PODS Moving & Storage vs U-Pack
Researched and written by Daniel Novak · Reviewed by Brittany Evans · 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 U-Pack is described as best for long-distance budget moves with self-loading. Compare the registration and authority records below, verify each USDOT number on FMCSA SAFER, and get a binding estimate from both before booking.
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Side-by-side
| Category | PODS Moving & Storage | U-Pack |
|---|---|---|
| USDOT | 1397252 | 2946400 |
| MC # | MC-530785 | 207258 |
| Carrier or broker | both | both |
| Founded | 1998 | 1997 |
| Headquarters | Clearwater, FL | Fort Smith, AR |
| Coverage | All 50 states | All 50 states |
| Services | Long-distance, Storage, Container/Portable | Long-distance, Container/Portable |
| Legal name on the federal filing | PODS ENTERPRISES LLC | ARCBEST II, INC |
| Operating authority held | Property, Carrier and broker | Household goods, Property, Carrier and broker |
| Power units on the census file | 1,324 | 0 |
| Drivers on the census file | 1,100 | |
| Federal record as of | 2026-08-13 | 2026-08-13 |
| 2BR interstate estimate (BestMovers.info estimate) | $1,800–$4,500 | $1,500–$3,800 |
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.
U-Pack
U-Pack is operated by ABF Freight and uses commercial trucking for the actual transport, which keeps prices below traditional movers. You handle loading; they handle the long haul.
- Best for long-distance budget moves with self-loading.
- All 50 states coverage; founded 1997.
- Three-day load and unload windows can pressure tight schedules.
Flexible-timeline moves and combined move + storage
You load and unload yourself — labor is on you unless you book separately through their partners.
Long-distance budget moves with self-loading
Three-day load and unload windows can pressure tight schedules.
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Frequently asked questions
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