First time using PODS? Here's every step in the process — from getting a quote to final container pickup. No surprises, no jargon, just what actually happens.
Get a Free PODS QuoteGet a free quote at pods.com (instant for local moves, call for long-distance). You'll need: origin and destination zip codes, home size (number of bedrooms), approximate move date, and number of containers needed. Long-distance quotes require a phone call — the representative needs to confirm container availability and calculate the transport fee for your specific route.
After getting your quote, confirm your booking with a deposit. You'll choose a delivery date and receive a 4-hour delivery window. PODS will call 24 hours before delivery to confirm. Make sure your placement area is clear — measure beforehand to confirm you have a 60ft × 10ft space.
Check HOA rules and building policies before booking. Some prohibit containers. Urban street placement requires permit processing time.
A PODS truck arrives and uses a crane arm mechanism to lift and place the container in your designated spot. You don't need to be home — just ensure the space is clear and accessible. The container is placed on the ground, level (within limits — steep slopes are problematic). You receive the container unlocked; you provide your own disc lock.
PODS needs 60ft × 10ft minimum. Steep driveways (over 12%) may be problematic — confirm with PODS beforehand. Overhead clearance needed for crane arm.
This is PODS' key advantage. Load when it suits you — over a weekend, or over 2 weeks. Pack strategically: heavy items on the floor, furniture against walls, boxes stacked in the center. Use moving blankets and straps to secure items. Access the container 24/7 while it's at your address.
Don't exceed the weight limit (4,200–4,700 lbs depending on size). Don't store flammable items, hazardous materials, or perishables.
On your scheduled pickup date, PODS retrieves the loaded container. The pickup fee ($75–$150) is charged at this point (or included in your all-in billing). The container is transported to a PODS storage facility. For local moves, it waits there until you're ready for delivery to your new address. For long-distance, it ships to a PODS facility near your destination.
You can also request PODS to move the container directly to your new address the same day for a local move — coordinate this when booking pickup.
Local: Container is stored at PODS facility. You can schedule delivery to your new address anytime, paying one month's rental per month stored. Long-distance: Container ships via third-party freight carrier. Transit takes 5–14 business days. You can track status online. During transit, you continue paying monthly storage.
Long-distance transit is 5–14 business days — not overnight. Plan your travel to the new home accordingly.
PODS delivers the container to your new address. A destination delivery fee ($75–$150) applies for long-distance moves. Unload at your pace. When finished, call PODS to schedule the final pickup. The container is retrieved — and your move is complete.
Address changes after container ships incur a rescheduling fee ($50–$100). Confirm your destination address before the container leaves origin.
Length: 60 feet (roughly one car length + container)
Width: 10 feet minimum
Height clearance: 15+ feet for crane arm operation
Surface: Hard surface preferred (asphalt, concrete, gravel)
Slope: No steeper than 12% incline
PODS containers are weather-resistant — steel walls, composite floor, and weather-tight seams. They are not 100% waterproof in heavy sustained rain. Moisture can seep in at door seams. Protect upholstered furniture and mattresses with plastic wrap or waterproof covers for outdoor storage longer than a few days. For items sensitive to humidity (certain antiques, electronics), use sealed plastic bins rather than cardboard boxes.