Top 4 movers and storage providers for hassle-free relocation

The industry of movers and storage providers is among the biggest in the country. Most companies that once provided only one of these services have now evolved to provide hybrid packages that make the lives of relocating homeowners a lot easier. Providers of such services are referred to as pod companies. Whether you’re moving out or looking for a safe storage space while in transit, here are the top service providers that reasonably fit the budget.

PODS
Portable on Demand Storage, commonly known as PODS, is one of the leading movers and storage providers in the country. Unlike other companies offering only one container size, PODS offers a variety of options on the basis of your needs. You can choose from 7-, 12-, and 16-Foot Containers to move or store household items ranging from small furniture to heavy appliances.

PODS offers its storage and moving services in all states except for Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming. We recommend making a booking in advance, especially if you’re planning on booking multiple 7-Foot Containers or one of the 12- or 16-Foot Containers. Most customer reviews emphasize on PODS being the best movers and storage providers for short distances.

The pricing for hiring PODS for services within 150 miles is around $1200. For distances under 500 miles, the charges come to around $2100. The quotes offered usually cost less than that of the industry average.

1-800-PACK-RAT
Among all movers and storage providers, this one offers the best discounts. This brand boasts state-of-the-art storage facilities with 24/7 surveillance, car-accessible warehouses, and even climate control. 1-800-PACK-RAT offers 8-, 12-, and 16-foot Container that can accommodate household items equivalent to 2, 3, and 4 rooms, respectively.

With their country-wide service, 1-800-PACK-RAT offers containers constructed from steel frames and walls that can protect your belongings from harsh conditions. One of the biggest advantages the containers provide is that their doors open barn-style instead of rolling up. Barn-style doors do not take up any interior space and are not prone to jamming, unlike roll-up doors.

The price for moving locally with 1-800-PACK-RAT can be anywhere between $150 and $800. Moving less than 250 miles can cost between $450 and $3500, while cross-country moving rages between $1200 and $7000. Price can vary owing to distance covered, number of belongings, and discount provided.

U-Haul
It is one of the oldest moving and storage companies that offer the combination of both, truck rental and moving portable moving service. The typical U-Box Container has the capacity to fit the contents of a studio apartment. And unlike other storage and moving companies, U-haul lets you choose from their trailers of varying sizes. Based on the items that need to be moved, once can choose from Cargo, Utility, and Car/Motorcycle Trailers for easy and convenient local or cross country transport.

If you’re looking to store your belongings temporarily, U-Haul also offers self-storage units on rent. The company offers storage containers of various sizes to fit every customer’s needs. Their small storage unit measures about 50 sq. ft. and is ideal for storing extracurricular gears such as bikes, fishing gear, skis, and other home appliances. The medium storage unit measures 150 sq. ft. and can store belongings from a small home apartment and their largest storage unit measures more than 200 sq. ft. and can store entire furniture and appliances if packed properly. You also get to choose from climate controlled and drive up storage.

With countrywide services, U-Haul charges anywhere from $100 to $800 for moving locally. The average price for moving less than 250 miles can cost anywhere from $800 to $2500, while cross-country transportation ranges from $900 to $3500.

Zippy Shell
Relatively new in the storage and moving business, Zippy Shell is known for its innovative metal-cage containers. This mover and storage provider is ideal for the contents of small as well as 2-3 bedroom apartments. They offer containers of 10 and 15 feet, which are suitable for both moving locally and interstate.

They also offer storage options if you planning to move your belongings to the new location in advance. Being relatively new to the industry, these movers and storage providers offer services in selected locations. Storage and moving locally with Zippy Shell can cost anywhere from $200 to $800. Transporting within 250 miles can cost anywhere from $500 to $3500, and cross country transportation can cost up to $7000 depending on the number of Zippy “Shells” (containers) and the location.