Question 1

How much does PODS cost per month?

Accepted Answer

PODS monthly storage rates depend on container size: the 8-foot container costs $149–$170/month, the 12-foot costs $170–$220/month, and the 16-foot costs $220–$344/month. These rates are for storage at a PODS facility. Urban markets (NYC, LA, Chicago) typically charge 15–25% more. Note: delivery and pickup fees are separate from the monthly rental rate.

Question 2

What is included in a PODS quote?

Accepted Answer

A standard PODS quote includes the monthly container rental and storage at their facility. It does NOT automatically include: the initial delivery fee ($75–$150), the final pickup fee ($75–$150), long-distance transport fees (for interstate moves), insurance/contents protection, or loading/unloading labor. Always ask PODS for an all-in estimate that includes delivery and pickup.

Question 3

Is PODS cheaper than hiring movers?

Accepted Answer

For most moves over 200 miles, PODS is significantly cheaper than full-service movers. A typical 3-bedroom long-distance move costs $2,500–$5,000 with PODS vs $4,000–$8,000 with movers. For local moves, it depends on whether you have people to help load — PODS is competitive when you factor in the time and flexibility it provides.

Question 4

What size PODS container do I need?

Accepted Answer

The 8-foot container suits studios and 1-bedroom apartments. The 12-foot container works for 1–2 bedroom apartments. The 16-foot container handles 3–4 bedroom homes. For fully furnished 4+ bedroom houses with a garage, plan on two 16-foot containers. When in doubt, size up — it's usually cheaper to rent one larger container than two smaller ones.

Question 5

Does PODS cost more in summer?

Accepted Answer

Yes, peak moving season (June–August) adds 15–25% to PODS costs. End-of-month dates in any month are also more expensive due to lease turnover demand. The cheapest months to use PODS are January and February, when you can save 25–35% compared to summer rates. Booking 4–6 weeks ahead in peak season also helps secure better pricing.

Provider	Local Cost	Long-Distance	Coverage	Best For
PODS	$300–$800	$2,000–$7,500	48 states	National coverage, combined move + storage
1-800-PACK-RAT	$280–$750	$1,900–$7,000	29 states	All-steel containers, price match guarantee
U-Pack	N/A	$1,400–$4,800	48 states	Long-distance budget moves, pay by linear foot
Full-Service Movers	$600–$2,000	$2,500–$10,000+	Nationwide	No lifting required, specialty items

How Much Does PODS Cost in 2026?

PODS Cost Estimator

PODS Cost by Container Size

What's Included in PODS Pricing?

Included in your quote

NOT included by default

Typical Total-Cost Examples

PODS vs The Alternatives

Moving January–March? You could save 25–30%

Frequently Asked Questions