1-800-PACK-RAT vs United Van Lines
By Daniel Harper, Senior Editor, Moving Costs · Reviewed by Melissa Grant, Pricing & Estimates Reviewer · Last updated May 2026
On our weighted score, United Van Lines takes the edge (4.3/5). That said, 1-800-PACK-RAT is the better pick for container moves with steel weatherproof units, while United Van Lines wins for long-distance moves with full packing. Always get binding estimates from both before booking.
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Side-by-side
| Category | 1-800-PACK-RAT | United Van Lines |
|---|---|---|
| USDOT | Container service | 077949 |
| MC # | Container service | 67234 |
| BBB rating | A+ | A+ |
| Founded | 2002 | 1928 |
| Headquarters | Wake Forest, NC | Fenton, MO |
| Coverage | All 50 states | All 50 states |
| Services | Long-distance, Storage, Container/Portable | Long-distance, International, Packing, Storage, Auto transport, Corporate |
| 2BR estimate | $1,700–$4,300 | $3,100–$7,400 |
| Customer rating | 4.0 / 5 | 4.3 / 5 |
1-800-PACK-RAT
PACK-RAT's containers are all-steel rather than wood-and-fabric, which holds up better to weather and rough handling. Pricing tracks closely to PODS.
- Best for container moves with steel weatherproof units.
- All 50 states coverage; founded 2002.
- BBB rating: A+.
- Coverage gaps in some rural ZIPs — confirm availability before planning.
United Van Lines
United is the largest brand under UniGroup and publishes the well-known annual National Movers Study. Claims handling and tracking tools rank above the industry median based on FMCSA data.
- Best for long-distance moves with full packing.
- All 50 states coverage; founded 1928.
- BBB rating: A+.
- Quotes are non-binding by default unless you specifically request a binding estimate.
Container moves with steel weatherproof units
Coverage gaps in some rural ZIPs — confirm availability before planning.
Long-distance moves with full packing
Quotes are non-binding by default unless you specifically request a binding estimate.
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Frequently asked questions
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