Question about PODS and Apartment Complexes (movers, storage, move, pricing)

[psulions2007]

Hey guys-

I'm moving from Tucson to, most likely, the DC area in a month or so, and I'm probably going to get a PODS or Relo-Cube to help me move (along with movers).

Now I think I have to have the 16' PODS.....my question is, has anyone had any problems with these and apt. complex parking lots? In my Tucson complex, the lot for my building is one space on either side of a narrow 2-way 'street'. I, of course, have no idea yet what my other complex parking lot will be like....just asking about generalities for now.

[RikkiTikki]

Good questions, but it's time to do more research. If you think your stuff will take up 16' linear feet of floor space, you may need multiple mobile/portable storage containers. Most of the longer units are only used for local service and don't move interstate. Many municipalities now require permits before a container can be dropped in a public thoroughfare. Some communities forbid them on public access roads. Fire code and safety/security restrictions prohibit unattended placement in some apartment complexes and neighborhoods - particularly in the DC metro area.

Remember, depending on the option used, logistic and handling details may require a much larger operating space than the actual footprint required for the container placement.

If you think you need a container that large, you should probably obtain quotes from at least three reputable LOCAL movers who can provide an in-home visual survey for interstate estimates. These will confirm the size and space requirements of your household, but also provide you with average pricing for a full service, interstate move. Use these quotes to benchmark all of the actual and hidden costs required in the do-it-yourself option you're considering. You may find that the DIY options don't really save as much money as you think.

[spinfast]

The PODS units are not small so I'd definitely consider not only the size of the pod but also the amount of room you'll need around it as RikkiTikki mentions. Besides looking at full service moving companies, consider other pods moving companies as well. Companies like Door to Door Storage and Moving Containers have smaller pods that won't take up nearly as much ground space.

Don't forget to also check in with your complex about simply having pods there in the first place. Some towns and cities are beginning to limit the ability to even have the larger containers stay put for very long.