What are the risks and downsides of using PODS for long-distance moving?

The major risks include strict access rules (drivers refusing drops on tight streets), lost containers within the freight network, strict 14-day unload limits before fees apply, and container sizes that are often too small for homes with 3+ bedrooms.

When is using PODS actually a good idea?

PODS is a valid option if you meet four specific criteria: 1) You have a small move (studio or 1-bedroom under 700 cu ft), 2) You have a large private driveway (40ft clearance), 3) You are moving standard furniture rather than high-value antiques, and 4) You have a flexible timeline.

Do PODS containers fit in standard driveways?

Not always. PODS requires a clearance of 12ft wide x 15ft high x 40ft long. If your driveway is short, steep, or obstructed by trees/wires, the driver may refuse delivery. Street parking is often prohibited without a city permit.

Does PODS include labor for loading and unloading?

No. PODS is a self-service solution. You must load and unload the container yourself. Hiring separate labor to help you load can cost over $1,000, often making the total price higher than a full-service mover like American National Movers.

What happens if PODS loses my container?

Though rare, 'lost container' reports have increased in 2026. Because PODS uses a freight network, containers can be misplaced at hubs or sent to the wrong state. Tracking can be difficult compared to a direct moving truck.

The Downsides Of Using PODS For Long Distance Moving

American National Movers
Feb 15, 2025
4 min read

Updated: Feb 4

People are already aware of the advantages of using PODS—such as portable storage, lower prices, and flexibility—but what about the disadvantages?

In 2026, PODS reviews have been trending negatively due to serious logistical failures, including access issues, delivery delays, subcontracted drivers, and denied damage claims.

While PODS is a legitimate moving option for local storage, long distance moves introduce many downsides homeowners don’t anticipate until it’s too late.

⚠️ It is apparent that their services have legitimate cons that every homeowner should weigh before booking. The disadvantages you may face with PODS are backed by a real online report and data:

Potential Cons Of Using PODS As Your Long Distance Movers

Based on online review data on consumer experiences with PODS for long distance moving, the disadvantages can be costly. Below are specific risks you may face:

1. Delivery Delays & Missed Pick-up Windows

One of the most frequent complaints in recent reviews involves their subcontracted driver system.

• The Reliability Issue: PODS does not employ its own long distance movers; they often subcontract drivers. This has resulted in reports of PODS drivers not showing up on moving day.

• The Hub Trap: Unlike a moving truck that drives directly to your home, your POD sits in a storage hub waiting for a driver. If the hub is backed up, you could be waiting weeks for PODS to deliver your household goods.

Diagram showing required driveway space for a PODS container, illustrating a 12-foot wide, 15-foot high, and 40-foot long clearance needed for delivery. — Many homeowners reported not having enough space for the POD driver to drop off their container. This has resulted in horrible experiences for some PODS customers.

2. Containers Not Fitting In the Driveway

To drop off your storage container, PODS drivers need a clearance of 12’ wide X 15’ high X 40’ long. This is roughly equivalent to two standard parking spots.

• The Problem: PODS salespeople do not emphasize this requirement. If the driver arrives and determines the space is too tight, the move is canceled on the spot because the container must be dropped on a private driveway, not a city street.

3. Canceled Deliveries Due To "Access Issues"

A Yelp reviewer mentioned that their delivery day was a nightmare because the driver refused to drop off the container after deciding it would not fit safely.

• The Frustration: Consumers often spend hours waiting, only to find out their container won't be delivered. Instead of an immediate phone call, PODS sends an email claiming the container is undeliverable due to “access” or “safety” issues, leaving the customer stranded without their belongings.

Photo showing what fits in a 16-foot POD container, which is about 844 cubic feet. — Most people don't realize how small a 16 foot POD is. Use this photo for reference.

4. PODS Containers Are Too Small For Large Homes

If you have more than 2 rooms of furniture, the largest PODS container (16-foot) may not fit all your goods.

• The Math: The largest container holds only 844 cubic feet, which is equivalent to just half of a 26-foot truck. This limits larger households looking for a cheaper option.

• Price Check: Some customers reported spending over $10,000 with PODS because they were forced to rent multiple containers to transport a standard family home.

5. Lost Or Misplaced Storage Containers

In a disturbing trend, Facebook users and Yelp reviewers have reported PODS losing containers at their holding facilities or their POD being sent to the wrong state.

• The Nightmare: In some cases, it took weeks to locate the shipment. One Facebook user reported that even after the container was found, PODS canceled the shipment and refused to deliver it simply because “they didn’t want to.”

• Wrong State Delivery: Another reviewer mentioned their POD was delivered to the wrong state. When they tried to resolve it, agents hung up on them four times.

6. Inconsistent Customer Service

Many PODS customers report being unable to get help regarding invoicing errors, damage claims, and lost container issues. Many reviewers claim the sales process with PODS is smooth, but the customer service is horrible.

• The Ghosting: A Reddit user claimed that after calling PODS several times, the company simply stopped returning calls. Some consumers have had to contact local authorities just to reach a resolution.

7. 14 Days To Unload Container Upon Delivery

Many consumers reported having to pay PODS an extra month in storage fees because they weren’t aware they had only 14 days to unload the container.

The Problem: While 14 days is a good amount of time to unload your belongings, the PODS sales team doesn’t disclose this to their customers before signing. This can be a big disadvantage to a senior who may need more than 2 weeks to unload their belongings.

8. Materials & Labor Not Included

PODS is strictly a "you-pack-they-move" service, meaning there are significant hidden costs.

• The Reality: Most people underestimate the physical strain of moving a house. By the time you hire local helpers to load the container ($1,000+) and buy your own packing materials ($300+), the total cost can exceed hiring an affordable full-service moving company like American National Movers.

Why People Choose PODS For Long Distance Moving

Despite the bad reviews and potential drawbacks of going with PODS as your long distance moving company, they can still be beneficial for specific types of moves. Please review the chart below to see if PODS is a good option for your relocation.

In summary to the char above, PODS is best for people who are aware of potential access issues, small long distance movers, and consumers who have flexibility with delivery.

American National Movers Is A Reliable Alternative To PODS

Long distance moving companies like American National Movers are being chosen over PODS because the services are similar in price and offer greater value.

✅ Parking On Street Allowed.

✅ Packing Materials and Labor Included.

✅ Direct Pickup and delivery (no storage hubs).

✅ Fewer Access Issues and Delays.

✅ Direct And Consistent Customer Service

✅ Insurance Included.

✅ Clear Accountability For Your Shipment.

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