PODS Moving & Storage vs 1-800-PACK-RAT
Researched and written by Daniel Harper · Reviewed by Amanda Brooks · Last reviewed August 2026
We publish no numeric score for moving companies, so this page names no winner. PODS Moving & Storage is described as best for flexible-timeline moves and combined move + storage, while 1-800-PACK-RAT is described as best for container moves with steel weatherproof units. Compare the registration and authority records below, verify each USDOT number on FMCSA SAFER, and get a binding estimate from both before booking.
Get matched with FMCSA-licensed movers — typically 3–4 quotes within one business day.
Side-by-side
| Category | PODS Moving & Storage | 1-800-PACK-RAT |
|---|---|---|
| USDOT | 1534531 | |
| MC # | MC-648624 | |
| Carrier or broker | both | |
| 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 |
| Legal name on the federal filing | 1-800-PACK-RAT LLC | |
| Entity status | A | |
| Operating authority held | Household goods, Property, Carrier and broker | |
| Power units on the census file | 345 | |
| Drivers on the census file | 420 | |
| Federal record as of | 2026-08-13 | |
| 2BR interstate estimate (BestMovers.info estimate) | $1,800–$4,500 | $1,700–$4,300 |
Legal name, entity status, operating authority, fleet counts and safety rating come from the FMCSA motor carrier census and licensing files, and appear only where the identifier on the federal record matched the company record on this page. Where a row is absent for one company, this site holds no verified federal value for it.
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.
- 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.
- 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
We match you with FMCSA-licensed movers serving your route. No obligation; written estimates only.
No obligation. Your quote request may be shared with up to 4 moving companies that may serve your requested route.
Where are you moving?
Get matched with licensed movers based on your route and move details.
.
.
Frequently asked questions
Is PODS Moving & Storage or 1-800-PACK-RAT better in 2026?
How do PODS Moving & Storage and 1-800-PACK-RAT compare on price?
Are PODS Moving & Storage and 1-800-PACK-RAT both FMCSA-licensed?
How do I check complaints against PODS Moving & Storage or 1-800-PACK-RAT?
What estimate type should I ask for?
Ready to compare licensed movers?
Get free, no-obligation written estimates from FMCSA-licensed movers serving your route.
No obligation. Your quote request may be shared with up to 4 moving companies that may serve your requested route.
Where are you moving?
Get matched with licensed movers based on your route and move details.
.
.