PODS Moving & Storage vs 1-800-PACK-RAT
By Daniel Harper, Senior Editor, Moving Costs · Reviewed by Melissa Grant, Pricing & Estimates Reviewer · Last updated May 2026
On our weighted score, PODS Moving & Storage takes the edge (4.0/5). That said, PODS Moving & Storage is the better pick for flexible-timeline moves and combined move + storage, while 1-800-PACK-RAT wins for container moves with steel weatherproof units. Always get binding estimates from both before booking.
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Side-by-side
| Category | PODS Moving & Storage | 1-800-PACK-RAT |
|---|---|---|
| USDOT | Container service | Container service |
| MC # | Container service | Container service |
| BBB rating | A+ | A+ |
| Founded | 1998 | 2002 |
| Headquarters | Clearwater, FL | Wake Forest, NC |
| Coverage | All 50 states | All 50 states |
| Services | Long-distance, Storage, Container/Portable | Long-distance, Storage, Container/Portable |
| 2BR estimate | $1,800–$4,500 | $1,700–$4,300 |
| Customer rating | 4.0 / 5 | 4.0 / 5 |
PODS Moving & Storage
The original portable-storage container model. Best value when you need a few weeks between move-out and move-in or want to load at your own pace.
- Best for flexible-timeline moves and combined move + storage.
- All 50 states coverage; founded 1998.
- BBB rating: A+.
- You load and unload yourself — labor is on you unless you book separately through their partners.
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.
Flexible-timeline moves and combined move + storage
You load and unload yourself — labor is on you unless you book separately through their partners.
Container moves with steel weatherproof units
Coverage gaps in some rural ZIPs — confirm availability before planning.
Compare PODS Moving & Storage and 1-800-PACK-RAT — and a few alternatives
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Frequently asked questions
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