PODS Moving Cost: Factors, Pricing, and Budgeting (2024)

While moving can be daunting, PODS makes the process of moving a whole lot easier. In this article, we review the costs associated with moving through PODS-from the various factors that dictate pricing to container sizes and how you should budget for your move. Since PODS offers flexibility and ease, knowing what to expect out of the costs associated will give you an educated decision to make for your next move.

How Much Does PODS Cost?

The cost of PODS moving varies widely for the following reasons: the distance of the move, size of the container, and extra required services. Knowing what these variables are can help you estimate your total moving expenses.

• Local Moves: Those would fall under the category of under 100 miles and cost in the range of $300 to $600. For that price, it would cover delivery, pickup, and a month of storage. For example, moving from a small apartment to a home not too far away using the standard 12-foot container, one could expect a price in the area of $400. In general, the local moves will be cheaper because less transportation time and fuel are used.
• Long-Distance Moves: Long-distance moves range in prices from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the distance and the size of the container. Moving costs, especially, can reach as high as the higher end of the estimate for distances above 1,500 miles. As such, families moving from New York to California may be well on the higher side of that estimate, given the large distance involved and additional storage they might require.

How Do PODs Work?

PODS provides a flexible moving solution by making a storage container delivery at your location. Here's how it works:

• Delivery: The customer will schedule a delivery date, after which PODS drops off the container at your location. It could be your current home, temporary residence, or even a business location.
• Packing: You can pack the container anytime, at your pace, to take all the time to fit in whatever you may need. As a matter of fact, this flexibility turns out to be more helpful for families or any individuals that happen to have busy schedules.
• Transportation: Once you’re ready, PODS will transport the container to your new home or a secure storage facility. This step is crucial for long-distance moves, as PODS coordinates the logistics of getting your belongings from point A to point B.
• Unloading: The container is at your disposal to be unloaded, hence the entire process will be way less stressful as compared to other conventional ways of moving. You can take your time to unpack and get organized in your new space with no pressure of a moving truck waiting for you.

How Much Does PODS Moving Cost?

These are rough estimates, and the actual cost of using PODS containers for moving may substantially vary depending on the container size, distance range covered, duration of storage, amongst others. Moving charges average $300-$600 for less than 100 miles, $800-$8,000 for between 100 and 1,500 miles, and $4,500-$8,000 for cross-country relocation over 1,500 miles.

Below is a rough breakdown of the container sizes offered by PODS and the average costs for various types of moves including PODS cross country costs:

Container Size Pricing

PODS offers three container sizes to accommodate different PODS moving and storage needs:

• 8-foot: Suitable for small moves or studio apartments.
• 12-foot: Ideal for 1-bedroom homes.
• 16-foot: Best for 2-3 bedroom homes.

The storage pods rental cost varies by size:

These prices represent PODS moving rates, pick up and a month's PODS rental. Additional months of storage can be given at additional costs of $149 to $359 per month, dependent upon the size of the container and location. Make sure to receive a PODS moving quote or use a PODS moving cost calculator in order to get an estimate on PODS prices for moving.

Moving Distance Cost

The distance you're moving greatly affects the overall price. PODS moving cost long distances means higher transportation fees, which raises the overall cost significantly. The following table summarizes average costs based on distance including PODS cross country costs and PODS moving cost long distances:

PODS Storage Cost

PODS storage costs are calculated for one month in their quotes, though extra months of PODS rental can be made available when needed. Monthly POD storage container costs start at about $149, with possible increments based on location and demand. For instance, if you want PODS moving storage for three months, you would anticipate spending roughly $447 in total for moving pod rental. It's pretty helpful for a lot of people who may have to delay their moving date or temporarily need goods stored with convenient PODS storage costs.

How PODS Moving Costs Are Calculated

POD moving costs are based on several factors:

• Container Size: The larger the PODS moving containers, the higher the storage and POD moving costs. You will be charged more for a 16-foot container than an 8-foot one.
• Distance: The longer the distance, the higher the transportation costs. It is these distances that have the greatest bearing on the overall cost. Moving statewide or cross-country involves a lot of planning and requirements.
• Storage Needs: PODS moving and storage might get quite expensive, especially since you may need the container for a period longer than that covered or you need more PODS moving containers. In this case, if you feel you will need storage longer than the one month usually covered in the service, it will be wise to project your budget accordingly for PODS storage costs.
• Seasonality: PODS moving prices tend to spike during peak seasons. Usually, peak season occurs during summer months, given that more people move around. In case one has the opportunity to schedule their move during the off-peak season, they will find better rates.

Factors That Determine PODS Pricing

Several factors influence PODS moving prices, including:

• Home Size: The amount of items to be moved is a critical factor; larger homes tend to require more containers. If you're moving a 4-bedroom house, you may need two or more containers, which will increase your moving PODS pricing considerably.
• Location: Prices fluctuate between different geographic locations because of local demand and other operational costs. If you are in an urban area, you may find high prices due to the fact that demand for movers is always high compared to rural areas.
• Timing: In areas where seasonal demand exists, availability and price may fluctuate. Better PODS moving and storage prices might come with bookings made during off-peak seasons. This is usually in the fall or winter, so you may want to consider planning your move in those months.

Benefits of PODS Moving

PODS offers numerous advantages that make it a popular choice for many movers:

• Flexibility: You are in charge of your moving schedule and do not have to hurry. This brings convenience to any family with children and, most importantly, for the people who have been working full time.
• Convenience: Packing in your own good time reduces pressure, thus providing efficiency when you are organizing your belongings. Unlike other moving companies, PODS allows for all the time one needs to pack.
• Storage Options: On-site or off-site storage is available, giving you the flexibility to choose what works best for your situation. If you need to store your items for an extended period, PODS can accommodate that.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Generally on the low-cost side, especially compared to other full-service movers. If you can perform a self-pack and self-load process, then they will greatly lower the moving PODS pricing for you.
• Accessibility: PODS containers are brought to your location for easy access to your items anytime you want. It is convenient, especially when you need to have access to your items from time to time in the process of moving.

Moving PODs Cost vs. Other Methods

When comparing moving PODS costs to other moving options, it’s essential to consider the overall value:

• Full-Service Movers: Full-service movers can cost from $1,300 to $9,500, based mainly on the size of the move and what services are included. As convenient as this option may be, it certainly is very costly for a larger household.
• Rental Trucks: Rental trucks cost approximately $30 to $130 per day in a local move, with additional costs for fuel and insurance. While this may seem quite a bit more reasonable, consider how much time and energy you will use to load, drive, and then unload the truck. There are possible hidden costs too, such as mileage fees or fuel surcharges.
• Self-Storage Units: Starting from $50 to $300 monthly, according to the size and location, self-storage units are leased. Such storage does not provide the additional advantage of having your stuff delivered to the front of the door.

What Are the Different Sizes of PODs?

PODS offers three container sizes to accommodate various moving needs:

• 8-foot: Best for small moves, such as studio apartments or dorm rooms. This size is perfect for individuals or couples with minimal belongings.
• 12-foot: Suitable for 1-bedroom homes or small family moves. This size can accommodate a small family’s worth of items, including furniture and boxes.
• 16-foot: Ideal for larger households, accommodating 2-3 bedrooms worth of belongings. This size is suitable for families or individuals with significant furniture and appliances.

How Much is PODS for a Long-Distance Move?

Long-distance PODS can be as low as $3,000 or as high as $8,000 depending on the distance to be covered and the size of the container to be used. For instance, a family moving from Chicago to Miami can get the estimated cost of $4,500 for a 16-foot container, inclusive of transportation and storage. It's highly relevant to your needs that you request a quote personalized with your own needs to get an exact estimate.

How To Lower the Cost of Your Move

To reduce your PODS moving costs, consider the following strategies:

• Plan Ahead: Booking early gives you a better opportunity to book better rates and availability. A lot of people relocate during peak seasons, and it's better to be at the front of the congestion.
• Declutter: Reducing the number of items to move can save you money on container size and transportation costs. Consider donating or selling items you no longer need, which can also lighten your load.
• Pack Yourself: You may gain labor by packing yourself. This doesn't just save money; this is one way you can organize your things the way you like them. You will be investing a little time in effectively arranging them in boxes, or you might reuse packing materials that you already have at home.
• Utilize Discounts: Look for discounts or promotions offered by PODS. Sometimes, they may have seasonal offers or discounts for military personnel, students, or seniors.

Tips for Budgeting Your PODS Move

When budgeting for your PODS move, consider these helpful tips:

• Get Quotes: Request personalized quotes for accurate pricing. PODS typically provides free quotes based on your specific needs, so take advantage of this service.
• Factor in Extra Costs: Packaging materials, insurance, any additional storage costs. These costs can often add up, and you need to consider them in your budget. Remember that there may be other additional costs too, such as packaging materials that include boxes, tape, and bubble wrap. Do not hesitate to use a PODS moving cost calculator.
• Monitor Seasonal Rates: Pricing may fluctuate based on peak seasons. When possible, consider scheduling your move during off-peak times to save a little money. Generally speaking, movers have slow times during the late fall and winter months of the year.
• Create a Detailed Budget: Allow yourself to brainstorm all of the ways you will have moving expenses: PODS costs, packing supplies, and any additional services you may need. This way, you know what money you are spending and will hopefully avoid surprise expenses.

FAQs

What is PODS?

PODS means Portable On-Demand Storage. It is a service that provides portable storage containers for moving and storing items provided by moving PODS movers.

What Alternatives Exist to PODS?

ABF's U-Pack, Zippy Shell, U-Haul U-Box and 1-800-PACK-RAT are alternatives to PODs.

Is PODS cheaper than hiring full-service movers?

Yes, PODS can be cheaper, especially in smaller moves or in those instances where you may need flexibility. You can always use PODS moving cost calculators to get a price from moving PODS companies.

Is it cheaper to use PODS or a moving company?

Generally, PODS will be cheaper in the case of DIY moves, while moving companies may be handier if you want full-service.

Are PODS waterproof?

Yes, the containers of PODS are weather-resistant and also provide your belongings with protection against weather conditions.

What cannot be moved in a pod?

Items that contain hazardous materials, perishable goods, as well as some large items, may not be allowed to be placed in the PODS container.

What does PODS stand for?

PODS stands for Portable On-Demand Storage.

How many PODS are needed for a home?

The number of PODS required depends on the size of the home and the volume of belongings. Generally, a 1-2 bedroom home may require one or two containers.

Is PODS cheaper than a storage unit?

Moving PODS costs can be cheaper, especially when taking into consideration that on-site storage options are made available. Also, PODS offers storage container delivery to your location as an added convenience option.