U-Box is U-Haul’s versatile and convenient storage solution designed to simplify your moving and storage needs. With U-Box, you get the flexibility to store your belongings on your terms, whether you’re relocating, decluttering, or simply in need of temporary storage.
Our guide will cover the following:
- How much U-Box costs
- What affects the cost of U-Box
- How to save money on U-Box
- What’s involved in using U-Box
- How to know if U-Box is the best choice for you
- How to find and hire U-Box
U-Box containers are portable, secure, and delivered right to your doorstep, making the process of moving and storing your items hassle-free. If you think U-Box might have the solutions you need, keep reading to find out our top tips to save you money during your house move.
How Much Does U-Box Cost?
U-Box appeals to customers who value an all-in-one solution and are willing to invest in convenience.
U-Box provides a comprehensive package with an average container price of $3,700+, including not only the container but also vehicle hire and the box itself. The inclusion of these elements contributes to the higher price.
| Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Price per Box/Container | $100 |
| Delivery Charge per Box/Container | $99 |
| Moving Help | $40 |
| Insurance Coverage | $20 |
The base cost per box is $100, with a delivery charge per box/container being $99. If you want moving help – packing and loading – this can cost $40, and insurance for your belongings while they’re in storage costs $20.
For our cost comparison, we’ll be looking at different DIY vehicle hire and storage unit suppliers to compare and contrast their prices to give you a well-rounded idea of the kind of costs you’ll encounter when looking to hire moving services.
| Service Provider | Average Container/Vehicle Hire Price |
|---|---|
| PODS | $6,100+ |
| U-Pack | $3,000+ |
| 1-800-PACK-RAT | $3,000+ |
| zippyshell | $2,900+ |
| U-Haul | $3,500+ |
| SMARTBOX | $3,100+ |
| U-Box | $3,700+ (to include vehicle hire and box) |
The range of prices from other suppliers comes in at between $2,900 at the lowest, to $6,100+ at the highest end of the spectrum.
What Affects the Cost of U-Box?
There are four main factors that can affect the cost of U-Box storage – let’s take a closer look:
The size of the U-Box container you choose will directly impact the cost. Larger containers offer more space and storage capacity, but they may come at a higher price compared to smaller options.
To get the best value for money, be sure that you select the container size that best fits your belongings.
Storage Duration
The length of time you plan to use U-Box storage can influence the cost, with longer storage periods incurring higher charges than short-term rentals. To make the most of this, choose a plan that matches your timeline – but don’t be too optimistic, as additional duration add-ons can be expensive.
Delivery Location
The distance between the U-Box storage facility and your delivery location can affect the cost, and depending on the distance, delivery fees may vary. When you’re working out the overall cost of your hire, make sure to consider the location of the U-Box facility compared to your final destination.
Additional Services
U-Box offers various additional services, such as professional loading and unloading assistance, climate-controlled storage and insurance coverage. Opting for these services can impact the total cost of your U-Box experience, so it’s best to evaluate which services are essential for your needs and budget accordingly.
How Can I Save Money on U-Box?
Being strategic in your choices and customizing your U-Box experience to match your specific requirements can help you save money. Let’s take a closer look.
The number one factor in helping you save money is to simply select a U-Box container size that matches your storage needs. This means you should avoid renting a larger container than necessary, as this can lead to unnecessary expenses.
If possible, choose a storage duration that’s as short as possible, as shorter storage periods can help you avoid additional charges associated with longer rentals. Plan ahead and estimate how long you’ll require storage to optimize cost savings – but be sure not to over-estimate your efficiency as additional days of rental can easily add up.
Where possible, choose a U-Box storage facility that’s conveniently located to reduce delivery fees. Choosing a facility close to your home or destination can minimize transportation costs and make the overall storage experience more cost-effective.
Lastly, while U-Box offers various additional services, carefully consider which ones are essential for your situation. Opting for only the services you truly need can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and keep your overall costs in check.
What’s Involved in Hiring U-Box?
To begin with, you’ll select the U-Box container size that suits your storage needs and reserve it either online or by phone. Once your reservation is confirmed, U-Haul will deliver the U-Box container directly to your location.
Once it’s at your home, you can then take your time loading your belongings into the container at your convenience. After you’ve loaded the U-Box, U-Haul will collect it and transport it to the chosen storage facility or your specified destination.
If you require assistance with loading and unloading, U-Haul offers professional labor services to ensure a smooth process. Throughout the entire journey, your belongings remain secure within the U-Box container.
Is U-Box the Best Choice for Me?
There are so many options on the market when it comes to moving and storage solutions, so it can be hard to know which is right for you. Let’s look at the main pros and cons when considering U-Box hire.
| Advantages of U-Box | Disadvantages of U-Box |
|---|---|
| Flexibility over moving times and schedule | Labor-intensive - you have to load and unload yourself unless you add a labor add-on |
| Cheaper than traditional fully-serviced moving options | Availability - busy periods can lead to less availability |
| You can keep your eyes on your belongings during the moving procress | Longer hire times can become expensive |
The main advantage is the convenience it affords you – with traditional movers, you’ll need to load and unload on the same day, whereas U-Box gives you the flexibility to pack and unpack at your own pace.
However, there can be extra charges depending on how far your locations are from each other, and longer storage periods can quickly add up to become far more expensive than perhaps first thought.
How Do I Find and Hire a U-Box?
To get started, visit the U-Haul website to search for U-Box locations near you, entering your location and desired storage dates to view available options. Alternatively, you can call U-Haul’s customer service to inquire about U-Box availability and make a reservation over the phone.
Once you’ve selected a U-Box location and confirmed availability, you now need to choose the container size that suits your storage needs. Complete the reservation process by providing your contact information, payment details and any additional services you require.
When this is complete, U-Haul will send you a confirmation with the details of your U-Box reservation, and then, on the scheduled delivery day, U-Haul will deliver the U-Box container to your specified location. You can then load your belongings at your convenience.
Once you’ve finished loading, U-Haul will pick up the U-Box and transport it to the designated storage facility or your new destination.
Final Checklist
If you think hiring U-Box is the way to go, make sure you use our final checklist to ensure you’re not missing anything from your to-do list when the big day comes.
- Consider the pros and cons of U-Box – is the convenience worth the potential of inflexibility with available dates?
- Take a look at their add-ons and decide if any are right for you. Do you want help with manual labor and loading/unloading?
- Check to see if any extra costs are incurred with your two locations
- Pick a container that’s the right size for your belongings
- Book in and get everything ready for the big day!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is U-Box and How Does It Work?
U-Box is a portable storage solution that offers the convenience of delivered storage containers. You choose the container size, U-Haul delivers it to your location, and you load your belongings.
U-Haul then picks up the container for storage or transport.
How Do I Reserve a U-Box Container?
You can do it online through the U-Haul website or app by entering your location and preferred dates. Alternatively, you can call U-Haul’s customer service to make a reservation over the phone.
Can U-Box Containers Be Used for Long-Distance Moves?
Yes, U-Box containers are designed for both local and long-distance moves. You can load your belongings into the U-Box at your current location, and U-Haul will transport it to your destination, whether it’s across town or across the country.
Can I Access My U-Box While It’s in Storage?
Yes, you can access your U-Box while it’s in storage. Simply contact the U-Box facility to arrange for access.
Keep in mind that there may be certain procedures and fees associated with accessing your container during storage.
Can U-Haul Help with Loading and Unloading My U-Box?
Yes, U-Haul offers loading and unloading services for U-Box containers. If you need assistance with heavy lifting or packing, you can hire professional labor through U-Haul to help make the process smoother.
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