How Much Do PODS Cost? – Moving Container Pricing Explained

What Are PODS and How Do They Work?

When planning a move, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is how to transport your belongings safely and affordably. Traditionally, people chose between hiring full-service movers or renting a truck and doing everything themselves. In the past decade, however, portable moving containers like PODS (short for Portable On Demand Storage) have revolutionized the moving industry.

So, what exactly are PODS? At its core, PODS is a storage and moving service that delivers a steel container to your driveway or curbside. Instead of rushing to load everything into a truck in a single day, you get the flexibility to pack at your own pace. Once you’re ready, PODS picks up the container and transports it either to:

• Your new address (for local or long-distance moves)
• A PODS storage facility (if you need temporary storage between moves)

This hybrid model combines the DIY affordability of truck rentals with some of the convenience of full-service movers.

How the PODS Process Works Step-by-Step

1. Container Delivery – A PODS driver delivers the container to your home. You choose where it’s placed (driveway, curb, or even private property if allowed).
2. Loading – You load your belongings into the container at your own pace. Many customers take days or even weeks.
3. Pickup & Transport – When ready, you schedule a pickup. PODS transports it to your new location or to a secure storage facility.
4. Delivery at Destination – The container arrives at your new home, giving you more time to unload.
5. Final Pickup – Once you’re finished, PODS picks up the empty container.

When to Use PODS

PODS works best for people who:

• Need flexibility in timing (don’t want to load/unload in one stressful day).
• Want a storage + moving combo (e.g., selling a house and waiting to close on the next one).
• Are moving long-distance but want more control than a full-service mover.
• Need temporary storage during renovations, remodeling, or military relocation.

Unlike truck rentals where you handle all the logistics (and drive a bulky vehicle), PODS handles the transportation while you focus on packing and organizing.

However, this convenience comes at a price. To understand if PODS is right for you, you need to know exactly how much PODS costs—and why prices vary so much.

Average Costs of PODS

One of the most common questions people ask is: “How much does PODS cost?” The answer isn’t straightforward because PODS pricing depends on multiple variables—container size, distance, duration, season, and location. But we can give you realistic averages.

Local Move Costs

For local moves (within the same city or under 50 miles):

• Average cost: $350 – $1,100
• This typically includes:
  • Container delivery to your home
  • 1-month container rental
  • Pickup and delivery to your new home
  • Final container pickup after unloading

💡 Example:

• A one-bedroom apartment move across town might cost $400–$600 using an 8-foot container.
• A three-bedroom home requiring a 16-foot container may cost $900–$1,100 for a local relocation.

Long-Distance Move Costs

For moves across state lines or hundreds of miles away, costs increase significantly:

• Average cost: $2,000 – $7,000+
• This includes transportation across states, container rental, and delivery at destination.

💡 Example scenarios:

• A 1-bedroom apartment from Los Angeles to Phoenix (370 miles): $2,000–$2,500.
• A 3-bedroom home from Dallas to Chicago (925 miles): $4,000–$4,800.
• A full household from Florida to California (2,700 miles): $6,500–$7,500.

The range is wide because PODS charges by distance, container size, and number of containers used.

Storage Costs

One of the biggest selling points of PODS is built-in storage options. If you’re between homes or downsizing, you can store your container at a PODS facility.

• Monthly storage fees: $149 – $289 per container (varies by region).
• Storage at your own property is usually included in the monthly rental fee.

💡 Example: A family downsizing from a 4-bedroom home may rent two 16-foot PODS containers, store them for 3 months during the transition, and pay $800–$1,200 in storage fees on top of moving costs.

Regional Pricing Differences

PODS rates also vary by location.

• High-cost cities (NYC, San Francisco, Seattle): Expect to pay 15–25% more due to higher demand, delivery restrictions, and labor costs.
• Suburbs and smaller towns: Rates are closer to PODS’ lower average.
• Rural areas: Delivery surcharges may apply if you’re outside their standard service radius.

For example:

• Moving a 2-bedroom apartment locally in New York City might cost $1,000–$1,200, while the same move in Cincinnati could be closer to $600–$750.

Why PODS Costs Vary So Much

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer because PODS operates on a flexible pricing model. Here’s what influences the final price:

• Distance traveled – Longer miles = higher transport costs.
• Container size – Bigger containers = higher monthly rental + transport fees.
• Duration – Keeping the container longer racks up monthly fees.
• Season – Summer is peak moving season; expect prices 20–30% higher.
• Location – Urban delivery challenges (permits, parking, tight streets) add surcharges.
• Demand – PODS adjusts pricing based on availability (similar to airline tickets).

Quick Cost Snapshot for 2025

Here’s a simplified average range (per container):

💡 Pro Tip: Always request multiple quotes. PODS offers online quotes, but calling and speaking with a rep can sometimes get you discounts, promotions, or price matches.

PODS Container Sizes and What Fits Inside

One of the most common mistakes people make when budgeting for a PODS move is choosing the wrong container size. Selecting too small of a container means you’ll either cram your belongings (leading to damage) or end up paying for a second container at the last minute. On the other hand, renting a container that’s too large can increase your costs unnecessarily.

PODS currently offers three standard container sizes: 8-foot, 12-foot, and 16-foot. Let’s break down what fits in each and which situations they’re best for.

The 8-Foot Container (Small Size)

• Dimensions: ~8’ x 7’ x 8’ (interior)
• Capacity: ~400–500 sq. ft. of living space
• Best for:
  • Studio apartments
  • 1-bedroom apartments with minimal furniture
  • College moves
  • Small offices or partial household moves
  • Seasonal storage

💡 What Fits:

• A queen-size bed and frame
• A dresser, nightstand, and small sofa or loveseat
• About 30–40 medium-sized moving boxes
• Small kitchen table with 2–4 chairs

👉 Real Example: A college student moving out of a dorm into their first apartment could comfortably fit all their essentials in an 8-foot container for ~$350–$700 locally or ~$2,000+ for long-distance moving.

The 12-Foot Container (Medium Size)

• Dimensions: ~12’ x 8’ x 8’ (interior)
• Capacity: ~600–800 sq. ft. of living space
• Best for:
  • 2–3 room apartments
  • Small houses (1–2 bedrooms)
  • Renovations requiring storage of multiple rooms
  • Moves with bulkier furniture (but not an entire large household)

💡 What Fits:

• Two full bedrooms’ worth of furniture
• Dining table + chairs
• Several medium-to-large appliances (washer/dryer, fridge)
• 50–70 moving boxes

👉 Real Example: A young couple moving from a 2-bedroom apartment with a living room set, dining set, and ~60 boxes would likely need a 12-foot PODS container. Local costs run $450–$900, while cross-country moves average $3,000–$4,500.

Can You Combine Containers?

Yes—PODS allows customers to rent multiple containers. Many families opt for two 16-foot containers instead of trying to cram everything into one. While this increases costs, it reduces the risk of damage and keeps boxes more organized.

👉 Pro Tip: If you’re unsure, PODS recommends starting with a smaller container and adding another if needed. It’s easier to scale up than pay for unused space.

Key Factors That Influence PODS Pricing

If you’ve ever tried to get a PODS quote online and noticed the price fluctuates, you’re not imagining things. PODS uses a dynamic pricing model influenced by several variables. Let’s break down each factor so you know exactly what drives costs.

1. Distance of Your Move

The single biggest factor is how far your container travels. Local moves are much cheaper since they don’t involve interstate transport. Long-distance moves rack up costs for:

• Fuel surcharges
• Highway tolls
• Labor (drivers, logistics team)
• Time (the longer the trip, the more resources used)

👉 Example: A move from Atlanta to Charlotte (250 miles) might cost $2,200, while a move from Atlanta to Los Angeles (2,100 miles) can exceed $6,000 for the same container size.

2. Duration of Rental

Unlike truck rentals (charged daily), PODS charges monthly fees for container rental. The longer you keep it, the higher your bill.

• First month is usually included in the quoted price.
• Each additional month adds $150–$300 per container.

👉 Example: A 16-foot PODS kept for 2 months instead of 1 can add $250–$400 extra to your move.

3. Container Size & Number of Containers

As covered above, PODS offers three container sizes. Larger containers cost more per month and more to transport. If you need multiple containers, your costs increase significantly.

👉 Example: A 4-bedroom home may need two 16-foot containers. Instead of $4,500 for one, you may pay $7,500–$9,000 for two.

4. Time of Year

Just like airlines and hotels, PODS prices fluctuate with demand.

• Peak season (May–September): Prices rise 20–30%.
• Off-season (October–March): Discounts are more likely.

👉 Example: A cross-country 2-bedroom move in July may cost $4,500, while the same move in December might cost $3,200.

5. Geographic Location

Where you live also impacts cost.

• Urban areas: Higher delivery fees (permits, parking restrictions).
• Rural areas: Additional mileage charges for off-route delivery.
• Regional demand: High-demand states (California, Florida, New York) see higher base rates.

👉 Example: Delivering a POD to downtown San Francisco could require a permit fee + tight access charges, adding $100–$250 to the bill.

6. Storage Needs

Do you need short- or long-term storage?

• Storing the container at your property: included in monthly rent.
• Storing at a PODS facility: adds $149–$289/month per container.

👉 Example: Storing 2 containers for 4 months while waiting for a new house to close could add $1,200–$2,000 in storage fees.

Pros & Cons of Using PODS

Pros

• Flexible—pack at your own pace.
• Doubles as moving and storage solution.
• Delivered right to your doorstep.
• No driving a rental truck required.

Cons

• Can be pricier than DIY truck rentals.
• Limited availability in some regions.
• Parking permits may be needed for urban deliveries.

Are PODS Worth the Cost?

For people who value flexibility, convenience, and less stress, PODS are often worth the investment. They’re especially helpful for:

• Staging a home for sale.
• Temporary storage during renovations.
• Long-distance moves where you don’t want to drive a truck.

However, if budget is your top concern, renting a moving truck may be cheaper—though it requires more effort.

Final Takeaway: PODS costs typically range from $300 to $3,000, depending on move type and storage needs. Always request a personalized quote to compare with alternatives like U-Haul, Penske, or traditional storage units.

FAQ

1. How much does a PODS container cost per month?

On average, monthly rental fees range from $150 to $300 per container, depending on the size and location. This cost does not include delivery or pickup fees.

2. How much does it cost to move with PODS locally?

Local moves with PODS usually cost between $300 and $800, including container rental, delivery, and pickup.

3. How much does it cost to move long-distance with PODS?

A long-distance or cross-country move with PODS can cost between $1,000 and $3,000. Prices depend on distance, container size, and how long you keep the container.

4. Are PODS cheaper than hiring movers?

In many cases, PODS are cheaper than full-service movers but more expensive than renting a DIY moving truck. They’re best for those who want a middle ground between convenience and cost.

5. Do PODS prices change based on season?

Yes, PODS pricing is higher during peak moving season (May–September). Booking early or moving in the off-season can help save money.

6. Can PODS be used for both moving and storage?

Absolutely. PODS can be stored on your property or at a secure PODS storage facility. This makes them ideal for renovations, downsizing, or temporary storage needs.