Your moving budget depends largely on choosing between PODS vs U-Haul, especially for interstate or cross-country relocations. U-Haul’s U-Box rental starts at a modest $99 for 30 days of storage. PODS charges between $350 and $550 for local moves, while their long-distance moving services cost anywhere from $500 to $7,000.
Both companies reward customers with attractive discounts. Local moves with PODS qualify for a 15% rental discount with a three-month storage commitment. U-Haul runs seasonal promotions that include deposit-free moves plus a month of complimentary storage. New PODS customers receive a 10% discount on their first delivery and monthly rental, regardless of distance.
The best value for your move depends on several factors. Our detailed comparison of pricing structures and discount programs will help you make an informed choice. This piece gives you the knowledge to get the most savings from either PODS or U-Haul’s services.
Basic Pricing Structure: PODS vs U-Haul
PODS and U-Haul show clear differences in their service models and how they calculate costs. Let’s break down their rates and fees to help budget-conscious movers make better decisions.
Standard Long-Distance Rates
PODS bases its long-distance moving costs on three factors: container size, distance, and how long you rent. A 16-foot container moving from Charleston, South Carolina, to Dallas, Texas costs about $2,850 for one month. PODS charges flat monthly rental fees: $209 for 8-foot containers, $219 for 12-foot ones, and $249 for 16-foot containers.
U-Haul works differently. Your price depends on truck size and mileage limits. The same Charleston to Dallas route in a 26-foot truck costs $914, which gives you five days and 1,305 miles. U-Haul’s container service, U-Box, starts at $1,674 for four containers that fit a three-bedroom home.
Additional Fees and Charges
The base rates are just the start. PODS charges $130.50 for delivery and $99 for pickup. Storage fees come monthly, and you’ll pay them on the same date as your first payment.
U-Haul’s extra costs include:
- Gas (trucks get 10-12 mpg)
- Protection coverage (Safemove® costs $50 to $90)
- Environmental fees
- Fees if you return late
Payment Terms Comparison
PODS processes your long-distance order a week before service. This covers container drop-off, first month’s rent, transit, and delivery. Local moves get charged just one day before your container arrives.
U-Haul gives you more payment flexibility. Their no-deposit program even gives you a free month of storage at select locations. You can get instant online quotes for all vehicles and trailers with U-Haul, while PODS needs you to call for long-distance estimates.
Moving 1,000 miles with PODS costs $3,500 to $4,700 for 1-2 bedrooms, and jumps to $4,800-$7,500 for 3+ bedrooms. U-Haul’s prices for the same distance run $2,800 to $3,700 for 1-2 bedrooms, and increase to $4,000-$5,700 for 3-4 bedrooms.
Available Discount Programs
PODS and U-Haul give you great discount options for long-distance moves through military benefits and seasonal promotions. You can get better rates by understanding these programs.
Military and Student Discounts
Service members can save big with PODS’ military discounts or senior discount – up to 20% off moving and storage services. The promo code SERV10 gives active duty and veteran members an extra 10% off transportation costs. PODS’ military personnel can get PPM entitlements equal to 100% of standard military moving costs.
U-Haul supports service members differently. They can get a free month of storage at participating locations with their DD Form 2278. The company also provides free standard shipping on moving supplies and special rates on one-way rentals for military moves.
U-Haul’s partnership with Collegeboxes helps students move easily with free pickup and delivery during school moving days. Students using PODS can save 10% on their original delivery and first month’s rental for both local and long-distance moves through the new customer discount program.
Seasonal Moving Deals
PODS’ promotional offers change throughout the year. New customers can save through multiple discounts:
- 10% off original delivery
- 10% off first month’s rental
- Extra 10% discount on long-distance transit costs
U-Haul’s seasonal deals come in detailed savings packages:
- Zero-deposit starts at participating locations
- One month of free storage with one-way truck rentals
- Free standard shipping on orders over $100 in the contiguous U.S.
U-Haul’s hotel chain partnerships give you extra travel savings during moves:
- 15% discount at Choice Hotels
- 10% off Wyndham Hotels bookings
PODS lets customers stack certain offers together. Move.org readers get an exclusive 10% discount that can save them around $400 on their moves. Returning customers can find different promotions throughout the year, but discount amounts change based on season and location.
Bundle Savings Opportunities
Smart movers can save money with bundled services from both PODS and U-Haul. These companies have unique package deals that cut down overall moving costs.
Storage + Moving Combos
PODS merges storage with every long-distance move. You won’t need multiple loading and unloading sessions. Their storage-inclusive packages let customers keep containers at secure Storage Centers and access them anytime during the move. This works great when you haven’t found your new home yet – PODS will store your items until you’re ready.
U-Haul’s U-Box container quotes have these benefits:
- 24 furniture pads per container
- One month of storage at a secure U-Haul facility
- All shipping costs
- Choice of delivery method
Multi-Container Discounts
PODS has three container sizes that fit different moving needs: 8-foot ($209/month), 12-foot ($219/month), and 16-foot ($249/month). Larger moves need multiple containers, so PODS offers custom pricing and volume discounts.
U-Haul’s U-Box program takes a different path. Basic rental starts at $99, and customers can order multiple containers with full refunds for unused ones. This no-risk system helps you avoid space shortages.
Supply Package Deals
Both companies’ moving services come with supply packages. PODS has essential items like:
- Container moving kits
- Protective blankets
- Optional liability coverage
U-Haul stands out with its Moving Help package that creates a complete service experience with:
- Loading assistance
- Unloading support
- Optional driving services
- Unpacking help
These bundled services save more money than buying each service separately. PODS customers who use storage-inclusive packages can save up to 20% with promotional code PODS20. U-Haul’s combined services cost less than traditional full-service moving companies.
Budget-conscious movers can use U-Haul’s Acorn Finance moving loans. PODS lets you spread costs over time instead of paying everything upfront. These payment options and bundle savings make long-distance moves more affordable.
Loyalty Rewards and Benefits
Loyal customers get special perks from both moving giants. Each company rewards customer loyalty through unique programs and benefits.
U-Haul’s Return Customer Perks
U-Haul gives several exclusive advantages to its long-time customers. New renters don’t pay deposits or administrative fees at participating locations. Regular customers also get better mileage rates for pickup trucks and cargo vans.
Business customers can access better deals through U-Haul’s long-term rental program. The program features custom daily, weekly, and monthly rates. U-Haul also teams up with major hotel chains to give customers discounted room rates during moves.
U-Haul’s service goes beyond just moving. The company keeps detailed records of customer interactions to help quickly solve post-move questions. Customers get their contracts and direct contact details for U-Haul representatives.
PODS Repeat Customer Savings
PODS builds its loyalty rewards around storage options and ongoing savings. Regular customers get bigger discounts based on storage time:
- 15% off for 3+ months of storage with free first delivery
- More savings with free first delivery and re-delivery for 6+ months
- Best savings of 25% plus free delivery services for 12+ months of storage
PODS shows its dedication to customer satisfaction through transparent pricing structures. Unlike other moving services, PODS doesn’t ask for full payment upfront. Instead, customers can use budget-friendly payment plans. PODS customers save about $400 through various discount combinations.
The company’s customer service has earned industry recognition. PODS holds an A+ rating from the BBB and ranks higher than competitors in customer service ratings. Their network of 250 locations ensures reliable service for repeat customers nationwide.
These loyalty programs help both companies build strong customer relationships. U-Haul focuses on quick savings and practical benefits. PODS emphasizes flexible storage options and growing discounts. Understanding these different approaches helps customers make better long-term moving investments.
Hidden Ways to Save Money
Smart planning reveals money-saving tricks that many people don’t know about when choosing between PODS and U-Haul for long-distance moves. These hidden opportunities can help you save substantially beyond regular discounts.
Flexible Booking Dates
The timing of your booking can make a big difference in rates. Weekday bookings (Monday through Thursday) cost less than weekend reservations. You can avoid extra charges by planning your move several weeks or a month ahead.
PODS’ month-to-month payment system lets customers adjust their schedule based on their budget. This payment structure allows renters to return containers without penalties even on short notice.
U-Haul gives extra miles at special rates for pickup trucks and cargo vans. Their business customers can benefit from daily, weekly, and monthly rental packages that suit long-term needs.
Location-Based Discounts
PODS serves 44 states right now. People living within 20 miles of PODS Storage Centers often pay less for delivery.
U-Haul covers all 50 states and D.C.. Their large network helps them offer competitive prices based on popular routes and available equipment.
These factors matter for container placement:
- Available driveway parking
- City regulations compliance
- HOA restrictions
Off-Peak Moving Rates
Moving costs change with seasons. Spring and fall rates beat peak summer prices. Smart planning helps customers save money during these off-peak periods.
PODS’ prices have stayed stable with increases under 10% since 2020. U-Haul container prices went up by about 30% during this time.
Money-conscious movers can save more by mixing services. Storing belongings while looking for permanent housing helps avoid paying twice for moving.
Both companies provide climate-controlled storage facilities. PODS stands out by offering rental quotes based on individual needs. U-Haul backs their moving supplies with a 100% buy-back guarantee for unused items.
Comparison Table
| Feature | PODS | U-Haul |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $350-$550 (local moves) $500-$7,000 (long-distance) | $99 (U-Box simple rental) |
| Sample 1,000-mile Move Cost | $3,500-$4,700 (1-2 bedrooms) $4,800-$7,500 (3+ bedrooms) | $2,800-$3,700 (1-2 bedrooms) $4,000-$5,700 (3-4 bedrooms) |
| Container/Storage Options | – 8-foot ($209/month) – 12-foot ($219/month) – 16-foot ($249/month) | U-Box containers starting at $99 |
| Additional Fees | – Delivery: $130.50 – Pickup: $99 | – Fuel costs (10-12 mpg) – Protection coverage ($50-$90) – Environmental fees – Late return penalties |
| Military Discounts | – Up to 20% off moving and storage – Additional 10% off transportation (SERV10) | – One month free storage – Free standard shipping on supplies |
| New Customer Discounts | – 10% off original delivery – 10% off first month’s rental – Additional 10% on long-distance transit | – No-deposit relocations – One month free storage – Free shipping on orders over $100 |
| Loyalty Benefits | – 15% off for 3+ months storage – Up to 25% off for 12+ months – $50 Amazon gift card referral program | – No deposit/admin fees – Extended mileage allowances – Special business rates |
| Geographic Coverage | 44 states | All 50 states plus D.C. |
Conclusion
You’ll want to think over both cost and convenience when choosing between PODS and U-Haul. U-Haul’s base prices start at $99 for U-Box rentals, which beats PODS’ minimum of $350. PODS makes up for this with their detailed discount programs. Their military benefits give you up to 20% off moving and storage services.
The price gap widens for long-distance moves. Moving a smaller home about 1,000 miles costs $2,800-$3,700 with U-Haul and $3,500-$4,700 with PODS. While PODS costs more initially, they offer flexible payment plans and built-in storage options that help even out the total cost.
The right timing helps you save money with either company. Book on weekdays and avoid peak seasons to get better rates. You can stack multiple discounts to cut costs even more. U-Haul operates in all 50 states, giving you more options. PODS serves 44 states and offers perks like lower delivery fees near their storage centers.
Each company rewards loyal customers differently. PODS gives bigger storage discounts up to 25% the longer you stay. U-Haul prefers quick perks like no deposits and extra miles. Your choice comes down to your moving needs, schedule flexibility, and storage plans.