or 6' ReloCubes, flexible on size
- Guaranteed delivery dates on trailer service
- Fast delivery for last-minute moves
- Pay only for the space you use (trailer service)
Drawbacks
- 3-business-day maximum load time at origin and destination
- No true month-to-month storage option
- Fewer local metros served than PODS
PODS and U-Pack are the two biggest DIY moving container services in the U.S. PODS lets you keep the container at your home for weeks and offers month-to-month storage. U-Pack picks up quickly on trailers and undercuts on price. Storage flexibility versus lowest cost decides the winner.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | PODS | U-Pack |
|---|---|---|
| Container Sizes | 7', 12', 16' | 28' trailer (partial or full) or 6' ReloCube |
| Local Pricing | $1,500-$3,500 typical | Not always available, long-distance focused |
| Long-Distance Pricing | $3,500-$7,000+ typical | $2,500-$5,500 typical for cross-country |
| Delivery Lead Time | 1-2 weeks recommended for reservation | 3-5 business days typical |
| Storage Option | Month-to-month at PODS Storage Center | Short-term hold only; no long-term storage |
| Loading Model | Ground-level; you load and unload | Trailer via ramp; ReloCube ground-level |
| Insurance Options | PODS Contents Protection Option | Liability coverage included; supplemental optional |
| Loading Flexibility | Container stays at home up to 30 days | 3 business days at each end for loading/unloading |
U-Pack Wins
U-Pack wins for long-distance moves on pure price. PODS wins if you need storage flexibility or extended loading time.
For a cross-country move where you'll load in a weekend and unload within a few days of arrival, U-Pack is typically $1,000+ cheaper than PODS. PODS earns its premium when your timing is uncertain (renovating your new home, closing dates in flux) or when you need to stage a container in a driveway for weeks. Get quotes from both, price differences vary dramatically by route.
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