PODS delivers a portable storage container to your home, you load it at your own pace, and PODS then stores it or moves it to your new address. The decisions that make a PODS move go well are container size, placement, packing and timing.
Choosing a PODS container size
PODS offers several container lengths. The company publishes a guide to how many rooms each size typically holds; use it as a starting point, not a guarantee.
What changes the answer: large furniture, a garage or garden shed, and how tightly you pack.
Two smaller PODS containers can be better than one large one when you are moving part of a home first, or when placement space is tight.
When in doubt, size up. Running out of space on moving day is far worse than a few feet of spare room — though spare space must be filled or braced so loads do not shift.
Where the container can go
PODS containers are placed by a lift system on a truck, which needs room to work.
The spot must be level and firm, with enough length for the container plus the truck, and enough overhead clearance — watch for trees, wires and eaves.
A driveway is ideal. Street placement often needs a permit from your city, and HOAs and apartment complexes may have their own rules. Arrange these before delivery.
Tell PODS about slopes, gates and soft ground when booking.
Packing a PODS container so nothing shifts
The container is moved on a truck and lifted, so loads must be secure.
Heaviest items at the bottom and spread evenly — never all at one end.
Pack tightly, from floor to ceiling, in tiers. Gaps let loads move and fall.
Use the container's tie-down points with straps, section by section.
Wrap furniture in moving blankets. Stand mattresses and sofas on end along the sides.
Do not pack hazardous items — fuel, propane, paint thinner, chemicals. PODS publishes a list of prohibited items.
Lock it with a sturdy padlock of your own. Only you should have access.
What changes a PODS quote
PODS pricing depends on distance, container size, how long you keep it, and dates. Summer and month-end are busiest.
Moving mid-month and outside peak season can lower the quote noticeably.
Check what is included — delivery, pickup, transport, monthly storage — and the cost of each additional month.
Consider contents protection. Standard homeowner insurance may not cover goods in transit; check your policy.
Timing a PODS move
Book a PODS container early for summer and month-end moves. Those are the busiest dates, and availability on the day you want can run out.
Plan the gap between loading and unloading. PODS can keep the container at your home, move it straight to the new address, or hold it in a PODS storage centre between the two. Each option is priced differently, so ask for all three if your dates are uncertain.
Leave a few days to load. The point of a PODS container is that you are not packing against a truck driver's clock, and a rushed load is how things shift.
Confirm the delivery window for both ends. Someone usually needs to be available to direct placement at the new address.
PODS against a moving truck
A PODS move suits people who want time to pack, need storage between homes, or do not want to drive a large truck across the country.
A hired truck can be cheaper for a short local move done in a single day, because there is no container delivery and pickup to pay for.
A full-service mover costs more than either and includes the labour. With PODS, loading is still your job, or the job of labour you hire separately.
Get a PODS quote and a truck quote for the same dates before deciding. The difference depends heavily on distance and timing.
Where the PODS savings are
PODS discounts often apply to a particular part of the bill, such as monthly storage, rather than the whole move. Ask which charges the code reduces before booking.
The AAA code is for members. Military, real estate and employer affiliations can also bring PODS discounts — ask when getting a quote.
Get the PODS quote first, then apply a code, so you can see exactly what the code removes.
Ask whether the discount still applies if your dates change, since PODS moves often shift.
Common questions
What size PODS container do I need?
Use the PODS room guide as a starting point, then size up if you have large furniture or a garage.
Can a PODS container go on the street?
Often, but you may need a city permit. A level driveway is the simplest option.
How do I stop things moving inside?
Heavy items low and spread out, pack floor to ceiling, and strap each section.
How long can I keep a PODS container?
PODS charges by the month for storage. Check the current rate and the minimum period when you book.
| Discount | Type | Get the deal |
|---|---|---|
| 10% off | Promo code | View at PODS → |
| 10% off | Promo code | View at PODS → |
| 10% off | Promo code | View at PODS → |
| 15% off | Promo code | View at PODS → |
