To put it briefly: PODS Moving and Storage is a renowned container moving company, with costs ranging from $220 to $870 for local moves and $498 to $7,792 for long-distance moves. These are average costs; your actual PODS cost may vary depending on factors such as the size of your move and the number of times your container needs to be moved.
If you’re looking for ways to save on moving costs, PODS might be a reliable option. However, before making an informed decision, here is a comprehensive breakdown of PODS costs.
For a direct and quick estimate, click here.
What Exactly is PODS and How it Works?
PODS (Portable On Demand Storage) is a company that provides portable storage containers designed for both moving and storage purposes. They provide containers that can be delivered to your location, allowing you to pack at your own pace.
Just a heads-up: PODS doesn’t offer any moving assistance. They are all about providing the container, not the actual moving help. So, you and your friends or family will need to handle loading up the container yourselves.
Here’s how PODS works:
Get it and Load it: First, you schedule a delivery with PODS, and they drop off a storage container right at your doorstep. You load it up at your own pace—there's no need to rush. Just pack up your belongings and get them ready
Keep it: Once your container is packed, you can keep it on your property if you are moving locally. It’s all about convenience and flexibility, so you’re not stuck with a tight timeline.
Store it: If you need a bit more time or don’t want the container taking up space, PODS can take it to one of their secure storage facilities. Your stuff stays safe and sound until you’re ready for the next move.
Move it: PODS will transport your container to your new address. Whether you are moving locally or across the country, they will get your belongings to your desired location, making your move smooth and stress-free.
What Services Can You Get from PODS?
PODS offers a range of services designed to make moving and storage as hassle-free as possible. Here’s a quick overview of what they provide:
- Portable Storage Containers: Whether you are moving locally or long-distance, you can choose from various container sizes to fit your needs.
- Local Moving: PODS can help with local moves by delivering and picking up your container from different locations within your area.
- Long-Distance Moving: If you are relocating further away, PODS handles long-distance transport of your container to your new address.
- Storage Solutions: If you need temporary storage, PODS can keep your container at one of their secure facilities until you are ready to move it again.
- Packing Supplies: They also offer packing supplies like boxes, tape, and bubble wrap to make your packing process smoother.
About 9 out of 10 customers say they are really satisfied with how easy and convenient it is to use PODS for their move.
How Much Does PODS Moving Cost?
PODS Moving and Storage has a different business model compared to other moving companies, which naturally leads to the question: “How much does PODS moving cost?”
According to its own website, the average cost of PODS moving ranges from $220 to $870 for local moves and $498 to $7,792 for long-distance moves. PODS also offer storage facilities that start from $99 to $149 per month.
However, PODS pricing is primarily based on factors such as the size of the container, the distance of the move, and your moving timeline. This is why PODS moving costs can vary. To get a more accurate estimate, we recommend requesting a free quote.
Bonus Tip: Book your move through My Good Movers and save up to 20%.
Here is a detailed cost breakdown of PODS moving by distance:
| Distance (miles) | Average PODS moving cost |
|---|---|
| 100 miles | $246 – $562 |
| 100 – 300 | $799 – $2,486 |
| 300 – 500 | $2,059 – $3,199 |
| 500 – 1,000 | $2,498 – $4,550 |
| 1,000 – 1,500 | $2,999 – $6,199 |
| More than 1,500 | $4,492 – $8,119 |
PODS Local Moving Cost
For local moves under 100 miles, you can expect PODS containers to cost between $246 and $562, or even more. The price varies based on where you're moving, how far you're going, and the size of the container. This price covers both the delivery and pickup of your container plus 30 days of storage.
PODS Long-Distance Moving Cost
For long-distance moves, PODS typically costs between $2,059 and $7,792, depending on factors like distance, container size, and the number of containers needed. If you are moving across the country, expect costs to be on the higher end of that range.
More than 85% of people who use PODS for long-distance moves save at least 10% compared to traditional moving companies.
For shorter long-distance moves, between 100 and 500 miles, prices usually range from $498 to $3,199. Even though it's a shorter distance, it still falls under PODS' long-distance moving services.
| Distance | 1 Bedroom | 2-3 Bedroom | 4-5 Bedrooms |
|---|---|---|---|
| 250 miles | $459 – $845 | $765 – $1,880 | $765 – $1,880 |
| Cross country | $2,349 – $3,968 | $2,349 – $3,968 | $2,349 – $3,968 |
PODS Container Size Pricing
PODS has three container sizes: 8 feet, 12 feet, and 16 feet long. Naturally, the cost varies depending on the container size you choose. The bigger the container, the higher the cost of your move.
| Size & Length | Details | Delivery $ Pickup fees | First Month Rental |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small – 8 foot | Best for a room or studio and is comparable to a 5'x10' storage unit. | $85.99 | $149.99 |
| Medium – 12 foot | Best for a 1-bedroom home and comparable 10'x10' storage unit. | $85.99 | $195.99 |
| Large – 16-foot | Best for a 2-bedroom home and Comparable to a 10'15' storage unit. | $85.99 | $205.99 |
PODS Storage Cost
PODS storage costs range from $99 to $149 per month per container. The price depends on factors like where you're storing the container, how long you need it, and the container size. If you are keeping the container in your driveway, it might be a bit cheaper than storing it in a PODS indoor facility. Plus, delivery and pick-up each cost $79.
About 78% of PODS customers choose to rent their containers for 3 months or less.
If you're curious about whether you can use a container as a storage unit, click here.
PODS Moving Supplies
PODS also provides extra packing and moving supplies for an additional fee. They offer items like boxes, bubble wraps, stretch wraps, mattress bags, and moving blankets.
Check out the table below for the prices of these supplies.
| Moving / packing item | Price |
|---|---|
| Moving boxes (medium) | $40 per bundle of 20 |
| Moving boxes (large) | $42 per bundle of 12 |
| Moving blankets | $28 – $73 per bundle of 12 |
| Mattress & chair covers | $11 – $12 |
| Stretch wrap | $15 – $27 |
| Bubble wrap | $24 (1'x60' roll) |
| Padlock | $13 |
Additional Fees
There are a few extra fees you might encounter with PODS:
- Delivery and Pick-Up: You will pay between $75 and $150 each way.
- Insurance: PODS offers insurance plans for their containers, ranging from $10 to $448 per month. The cost depends on what’s inside the container.
- Seasonal Charges: Expect higher moving costs during peak times, like summer and the holidays.
Factors Affecting the PODS Moving Cost
When calculating your move's price, PODS consider several factors. Here are a few of the things they consider before giving you a quote:
- Container Size: The size of the container you choose can impact the cost. Larger containers generally cost more.
- Distance of the Move: Longer distances usually result in higher costs. Local moves are typically less expensive than long-distance relocations.
- Number of Containers: If you need multiple containers for your move, it will increase the overall cost.
- Storage Duration: The length of time you need to store your container can affect the price. Longer storage periods will cost more.
- Location: Costs can vary depending on your location, with prices often being higher in urban areas or regions with high demand.
PODS Moving Cost vs. Other Moving Companies
In comparison, hiring professional movers for a long-distance move typically costs between $1,245 and $9,620 on average, while local moves range from $859 to $2,965. The final estimate depends on factors like the size of your home, your location, and the distance of the move. Professional movers include loading and unloading your belongings in their fee, whereas PODS charges extra for those services.
If you are considering renting a moving truck, expect to pay around $30 to $130 per day for local moves or $200 to $500 per day for long-distance moves.
| Moving Method | Average Local Move Cost | Average Long-Distance Move Cost |
|---|---|---|
| PODS moving container | $220 to $870 | $2,059 and $7,792 |
| Professional movers | $659 – $1,466 | $3,000 – $9,499 |
| Moving truck rental / DIY | $30 to $130 per day | $1,000 – $3,500 (plus fuel costs) |
Tips to Reduce PODS Moving Cost
If you’re looking to save on your PODS moving costs, there are several strategies you can use.
- Choose the Right Container Size: Go for the smallest container that fits your needs to avoid paying for extra space. Downsizing or packing efficiently can help you save money.
- Limit Storage Time: Minimize the amount of time your container stays in storage. The longer you keep it, the more you will pay.
- Pack Yourself: Save on labor costs by packing your belongings yourself. Avoid additional fees for PODS’ packing and loading services by handling it with friends or family.
- Schedule During Off-Peak Times: Moving costs can be higher during peak seasons, like summer or holidays. Schedule your move during less busy times to take advantage of lower rates.
- Compare Quotes and Services: Request quotes from multiple PODS locations and compare their rates. Also, check if there are any promotions or discounts available to reduce your costs further.
Benefits of Using PODS – Is It Worth It?
Using PODS for your moving and storage needs offers several advantages that can make the process more convenient and efficient.
- Flexibility: PODS allows you to pack and move at your own pace. You can take your time loading and unloading the container without the pressure of a tight moving schedule.
- Convenience: The container is delivered directly to your doorstep, eliminating the need to drive a rental truck. This can simplify your move and reduce stress.
- Cost-Effective: For many, PODS can be more affordable compared to full-service moving companies, especially if you handle the packing and loading yourself.
- Secure Storage: If you need to store your belongings temporarily, PODS offers secure storage options at their facilities.
- Ease of Access: With PODS, you can easily access your container for packing or unpacking whenever you need. This flexibility is especially useful if you’re moving in stages.
- Nationwide Availability: PODS operates in many locations across the
