Advertising Disclosure

PODS Moving and Storage - Review by NationalMovers

Moving can be stressful, especially when it comes to finding the right company to trust with your belongings. Over the years, many people, including myself, have explored various options to simplify the moving process.

How much will my move cost?

Let us help match you

1
2
3
4
5
6
7

    Please tell us where you're moving from

    Please tell us where you're moving to

    Please select or enter a date

    Please tell us how much stuff you have

    Please tell us your name

    Please tell us your phone number

    Thank you!

    Your movers will contact you shortly.

    Written by: National Movers Team

    Reviewed by: Jason Walker

    Last Update: 02/26/2025

    One name that frequently comes up is PODS Moving and Storage. In this article, I’ll share my comprehensive experience with PODS to help you understand their services, pros, and cons, and decide if they are the right fit for your moving and storage needs.

    Key Takeaways
    • PODS is a flexible, affordable solution for moving and storage.
    • Their self-packing model may not suit everyone but offers great value for DIY movers.
    • Transparent pricing and secure storage options are significant advantages.

    Who Owns PODS Moving and Storage?

    4.1

    The rating shown is an editorial score independently determined by NationalMovers team. It is based on industry analysis, customer reviews, publicly available information, and other relevant criteria.

    PODS, short for Portable On Demand Storage, was founded in 1998 by Peter Warhurst in Clearwater, Florida. Warhurst’s innovative idea of creating portable storage containers revolutionized the moving industry.

    His concept also included the development of a unique hydraulic lift system called PODZILLA, which ensures that containers stay level during loading and transport, minimizing the risk of damage to belongings.

    In 2015, PODS was acquired by the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, a private equity firm. As of February 2021, the company is led by CEO Kathryn V. Marinello, who has brought significant growth and modernization to the company. PODS operates with the mission to make moving and storage as stress-free as possible. Their values center around convenience, flexibility, and customer satisfaction, which has helped them grow into a leading name in the moving industry.

    Best Overall Value Best Overall Value

    United Regions Van Lines

    0

    • Nationwide availability
    • Clear pricing, no hidden fees
    • Premium door-to-door service

    Need Help? Call Now

    855-930-4574
    • Nationwide availability, over 25 years of experience, premium door-to-door service
    American Relocation Experts

    0

    • Reliable moving & Storage solutions
    • Top-quality services, trained staff
    • Reliable moving & Storage solutions, top-quality services, trained staff

    PODS Moving Services

    PODS offers a variety of services designed to cater to different moving and storage needs. Whether you’re relocating locally or across the country, renovating your home, or looking for additional storage space, PODS provides flexible solutions.

    Local and Long-Distance Moving Storage Solutions Packing and Loading Assistance Business Moving and Storage

    Local and Long-Distance Moving

    PODS delivers containers right to your doorstep. You load them at your own pace, and once you’re ready, they pick up the container and transport it to your new location. For long-distance moves, PODS coordinates the transport across states, ensuring your belongings arrive safely and on time.

    Storage Solutions

    PODS offers storage options for both short-term and long-term needs. You can keep the container on your property for easy access or store it in one of PODS’ secure facilities. This feature is particularly helpful during home renovations or when staging a home for sale.

    Packing and Loading Assistance

    While PODS does not provide in-house packing and loading services, they can refer you to local movers and packers who can assist. This partnership ensures you receive professional help if needed.

    Business Moving and Storage

    PODS also caters to businesses needing storage solutions for inventory or equipment. Their containers can be used for temporary storage during office relocations or as a long-term solution for surplus items.

    How Does PODS Work?

    How Does PODS Work?

    PODS is known for its simplicity and flexibility. Here’s how their process works, step by step.

    Service Booking Process

    Booking with PODS is straightforward:

    1. Get a Quote: Visit PODS.com or call their customer service to get a price estimate. You’ll provide details such as your move date, locations, and the container size required.
    2. Review the Quote: PODS offers transparency in pricing, so there are no hidden fees. Their quotes include delivery, pickup, and one month of storage.
    3. Schedule the Delivery: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, schedule a container delivery at your preferred location. You can also adjust the schedule if needed.

    Customer support is available via phone, email, or online chat, making it easy to clarify any doubts or make changes to your booking.

    Moving Process

    1. Container Delivery: On the scheduled day, PODS delivers the container to your address. Their drivers are punctual, and their equipment ensures safe placement of the container.
    2. Loading: You can load the container at your own pace. PODS containers are weather-resistant, providing added security for your belongings.
    3. Transport: Once packed, PODS transports the container to your new address or stores it in a secure facility until you’re ready for delivery.
    4. Delivery and Unloading: When you’re ready to unpack, PODS delivers the container to your new location. You can take as much time as you need to unload.

    PODS prioritizes customer satisfaction by offering flexibility in delivery schedules. They also have policies in place to address cancellations, delays, or damages.

    Pros and Cons of PODS

    PODS Pros

    • Flexibility: PODS allows you to load and unload on your schedule without time constraints.
    • Wide Service Area: Available in 46 U.S. states, Canada, Australia, and the UK.
    • Secure Storage: Containers are weather-resistant and secure, ensuring the safety of your belongings.
    • Customizable Options: Choose from on-site storage, off-site storage, or direct transport.
    • Transparent Pricing: Clear quotes with minimal hidden fees.
    • Customer Support: Multiple channels for support make communication easy.

    PODS Cons

    • DIY Loading: You are responsible for loading and unloading the container, which may not suit everyone.
    • Additional Costs: Extended storage or changes to the schedule can incur extra fees.
    • No In-House Packing Services: Packing and loading services are outsourced to third-party providers.
    • Container Availability: Limited availability during peak moving seasons can be a drawback.

    Average Cost of PODS

    Please note that prices are estimates for informational purposes and may vary based on individual factors.

    PODS pricing depends on several factors, including distance, duration, and container size. Here’s an overview:

    • Local Moves: $349–$549, which includes one month of storage.
    • Long-Distance Moves: $999–$2,999 on average, depending on the distance and storage requirements.
    • Storage Costs: Additional months of storage typically cost $150–$250 per month.

    It’s worth noting that these prices are competitive compared to traditional moving companies, especially for long-term or DIY movers.

    Get matched with the best mover for your needs!

    1
    2
    3
    4
    5
    6
    7

      • Please enter 2 or more characters

      Please tell us where you're moving from

      • Please enter 2 or more characters

      Please tell us where you're moving to

      Please select or enter a date

      Please tell us how much stuff you have

      Please tell us your name

      Please tell us your phone number

      Thank you!

      Your movers will contact you shortly.

      Find PODS Near You

      PODS operates in multiple locations, making them accessible for most customers.

      Branches and Locations

      PODS operates in numerous cities across the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Below is a table highlighting some of the key cities in the U.S. where PODS services are available:

      State Cities Served
      Alabama Birmingham, Montgomery, Mobile, Huntsville, Tuscaloosa
      Arizona Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale
      Arkansas Little Rock, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Springdale, Jonesboro
      California Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, San Jose
      Colorado Denver, Colorado Springs, Aurora, Fort Collins, Lakewood
      Connecticut Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, Bridgeport, Waterbury
      Delaware Wilmington, Dover, Newark, Middletown, Smyrna
      Florida Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, St. Petersburg
      Georgia Atlanta, Augusta, Savannah, Columbus, Athens
      Hawaii Honolulu, Hilo, Kailua, Kapolei, Kaneohe
      Idaho Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Idaho Falls, Pocatello
      Illinois Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, Joliet, Rockford
      Indiana Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, South Bend, Carmel
      Iowa Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Sioux City, Iowa City
      Kansas Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City, Topeka, Olathe
      Kentucky Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, Owensboro, Covington
      Louisiana New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Lafayette, Lake Charles
      Maine Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, South Portland, Auburn
      Maryland Baltimore, Frederick, Rockville, Gaithersburg, Bowie
      Massachusetts Boston, Worcester, Springfield, Cambridge, Lowell
      Michigan Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Ann Arbor
      Minnesota Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, Duluth, Bloomington
      Mississippi Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven, Hattiesburg, Biloxi
      Missouri Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, Columbia, Independence
      Nebraska Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue, Grand Island, Kearney
      Nevada Las Vegas, Henderson, Reno, North Las Vegas, Sparks
      New Hampshire Manchester, Nashua, Concord, Derry, Dover
      New Jersey Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth, Edison
      New Mexico Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, Santa Fe, Roswell
      New York New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, Yonkers, Syracuse
      North Carolina Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, Durham, Winston-Salem
      Ohio Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron
      Oklahoma Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman, Broken Arrow, Edmond
      Oregon Portland, Salem, Eugene, Gresham, Hillsboro
      Pennsylvania Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Erie, Reading
      Rhode Island Providence, Warwick, Cranston, Pawtucket, East Providence
      South Carolina Charleston, Columbia, North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Rock Hill
      South Dakota Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, Brookings, Watertown
      Tennessee Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Clarksville
      Texas Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, Fort Worth
      Utah Salt Lake City, West Valley City, Provo, West Jordan, Orem
      Virginia Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Richmond, Newport News
      Washington Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Bellevue
      Washington D.C. Washington D.C.
      Wisconsin Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Kenosha, Racine

      PODS also extends its services internationally, with operations in:

      • Canada: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec
      • Australia
      • United Kingdom

      Is PODS a Good Moving Company?

      Based on my experience, PODS is an excellent option for those who value flexibility and control over their move. Their services are ideal for people who are comfortable with self-packing and want affordable, customizable solutions. The option to store the container on-site or at a PODS facility is an added bonus. However, if you’re looking for full-service moving with packing and loading included, PODS might not be the best fit.

      Final Verdict

      If you’re planning a move and need flexibility, PODS is a reliable and convenient choice. Their transparent pricing and focus on customer satisfaction make them a top contender in the moving and storage industry.

      Alternatives to PODS

      If PODS doesn’t suit your needs, consider these alternatives:

      • U-Pack: Known for competitive pricing and excellent customer service.
      • 1-800-PACK-RAT: Offers similar container services with slightly larger sizes.
      • Zippy Shell: A great option for urban areas due to their compact containers.

      Comparing these options can help you determine the best fit for your moving and storage needs.