Moving can be an exciting but stressful time. Finding the right moving container company to help with your relocation can make the process go much smoother. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to determine which container company is best for your specific moving needs. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the best moving container company for you.
What Are Moving Containers?
Before diving into the top companies, let’s first understand exactly what moving containers are. Moving containers, also known as portable storage units or pods, are large containers that you can fill up with your belongings, have transported to your new home, and then unpacked.
Moving containers are a popular alternative to traditional full-service movers or moving trucks. They allow you to pack up your items on your own time, while providing secure transportation and storage. Once your container arrives, you can unpack at your own pace.
There are many benefits to using moving containers, including:
- More flexibility – You can pack the container over multiple days and don’t have to rush. The container stores your items safely until you are ready.
- Security – Containers are constructed from durable materials and can be locked to keep your belongings safe. Many also offer additional transit protection.
- Convenience – Containers can be loaded at your home, so you don’t have to transport items across town to a truck. You also have more direct access when unloading.
- Lower costs – For local and regional moves, containers can provide significant savings over a full-service move. You also only pay for the container size you need.
While containers aren’t a good fit for long-distance interstate moves, they offer a customizable solution for many moving situations. When choosing a company, you’ll want to look for quality, convenience, reliability, and value.
Factors To Consider When Choosing a Container Company
While the concept of moving containers is straightforward, there are many factors to weigh when selecting the right company for your move:
Service Area
Most moving container companies operate regionally. Be sure to choose a company that provides containers where you’re moving from and to. Some have different franchise owners and rules in different zones.
Container Sizes
Containers typically range from 5-20 ft in length. Consider how much storage space you’ll need and choose the appropriate container size. Go too small and you may have to order another container last-minute.
Accessibility
Look at how easy it is to load and unload items, such as container door placement, ramps, stairs, etc. If you are packing alone, you’ll want nice wide openings and not too high of a first step.
Protection
How secure and weatherproof are the containers? Look for sturdy steel construction with weather seals to protect your belongings. Pest control measures are also important.
Pickup and Delivery
What are the delivery timeframes? Is weekend or evening delivery available? How flexible are the pickup/delivery windows? Can they remove containers from driveways or do they only service locations with wide access roads?
Storage Length
Most companies allow containers to be kept at your residence for a few days. However, you usually have the option to keep them longer for an additional storage fee. What are the limitations?
Insurance
Is any level of insurance included should items be damaged? Or do you need to purchase additional coverage? Understand coverage limitations.
Customer Service
How easy is the process to reserve a container? Can you track containers while in transit? Is local staff available to answer questions and handle issues? Do they have a solid reputation?
By evaluating these key factors against your move details, you can zero in on the best moving container companies to meet your relocation needs.
The 8 Best Moving Container Companies
After extensive research evaluating all the top companies nationwide on the criteria above, these 8 moving container providers stand out as the best overall options:
1. PODS
Founded in 1998, PODS pioneered moving containers and remains one of the largest and most reputable providers. They offer local, long distance, and international moving container services through company-owned and partner franchises.
Container Sizes: 7’x7’, 8’x8’, 8’x12’, 8’x16’, 16’x8’
Availability: Throughout the continental U.S.
Accessibility: Low entry points, interior ramps
Notable Features:
- Steel containers with synthetic wood floors
- Interior lighting
- Available portable storage units and vaulted ceilings
- Climate controlled units
- Includes basic liability coverage
PODS brings excellent customer service, flexibility, reliability, and value across their many locations. Their containers provide security and protection for your possessions. Extras like storage in transit and loading/unloading assistance make PODS a top choice.
2. U-Pack
U-Pack provides no-frills moving containers combined with affordable pricing. This national moving container company is headquartered in Fort Collins, CO.
Container Sizes: U-Box (8’x5’x8.5’), ReloCube (8’x5’x8.5’)
Availability: 48 U.S. states
Accessibility: Convenient low entry and easy access
Notable Features:
- Steel-reinforced wood container construction
- Interior tie downs and loading ramps
- Transiting and storage period options
- Low-cost liability coverage
For those seeking an economical moving container solution, U-Pack offers significant value. Their smaller ReloCube combined with no hidden fees provides a budget-friendly choice. Service may vary slightly by franchise location.
3. PackRat
PackRat began in Raleigh, NC and now serves 46 states. Their key advantage is providing reusable plastic containers on a weekly rental system.
Container Sizes: 12’ and 16’ containers
Availability: 46 U.S. states
Accessibility: Low entry points with 61” doors
Notable Features:
- Durable plastic containers
- Palletless design rolls off truck
- Available storage add-on weekly rental fees
- Ratings for weather resistance and durability
- Value protection included
For recurring moves, PackRat makes an excellent option. The low entry design also makes their containers easy to load. Just be aware that locations are franchised, so service levels can vary.
4. Zippy Shell
This rapidly growing moving container company, headquartered in Phoenix, AZ, is unique for offering removable container lids. They now operate in 30 metro areas.
Container Sizes: 16’, 12’ and 8’ containers
Availability: 30 major metro areas
Accessibility: Containers feature detachable lids for top access
Notable Features:
- Hard-topped steel containers
- Lid sections nearly double openings
- Optional dividers to segment cargo
- Ratchet straps, air bags, wood floors
- Affordable protection plans
For large, complicated, or delicate moves, Zippy Shell provides excellent loading/unloading flexibility. Their removable lids give this company an edge with accessibility. Expanding nationwide but currently concentrated in western states.
5. Coyote Containers
This family-owned container business originated in Tampa, FL in 2004. They now operate over 100 locations serving most metropolitan markets.
Container Sizes: 12’, 16’, 17’ containers
Availability: 100+ locations across U.S.
Accessibility: Three foot entry ramps
Notable Features:
- Hard-sided steel construction
- All containers have air ride
- Tracking portal to monitor container
- Local and long distance options
- Broad insurance options available
Coyote stands out for making both local and long distance relocations feasible with their containers. Excellent security, durability, tracking visibility, and transit protection. Larger network now but started in southeast.
6. U-Haul U-Box
Budget truck rental company U-Haul offers U-Box as portable moving container services out of their extensive network of locations.
Container Sizes: U-Box U-Box (16’x7’x8’), (12’x7’x8’), (12’x7’x5’)
Availability: U-Haul centers across the U.S. and Canada
Accessibility: Low entry lip for ease of loading
Notable Features:
- Hard wood and metal container construction
- Interior tie downs and door seals
- Flexible pickup and delivery scheduling
- Basic coverage included
For a simple, affordable moving container solution, U-Haul U-Boxes make a convenient choice. Their broad availability out of existing truck rental locations is a bonus. Storage not available long-term but good for short-term moves.
7. Mobile Mini
One of the larger portable storage companies, Mobile Mini focuses primarily on commercial and industrial customers but also serves residential moves.
Container Sizes: 8’, 10, 12’, 15’, 20’, 40’ containers
Availability: ~150 locations across U.S. and Canada
Accessibility: Quality steel construction, multiple door sizes
Notable Features:
- Broad range of steel container sizes
- Optional drop-ramp delivery
- Moisture protection features
- Full transit and property insurance
- Extended long term storage
For large volume moves or long-term storage situations, Mobile Mini has expertise. Their extensive container options and portable storage capabilities make them ideal for specialized projects.
8. ABF U-Pack Moving
Established freight carrier ABF offers U-Pack as an affordable moving container solution.
Container Sizes: U-Pack ReloCube (8’x5’x8.5’)
Availability: 48 U.S. states
Accessibility: Low profile design is easy to load
Notable Features:
- Wood and steel U-Pack construction
- Inexpensive liability coverage option
- Container monitoring service available
- Low fuel surcharges
- Dropoff at ABF agent locations
For a smooth, low-cost move, ABF U-Pack makes a great choice. The ReloCubes transport easily and offer cost transparency. Overall an affordable option with good availability from a reputable freight carrier.
Key Considerations When Selecting Your Provider
Now that you know the top national brands to consider, focus on finding the one that best fits your specific moving situation. Keep the following tips in mind:
- Match container dimensions to your household size and belongings. An overfilled or underfilled container will not transport well.
- Understand any geographic limitations and ensure coverage is available for both loading and unloading addresses. Local moves usually have more options.
- Think about accessibility needs based on physical abilities, large furniture items, narrow driveways, stairs, etc. Measure doorways and paths.
- Calculate rental timeframe needed factoring in packing, transit time, and unpacking. Don’t underestimate extra time that may be required.
- Read customer reviews and talk to company representatives to evaluate service quality and reliability. This varies by franchise.
- Clearly understand costs for delivery, pickup, rental fees, mileage, tax, insurance, and any deposits. Get a firm quote.
- Arrange extra services in advance if desired such as storage, loading/unloading help, fragile item handling, or elevator access.
- Compare protection plans to decide whether to purchase any additional insurance or coverage.
- Prepare your home and belongings well for both loading and unloading days. This will make the process smoother.
Making a thoughtful container company choice considering these key factors will help ensure your possessions are protected and your move goes as smoothly as possible.
Questions To Ask Moving Container Companies Before Booking
As you narrow down your choice, make sure to speak with a company representative to get all your questions answered. Here are some important questions to ask:
What container sizes do you offer?
Get dimensions to assess what will fit your household goods. Measure furniture and doorways first.
What is your availability between my locations and preferred timing?
Verify they can deliver and pick up containers when and where you need them.
How accessible are your containers for loading and unloading?
Understand ease of access including entry steps, door placements, interior lights, etc.
Do you serve both loading and unloading addresses?
Make sure they operate in both regions you’re moving within. Local moves usually have more options.
How long can I keep the container?
Ask about maximum timeframes before additional storage rental fees apply.
What services and extras do you offer like loading assistance or storage?
Inquire about add-ons like help lifting heavy objects, storage insurance, or private party coordination.
What are your protection policies if items are damaged?
Review insurance options to ensure your items are properly covered in transit and storage.
What are total rental costs including tax, mileage, insurance, etc?
Secure an all-inclusive quote for budgeting purposes and avoid surprise fees. Ask about deposits.
What payment options do you accept and when is payment due?
Understand payment policies and timing such as deposits, installments, or payment upon delivery.
Can I change my delivery date if needed?
Learn about scheduling flexibility in case your plans shift.
How can I check on my container status during transit?
Ask how to track containers for peace of mind while in transit.
By getting your questions answered directly, you can confirm you are choosing the best match and avoid assumptions or confusion about access, fees, or delivery.
Tips For Packing and Loading a Moving Container
Once you’ve selected the right moving container company, make sure you pack and load it strategically. Follow these tips:
- Declutter first so you don’t pay to transport items you don’t need. Have a yard sale or donate.
- Disassemble large furniture to make pieces easier to load and maximize space.
- Carefully wrap and protect breakables with ample padding and material.
- Label boxes by room on all sides so they can be unloaded correctly. Keep inventory.
- Load heavier items like appliances and furniture toward the front and bottom of the container to redistribute weight properly.
- Utilize furniture sliders and shoulder teammates to slide items safely up ramps without lifting.
- Place rounded items like buckets not directly on the floor or they may roll when transported.
- Fill open spaces with blankets or padding to prevent shifting during transit.
- Avoid overloading containers, as excess weight can lead to collapsed floors or make transport unsafe.
- Securely fasten interior straps and tie downs to immobilize cargo and prevent damage.
- Lock the container and keep keys/codes secure throughout transit for protection.
Proper packing and loading technique will result in maximum efficiency, safety, and protection.
Unloading and Unpacking Your Moving Container
Once your belongings safely reach their destination, use these suggestions to make unloading and unpacking go smoothly:
- Have a plan before opening the doors to move items directly into staging areas or rooms.
- Inspect goods and container for damage and take photos/notes before unloading in case claims need to be filed.
- Remove heavier items like furniture first using sliders, then proceed with lighter boxes.
- Check off inventoried boxes as they come off to ensure all contents are accounted for.
- Place unloaded goods in designated rooms or areas to avoid cluttering entrances.
- Schedule appliance hookups in advance so they are ready for plugging in once placed.
- Dispose of packing materials promptly after unpacking to clear space and avoid tripping hazards.
- Unpack room by room starting with essentials like kitchen, bathroom and bedroom.
- Clean as you go to prevent an overwhelming mess once done.
- Report any container damage promptly and provide documented evidence if submitting claims.
- Securely store important moving paperwork like inventories and claims information.
With an orderly approach, you’ll complete the move-in swiftly and settle into your new home.
Key Takeaways When Selecting a Moving Container Company
Moving containers are an excellent alternative to full-service movers and trucks, providing convenience and flexibility. When choosing a container provider, look for:
- Availability – Serves your regional locations and timing needs
- Security – Durable steel construction with weather seals, pest control and lockable doors
- Accessibility – Doors and ramps make loading/unloading feasible
- Value – Affordable pricing for local/regional moves with few hidden fees
- Protection – Transit coverage with options to purchase additional insurance
- Customer Service – Responsive support and coordination throughout the move
Do your research to find the best match for your situation. Measure doorways and furniture, understand all costs, and ask plenty of questions before booking. Proper packing will maximize safety and efficiency. Stay organized during unpacking for the smoothest possible move-in.
While moving presents challenges, the right moving container company simplifies the process so you can focus on an exciting new chapter. With these tips, you can confidently choose container moving services tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Moving Container Companies
Q: How do moving container companies work?
A: Moving container companies deliver portable storage containers to your location that you pack up with your belongings at your own pace. Once packed, you secure the container and the company transports it to your new address. This allows you to pack and move on your timeframe versus traditional movers.
Q: How far in advance should I reserve a moving container?
A: It’s best to reserve containers 2-4 weeks in advance for optimal availability, but some bookings can be made on shorter notice. Give yourself plenty of buffer to pack containers. Holidays and peak season see limited availability.
Q: How do I decide what size container to get?
A: Select a container size based on room measurements and furniture sizes. Measure doorways carefully as well. Overfilled or underfilled containers are problematic, so get the right fit. Most companies have sizing calculators online.
Q: Can I load a moving container myself?
A: Absolutely. Loading yourself is a key benefit versus movers. However