When you think of PODS storage containers, the first thing that often comes to mind is moving. Your container gets dropped off, and you fill it with boxes of your belongings and wait for it to arrive at your new home. But, PODS aren’t restricted to just being used to store your stuff between moves.

PODS are simply shipping containers that can be dropped off and picked up at your convenience. So, if you take a second to think outside the box, there are many alternative ways to use these handy storage containers. Here are some ideas to get you started to get your creative juices flowing.

1. Store Equipment On-Site

Did you invest in or rent equipment for your renovation project but don’t have the space to secure it in your own garage safely? Have no fear. PODS is here! These storage containers don’t have to be used to shift your belongings from one home to the next, nor do they have to house your extra holiday decorations or extra furniture from grandma’s house. Simply hire the PODS storage container throughout your reno and store all your extra equipment and supplies securely without worry. Just keep in mind that PODS is not meant to store any motorized vehicle or substances like gasoline.

2. Empty the House

Have you finally taken the plunge to put in new flooring? Are you giving home a fresh coat of paint or remodeling? Even if you’re not in the process of sprucing up your home, there are plenty of reasons why you might want to get all the large furniture and the knick-knacks out of the way. PODS storage containers are the perfect solution. Rather than renting a storage unit and a moving truck to shift your belongings, PODS gives you a storage solution in your own driveway or lawn, making the entire ordeal a bit easier. You can keep the storage container as long as you need, simply calling PODS to come to pick it up once you’ve got your home back in order.

3. Portable Office

The pandemic has increased the need for a home office, especially with many businesses shifting to a work-from-home format. But, if you’ve got kids at home, you know working from home is a double-edged sword, with chaos often ensuing on the other side of the home office door. Give yourself a break and set up a temporary office in a PODS storage container. All you need is a desk, chair, and an internet connection, and you’re good to go with your laptop. Although, you may want to consider adding a bookshelf or two so that it’s not quite as obvious that you’re working out of a storage container.

4. Weather Shelter

Outdoor events always run the risk of being canceled or postponed because of the weather. Even if the weather doesn’t cancel your event, there’s always some need to keep things dry. For example, if you’re having a charity walk, you will want your registration table, t-shirts, goodie bags, and promotional materials to stay dry. Rather than dealing with a pop-up tent and tarps while hoping for the best, a PODS storage container can do the trick. Simply set up registration in the container and keep everything you need dry while your event continues, rain or shine. You could also use storage containers for the concession stand, as long as there are no active cooking or open flames. This is true for any outdoor event, not just charity walks.

5. Craft Fair Booths

There’s something special about handmade goods, making craft fairs a fan favorite. Many times these fairs are set up in parks or parking lots, allowing for plenty of foot traffic, but again, the weather can be problematic, dampening the crowds and damaging goods. Rather than rely on tents, using PODS as craft fair booths give vendors a secure way to store their goods from day to day, gives them stable shelter to protect their goods, and can keep the show going even in the case of a slight drizzle.

6. Garage Sale

One man’s trash is another man’s treasure, and yard sales/ garage sales are the true embodiment of this expression. But, the problem is that they are susceptible to the weather. PODS can give you the shelter you need, rain or shine. PODS can help your garage sale by giving you more indoor space to keep your things dry and out of the sun, even if you already have a garage. If you’re worried about the cost, see about going in on a PODS storage container with friends, family members, or neighbors. The greater the variety of things you have to sell, the more foot traffic you’re likely to attract to make your sale a hit.

7. Pop-Up Store

Own a store or boutique that’s having a big sale? PODS storage containers can be helpful in two ways. Firstly, the container can store any extra inventory you have ordered for the big sale. Having more space to store inventory can keep your store from getting overcrowded and help you serve more customers than if you had limited inventory. Secondly, you could also use the storage container for extra foot traffic by putting a specific category of your inventory in the unit for shoppers to browse, using a POS terminal to finalize sales in the PODS.

8. Temporary Escape

Whether your Aunt June has decided to take over the guest room or your oldest is home from college, PODS storage containers can give you a bit of extra space to hang out and escape from your houseguests. While it won’t give you the most glamorous of spaces, you can easily throw in an extra sofa, table and chairs, etc., where you can work on a hobby, read a book, or just relax. Think of it as a temporary ‘she-shed’ or ‘man cave.’ Just remember that PODS doesn’t let you live inside the container, so it’s just for those moments where you need to escape the chaos.

9. Nursery

Are you an avid gardener that has run out of space to plant bulbs and seeds to get sprouts ready for Spring? Consider using a PODS storage container as a temporary nursery to give your garden a head start this year. Set up some card tables or temporary shelves with 2x 4’ boards and cinderblocks, and get your seeds planted. Keep in mind that PODS units are not climate controlled, so the temperature in the container will be similar to being outdoors without the frost or snow, which may affect the growth of certain varieties of seeds.

Proceed with Caution

With a bit of creativity, you can easily come up with a variety of uses for PODS. However, none of these alternative uses are sanctioned by PODS. There’s also a list of items you are prohibited from storing in the containers. Therefore, opting to use storage containers for a use other than the original intention may put you at risk of violating the rental agreement you signed. However, it’s up to you to decide if it’s worth it.

Just remember, PODS is only one brand of portable storage container. Check the rates of all portable storage companies to be sure you’re getting the best price. And if you do go with PODS, use our promotional code to save an additional 5%.

Have you used a PODS storage container for something other than storing your stuff? Let us know how you used them and how it went in the comments below.