Choosing the Right Size Moving Pod (2024 Guide)
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Choosing the right size moving pod will make your move significantly less stressful. Moving pod companies typically offer small, medium, and large options, and homeowners must take stock of the volume and weight of their possessions before they make a decision. Read how to choose the best moving pod for your relocation in the guide below, which details measurements and offers and tips on how to best pack your pod.
Moving Pod Sizes and Capacities
Moving pods are available in various sizes, and can hold different amounts of household possessions. Read more below.
Common Moving Pod Dimensions
Moving pod companies typically offer small, medium, and large containers. Here’s an overview of common dimensions:
- Small pods: 8 feet long, 7–8 feet wide, and 7–8 feet tall
- Medium pods: 12 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8 feet tall
- Large pods: 16 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8 feet tall
These dimensions vary slightly between providers, so ask companies for exact measurements.
Weight Limits and Cubic Footage
Each pod has specific weight limits and limits on volume. Read more below.
- Small pods: Hold 2,000 to 5,200 pounds and offer 257 to 404 cubic feet of space
- Medium pods: Hold 4,700 to 6,000 pounds and provide 620 to 689 cubic feet
- Large pods: Hold 4,200 to 6,000 pounds and offer 803 to 853 cubic feet of space
Stay within these limits to keep your possessions safe. Overloading can cause damage and lead to surcharge fees.
How To Determine the Appropriate Moving Pod Size
Carefully consider the volume of your belongings when choosing a pod. Learn how to accurately determine the right pod size below.
Inventorying Your Household Items
Take inventory of your belongings to estimate the amount of space you’ll need in a pod. Measure large furniture pieces and appliances, and take stock of how many boxes you plan to pack. This will help you to calculate how many cubic feet of space your items will occupy in a moving pod.
Utilizing Online Space Calculators
Many moving companies offer online tools to help customers determine appropriate container sizes. These calculators consider the number and types of items you’re moving. Some helpful resources include the following:
- 1-800-PACK-RAT Storage Space Calculator
- PODS Container Size Estimator
- U-Box Container Dimensions and Estimator
- U-Haul Moving Supplies Calculator
- U-Pack Moving Space Estimators
These tools allow you to visualize your inventory and decide which pod size is right for you.
Recommended Moving Pods by Home Size
PODS and 1-800-PACK-RAT offer three pod sizes: small 8-foot containers, medium 12-foot containers, and large 16-foot containers. U-Haul and U-Pack only offer a single size, which is roughly equivalent to the 8-foot pods that other companies offer. U-Pack also offers moving trailers as a cost-effective alternative to larger moves. These include 5–28 feet of trailer space.
1-800-PACK-RAT offers a particularly useful space calculator that considers how many boxes and items you have. The space calculator is specific to 1-800-PACK-RAT containers, but it can help you to estimate what you might need from other companies.
Moving Pod Cost by Size
Moving pod pricing varies by the size of your house, the moving company you choose, and where you live. Moving a four-bedroom home will cost more than moving a one-bedroom apartment, for example, and long-distance moves will cost more than local moves.
Remember that pod prices don’t include any moving services. You’ll be responsible for packing and loading unless you hire help.
Additional Fees To Consider
Keep the additional fees below in mind when you’re budgeting for your move:
- Delivery and pickup fees
- Insurance for your belongings during transit
- Monthly storage fees if you need to store your pod
- Packing supplies and materials
Get detailed quotes from multiple providers before you commit to a pod. This will help you to navigate any hidden fees and find opportunities for savings.
Benefits of Using Moving Pods for Relocation
Moving pods offer several advantages over traditional moving methods. Read more below.
Flexibility and Convenience
Moving pods make for especially flexible moving experiences. You can load and unload at your own pace without the pressure of a tight timeline that’s typical of truck rentals or movers’ schedules. This flexibility is especially beneficial if you’re renovating a new home, or if you’re moving cross-country on a budget.
Storage Solutions During Transition
Moving pods double as temporary storage units, which can be especially valuable during transition phases. If your new home isn’t ready by the time you’ve packed your pod, or you need time to declutter, you can keep your pod at a secure storage facility. This eliminates the need to rent a separate storage unit, and can save you time and money.
Loading Tips for Maximizing Moving Pod Space
You must properly load your pod to get the most out of your rental. Consider the strategies below, which will help you to fill the space and avoid extra costs or hassles.
Efficient Packing Strategies
Follow the steps below to optimize your pod’s space:
- Disassemble large furniture items when possible.
- Use vacuum-sealed bags for clothing and bedding.
- Fill hollow items such as dressers with small boxes or soft items.
- Stack boxes and items vertically to use the pod’s full height.
Remember to distribute weight evenly throughout the container for safe transport. Following these strategies will lower the risk of breaking or losing beloved objects.
Securing Items for Transport
Follow the steps below to properly secure your items and prevent damage during transit:
- Fill gaps with soft items or packing paper to minimize movement.
- Place heavy items on the bottom of the pod and lighter ones on top.
- Use furniture pads or blankets to protect oversized items.
- Use ratchet straps or ropes to tie down furniture and prevent shifting.
Load your moving pod correctly to protect against unexpected damage and make your moving process smoother.
FAQ About Moving Pods
What can’t you pack in a moving pod?
You can’t pack hazardous or dangerous items in a moving pod. This includes toxic, flammable, or corrosive items, such as cleaning supplies, motor oil, or ammunition. Companies also advise against packing perishable or valuable items in a moving pod, such as important documents, plants, or food.
How do you load a moving pod?
Load a moving pod by packing heavy items on the bottom and lighter items on top, and making sure to evenly distribute weight the weight. Pack the container as tightly as possible to prevent items from shifting, and use ratchet straps or ties to secure individual items or sections.
How many moving pods do I need?
How many moving pods you need depends on the size of your home and container. You need one small container (8-foot) for every 400–600 square feet of space in your home. A medium container (12-foot) can cover 600–800 square feet, and a large container (16-foot) can cover 800–1,200 square feet.
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