Moving Container Discounts Guide

Here’s how to score the best deals for your needs

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Edited by: Kara Fields
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Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin
PODS
A couple sitting at a table with a laptop and notepad, surrounded by moving boxes in a home setting.

Moving container companies offer discounts ranging from 10% to 25% off delivery, storage and transit fees. Savings come through promo codes, membership programs and special eligibility categories such as military service.


Key insights

As of publishing, PODS and 1-800-PACK-RAT advertise up to 25% off for new customers, while Costco Executive Members can save up to 20% on PODS containers.

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Promo codes must be mentioned at booking and typically cannot be combined with other offers; restrictions vary by location and move type.

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Storage bundles offering three, six or 12 months of commitment can unlock free delivery, free re-delivery and monthly rate discounts up to 25%.

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Moving container discounts available now

Moving container companies often adjust their pricing based on seasonal demand. Because spring and summer are peak moving periods, you’re more likely to secure significant savings by booking your moving container during the off-season, typically between October and April.

Many providers offer promotional rates, though most require a promo code and an online reservation. Keep in mind that certain deals are specialized; PODS and UNITS Moving and Portable Storage often focus discounts on long-term rentals (three months or more), for example, while 1-800-PACK-RAT tends to offer price cuts on all container sizes.

Common discount types include:

  • Long-term rental fees: PODS offers 25% off monthly storage fees for bookings lasting six months or longer.
  • First-month specials: 1-800-PACK-RAT, UNITS and Zippy Shell frequently provide a discount applied exclusively to the first month’s rent.
  • Delivery waivers: PODS and UNITS may reduce or waive delivery fees, which typically range from $60 to more than $100, depending on unit size and location.

Moving container promo codes

To ensure that your savings apply, be sure to mention any promo codes upfront when requesting a quote or finalizing your booking. Most companies require this in their terms and conditions. While these offers are usually time-sensitive, moving container companies frequently run promotions, particularly during the off-season.

If you find that a code has expired, it can be worth calling a customer service representative to see if they’ll still honor the deal or provide a comparable discount. They often can provide exclusive, "book-now" discounts that may not be listed publicly.

PODS promo codes and terms

As of publishing, current promo codes for PODS include:

  • 3MOSPECIAL: Up to 15% off three months of storage plus free delivery
  • 6MOSPECIAL: Up to 15% off six months of storage, plus free delivery and one free re-delivery from the storage facility
  • 12MOSPECIAL: Up to 25% off 12 months of storage, plus free delivery and two free re-deliveries from the storage facility

It’s important to note that discounts may only apply to local moves (under 20 miles) within the area of the same storage center.

1-800-PACK-RAT and Zippy Shell promo codes

While 1-800-PACK-RAT and Zippy Shell share a parent company, they operate as distinct brands with location-specific discounts. For instance, using code SAVE25 with 1-800-PACK-RAT takes up to 25% off your first month’s rent for any container size. Meanwhile, Zippy Shell offers a 50% discount to customers who request a quote and book their rental online.

UNITS deals

UNITS offers online promotions that apply automatically, with no promo code required. To secure a discounted rate on your first month of storage, simply request a quote and provide your specific storage details.

Third-party deal sites cautions

While there are third-party sites that provide promo codes, these codes may have expired by the time you see them, or they may not be valid in your particular location. For the most accurate savings, start by checking the moving container company’s official website for current promotions. You can also request an online quote and then speak directly with a representative.

Moving container membership and military discounts

Many moving container companies partner with other organizations to provide exclusive discounts for their members or customers. It’s often helpful to search your specific membership portals or loyalty program websites to find these deals.

Costco Executive member savings

Costco Executive members can access an exclusive PODS discount of up to 20% off monthly rentals and transit fees with a minimum two-month storage commitment. This membership perk also includes free initial delivery and up to four complimentary re-deliveries within a 12-month period.

Military and first responder discounts

While PODS, Zippy Shell and 1-800-PACK-RAT all provide military discounts of up to 10%, UNITS also offers savings for service members that you can access by calling for a custom quote. You may need to provide proof of military status before receiving a discount.

1-800-PACK-RAT also offers a 10% discount to first responders, teachers, medical professionals and senior adults. PODS, Zippy Shell and UNITS do not appear to offer these specific deals at the time of publishing.

Referral discounts and gift cards

As of publishing, PODS offers a $50 Amazon.com gift card for every referred friend who successfully books and takes delivery of a storage container. Other moving container companies may offer similar referral incentives from time to time.

Moving container storage deals and bundles

Securing the best rate on moving containers and storage often comes down to committing to a bundle, typically for three months or more. These long-term agreements frequently include perks such as free delivery, which can save you $100 or more upfront.

When comparing moving container providers, align your choice with your specific timeline. If you’re certain you need storage for six months, committing early usually unlocks the deepest discounts. However, be cautious; if you cancel your contract early, you may be required to pay back the delivery and re-delivery fees you initially saved. 

Always review the fine print before signing an agreement. Bundle discounts often exclude long-distance moves or may incur "extended delivery charges" if you are more than 20 miles from a service center.

Key deal terms to verify before committing include:

  • Free delivery rules: Confirm whether there’s a maximum mileage limit for the initial drop off.
  • Free re-delivery limits: Check whether the company restricts how many times you can access your unit per year at no additional cost.
  • Storage commitment length: Ensure that you can meet at least the minimum duration to qualify for the discount.
  • Extended delivery fees: Look for extra charges if your location is outside a standard service radius (e.g., 20-plus miles).
  • Long-distance exclusions: Verify whether bundle deals apply to interstate or long-distance moves, if this applies to your situation.
  • Non-combinable clauses: Determine whether specific promotions (such as a "first month free" deal) prevent you from stacking them with other discounts.
  • New customer limits: Confirm whether the deal is strictly for first-time customers.
  • Cancellation fees: Check for penalties or "clawback" charges if you end your contract before the committed term.

FAQ

How do I get the best deal on a moving container?

To secure the best rate on a moving container, gather quotes from several container rental companies. Once you have multiple estimates, call your preferred provider to see if it will beat a competitor's price in exchange for an immediate booking.

Can I combine multiple moving container discounts?

While some providers may allow you to apply multiple savings offers, companies such as PODS and UNITS generally do not permit discount stacking. Before booking, check the offer terms to see whether you can combine promo codes.

Do moving container companies offer senior discounts?

Yes, some companies, such as 1-800-PACK-RAT, offer discounts to seniors. Even if a deal isn't advertised, it can be worth calling to ask a representative about available savings.

What's included in free delivery offers?

Free delivery deals typically cover the initial moving container drop off. Some promotions may also include free re-delivery from a storage facility; check the terms to see exactly which services are included.


Article sources

ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:​

  1. Move.org, "How to Save Money on Your Container Move." Accessed April 1, 2026.
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