Shipping container moving companies provide portable storage solutions for long-distance relocations and temporary storage needs. These services deliver steel containers to your location, allow flexible loading periods, and transport your belongings via specialized trucking networks - typically costing 30-50% less than traditional movers.
Source: IBISWorld 2025 Report
| Step | Process | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Delivery | Container placed at your location | 1-3 business days |
| 2. Loading | You pack at your own pace | 1-30 days typically |
| 3. Transport | Company moves container to destination | 2-10 days (distance dependent) |
| 4. Unloading | Container delivered for unpacking | 1-3 business days |
| Feature | PODS | U-Haul | PACK-RAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Container Types | Fiberglass/steel | Wood/steel | All-steel |
| Storage Included | 30 days free | $100/month | 30 days free |
| Weight Limit | 4,500 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 5,200 lbs |
| Availability | 50 states | 48 states | 35 states |
| Distance | 1 Container | 2 Containers | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local (under 100mi) | $400-$900 | $700-$1,500 | 1-3 days |
| Regional (500mi) | $1,200-$2,500 | $2,000-$4,000 | 3-7 days |
| Cross-Country (3,000mi) | $2,500-$6,500 | $4,500-$10,000 | 7-14 days |
Storage Fees
$100-$300/mo
After free period expires
Packing Supplies
$200-$600
Boxes, padding, straps
Insurance
$100-$500
Full-value coverage
Based on 2025 market data, the most affordable options are:
- U-Haul U-Box: $1,500-$5,000 cross-country
- Zippy Shell: $1,800-$5,500
- PODS: $2,000-$7,000
Key factors affecting price:
• Distance (mileage is biggest cost driver)
• Season (summer 20-30% more expensive)
• Container size (8ft vs 16ft)
• Storage time (free periods vary)
Typical 2025 shipping container moving costs:
- Local moves (under 100 miles): $400-$900
- Regional (500 miles): $1,200-$2,500
- Cross-country (3,000 miles): $2,500-$6,500
Price includes:
• Container delivery/pickup
• Transportation
• 1 month storage (typically)
Get exact quotes at:
PODS Quote Tool |
U-Haul Calculator
Transporting a 40ft container requires:
1. Professional Service: Hire specialized container movers ($2-$5/mile)
2. Equipment: Flatbed truck with container chassis
3. Permits: Oversize load permits if exceeding standard dimensions
4. Route Planning: Avoid low bridges/overpasses (need 14ft clearance)
5. Loading/Unloading: Requires crane or forklift ($500-$1,500 per lift)
Key considerations:
• Empty weight: 8,000 lbs
• Maximum payload: 59,000 lbs (check local regulations)
• CDL required for commercial transport
The top-rated 2025 container movers based on customer reviews:
- Best Overall: PODS (4.8/5 stars)
• Nationwide availability
• Most container size options
- Most Affordable: U-Haul U-Box (4.5/5 stars)
• Lowest prices
• 48-state coverage
- Premium Option: 1-800-PACK-RAT (4.7/5 stars)
• All-steel construction
• Best weather protection
Compare companies at:
Moving.com Ratings