PODS is cheaper than major moving company brands, but some movers are just as cheap as PODS. According to their website, the average cost for a cross country and long distance move ranges from 3,000 to 8,000 dollars. While this is affordable compared to hiring a large moving company, competitors like American National Movers have an average cost of $4,000 for a full service move.
Considering the $3,000 average cost to use PODS—plus buying your packing materials and doing the labor yourself—it may be worth exploring other affordable full-service movers offering similar or better pricing.
Is it Cheaper To Hire A Moving Company?
In most cases, hiring a mover for a long-distance relocation is not cheaper, but there are affordable movers at prices comparable to PODS and U-Haul:
American National Movers: Long distance moving from Seattle to NYC averages $4,500, almost identical to PODS pricing. The difference? You get full-service labor and basic valuation coverage included.
Pricing Van Lines: Moving from New York to Florida has an average relocation cost of $4,000 for Pricing Van Lines long distance movers.
Piece Of Cake Movers: A small-load relocation from Florida to Georgia averages $1,800, which competes with or even beats container-based options.
-Analysis: PODS used to be cheaper than many long distance movers, but in recent years, several companies have lowered their rates to stay competitive.
Why Full-Service Movers Can Be the Better Deal
While PODS may be a legitimate low-cost, long-distance moving option, they have disadvantages. These disadvantages include limited insurance options, DIY labor, negative reviews, and subcontracted haulers. Here is why hiring a movers versus PODS may be a better deal:
1. No Heavy Lifting
With PODS, you pack and load your household goods in the storage container yourself. Full-service movers do the heavy lifting, which can be a huge relief—especially if you have large furniture or limited helping hands.
2. Consistent Communication
PODS subcontracts their long distance drivers, which leads to communication issues regarding pick-up and delivery. Your container may also be loaded onto a shared truck, increasing the risk of misplaced items. In contrast, traditional movers maintain direct communication and offer dedicated trucks to ensure your belongings arrive safely and on time.
3. Insurance & Liability
Traditional movers registered with the FMCSA provide basic valuation coverage free of cost, and they offer full-value protection at an extra cost. PODS may have limited coverage or require separate insurance.
4. Professional Expertise
A trained moving crew knows how to pack and secure your belongings to minimize damage during transport. PODS customers must rely on their own packing know-how or risk improper loading, leading to broken items.
Is PODS Good For Long Distance Moving?
PODS can be a great choice for smaller moves or those who prefer a DIY approach. However, if you’re moving from a 3- to 4-bedroom home, data and reviews suggest that using a storage container carries certain risks:
Multiple Containers: Larger homes often require more than one PODS container, which can drive up costs to comparable or higher levels than a full-service mover.
Heavier Labor: Handling everything yourself, from furniture disassembly to loading/unloading, can be time-consuming and physically demanding.
Limited Availability: If you need your container picked up or delivered on a specific date, you may face availability issues with subcontracted drivers.
Longer Transit Times: With shared truck space, shipments may take longer to reach their destination, especially during peak moving seasons.
Moving With PODS VS Movers: Which Is Right For You?
In some situations, PODS offers a cost-effective way to move long distances—particularly if you have fewer items and don’t mind doing the DIY work. However, if you value hands-free moving, direct communication, and insurance coverage, a full-service company like American National Movers can often match PODS-level pricing while providing a seamless moving experience.
Ready to compare prices or learn more about our full-service offerings?
Contact American National Movers for a free quote and discover why we might be the more affordable and convenient option for your next long-distance relocation.
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