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) | 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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