Moving can be a very rewarding experience and can benefit your life greatly, but it also comes with a lot of stress and logistical decisions to figure out. Perhaps the most obvious question you must ask yourself after deciding where to move is how to move. Many people choose to rent something like a U-Haul and pack, load, drive, unload, and unpack themselves, whereas others hire professional moving companies. An alternative option that is becoming increasingly popular, though, is portable containers, which include those offered by PODS. 

Using PODS to Move

PODS offers local as well as long-distance moves. Using a PODS container can save you money as well as give you a more flexible schedule for your out of state move. PODS containers are available in different sizes so they can accommodate all of your belongings and get them from A to B safely. Moving containers eliminate the need for a massive truck and/or a dirty, dark storage unit. They also allow you to move across the country without having to drive a huge truck that you may be untrained to drive and you also do not have to stop for gas.

Store All Your Stuff in a PODS Container

Users can put just about anything in their PODS containers, aside from hazardous materials like chemicals, gases, and liquids as well as vehicles. PODS can direct you to other companies that can help you move these items. If you have a question on whether or not you can put something specific in your PODS container, the company’s customer service line is responsive and will have the answer. 

Unique to PODS, the company’s hydraulic lift system (called PODZILLA®) can move the containers without tilting them at all, reducing the risk of items shifting during transit. PODS claims that thanks to its PODZILLA technology, damage claims are under 2%, which is a huge difference compared to the average of 20% in the moving company industry, according to AMSA (American Moving & Storage Association).

PODS Are Strong and Secure

PODS states that its containers are framed with steel and are weather-resistant. They also do not require a ramp and come with locking latches and tie-downs. PODS recommends that users use a 2 ¾” disc lock or a 1 ¾” [JR1] padlock to lock their containers. Of course, PODS has plenty of locks available for sale. 

Depending on your circumstances, your move out of state may require a specific size of PODS container. PODS offers 16-foot and 7-foot containers for long-distance moves. The 16-foot is ideal for 3 to 4 rooms’ worth of items, or up to 1,200 square feet, and the 7-foot is perfect for 500-800 square feet. You can use PODS’ online tools to help you find the right container or containers for your needs. One reason PODS might be a more affordable option for your out-of-state move is because the price of your shipping container is not dependent on how much your items weigh; instead, you are provided with a flat rate for the specific container and can load it with as little or as much stuff as you need. 

Many times, moving companies give you a quote and then tack on charges for weight, which can really add up and cause you to go way over your moving budget. As a standard rule, PODS’ 7-foot container and16-foot container can hold up to 4,200 pounds. Most PODS containers are simply large, empty, open spaces and do not have any type of shelving so you can arrange your items how you choose. 

PODS rents out their containers by the month, which means you have plenty of time to load, move, and unload when you get to your new home. This can be done at your own pace, unlike other moving companies that rush you and make you pick a specific time frame to load and unload your stuff. That equals a lot of stress, so using PODS containers may be an easier and cheaper offering. 

Using PODS ensures that you will get your own stuff, too. Sometimes, traditional moving companies are transporting your belongings as well as other customers’ belongings in the same truck, and mix-ups can happen. Instead of sharing space with someone else and having movers arrange and move your items within a truck, you will personally lock and unlock your PODS container yourself so you can be 100% sure all of your items will arrive at your new home. 

Reserve Your PODS Unit Early

It is important to note that PODS containers are popular options for people who are moving out of state, so the company recommends making your reservation at least 7 days in advance. Seeing as more people move during the summer, it is recommended consumers reserve PODS containers well in advance for that season. 

This Is How It Works

So how does it work? PODS brings a container to you, and then you can either load the container yourself or PODS can hook you up with professional movers who can help you. Once it’s loaded, PODS will pick it up and deliver it to your new address, regardless if it’s clear across the entire country. Of course, the specific price for a PODS container varies based on size as well as how far your move will be, but in general moving locally with a PODS container will cost between $299 and $499, while the cost of a long-distance move averages $1,237 to $2,999, based on rates published September 2019, depending on the size of your move, how far your move is, and other factors. 

PODS customers have access to a portal that provides updates as well as estimated times for arrivals and pickups. These times are simply estimates and not always accurate; however, PODS does not require customers to be home for delivery or pickup. Drivers call their customers when they are on their way for a delivery or pickup so there will always be a heads up when they’re close. 

Load and Unload PODS Container on Your Schedule

You can keep your PODS container at your new location and unpack it on your own time so you can feel more in control of your move. Of course, PODS can also connect you with professionals who can help you unpack if you need it. The timing is flexible and you are free to go at your own rate to set up your new home exactly the way you want it. Simply stated, you can choose your specific drop off and pick up dates, which gives you more power over your move. 

You have various options when you use a PODS container. The container can be delivered to your house and it can stay in your driveway, but PODS also offers storage if that is a better fit for you. Sometimes, we are forced to move to a new state quickly and we haven’t quite figured out all of our housing logistics before we get there. Not having an address will immediately disqualify you from using many mainstream moving companies, but if you don’t have a new address yet, no worries – PODS will store your stuff for you without you having do the extra work of unloading and reloading your items. PODS has secure storage facilities that can house your belongings until you find or finish your new home. You can rest assured your stuff is locked up and safe in their facility, and you can visit anytime as long as you schedule your visit online or on the phone. (Note that PODS normally likes 24 to 48 hours’ notice if users are going to visit their containers.)

PODS Insurance is Available

PODS offers two types of protection coverage: Container Only (COO) and Contents Protection (CPO). COO coverage protects you from container damage as long as users have abided by the terms and conditions and haven’t intentionally caused damage. CPO coverage, on the other hand, covers damage to the container as well as events that may cause damage to your items. There are many exclusions to what is covered under this policy, so it is critical to read the terms of the agreement and consider additional coverage from different providers. 

Straightforward Pricing

PODS storage units allow easy access to your items and offer you a set price up front with no hidden fees. Once you are given a quote, it will not change unless your move does, so PODS prides itself on transparent and up-front pricing. PODS also knows that plans change and normally allows free cancelations up until 5:00 PM ET the day before you are scheduled to receive the PODS container. 

Get Your PODS Price Quote

You can get a quote by calling 855-789-5928 or by checking the PODS website (don’t forget to use our promo code to save). If you call, you can get a full quote in writing via email and your price will be locked in. You don’t have to pay make any payments until 7 days before your PODS container delivery for long-distance moves. Oftentimes you may be able to get a discount for your order. PODS always offers military discounts but periodically runs other promotions. The company is also respected in communities, as it makes donations to the American Heart Association and also donates containers to Toys for Tots annually. 

Of course, if you can fit all of your life’s belongings and your family into your vehicle, that would be the cheapest way to move, but in most cases, that is not possible. There are many alternatives that you should look at, but ultimately, if you are making an out-of-state move and are needing a flexible, reliable moving method, looking into PODS moving and storage can be a very beneficial choice for you. 

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