If you are relocating and thinking about a container move, you might be wondering: Is PODS moving cost high? At a glance, it may look less expensive than hiring a full-service moving company, but when you factor in distance, storage, and timing, the numbers can get complicated in a hurry.
At Chamomile Go, we educate people on how to calculate real moving costs, so they make the right choices before, during and after moving. This guide explains the cost of PODS moving, including the cost to rent a pod long distance, pod shipping costs, and the cost of moving and storing with PODS, so you can make an informed decision—and find out if PODS is right for you.
Understanding What You’re Actually Paying For
Before we get answer the question “Is PODS moving expensive?,” let’s take a look at the factors that determine the total price:
1. Container Rental
Container Rental You rent one or more PODS containers as your belongings stay in them.
2. Delivery & Pickup
Delivery & Pickup PODS drops off containers at your house and then picks them up—there’s a fee for each trip.
3. Transportation
Transportation This is when PODS shipping cost apply. Fuel, labor, mileage and logistics all go into long distance container moving — which raises the rates.
4. Storage
Storage In the event that your move entails an interval between vacating one residence and occupying another, you’ll be incurring PODS moving and storage expenses for every month the container remains at a storage yard.
So, Is PODS Moving Expensive?
The short answer: It depends. In many instances PODS is not the lowest-priced alternative – but it tends to be more flexible and easier.
For local or short-distance moves, PODS is competitive and easy. For long-distance moving, particularly with storing, the bills can become rather high.
So let’s go over the particular fees so you can make a smart choice.
You may read about How Do Moving Pods Work?
What Affects PODS Moving Cost?
Several factors contribute to your final bill:
Distance of the Move
The longer your container is on the road, the more you will pay. Pod price long distance are higher because of fuel, driver’s time, toll fees and planning.
Number of Containers
More belongings = more containers. Each container multiplies your costs.
Size of Containers
PODS has different sizes of containers. Bigger containers are more expensive per month as well as for transport.
Storage Time
You’ll be left paying monthly storage fees if there is a gap between homes. This is one reason why people specifically inquire about the cost of moving and storage with PODS.
Season and Demand
Moving=crowd moving seasons (ie:summer, end of month) can bring about additional charges due to high demand.
Typical PODS Price Estimate Breakdown
Here is an approximate notion of what users actually pay.
Local Move (Less than 50 Miles)
- Renting a PODS Container: $150-$400
- Pickup/delivery charges: $100-$300
- Short-distance shipping: $150–$300
- Total: ~$400- $1,000
Worth the price, especially for those who move themselves and don’t require labor assistance.
Long-Distance Move (500–2,000+ Miles)
Here’s where pod long distance move costs start to add up:
- Container rental: $250–$500
- Transportation & shipping: $1,500–$4,000+
- Pickup/delivery: $200–$500
- Storage (if necessary): $150 to $300 a month
- Grand total: $2,000+ ( and up) depending on distance and climate control storage needs
Compare this to full-service movers and you’ll understand why people query “Is PODS moving expensive?” — it isn’t always cheaper.
PODS Shipping Cost Explained
Traditional moving companies typically charge by the mile, but PODS does not have a simple mileage rate. Rather, the PODS shipping cost is included in a transportation fee that also includes the following prices.
- Distance and fuel
- Container handling
- Driver time
- Pickup and delivery coordination
So is it fair to say that P.O.D.S. prices increase the further you go? Logistics “Instead, the further you ship your container, the more complex and expensive the logistics become.”
PODS Moving and Storage Cost: Why Storage Adds Up Quickly
One of the biggest benefits of PODS is that you can hold on to your container in storage if your move doesn’t quite align. But there’s a cost for that convenience.
Typical storage is:
- $150 to $300 per month for each container
Your penny-wise approach may not be so smart after all if you want to keep containers for several months or if you are storing more than one container.
For example:
- 2 containers in storage for 2 months = $600 to $1,200
That’s why PODS can be so “expensive” when compared to regular professional movers who won’t charge for a month of storage.
How PODS Compares to Other Moving Options
Here’s a simple way to understand it:
| Feature | PODS | Full-Service Movers |
| Labor Included | No | Yes |
| Storage Availability | Yes | Limited / Expensive |
| Up-Front Pricing Transparency | Medium | Variable |
| Flexibility & Timing | High | Inflexible |
| Cost for Long Distance | Medium–High | Very High |
PODS tends to be less expensive than full-service moving companies but more than no-frills moves where you rent a truck and do the moving yourself.
Is PODS Moving Worth It for Long-Distance Moves?
If you:
- Require flexibility in schedule
- Are able to load and unload by yourself
- Are looking for built-in storage space
- Don’t want to have to rent a truck or a van
Then yes, PODS can be a good value—even if it’s not the cheapest.
The real question isn’t “is PODS cheap?” It’s more like: Is the convenience worth the cost?
For a lot of families, the answer is yes – especially over long distances where rental trucks become a pain and an arm and a leg to pay.
How to Get an Accurate PODS Price Estimate
Recommended method of measurement:
- Measure Your Items (cubic feet)
- Select Number of Containers
- Verify Storage Requirements
- Get quotations from PODS
Compare with your local moving companies and truck rental prices
When you receive a PODS price estimate, you’re better armed for an accurate, value-based decision, rather than making guesses.
Here at Chamomile Go, we always suggest getting several different quotes to get a sense for the going rate (and to save you some sticker shock).
Tips to Save Money on PODS Moving
Here are proven ways to reduce your total cost:
Pack efficiantly
Fill containers with little left over space.
Minimize storage time
Plan your move so you won’t have to store the container — or just for a brief time.
Stay Flexible with Dates
Few people realize there really is a peak moving season.
Which container size Fit More?
Smaller containers are less expensive.
Book Early
Book Early for Peace of Mind
You may read Cost To Rent A Pods Moving Container?
Final Thoughts
In summary, PODS can feel expensive compared to a DIY rental truck but is usually cheaper than hiring a full-service moving company. The convenience, flexibility, and optional storage make it an excellent middle-ground solution for many households.
If you’re unsure about costs or planning a move, contact us at Chamomile Go for Sherman Oaks moving service or to discuss your options and get personalized guidance.
FAQs
Are PODS moving containers expensive?
PODS can be costly since you pay for delivery, storage, and transport.
How much does it cost to ship with a POD?
Local moves usually cost $300–$800+, while long-distance moves can go up to $7,000+, depending on size and distance.
Which moving PODs are the cheapest?
The smallest POD is typically the cheapest. For a full-service alternative, Chamomile Go offers competitive pricing with professional moving crews.
What is cheaper than PODS?
Full-service movers like Chamomile Go are often more cost-effective than PODS, especially when considering packing, loading, and long-distance transport.
Can PODS handle long-distance moves?
Yes, PODS ships containers across states or cross-country efficiently.
