U-Pack is better suited for long-distance, self-service moves where you handle the packing and loading, and want transparent pricing with included equipment. HireAHelper is ideal for those needing assistance with loading and unloading, offering a platform to connect with moving crews, but requires you to provide packing supplies.
| Attribute | U-Pack | HireAHelper |
|---|---|---|
| Service Area Coverage | All 50 states, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Over 240 service centers across the U.S. Specializes in long-distance moves (over 100 miles). Not available for local moves. | Operates in all 50 states. |
| Pricing Structure | Based on the number of ReloCubes or linear footage used in a trailer. Instant online quotes for most long-distance interstate moves. Quotes include equipment, transportation, fuel, and standard liability coverage. No additional charges for taxes or tolls, and no deposit required. | Instant quotes and transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Movers set their own hourly rates, which vary based on location, competition, size of the move, distance, date, and any specialty items. Rates are approximately $100 to $150 per hour. Charges a service fee to both the customer and the service provider. Does not accept cash or checks. |
| Transit Time | Typically between two to five business days. Guaranteed delivery options available for an additional fee. | Not available |
| Insurance Options | Includes catastrophic liability coverage ($3 per pound per piece, up to $60,000 per trailer and $7,500 per ReloCube for fire, overturn, collision, or theft) and carrier negligence liability coverage ($0.10 per pound per piece for loss or damage caused by carrier negligence). Additional coverage can be purchased. | Standard Repair Coverage: Included for free, covering $.60 per pound up to $10,000. This covers goods while being handled by movers and goods in transit in a storage container or rental truck if you hire movers through HireAHelper for both loading and unloading. Not available for same-day orders. Full Value Coverage: Available for purchase through MovingInsurance.com for labor-only movers with an average rating of 4.5 stars or better. Rates start at $12 per $1,000 of coverage. Customers must fill out an inventory sheet to qualify. This covers goods while being handled by the movers and goods while in transit in a storage container, as well as trucks if 26' or under if the container/truck is loaded and unloaded by movers hired via the HireAHelper marketplace. This insurance does not cover goods while in transit in a freight trailer. Full Value Insurance policies are not available on Mover + Truck services or same-day and next-day orders. All policies must be finalized with MovingInsurance.com at least 48 hours before the move date. |
| Storage Options | Storage in ReloCube containers or moving trailers. Available in most service areas based on equipment availability. Store items in ReloCubes for as long as needed or in a moving trailer for up to 120 days. Storage costs are billed every 30 days, starting when the shipment arrives at the service center. ReloCubes cannot be kept on your property for on-site storage. | Can assist with loading and unloading into storage containers. |
| Customer Service Responsiveness | Many customers complimented the professionalism and helpfulness of U-Pack's customer service representatives. Local dispatchers are generally prompt and helpful. | Customer service is available seven days a week via phone, email, and social media. Has a brick-and-mortar office where you can reach real people. If you have a problem, HireAHelper will have you try to solve it with the moving company first. If that doesn't work, it steps in to resolve issues, and it may even grant full refunds if items are damaged or if pickup or delivery goes awry. |
| Loading and Unloading Options | Self-service moving company. Customers are responsible for packing, loading, and unloading belongings. Third-party services can be hired for loading and unloading assistance. | Specializes in connecting customers with moving crews for loading and unloading services. Can help load and unload moving trucks, storage containers, and freight trailers. |
| Equipment Provided | ReloCubes (approximately 6 feet long, 7 feet wide, and 8 feet tall) and 28-foot moving trailers (minimum of 5 linear feet must be used). | Connects you with movers, but you will need to provide packing supplies. |
| Cancellation Policy | No fee if cancelled more than seven days before the scheduled move date. $50 fee if cancelled within seven days of the move. $150 fee for same-day cancellation. | You can cancel at no charge up to 48 hours before your job start time. If you cancel within 24 hours, you'll be charged for at least one hour of labor. Canceling within 1 hour before the job will result in your Helper charging you the full price of the move. |
| Liability Coverage | Basic quote includes limited liability coverage (catastrophic liability and carrier negligence liability). Customers are responsible for damage due to improper packing and loading. | If you are booking Movers + Truck through HireAHelper, all of those movers have verified Full Service Moving License and Commercial Liability. |
| Tracking Options | Online shipment tracking available. | Not available |
| Payment Options | Accepts credit cards, debit cards, and PayPal. Partners with Affirm to offer financing options. Card on file required, but not charged until equipment is picked up and in transit. | Uses secure, escrowed payments. Accepts Visa, Mastercard, Amex, and Discover. Your card is charged one day before the job date. The funds are held in an escrow account until the move is completed. Movers aren't paid until after the job is done. |