Is PODS moving expensive? This is a common question for people looking for flexible, self-paced moving solutions. PODS (Portable On Demand Storage) is a popular alternative to traditional movers, offering a convenient way to pack and transport your belongings. But when it comes to budgeting, many wonder is PODS expensive compared to hiring a full-service moving company. One major factor that affects pricing is the PODS per mile cost, which varies based on distance, container size, and location. Cost concerns are valid, especially for long-distance or multi-container moves. In this post, we’ll break down the average costs, highlight affordability factors, and compare PODS with traditional moving services to help you decide what fits your needs and budget best.
What Is PODS Moving and How Does It Work?
PODS stands for Portable On Demand Storage. It’s a flexible moving and storage solution where a container is delivered to your location. You load it at your own pace, then PODS picks it up and delivers it to your new place or stores it until you’re ready.
How PODS Moving Works
- Delivery – PODS drops off the container at your home.
- Loading – You load your items, or hire help.
- Storage (Optional) – Not ready yet? PODS stores it for you.
- Transport – When ready, they deliver it to your new location.
When to Use PODS
- Local or long-distance moves (e.g., Los Angeles to Riverside or Santa Barbara)
- Home renovations or staging
- Senior moving or downsizing
- Temporary storage needs
Is PODS Moving Expensive?
Many people ask, “Is PODS expensive?” or “Is PODS moving expensive?”
- Local moves: $300–$800
- Long-distance: $1,200–$5,000+
- Storage: $110–$180/month
It’s not the cheapest, but you’re paying for flexibility, storage, and convenience. Compared to full-service movers, PODS can be more affordable if you do your own loading.
You may read about How Do Moving Pods Work?
Is PODS Moving Expensive?
Not always, but it depends. The cost of PODS moving changes based on a few key things. Sometimes, PODS is cheaper than hiring full-service movers, but it can cost more than renting a moving truck.
What Affects the Cost of PODS Moving?
Distance of the Move
The farther you’re moving, the more you’ll pay. Local moves are cheaper than long-distance ones.
Size of Container
PODS offers different container sizes. Bigger containers cost more than smaller ones.
How Long You Keep It
The longer you rent the container, the higher the cost. Monthly storage fees add up.
Extra Services
If you use storage, add insurance, or need extra help, the price goes up.
So, Is PODS Expensive?
If you’re asking, “Is PODS expensive?” or “Is PODS moving expensive?” — the answer is:
It depends on your needs. For short moves and short rental times, PODS can be budget-friendly. But if you need long-distance delivery and storage, it can get pricey.
Average Cost of Using PODS to Move
Wondering about the average cost of using PODS to move? Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand what you might pay for a PODS move—whether it’s local or long-distance.
Local Move with PODS: $300 – $800
A local move (within the same city or nearby areas like Los Angeles to Pasadena) is usually more affordable. Here’s how the cost adds up:
- Container delivery fee: $75 – $100
- Monthly rental fee: $110 – $180 per container
- Pickup & final transport: $75 – $100
Total estimated cost: Around $300 to $800 depending on the container size and how long you keep it.
Long-Distance Move with PODS: $1,200 – $4,000+
Moving from Los Angeles to another state—or even to Northern California—costs more due to fuel, distance, and time.
- Container delivery fee: $100 – $150
- Transport to new city/state: $1,000 – $3,000
- Monthly rental/storage fee: $110 – $180
- Final pickup fee: $100 – $150
Total estimated cost: Between $1,200 and $4,000+ depending on distance and container size.
What’s Included in the Cost of PODS Moving?
- Container drop-off and pickup
- Transportation to your new location
- Monthly storage (if needed)
- Fuel and travel fees for long-distance moves
Is the cost of PODS moving worth it? For many, yes—especially if you want more time and less stress. But if you’re asking “is PODS expensive?”, it all depends on how far you’re moving, how much stuff you have, and how long you need storage.
How Expensive Is PODS Moving for a 3-Bedroom Home?
If you’re planning to move a 3-bedroom home, you’ll likely need 2 large PODS containers (16-foot each) or more—depending on how much furniture and boxes you have.
Average Cost of PODS for a 3-Bedroom Move
- Local Move: $600 – $1,200
- Long-Distance Move: $3,000 – $5,500+
The final price depends on:
- Distance of the move
- How many containers you need
- How long you keep them
- Extra services (like storage or insurance)
Container Needs for a 3-Bedroom House
Most 3-bedroom homes need:
- Two 16-foot PODS
- Or One 16-foot + One 12-foot POD
Each 16-foot POD holds 3–4 rooms of furniture, but you’ll need to consider space, weight limits, and packing style.
Key Cost Considerations
- Container delivery & pickup
- Transport to your new home (especially long-distance)
- Monthly rental if you store the container
- Weight limits (extra charges may apply if exceeded)
So, how expensive is PODS moving for a 3-bedroom home? It’s not the cheapest option—but it’s flexible, and often more affordable than full-service movers if you load it yourself.
PODS vs. Traditional Movers: Which Is Cheaper?
If you’re deciding between PODS and traditional movers, cost is usually the first question. While PODS may seem cheaper at first glance, there are hidden trade-offs like labor, time, and effort that can make full-service movers the better deal—especially for busy households.
PODS vs. Full-Service Movers: Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature | PODS | Full-Service Movers |
Cost | Often lower upfront | Slightly higher (includes labor) |
Labor | DIY (you load & unload) | Included (you don’t lift a finger) |
Flexibility | High, self-paced | Fixed schedule, but hands-free |
Storage | Included (monthly fees apply) | Optional, may cost extra |
So, Which Is Better?
If you’re on a tight budget and have plenty of time, PODS can be a good DIY solution. But if you’re juggling work, family, or just want to avoid the stress, professional movers are a smarter long-term choice.
At Chamomile Go, we believe in delivering value—not just boxes. Our packing service in Sherman Oaks is designed to save you time and effort while ensuring your belongings are safe, secure, and ready for the move.
Why Choose Movers Like Chamomile Go?
- No heavy lifting — we handle all packing and loading
- Faster, stress-free process
- Expert handling of fragile and large items
- Local knowledge of Sherman Oaks and the greater Los Angeles area
Bottom line? If your time, safety, and convenience matter, full-service movers like Chamomile Go offer far more than PODS—and often at a price that surprises you. Need help with packing or moving in Sherman Oaks? Get in touch with Chamomile Go today for a quick quote and peace of mind.
FAQs
Is Pods Moving Expensive For Most People?
It depends on your moving needs. For short local moves, PODS can be affordable. But for long-distance moves, the price can quickly rise due to transportation fees, storage time, and the number of containers needed.
How Does The Cost Of Pods Compare To Traditional Movers?
PODS may seem cheaper upfront since you’re handling the labor yourself. However, traditional movers like Chamomile Go include packing, loading, and transportation in the total price, which can offer more value—especially if you’re short on time or need extra help.
Why Is Pods Sometimes Considered Expensive?
PODS charges for each part of the service—container delivery, pickup, transport, and storage. If you keep the container for more than one month or move a long distance, the total cost can increase quickly. That’s why many people say PODS moving is expensive.
Is Pods Expensive For A Large Home Like A 3-Bedroom?
Yes, it can be. A 3-bedroom move often needs two large containers, and if you’re moving across states, it might cost $3,000 to $5,500 or more. In some cases, hiring professional movers ends up costing about the same and includes full labor support.
Does The Cost Of Pods Moving Include Packing Or Labor Help?
No, PODS does not include labor or packing help. You have to load and unload everything yourself. If you want help, you need to hire movers separately, which adds to the total cost. That’s where Chamomile Go’s packing service in Sherman Oaks can be a perfect solution.
