Everything You Need To Know About PODS Before Hiring
This content covers everything you need to know about PODS Moving & Storage Service, brought to you by American National Movers. We’re a full-service moving alternative to PODS with similar prices, and you don't have to do any labor or materials. We figured, why not give consumers the answers they're looking for so they can make a more informed decision?
How Much Does PODS Cost for Long-Distance Moves?
Use our PODS long distance moving cost calculator to see how much PODS service would cost based on mileage band, bedroom size, and number of containers.
If you have a small load, PODS average costs are simple to find, but for larger shipments, there's a big question mark. However, the PODS website and other sources report an average cost of $3,500-$9,000 for PODS services.
Please use our tool above to see the average cost of PODS Moving for moves 500-2,000+ mile moves. Select your home size, distance, and the number of containers needed, and the tool will generate a cost estimate for PODS.
Cost Analysis Breakdown
1. Studio & 1-Bedroom Apartments (Requires one 8-foot container)
For a small apartment, you can usually get away with a single 8-foot container with a reasonable average cost.
• 500 – 1,000 Miles: $1,800 – $2,800
• 1,000 – 2,000 Miles: $2,500 – $3,800
• 2,000 – 3,000 Miles (Cross-Country): $3,500 – $4,500
2. The 2-to-3 Bedroom Home (Requires one 16-foot container)
This is where the pricing with PODS seems like the cost of hiring full-service movers because a 16-foot container is PODS' largest option, holding a max of 4,200 to 4,500 lbs. If you have heavy furniture or bulky furniture, you will need 2-3 containers, which makes PODS less affordable.
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500 – 1,000 Miles (2 to 3 Containers): $6,000 – $14,400
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1,000 – 2,000 Miles (2 to 3 Containers): $9,000 – $19,500
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2,000 – 3,000 Miles / Cross-Country (2 to 3 Containers): $12,000 – $24,600
3. The 4+ Bedroom Estate (The Multi-Container Trap)
Here is the industry secret that container companies bury in their fine print: A standard 4-bedroom home will absolutely not fit in a single 16-foot container. To move a fully furnished 4-bedroom estate, you will realistically need three to four 16-foot containers.
• 500 – 1,000 Miles (3 to 4 Containers): $9,000 – $14,000+
• 1,000 – 2,000 Miles (3 to 4 Containers): $13,500 – $19,500+
• 2,000 – 3,000 Miles (3 to 4 Containers): $18,000 – $25,000+
Is PODS or U-Haul Cheaper?
PODS is definitely not cheaper than U-Haul because PODS provides a driver, U-Haul doesn’t. With that said, PODS' average cost for a typical long distance move is about $6,000; U-Haul's average is $ 4,500. American National Movers' average cost is $5,000, very close to PODS and U-Haul's costs, but U-Haul is still cheaper.
How Much Is A 16-Foot POD For Moving?
The cost to use PODS' largest container, a 16-foot POD, varies widely from $2,800 to $7,500. Ultimately, your total cost will be based on the date and mileage of your relocation. For a more accurate quote, it’s best to contact the PODS sales team at 1-855-706-4758
How Many Bedrooms Does A 16-Foot POD Hold?
A 16-Foot POD holds 800 cubic feet, which is enough to carry 2-3 rooms (not bedrooms). This is equivalent to a large one-bedroom or an average furnished 2-bedroom apartment. If you have a large home, you would need several PODS in order to relocate everything. With that said, PODS 16-foot container does not hold a lot of furniture.
How Many PODS Do I Need For A 3-Bedroom House?
Three-bedroom houses typically have 2400-2800 cubic feet worth of furniture, which is equivalent to about 17,000 pounds. So, you’ll need at least 3-4 16-foot POD containers to move everything out of your three-bedroom house. Before going with this option, be sure there arent any access issues with your driveway, because most states do not allow shipping containers parked on the street—even if it's in front of your house.
What Are The Drawbacks of Large PODS?
The two main drawbacks of PODS largest 16-foot POD are access issues and the container's capacity. A 16-foot POD has been reported as too large to fit in a consumer's driveway, and PODS' largest container is often not large enough to ship a consumer's items from a large home (3+ bedrooms). This can make the PODS moving option ineffective and, in some cases, too expensive for a hybrid DIY model.
Will My Furniture Get Ruined In A POD?
Complete breakage of all your furniture with PODS is unlikely, but several consumer reviews report water damage, shifting, scratches, and substantial damage during transit. PODS also does not insure high-value items or household goods with high sentimental or financial value. Since you are the one packing the inventory and loading the container, PODS has limited liability.
What Not To Put in A Moving POD?
As with any moving service, hazardous and flammable items are strictly prohibited. But here is where things get interesting:
• High-Value Items: Irreplaceable and high-value items are not permitted because shipping household goods in a container poses a higher risk of damage, and you packed them yourself.
• Sensitive Electronics & Documents: Materials susceptible to extreme temperature shifts, humidity, or moisture should never be loaded into a standard container.
Are PODS Waterproof?
PODS shipping containers are weather-resistant, but they are generally not completely waterproof. Heavy or prolonged exposure to rain can allow water to seep into the container seams, potentially damaging wooden furniture, mattresses, and electronics if exposed for long periods.
DO PODS Get Hot Inside?
PODS are not climate-controlled; they are standalone containers, so yes, if exposed to hot climates, a POD container can get very hot. Since the container does not have airflow they can get 30 degrees hotter than the outside temperature.
Is PODS Cheaper Than A Moving Company?
Is PODS Worth It For Long Distance Moving?
If you're moving to another state on a budget of less than $5,500, PODS is a solid option for small long distance moves and mid-sized shipments. However, if you have a large home (3-4 bedrooms), using PODS is expensive and often not worth the hassle of having multiple containers on your driveway. Shipping multiple containers with a PODS subcontracted driver poses several logistical issues regarding delivery, damage, and communication.
Is PODS A Reliable Moving Company?
Although several complaints have been made about communication and delayed deliveries, PODS is still considered a reputable self-pack container-moving company. Compared to many cheaper long distance moving options, PODS is considered trustworthy and scam-free.