PODS vs. Storage Unit: Which One is Right for You?

Moves aren’t always perfectly timed. Maybe you’re waiting on your new home to close, or perhaps you’re moving to a new city and want some extra time to find a new space in the perfect neighborhood. Whatever the circumstance, you’re likely putting your items in storage. Typically, a storage unit is the first choice, but it can be a hassle (especially when moving long-distance). That’s where PODS portable storage containers come in. Both options offer peace of mind, but which is best for your move? That’s what our guide to PODS vs. a storage unit is here to help you decide.

Self-Storage Units

Self-storage units are a viable option if you need extra time for a move and space to store your items somewhere safely. They’re great if you need somewhere to store your items during your move, but they’re also great for other situations, like:

• Military deployment storage
• Holding onto a college student’s items between semesters
• Seasonal storage
• Having extra space while you’re transitioning to your new home

 Typically, storage unit rentals are leased monthly. You can find sizes from 5’ x 5’ all the way to 10’ x 30’, depending on the facility. You might even have the option for climate-controlled units — especially in newer facilities or if you’re in the south.

For short-term self-storage, you’ll have to rent a moving truck, load it up, drive it to the unit, unload it, and then do it all over again once you’re ready to move.

How Do Self-Storage Units Work?

Determining what size storage unit you’ll need starts with taking inventory. What do you plan on storing? Take all of that and place it into one large area — like your driveway or garage — and measure how much space it all takes. Doing so should give you a reasonable estimate of what size you’ll need.

From there, you’ll want to consider whether or not you want a climate-controlled unit. Keep in mind that indoor temperature-controlled areas will cost you additional money. This is an important choice if you have antiques or heirlooms that you want to keep safe. Be aware that there are certain things you can’t store in a storage unit, including: Hazardous materials, food, and live plants or animals.

Some self-storage units provide locks to customers, but most require you to purchase one yourself. If you make your reservation online, you’ll typically have the option to purchase one and have it waiting inside the unit when you arrive; otherwise, you can typically purchase one in the office at the storage facility. Some facilities offer 24-hour access, with someone on property during business hours, while others you’ll have to book in advance.

Additional Things To Keep in Mind About Storage Units

When considering PODS vs. a storage unit, there are some other things you should consider — specifically, your situation. Self-storage units are great if you need long-term storage and you’re already settled into your home, or if you don’t mind unloading a truck twice. For short-term storage, you’ll have to rent a moving truck, load it up, drive it to the unit, unload it, and then do it all over again once you’re ready to move. If you’re short on time or energy, having to go through the entire process twice might be more than you can handle.

Pros of Self-Storage Units

• Storage units may end up costing you less each month.
• You have options for a variety of storage unit sizes.
• You typically have 24-hour access.
• You can choose between climate-controlled units and non-climate-controlled units.

Cons of Self-Storage Units

• In addition to the monthly rental fee, you’ll also need to pay for a moving truck.
• You’ll have to load up the truck twice.
• It costs more to have a climate-controlled unit.
• Security can be an issue; although the units are locked, they may not be under video surveillance.

Since PODS portable storage containers are delivered right to your driveway, loading is convenient and there’s never any reason to rent a truck.

PODS Portable Storage Units

It’s helpful to lay out the advantages and disadvantages of PODS vs. storage units to get a better feel for what might work best for your situation. PODS portable moving containers are an excellent option for both short and long-distance moves, and that portability makes them a convenient alternative to self-storage units.

Renting a PODS container gives you three different sizes to choose from, and it’s simple to add more containers to your reservation if necessary. PODS bills monthly, drops off right to your driveway with the help of PODZILLA, and offers the option to deliver either to your new home or to a secure PODS Storage Center while you get settled in. All you have to do is call and book the pick-up and drop-off. Plus, the containers have a steel frame and are made using a combination of steel, wood, and high-impact-resistant polymers to help ensure your items stay safe from the elements — no matter how long you need storage.

PODS vs. Self Storage: When PODS Works Best

PODS puts you in control of your move. You get to decide on container size and easily tailor the number of containers you need to fit all your belongings safely. And, with one month of storage built into the cost of every move, you have more time to load and unload on your own schedule. Unlike moving trucks, which require you to have the rental back within a few days. You’re not on the clock to get things loaded as fast as possible, so you can take your time and ensure each item is secured exactly where it should be.

PODS Storage Facilities Are Convenient To Find

If you choose to store your container in one of our storage facilities, you won’t have to worry about finding one. PODS has over 240 secure Storage Centers in 44 states, including Hawaii, Washington, D.C., and Canada. Plus, if you need help loading (or unloading) your portable container, PODS can also refer you to local packing and loading assistance.

PODS vs. Storage Units: You Have More Freedom With PODS

If you want to find a storage solution designed to fit your moving schedule, PODS offers a lot of options. You get to decide whether you want to have your container on your property or in a storage facility until you’re ready. And, because no move is one size fits all, PODS offers customers three sizes:

• 8-feet, comparable to a 5’ x 10’ storage unit.
• 12-feet, comparable to a 10’ x 10’ unit.
• Note: This size is only available for local moves.
• 16-feet, comparable to a 10’ x 15’ self-storage unit.

PODS Storage: Who Should Use It?

We realize that it’s a good thing to have options when you’re planning a move, as what’s right for one person may not be a good fit for someone else. But who does PODS storage make sense for?

• Homeowners who travel often and rent out their main residence for months at a time.
• Homeowners who need on-site storage in their driveway, especially during renovations or other housework.
• Anyone moving who doesn’t want to deal with the hassle of a moving truck.
• People moving to a new city who are renting while searching for their new home.

Pros of PODS Portable Storage Containers

• PODS containers are portable and delivered right to your driveway.
• You’re the only one with a key to your container.
• No worries about driving a moving truck.
• One month of storage is built into the cost of every move.
• Customers can get multiple containers and stagger deliveries.
• You only need to load and unload the container once.
• PODS offers bundles and military discounts.

Cons of PODS Portable Storage Containers

• Depending on the size of your household, PODS could cost more than a storage unit.
• There are fewer options for container sizes.
• Storage containers are not climate-controlled.

Have a PODS portable storage container delivered right to your driveway for convenient loading on your own schedule.

Why PODS Portable Storage Containers Make Sense

When it comes to choosing between PODS vs. a storage unit, PODS is always a great option. Have a PODS container delivered right to your driveway, take your time loading your items, and once you’re ready, simply schedule your pick-up. Plus, you only have to load and unload once. One month of storage is included in the cost of every PODS move, plus they can refer you to local packing and loading assistance as needed.

Visit PODS online for a free local moving quote or call PODS at 877-350-7637 for long-distance moving.