How Much Do PODS Cost for Long-Distance Moving? (2026)
- American National Movers
- Jul 1, 2025
- 4 min read
American National Movers built this PODS long distance moving cost calculator so you can see estimated rates based on home size, mileage, container size, and the number of containers needed — backed by 2026 pricing data. We've included our own rates right beside them for a side-by-side comparison because, honestly, our prices are competitive and include labor and materials.
Visit our PODS Moving Guide for common questions and answers people have about how PODS works, container sizes, cost analysis, benefits, and risks.
How Much Does PODS Generally Cost?
When you start gathering long distance moving quotes, there's a good chance you'll hit the price-shock moment — a major brand quotes you $17,000, and you think, "That's too expensive, there has to be a cheaper option." And you're right, there is. That's usually when people come across PODS and immediately search "what are PODS long distance moving costs?"
In short, PODS typically charges $3,000 to $8,000 for a long distance move, but their pricing gets complicated fast, and they aren't the most cost-effective choice for larger homes. If you have more than 4,500 lbs of furniture, American National Movers' shared-load service often delivers better value at the same price or cheaper — with full service included. But before we get into that, let's break down the average cost to move with PODS containers across different distances.
Key Points Of This Article
√ Is PODS the cheaper option, or are they expensive too?
√ How Much Does PODS long distance moving service cost in 2026?
√ Are there any cheaper full-service movers with affordable rates and good reviews?
PODS Long Distance Moving Cost by Mileage and Container Size
Just like every other long distance moving service, there are two things that drive your PODS price more than anything else:
√ How Far You’re Moving.
The longer the mileage, the higher your transportation costs.
√ Volume (Container Space)
The bigger your home, the larger/more containers you need, which drives up the prices.
The cost comparison below breaks down the average rates PODS charges based on mileage and home size. We also included our prices, so that you can compare.
As the comparison above shows, a single PODS container for a smaller home stays in the low-to-mid thousands, while larger homes that need two or three containers — plus longer distances — push the average up quickly. That's why your exact number depends on both how far you're moving and how much space you need, which the calculator at the top accounts for.
PODS Container Sizes & Long Distance Rates
PODS offers three container sizes, but for long distance moves you'll typically use one of two:
√ 8-foot container — best for studios, small one-bedrooms, or partial loads. A single 8-foot container generally runs $1,000 to $3,500, depending on distance.
√ 16-foot container — the most common choice, holding roughly a 2-bedroom home or a lightly furnished 3-bedroom. A single 16-foot container generally costs $2,500 to $5,500, depending on how far you're going.
Problems Consumers Face With PODS Largest 16 Foot Container
A 16-Foot POD container has a 4,500-pound weight limit. So if you have a larger 3- to 4-bedroom home, one container usually isn't enough — you'll need two or even three containers, and each additional container adds roughly $2,500 to $4,000 to your total cost. At that point, full-service movers like American National Movers can provide the same service with one truck, movers, labor, and material included.
For more information on how many bedrooms fit in a 16-foot container visit out article: What Fits in a 16-Foot POD.
Small Moves = Affordable, 3+ Bedrooms = Expensive
Many people still choose PODS for larger homes simply because they assume all full-service movers are expensive — and that's the part worth double-checking. Affordable carriers like American National Movers often handle a 3–4 bedroom move for an average of around $7,000, with no lifting required on your part.
√ PODS does not include packing materials and labor; those costs are on you and add to the final price.
√ A 3-4 bedroom home usually needs two or three 16-foot PODS containers, while we, as affordable full-service movers, do all the labor and everything gets transported in one truck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it Cheaper To Move With PODS or A Moving Company?
If you’re comparing costs to major moving corporations, PODS is cheaper. However, if you’re comparing PODS rates with those of independent carriers, a mover may be cost-effective at a similar price point.
Visit our PODS Vs Movers article for more information on what option is cheaper.
How Much Does PODS Cost To Move 1,000 Miles?
The average cost to move 1,000 miles with PODS is between $3,000 to $8,000. Your final price will depend on mileage, container size, and quantity of containers. Larger homes generally see higher averages ranging from $6,000 - $9,000.
How Much Does PODS Cost To Move Across The Country?
A cross-country PODS move (1,600+ miles) typically costs $3,500 to $5,500 for a single container, but most households need more space than a single container provides. A 3- to 4-bedroom home usually requires two or three containers, which pushes the cross-country total to roughly $7,500 to $9,500.
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