PODS review: how it works, what it costs, container sizes, and whether it’s right for your move.
PODS pioneered the portable moving and storage container in 1998 and is still the best-known name in the business. We cover how PODS works, 2026 pricing, container sizes, pros and cons, and how it compares with the alternatives.
Get a PODS QuoteOur Verdict
PODS is our top overall pick among portable container companies. It offers three container sizes, local and long-distance moves, storage at your home or at a PODS storage center, and a flexible schedule that lets you pack at your own pace. It’s rarely the cheapest option for long cross-country moves, where U-Pack often quotes lower, but for most moves and on-site storage it’s the most flexible and widely available choice.
- Three container sizes for studios through large homes
- Local moves, long-distance moves and storage in one service
- Keep the container at home or at a storage center as long as you need
- PODZILLA lift keeps containers level so loads don’t shift
- Wide service area across the U.S. and Canada
- Often pricier than U-Pack for long-distance moves
- Needs a fair amount of flat space for delivery
- Peak-season availability can be tight
- You or hired labor do the packing and loading
How PODS Works
- Get a quote and reserve online or by phone, choosing your container size and dates.
- PODS delivers the container to your driveway or approved spot using its PODZILLA lift system.
- Pack and load on your schedule. Take days or weeks; you’re not racing a truck rental clock.
- Choose what happens next: keep it on site, have PODS store it at a storage center, or ship it to your new home.
- Unload at your destination, then PODS picks up the empty container.
Wondering where the container will go? See where you can put a PODS container, including street, grass and apartment placement.
PODS Container Sizes
| Container | Holds about | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 8-foot | A room or two, a studio or dorm | Small local moves, overflow storage, renovations |
| 12-foot | 1 to 2 bedrooms | Apartments and small homes |
| 16-foot | 2 to 3 rooms of furniture | Larger homes; use two or more for 3+ bedrooms |
Size availability varies by location and move type; not every size is offered for every long-distance route.
How Much Does PODS Cost in 2026?
A PODS quote combines delivery, the monthly container rental, transport for long-distance moves, final pickup and optional contents protection. Your ZIP codes, dates, container size and how long you keep it all affect the price.
| Scenario | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| On-site storage during a renovation | $150–$300 per month plus delivery and pickup |
| Local move, one container | $400–$1,000 |
| Long-distance move, 2-bedroom | $2,000–$4,500 |
| Cross-country move, 3–4 bedroom | $4,500–$7,000+ |
What We Like About PODS
Flexible timing
You aren’t paying for a truck by the day, so you can pack carefully instead of rushing.
Built-in storage
Moving and storage in one service is ideal when closing dates don’t line up or you’re between homes.
No driving a truck
PODS handles transport, so you skip long drives in a rental truck and fuel costs.
Level delivery
PODZILLA lifts containers without tilting them, which keeps your load from shifting.
Sturdy containers
Steel-frame, weather-resistant containers with a roll-up door and room for your own lock.
Lots of uses
Beyond moving, people use PODS for renovations, decluttering, staging a home for sale, disaster recovery and seasonal storage.
Tips for Using PODS
- Book early, especially for summer and month-end dates.
- Check placement before delivery: PODZILLA needs a flat, clear area about 12 feet wide, 15 feet high and 40 feet long, which can include the street.
- Get permits if the container will sit on a public street, and check HOA rules.
- Distribute weight evenly, with heavy items on the bottom and spread side to side, and secure loads with straps. See our 17 packing hacks for PODS containers.
- Use your own lock and consider contents protection for long-distance moves.
- Weather-resistant isn’t waterproof. Wrap sensitive items and use plastic bins for anything that must stay dry.
PODS vs. the Alternatives
| PODS | U-Pack | U-Haul U-Box | Full-service movers | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Most moves and on-site storage | Long-distance value | Small moves on a budget | Hands-off moves |
| Local moves | Yes | No (100+ miles only) | Yes | Yes |
| Container sizes | 8′, 12′, 16′ | ReloCube or trailer space | One small size | Truck |
| Who loads | You or hired labor | You or hired labor | You or hired labor | Movers |
| Relative cost | Mid | Low–mid for long distance | Low | Highest |
Compare all seven major companies in our best portable storage container companies guide, or see PODS vs. PACK-RAT vs. U-Pack and PODS vs. U-Haul.
PODS FAQs
Is PODS worth it?
For most people who want to pack at their own pace, need storage during a move, or don’t want to drive a truck, yes. If you’re moving cross-country on a tight budget, compare a U-Pack quote too.
How much does a PODS container cost?
Local moves typically run $400 to $1,000, long-distance moves $1,500 to $7,000, and on-site storage about $150 to $300 a month plus delivery and pickup, depending on location, size and timing.
How long can I keep a PODS container?
As long as you need. You pay monthly rent for the container whether it’s at your home or at a PODS storage center.
Are PODS containers waterproof?
They’re weather-resistant, not fully waterproof. Wrap sensitive items, use plastic bins for anything that must stay dry, and keep the door closed and locked.
Can PODS be placed on the street?
Often yes, but most cities require a permit for street placement, and PODS needs a copy before delivery. HOAs may have their own rules.
Does PODS offer discounts?
PODS runs promotions regularly and offers a military discount. Check our PODS promo code page for the current offer.