Are PODS cheaper than U-Haul trucks?

If you're moving, deciding on whether or not to use a moving truck or a moving container is a big deal. Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages, so let’s go over them to see which will work out best for your move.

Pods Vs. U-Haul

When looking at the most popular portable storage container, and moving truck companies, there are two that stand tall among their competitors;

Pods and U-Haul. Both of these companies are known for great prices, great customer service, as well as great products.

When looking at renting a moving truck versus using a portable storage container, they each have their own pros and cons. Let’s go over those:

Pods Pros and Cons

Pods are large storage containers that can be brought to your home. You take your time to load them, and once you’re done the company will come to pick them up and either A) take them to your new home or destination, or, B) take them to their storage facility. As with everything in life, they do have pros and cons.

Pros

• You won’t need to drive - Unlike with a moving truck, you won’t be hauling around your own belongings. This frees you up from any nerves or fears you might have about driving a big 22’ moving truck in the middle of traffic, and it helps you avoid breaking down in that moving truck as well.
• Pods are great for local and long-distance moves – Part of what we love so much about Pods is how versatile they are. You can use them for any situation you’re in, whether you're moving down the street or across the country. Ou can even use them for storage!
• You won’t need to refuel – Unlike with rental trucks, you don’t have the extra charges like refueling.

Cons

• Dropoff restrictions – Pods can take up quite a bit of room, so either your driveway or parking lot might be too small to accommodate your Pod. Also, there are some situations that you’ll need a permit to park the moving container in your area.
• You handle all the labor – unless you hire an outside labor company, you are responsible for all the labor in loading and unloading your Pod. It does help save money, but it can be a pain on your back especially if you have just had a huge move.
• Cost – Typically, Pods are more expensive than renting a moving truck. So, you might be paying more for the move (depending on your move, distance, etc.)

U-Haul Pros and Cons

U-Haul is the leading name among moving truck rentals for a reason. Their trucks are very reliable, and their costs are reasonable. They offer many different sized trucks to suit your needs, ranging from a regular pickup truck all the way to a 26’ moving truck that you can fit just about anything into. There are also pros and cons to U-Hauls.

Pros

• U-Haul's are typically cheaper – Since U-Haul is all about DIY, they are much more affordable than a full-service move.
• Can be used for local and long-distance moves – U-Haul has great deals for both local and long-distance moves.
• No licenses or permits are required – Other than needing your driver’s license, you won’t need to have any permits or any special licensing to drive or use a U-Haul, saving you time and money.

Cons

• Have to pay for miles and fuel – U-Haul does charge by the mile, and you also have to pay for your own fuel. If you have a long-distance move, that money can add up quickly.
• You have to drive – Part of driving a U-Haul is the actual driving part. These are bigger vehicles, and if that is something you aren’t used to, then it might get nerve-wracking, to say the least.
• Insurance can add up – If your auto and homeowners/renters' insurance doesn’t quite cover everything, then you will need to buy additional insurance from U-Haul for the move.

Cost: Pods and U-Haul

We set up a move to see what the cost difference would be for U-Haul and Pods. For a move from Houston, Texas to Long Beach, California it would cost us:

• U-Haul -
  • A 20’ truck would cost us $2,794.00 plus $175 for insurance came out to $2,974.00 NOT INCLUDING FUEL
  • A 26’ truck came out to total $3,354.00 NOT INCLUDING FUEL
• Pods -
  
  • For 3 Pod cubes, the total comes out to around $3,500

In being realistic, with moving 1,800 miles, most people cannot fuel up for $500 in order to save money. However, it does come down to convenience. It’s what you feel most comfortable with and what is most convenient to you since the cost doesn’t differ a whole lot.