PODS Alternatives: 12 Portable Storage Companies Worth Considering (2026)
PODS is the most recognised name in portable storage, but recognition doesn't always mean best value. Here are 12 alternatives, from national chains to local independents, with honest notes on each.
💡 Bottom Line Up Front
For most local moves and short-term storage, a local independent company will beat PODS on price by 20–40% while offering comparable equipment. Use our search to find who serves your area.
The 12 Companies
1-800-PACK-RAT
Container sizes: 12ft, 16ft  | Best for: Long-distance moves
Strong network, competitive on price for coast-to-coast moves. White-glove service option.
UNITS Moving & Portable Storage
Container sizes: 12ft, 16ft  | Best for: Local moves & storage
Franchise network. Often 10–20% cheaper than PODS. Good for same-city moves.
SMARTBOX
Container sizes: 8ft  | Best for: Apartment moves, small storage
Smaller containers perfect for apartments. Delivered standing up, less floor footprint.
U-Pack
Container sizes: Trailer sections  | Best for: Long-distance moves on a budget
You load, they drive. Cheapest option for cross-country moves if you don't mind labour.
Go Mini's
Container sizes: 12ft, 16ft, 20ft  | Best for: Flexibility on duration
Franchise model means pricing varies. Good coverage in Southeast and Midwest.
Zippy Shell
Container sizes: 8ft  | Best for: Urban markets
Operates in specific metro areas. Typically 15–25% below PODS in covered markets.
Door to Door Storage
Container sizes: 5ft, 8ft  | Best for: Apartment-sized storage
Smaller containers, monthly pricing. Good for decluttering vs. full moves.
BoxCo Industries
Container sizes: 8ft, 16ft, 20ft  | Best for: Commercial & construction
Heavy-duty containers. Strong in commercial and contractor use cases.
Local independent companies
Container sizes: Varies  | Best for: Best pricing
Often 20–40% cheaper than nationals. Find them on Portable Storage Hub, they serve the same areas with the same equipment.
Budget Truck Rental
Container sizes: N/A (trucks) Â |Â Best for: DIY one-way moves
Not portable storage, but worth comparing for long-distance moves where you do the driving.
ABF U-Pack ReloCubes
Container sizes: 6ft cube  | Best for: Flexible long-distance
Pay per cube used. Good if you have less than a full truckload.
Portable On Demand Storage (PODS)
Container sizes: 7ft, 12ft, 16ft  | Best for: Brand recognition, full service
The original. Good if you need guaranteed availability and national coverage. Premium priced.
How to Choose
Moving across the country
→ U-Pack or 1-800-PACK-RAT
Best price-to-coverage ratio for long-haul
Moving across town
→ Local independent or UNITS
20–40% cheaper, same equipment
Storing during a renovation
→ Any local company
Month-to-month flexibility is key; price shop
Construction site storage
→ Local company or BoxCo
Robust containers, commercial billing
Urban apartment
→ SMARTBOX or Zippy Shell
Smaller containers, tight street access
Need it guaranteed
→ PODS
Largest network, most reliable availability
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