How much do moving containers like PODS cost?

The four big names

• PODS

  Sizes

  8 ft, 12 ft and 16 ft. Long-distance moves get the 8 ft or the 16 ft; PODS pitches the 12 ft for local moves. PODS says the 16 ft fits about 1,200 sq ft, the 12 ft 500 to 800 sq ft, and the 8 ft up to 500 sq ft.

  The clock

  The first 30 days are included, then it rents by the month. The billing cycle starts the day the container is delivered.

  How it moves

  Keep it in your driveway or have it taken to a PODS Storage Center. PODS does local moves and uses independent carriers for long-distance hauls.

  • Loads at ground level, no ramp
  • Steel frame, weather-resistant, not fully waterproof
  • You're the only keyholder
  • Storage Centers are not climate-controlled

• U-Pack

  Sizes

  No menu of sizes. The ReloCube comes in one size, 6 ft long, 7 ft wide and 8 ft tall on the outside, about one room. Or trailer space, sold by the linear foot on a 28 ft trailer. About 6 ReloCubes fill a trailer.

  The clock

  Up to 3 business days to load and 3 to unload, weekends not counted. ReloCube moves include 30 days of storage, starting when your shipment reaches the destination service center.

  How it moves

  U-Pack calls itself a long-distance self-move service. Door to door or at a U-Pack service center. Transit averages 4 to 6 business days. Stored items sit at a U-Pack service center.

  • ReloCubes sit on the ground and fit one parking space
  • You lock it and keep the key
  • Storage is not climate-controlled or accessible
  • Extra storage is billed monthly

• 1-800-PACK-RAT

  Sizes

  8 ft, 12 ft and 16 ft, with a space calculator on their site to pick the size and count.

  The clock

  On a local move you keep it at home as long as you need. On a long-distance move you get the container for 30 days.

  How it moves

  Same four steps local or long distance: delivery, you pack, pickup, then your new place or storage. More than 80 warehouse storage facilities nationwide.

  • All-steel and weatherproof
  • Ground-level loading with barn-style doors, no ramp
  • A no-cut lock is included on long-distance moves
  • More time is a phone call

• U-Haul U-Box

  Sizes

  One size: 5 ft by 8 ft by 7.5 ft, 257 cubic feet, up to 2,000 lbs. U-Haul says each holds about a room and a half.

  The clock

  Monthly. The first month is paid at delivery, then each extra month you keep it.

  How it moves

  U-Haul delivers it, you tow it yourself, or you pack it at a U-Haul location. Shipped across town or across the country, most shipments arrive in 7 to 14 business days.

  • Bring your own lock, one per container
  • Stored indoors, not climate-controlled
  • Not insured by default, coverage is optional
  • Needs a flat, level spot a forklift can reach