Should you tip a PODS driver? The short answer is yes — and that’s just one of the many questions people have about these popular moving containers.
We’ve seen many questions popping up about Portable On Demand Storage, AKA PODS. More and more people are embracing the convenience of these portable containers as an alternative to moving trucks. You might be curious about how PODS works because you’re interested in using one for your own move. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most common PODS FAQs and discuss pricing, cancellation, sizes, and allowed items so you can be expert on containers for your upcoming move.
1. How Does PODS Pricing Work?
PODS pricing mostly comes down to three key factors: how big your container is, how far it’s going, and how long you’ll keep your rental. You should also consider the number of containers you’ll need — is one enough, or will you need two or more?
PODS pricing varies from about $150 for short-term, local use to several thousand dollars for long-distance moves, with average monthly fees of $139 to $239. These costs cover the monthly storage fees, while delivery and pickup are charged separately.
Whether you’re moving locally, over a long distance, or just storing items for a month, each option comes with its own costs. Monthly storage fees also add up the longer you store your items in PODS. If you want more details, we break down the true cost of using PODS.
Our trusted moving expert, Kevin the Mover, recommends going straight to the source:
“PODS offers instant online quotes for local moves, 24/7 operator assistance for long-distance moves, and a Moving and Storage Calculator to help you figure out what size container you’ll need – and how many.”
2. How Does PODS Work?
Basically, PODS rentals are a combination of a storage unit and a moving truck. As Kevin the Mover explains, “Moving containers are basically big cases you can keep your stuff in. But they’re portable, like a driveable garage.” The good news is you aren’t responsible for lugging this 16-foot container across the interstate by yourself.
Here’s how the process works step-by-step:
- Step 1: Delivery: PODS workers bring your portable storage unit(s) to your home or office using a hydraulic lift called a PODZILLA, which gently places your rental on the ground.
- Step 2: Loading: You fill the container at your convenience, or hire movers to handle the labor.
- Step 3: Pickup: After filling it, you notify the company that your PODS is ready.
- Step 4: Transport: The company delivers your PODS to your new home or a storage facility.
- Step 5: Unloading: You or your movers unload the PODS when you’re ready.
Keep your PODS units as long as you like! The company charges by the month.
3. What Is the PODS Cancellation Policy?
You can cancel a full or partial PODS order, but timing matters. According to PODS, you can cancel your order for free if you call at least three days before your container is supposed to be delivered. Under other circumstances, cancellation may incur a fee. Typically, that means paying the delivery fee, your first month’s rent, and any Contents Protection coverage.
“PODS containers come in 8-foot, 12-foot (local moves only), and 16-foot options… in general, the smaller containers are ideal if you’re just packing up 1 or 2 rooms, a studio, or a 1-bedroom apartment.”
In general, the easiest way to avoid extra charges is to cancel before delivery. You can review the full PODS cancellation policy here.
4. What Is on the PODS Prohibited Items List?
If something could spoil, catch fire, or create a safety risk, it doesn’t belong in your PODS. Illegal items are a no-go, too.
PODS prohibited items include the following:
- Perishable food: Think ice cream, lunch meat, or anything that won’t last long without a fridge.
- Live plants: Your faux bouquet is fine, but live plants are not.
- Hazardous materials: This includes paint, propane, gas, and other chemicals, especially flammable ones.
- Animals: Pets of any kind aren’t allowed in the containers.
- Illegal items: You can’t store drugs, guns, or anything else prohibited by law, either.
For more safe-packing tips, check out our guide to PODS basics.
5. How Do I Cancel My PODS Order?
Contact PODS at (800) 706-4758 or log into your PODS account to chat online and cancel your order. It’s important to cancel at least 3 days in advance and call before 4 pm when possible. This helps you avoid cancellation fees.
6. What Are the PODS Sizes, and Which Size Do I Need?
PODS containers come in 8-foot, 12-foot (local moves only), and 16-foot options. We have a handy guide that describes PODS container sizing, so you can choose the right one with confidence, but in general, the smaller containers are ideal if you’re just packing up 1 or 2 rooms, a studio, or a 1-bedroom apartment. Consider the larger PODS units if you’re packing up your entire home or office.
Kevin the Mover recommends using the PODS storage space calculator to determine the perfect size for your move:
“Enter how many of every item you need to move – including boxes, so you really need to know how much stuff you have! – and you’ll see your container fill up as you keep adding items until you reach the end and get your final (estimated) answer.”
7. What Is the PODS Phone Number?
Call PODS at (855) 706-4758 if you have questions, if you need a quote, or if you’re ready to rent a container. You can also contact PODS online through the customer portal to chat or text.
8. How Do I Get a PODS Quote?
PODS quotes are available online for local moves. Long-distance quotes typically require a phone call.
Visit the official PODS website and enter your information to get an online quote. Here’s what you’ll need for the quote:
- ZIP code for your current location
- ZIP code for your new location
- Dates of your move or storage
- Desired container size
It’s also helpful to know how long you’ll need the container, since you may be able to pay for however many months you need at your initial booking, and therefore will get a more comprehensive quote.
9. Do You Tip a PODS Driver?
Absolutely! Tipping shows you appreciate the driver’s help with your PODS dropoff or pickup.
“The person dropping off your container may not be doing any lifting and carrying, but they are providing a service,” Kevin the Mover reminds us. He recommends tipping the PODS driver for their help. Even $5 or $10 is enough to make their day!
10. Are PODS Waterproof or Climate Controlled?
PODS aren’t technically ‘waterproof’ — the company calls them water-resistant — but they’re designed to keep your stuff safe from the weather. That means your beloved belongings should remain safe and dry year-round, whether the sun is shining or it’s pouring down rain.
However, you should avoid packing delicate items like electronics or fine art inside the container, though. As Kevin the Mover points out, temperature swings can be tough on sensitive items like electronics:
“You may want to avoid storing items that are susceptible to extremes of temperature and/or high humidity — fine art and electronics immediately come to mind.”
When loading your PODS rental, keep in mind that it might not have a climate-controlled interior. If you’re worried, PODS Storage Centers offer climate-controlled facilities to give your items extra protection. You also have the option to store your PODS rental at another climate-controlled location of your choice.