The Best Alternatives to U-Haul Moving in 2025

Although U-Haul is a well-known name in the moving industry, its truck rental services and U-Box containers don't compare to the top-rated moving container companies we recommend in 2025. 

If you're willing to do the loading and unloading yourself, a storage container company like PODS can save you money because you aren't paying full-service moving prices. Depending on the distance and size of your move, you may even save money compared to renting a truck and storage unit. A moving container is more convenient than a U-haul rental truck because it can both store and transport your stuff, meaning you only have to load/unload once, and typically includes 30 days of free storage. That beats taking multiple trips to and from a storage unit and moving the same stuff several times.

While there are thousands of moving companies to choose from, choosing one with fair prices and a proven track record of quality service makes a difference.

Based on our research and experience, PODS is the best storage container moving company, while 1-800-PACK-RAT is the best value. PODS boasts great customer reviews, a 10% Move.org discount, more durable moving pods, and multiple storage options compared to U-haul's Ubox containers. PODS is available from coast to coast, AND recently lowered their prices, so chances are, PODS should have you covered. With 1-800-PACK-RAT, you may be able to find lower prices; you'll just need to check to see if they operate in your state.

Here are the most important things to look for when picking a moving container company:

Availability. Many companies aren’t available nationwide. Make sure you find one with moving services in your origin and destination cities.

Price. Low prices aren’t just good for your pocketbook. They can also indicate whether a company can keep up with demand.

Container sizes. Multiple sizes mean multiple options — and potential savings. Look for a container company that offers multiple sizes or charges only for the space your belongings occupy.

Customer reviews. Few things matter more than what other customers say. Companies like U-Pack that get rave reviews mean that you’re more likely to have a positive moving experience.

Storage options. The best moving container companies let you store your containers either at your home or their company storage warehouses for free.

Container quality. Your options range from steel to plywood. Candidly, they all keep your items pretty secure. But there’s something to be said for seeing your belongings safely tucked away inside a 1-800-PACK-RAT or PODS heavy-duty container.

PODS is the best moving container company in the nation. No company has done a better job meeting demand during COVID-19. Plus, PODS keeps its rates reasonable while offering top-notch containers and on-site and at-home storage. The company also has a Move.org discount worth about $400 for the average move. The only real drawback is understanding the costs. PODS has so many separate billing charges that it’s hard to keep them straight.

Looking for the best overall container company?

1-800-PACK-RAT barely missed out on our top spot. It boasts the most robust moving containers in the industry and lets you choose from multiple sizes. Plus, 1-800-PACK-RAT price matches with PODS. You even get free 24/7 surveillance if you use a 1-800-PACK-RAT storage facility. On the downside, it’s available in only 37 states and tends to score below average with customers.

Looking for the best value?

Zippy Shell has the lowest moving container prices in the nation. It also has a sizable 15-foot steel container and lets you choose between at-home and facility storage options. Zippy Shell is available in 37 states and is continuously expanding. Even with its limited container sizes, its low prices and high-quality container are significant enough to warrant a fourth-place rank on our list of the best moving container companies. Zippy Shell is tough to beat if you can find a nearby location.

Looking for low prices?

We conducted intensive research to identify the best moving companies for long-distance moves and local moves, in addition to container moves, truck rentals, and hourly moving labor. During our searches, we:

• Compare pricing transparency. We gather quotes, check for binding estimates, and read customer reviews about pricing to ensure each moving company’s prices are trustworthy.
• Review accreditation. We check every company’s records in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database to confirm companies are properly authorized to transport household goods.
• Go mystery shopping. We review every company’s website, pose as customers in calls to companies, and read customer reviews to analyze every company’s moving services, transit protection, and customer service. We also interview actual customers to learn how their moves went from start to finish.
• Perform site visits. We invite moving companies to our headquarters in Salt Lake City, UT, to share data and expertise. We verify the information they provide by comparing it to data gathered through independent research and interviews with other movers.
• Set up regular reviews. We routinely repeat this process to update our recommendations to reflect current data and trends. We also revise each review annually and make updates throughout the year.

If you live in one of the 46 states where PODS is available, it's the best moving container company we recommend. Overall, the company has good customer reviews, strong moving containers, and multiple storage options. Plus, you can get a a 10% Move.org discount if you mention us when you book. If you live in Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, or Wyoming, go with UPack instead.