Considering renting a portable storage container to aid in your next move? Good choice! Storage containers – like U-Box® containers – provide unmatched flexibility and convenience. Keep them at home, ship them across the country, or store them at a self-storage facility – whatever you need.
However, we understand that cost is a factor, and that's why you're doing your research. In the case of renting a portable storage container, the cost varies based on factors like number of containers you need, length of the rental period, shipping distance, pick up/drop off location(s), and more.
To help you get a better idea of how much it might cost you to rent a portable storage container from U-Haul, use this guide to learn more about available options and how our pricing works.
Ready for a quote?
For an instant quote, visit the U-Box containers page. If you’re not ready to check out, save your quote for when the time is right.
What is a Portable Storage Container?
Portable storage containers, also known as portable moving containers, are spacious wooden or metal cubes that are designed for storing and moving your belongings. These containers usually come with a roll-up or swinging door that can be locked from the outside. They’re also highly durable and weatherproof, making them an excellent choice for all your residential moving and storage needs.
One U-Box container fits about one room of stuff
How Do Portable Storage Containers Work?
Your container will be delivered to your home on the scheduled day. You pack it up at your convenience. Once you're finished, the moving company will pick it up and ship it to its destination. Alternatively, you can store your container on your property or at a storage facility for as long as you want.
Renting a portable storage container can be a do-it-yourself task, but many companies offer loading services as well. For example, U-Box containers come with optional loading services powered by Moving Help® service providers, in addition to delivery to your doorstep and worldwide shipping.
Naturally, the inclusion of added services will affect the overall cost. The cost of loading services depends on the number of containers reserved and other factors while delivery fees can be as low as $99. However, if you opt for the do-it-yourself approach and choose self-delivery/pick up and load it yourself, there will be no additional cost. Learn more about our delivery and access options.
How Big is a Storage Container?
Sizes typically range from around 8 to 16 feet long for residential containers. Commercial containers can be 40 feet long. Keep in mind that the larger the container, the higher the cost.
U-Box containers are a convenient size of 95” x 56” x 83.5”, providing 257 cubic feet of storage – large enough to fit about a room or a room and a half of common household items. If you find yourself with extra containers, you’ll be refunded for any you don’t use (perfect if you’re on a tight budget).
How Much Does a Portable Storage Container Cost?
The million-dollar question. How much does a portable storage container cost? Luckily, it’s not actually a million dollars. U-Box portable storage containers can range from about $70 - $110 per month, but the price fluctuates a lot if you use it for a long period of time or ship it a long distance (like across the country). The good news is, according to Bob Vila, U-Box containers are typically more affordable than noteworthy competitors.
To give you a better idea, here is how much a U-Box portable container costs broken down by type of move:*
| Type of Move | Cost |
| Local (about 30 miles or less) | $90 - $336 |
| Regional (375 - 1,000 miles) | $713 - $1,710 |
| Long Distance (1,800 miles or more) | $1,447 - $2,079 |
| Just Storage | As low as $90 per month |
*Estimates include a single U-Box container, gentle ride shipping, and 30 days of usage. Rates are subject to change. For an exact quote, visit the U-Box container page.
Additional Costs and Variables
- Delivery fees
- Moving Help loading
- Number of containers
- Length of rental period
- Insurance ($18 to $40 per month based on coverage amount)
- Zip code
How to Save Money on U-Box Portable Storage Containers
We all want to save money where we can. Luckily, U-Box containers offer several ways you can save on your next move, including:
Self-Delivery – You pick up your containers from the facility and bring them to your home using your own vehicle. This option is free (assuming you have the correct equipment for towing).
Load/Unload at a U-Haul Facility – Keep your U-Box containers at a U-Haul facility where you can load and unload them as needed instead of having them delivered to your home. This option is also free.
Transport Your Containers Yourself – On local moves (less than 50 miles), you can avoid delivery fees and haul your containers yourself. Again, this is assuming you have the correct towing equipment.
Start a U-Box Container Quote Today
As you can see portable storage container costs are relatively affordable. However, the cost is heavily dependent on your personal needs. Hopefully this guide provided some insight into the process and helped you decide what’s best for you.
When you’re ready, start a U-Box container quote . Even if you don’t need it right away, you can always save your quote and come back when it’s moving time.
