How Much Does Moving with PODS Cost?

Last Updated on September 24, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

PODS provides a convenient and customizable moving and storage solution, delivering portable containers right to your door for loading at your own pace. But how much does it realistically cost to move locally or long distance using PODS in 2024?

In this guide, we’ll break down current PODS moving prices for local vs. cross-country relocations using different sized containers. We’ll examine associated monthly rental fees, factors that impact costs, tips for saving, and compare PODS to rental trucks and competitors.

Article Highlights

When budgeting for a move using PODS, be sure to account for:

• Local move range of $200 to $800
• Long-distance average of $1,000 to $5,000
• Monthly storage fees from $150 to $300
• Transportation mileage rates
• Cost differences across container sizes
• Timing moves in off-peak seasons

How Much Does Moving with PODS Cost?

According to PODS, here are the average moving costs consumers can expect:

• Local moves – Between $200 to $800+ on average depending on the container size rented
• Long-distance interstate moves – Approximately $1,000 to $5,000+ based on total mileage and supplement fees

So you can expect to budget a minimum of $1,000 or more for any cross-state move in at least a mid-sized PODS container.

Monthly Storage Fees

If needing to store your loaded PODS container in between origin and destination for an extended period, typical storage fees range:

• 7-16 foot PODS container – $150 to $300+ per month for secure storage

The longer the storage duration, the higher total fees climb, so factor this into long-distance moving cost estimates.

According to HomeGuide, the average cost for long-distance moves with PODS typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000. For local moves under 100 miles, the costs are generally lower, averaging between $300 and $600.

The pricing includes container delivery, transportation, and one month of storage. For longer distances, costs can escalate depending on the mileage; for example, moving 1,000 miles may cost around $3,000 to $6,000.

MoveBuddha reports that for local moves, PODS can cost anywhere from $225 to $850, while long-distance moves can range from $450 to $7,600. They emphasize that the total cost depends on the size of the move and how many times the container needs to be relocated. This pricing typically includes one month of storage along with pickup and delivery fees.

According to PODS’ official website, costs are influenced by several factors including the number and size of containers needed, distance of the move, and time frame. They suggest that for a typical long-distance move, customers should expect to pay significantly more than for a local move due to transportation expenses.

Their site offers detailed quotes based on specific moving requirements but does not publish fixed prices directly.

In a report by iMoving, they state that PODS typically charges between $299 to $499 for local moves and $1,000 to $3,000 for long-distance moves. They also mention that monthly storage fees can range from $150 to $300, depending on location and demand. This flexibility allows customers to store their belongings at their convenience while managing costs effectively.

Lastly, discussions on Reddit provide anecdotal insights into PODS costs from users who have utilized the service. One user shared that they paid just under $10,000 for two large PODS with a month of extra storage included after receiving a 30% discount.

Monthly storage fees were reported to be around $750 for both units combined. This highlights how individual experiences can vary widely based on specific circumstances and discounts available at the time of booking.

PODS Portable Moving and Storage Solutions

PODS offers uniquely flexible and customizable portable moving and storage containers delivered directly to your location. Useful features include:

• Available in small, medium, and large container sizes from just 7 feet up to 16 feet to fit different moving needs
• Ability to conveniently pack and load items on your own flexible timeline
• Scheduled no-hassle delivery and retrieval of loaded containers by PODS trucks
• Optional short or long-term container storage at secure PODS facilities between locations

But with gas and transportation costs rising, how much does a move with PODS typically cost on average in 2024? Let’s investigate their current rates.

Factors Influencing PODS Costs

Several important variables influence the total price quote for moving and storing using PODS:

• Overall mileage and distance – Longer distance moves incur higher transportation fees from PODS trucks.
• Container size – Larger PODS units accommodating more belongings naturally cost more.
• Peak seasonal demand – Moving in summer or other high demand periods leads to added costs.
• Storage duration – Monthly storage rental fees add up dramatically over many months.

Carefully evaluating how each of these apply to your particular moving situation allows accurately budgeting with PODS.

You might also like our articles about the cost of cleaning out a house, moving a hot tub, or moving a shed.

PODS vs. Traditional DIY Moving Truck Rentals

PODS offers greater moving convenience but generally costs more than renting a moving truck yourself for smaller local or regional moves. However, PODS becomes price-competitive with rental trucks like U-Haul or Penske for bigger cross-country relocations once transportation miles add up.

PODS pricing is similar to container-based competitors like 1-800-PACK-RAT but with more flexibility in container sizes.

Additional PODS Fees

Be sure to account for any extra fees in your moving cost estimates like:

• Delivery and pickup charges – $100+ each way depending on distance
• Loading and unloading help – $100+ per hour if using PODS’ professional loading crew
• Insurance – Around 1.5% of chosen coverage amount for protecting belongings

Properly factoring in these additional charges avoids budget shortfalls.

Expert Tips

Industry experts recommend:

“Book PODS reservations early to lock in the lowest base rates before any seasonal price increases.” – James Swon, Moving Advisor

“Ask PODS about any current new customer promotions, military or student discounts, or referral rewards.” – Deborah Ortiz, Relocation Consultant

“Consider moving in the fall or winter off-season to avoid expensive summer peak surcharges.” – Mark Lee, Moving Analyst

“Get multiple quotes from PODS competitors using the same details to compare rates.” – John Black, Consumer Savings Expert

Their insider advice can help homeowners and renters minimize PODS moving costs through both strategic timing and savvy shopping.

Answers to Common Questions

Here are some more insights on specific PODS moving cost factors:

How much is a 16 ft pod for moving?

A 16-foot PODS container for long distance moves often averages between $3,000 – $5,000 total when including all transportation mileage fees plus any rental storage duration.

How much does it cost to move a pod 500 miles?

Moving a standard 12-foot PODS container roughly 500 miles usually costs around $2,000 – $3,000 on average based on precise mileage, seasonal rates, and supplemental fees for storage or loading assistance.

Is it cheaper to use a pod or a moving truck?

For very large cross-country relocations, PODS can be cheaper than DIY truck rental when factoring transportation costs. But for localized moves under 50 miles, truck rental may save money.

Final Words

Moving and storing with PODS offers greater convenience and customization but comes at a premium cost compared to DIY truck rentals for smaller local moves. However, PODS becomes cost-competitive for long-distance interstate relocations, with average prices ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.

Carefully factoring mileage, storage needs, seasonal timing, and potential discounts into the total price estimate allows families to right-size the perfect PODS moving solution for their situation and budget. While not the cheapest option, PODS simplifies moves by seamlessly handling loading, transportation, and secure storage so you can focus on the important things like settling into your new home.