1-800-PACK-RAT Cost and Services Review

If you’re looking for moving services then you’ve probably come across 1-800-PACK-RAT, a moving and storage provider that offers options for both local and long distance moves. 1-800-PACK-RAT specializes in portable storage containers, which are growing in popularity as one of the most popular—and affordable—moving and storage solutions. Similar to PODS, SMARTBOX, and U-Pack, 1-800-PAT-RACK allows you to rent a large container, fill it up with your stuff, and then have it shipped to your new home or stored for a set period of time. This type of service can be a good alternative to hiring full-service movers, especially if you’re trying to save some money on your relocation.

While the services offered by 1-800-PAT-RACK are similar to its competitors, there are still differentiating factors that you should consider when deciding whether it’s the right moving and storage provider for your needs. To help you out, we’ve put together this quick guide to 1-800-PACK-RAT, including pricing, size options, and what sets its apart from the competition.

1-800-PACK-RAT: The Basics

Founded in 2003, 1-800-PACK-RAT is one of the leading moving and storage container companies, growing from three to fifty locations in its first two years and now offering locations in 30 states. One of their key defining features is a commitment to discounts and deals, with regular promotions that make it easy to save money on service. And while it’s not always the cheapest option upfront when it comes to portable storage and moving containers, these discounts can help offset the cost so that you end up saving more than you would with another provider.

If you don’t feel like paying for a bigger storage container than you need (and why would you?), then you’ll be glad to know that 1-800-PACK-RAT offers three different sizes. The company is also partnered with Lowe’s Home Improvement and many Lowe’s stores keep 1-800-PACK-RAT containers on sight, so you can see exactly what they look like before you commit—or you can use their online space calculator to determine what you’ll need.

Can’t find a 1-800-PACK-RAT location near you? You’re still in luck. The company says they service 97% of the country and are willing to do what they can to ensure you have access. That’s good news if you live somewhere remote or simply don’t have a nearby facility, though it might cost you more for pick-up or delivery to a non-central site.

What 1-800-PACK-RAT Offers

With 1-800-PACK-RAT, you can choose from one of four options for your moving and storage container:

    • Store it at your home
    • Store it at a 1-800-PACK-RAT warehouse
    • Ship it locally
    • Ship it long distance

    Other services include auto transport and full-service capabilities if you need help loading or unloading your portable container.

    These service options are great for storage and local and long distance moves for general consumers, as well as for corporate relocations and storage. It’s also a good solution if you need to clear out room in your house during a renovation project, since you can store your container right in your driveway.

    1-800-PACK-RAT Pros

    If you’re looking for a portable storage and moving company that can do it all and give you a discount in the process, then 1-800-PACK-RAT could be a great choice. Here are some of the special features that help this provider stay ahead in the industry.

    Secure storage containers. All 1-800-PACK-RAT portable moving and storage containers are made of steel and are completely weatherproof, which means you won’t have to worry about moisture or rodents damaging your belongings while they’re in storage.

    Local and long distance moving services. Wherever you’re going, your storage container can meet you there. 1-800-PACK-RAT’s moving services include both local and long distance moves, and since they do pick-ups and deliveries seven days a week you can be sure they’ll work around your schedule—and not the other way around. Another bonus: you get 30 days of free on-site or warehouse storage with moving services, which is a steal if you’re not going immediately to your new home.

    Ample discounts. 1-800-PACK-RAT isn’t stingy when it comes to discounts. In addition to regularly offering promotions for college students, members of the military, first responders, teachers, medical workers, and seniors, you can almost always score some type of discount when you call to book your service. They’re not usually posted online though, so be sure to call and ask about specials.

    Best price guarantees. According to their website, if you find a lower price for the same service with another provider, 1-800-PACK-RAT will beat it. Note however that this perk does not apply in the state of North Carolina.

    1-800-PACK-RAT Container Sizes

    You have your choice of three different container sizes with 1-800-PACK-RAT, and you can mix and match sizes to ensure you get the right amount of space for your stuff.

    8-foot container – The size of an 8’ x 8’ storage room. Provides 404 cubic feet of space and can accommodate one to two rooms of furniture.

    12-foot container – The size of a 10’ x 10’ storage room. Provides 620 cubic feet of space and can accommodate two to three rooms of furniture.

    16-foot container – The size of a 10’ x 15’ storage room. Provides 830 cubic feet of space and can accommodate three to four rooms of furniture.

    How Much Does 1-800-PACK-RAT Cost?

    Your total cost to rent through 1-800-PACK-RAT depends on a couple of things, including what type of service you need and how many containers you’re renting, as well as the location and availability nearest to you. That being said, here’s a general idea of what you can expect to spend:

    Local Move
    About $150 to $790 depending on how many containers you need, with 30 days included to pack.

    Long Distance Moves
    About $465 to $6,900 depending on how many containers you need and the total distance of your move.

    Storage
    We were quoted $81.99 for an initial delivery fee per container, plus a monthly storage cost of $186.99 per container. Prices remained consistent whether or not containers were stored at a PACK-RAT warehouse facility.

    Prices may vary depending on where you live, so be sure to run a quote when doing your research to see if it’s a good fit for your budget.

    What About Insurance?

    Long distance moves with 1-800-PACK-RAT include up to $10,000 in content protection while the container is in transport. Local moves and storage options do not include coverage, nor is it available for purchase. Unfortunately, many homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies do not cover belongings when they’re in portable storage and moving containers, so you’ll have to decide whether the lack of coverage is a dealbreaker or not.

    How to Book a PACK-RAT Portable Storage Unit

    To get more information or book your rental, start at 1800PackRat.com. Some services (such as long-distance moves) must be booked over the phone.

    On the website, you’ll be able to get the quote for your rental, which will include a breakdown of costs right on the page. You can also give them a call directly at 1-800-722-5728. We recommend calling them regardless of whether you intend to book online, since you may be able to snag a discount.

    There is no charge if you cancel your booking up to 48 hours in advance of service. If you cancel later than that though you will be charged a relatively high fee, so be sure to cancel in advance if you know that you need to.