We analyzed hundreds of quotes and thousands of reviews over three years to pick PODS as the best moving container company.
PODS Frequently Asked Questions
For over 8 years Move.org experts have examined pricing, credentials, and real customer reviews to give you (human) recommendations you can trust. See how we review.
3 min readPODS has won its place as our favorite moving container company. It offers awesome discounts, high-quality containers, plentiful storage options, and nationwide availability.
PODS general questions
What does PODS stand for?
PODS stands for Portable on Demand Storage. Be aware that not all pods are the same. Often competitors sometimes violate its trademark by referring to their generic storage containers as moving pods.
What does PODS offer?
| Description | PODS information |
|---|---|
| Average price |
$5709
|
| At-home storage |  Yes |
| Facility storage | Yes |
| Container materials | Steel frame |
| # of container sizes offered | 3 |
| # of states covered | 46 |
| Average customer review score (out of 5) | 
|
Is PODS worth it for moving?
PODS gives customers a lot of value for local and long-distance moves. The moving container company has excellent rates, strong containers, and top-notch customer service.
Pros
Special discounts
Multiple steel container sizes
Lots of storage options
Positive customer reviews
46-state availability 
Cons
Confusing prices What are the different PODS sizes?
PODS containers come in three sizes: an 8-foot, 12-foot, and 16-foot option. The smallest container can accommodate a studio apartment. At the same time, the largest one can often fit belongings from three to four rooms.
Data as of 7/15/2024. PODS container sizes are estimates. Customers are responsible for assessing the container capacity for their belongings.
What is the smallest PODS size for moving?
The smallest PODS size is an eight-foot moving container. It’s ideal for dorms and apartments with about 500 square feet of belongings.
What PODS size do I need for a two-bedroom apartment?
You need a 12- or 16-foot PODS container for a two-bedroom apartment. While the 12-foot container is adequate, it’s available for only moves of less than 50 miles. The 16-foot container is more than you need, but it’s available for local and long-distance needs.
Will a PODS container fit at my home?
PODS needs a space about twice the size of two parking spaces to drop off a storage container (about 40 x 12 x 15 feet).
How much can fit in a 16-foot PODS container?
You can generally fit belongings from up to four bedrooms in PODS’ large 16-foot moving container. PODS also allows you to keep the container at your home for a monthly storage fee.
Do PODS containers have a weight limit?
Yes, PODS containers have a weight limit. The company’s smallest 8-foot moving container has the highest weight threshold (5,200 pounds). Its 12- and 16-foot containers can hold 4,700 and 4,200 pounds.
Can you put a motorcycle in a PODS container?
PODS prohibits motorcycles, cars, and lawn mowers in its 8, 12, and 16-foot containers. We recommend using a professional motorcycle shipping company to transport your chopper.
PODS cost questions
How much does PODS cost?
PODS costs around $5,709 on average. Here's what to expect:
What is PODS’ moving cost for long distance?
PODS charges around $4,690 for long-distance moves of over 1,750 miles.
How much does an 8-foot PODS container cost?
The average cost of an 8-foot PODS container is approximately $2,560. A 100-mile move costs around $850, while a cross-country trip sets you back more than $3,000.
How much does a 16-foot PODS container cost?
The average cost of a 16-foot PODS container is approximately $6,150. Prices range from about $1,940 for a 100-mile move to over $9,000 for a 2,000-mile trip.
Why are moving containers so expensive?
Moving costs are high across the entire industry because of increased demand associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Moving containers cost less than full-service moving companies. They can also be more affordable than rental trucks for long-distance moves.
Does the military pay for PODS?
The U.S. military allows armed service personnel to use PODS moving containers for do-it-yourself (DIY) moves. The government provides a moving allowance tailored to your family and lets you keep whatever money you don’t spend.
Save with a PODS discount for Move.org readers
PODS competition questions
Which is better: U-Box or PODS?
In our research, we've found that PODS is better than U-Box. PODS wins with lower prices, higher quality, and better customer service.
What is the best long-distance moving company?
The best long-distance moving company is International Van Lines. It has moving discounts, worldwide availability, and top-tier customer service.
Does PODS have good customer service?
Yes, PODS has good customer service, as evidenced by the second-highest rating in the industry. It often receives praise for its friendly reps, good prices, and prompt service.
PODS compared to other moving container companies
Company | Least expensive quote | # of states | Details |
|
$848
| 46 | Check Prices | |
|
$1170
| 33 | Check Prices | |
|
$973
| 37 | Check Prices | |
|
$1111
| 34 | Check Prices | |
|
$1151
| 50 | Check Prices |
Data as of 7/2024. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Median cost calculated by comparing moving costs for four home sizes across six distances.
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