PODS® Container Sizes Comparison

Choosing the right PODS® container sizes

When you're thinking of moving out of state with PODS®, a key factor is choosing the right container sizes. Picking a container that's too big means you'll have to pay for more space than you need. But if you choose one that's too small, you might run out of space for your belongings.  

Because you have to pay for the reserved equipment with PODS® whether it’s used or not, it’s important to understand the container sizes and how they might affect the move. 

Fortunately, there’s U-Pack® — an alternative to PODS® that’s a more flexible way to move long distance. Let's compare PODS® containers to U-Pack moving equipment to help you decide which option is best for you.

PODS® dimensions compared to U-Pack equipment 

PODS® offers 8-ft, 12-ft and 16-ft metal containers with roll-up doors and ground-level loading.  

U-Pack offers one-size ReloCube® metal moving containers with ground-level loading or space in a 28-ft moving trailer.  

How big are PODS® containers? 

Take a look at these dimensions to get a better feel for the equipment. 

PODS® 8-ft container

• Dimensions: 8’ x 7’ x 8’ (LWH) 
• Loading space: 402 cubic feet (about 1 room of furniture and belongings) 
• Weight limit: 5,200 lbs. 
• Comparable U-Pack equipment: 1 ReloCube or 5-6 linear feet in a moving trailer

PODS® 12-ft container 

• Dimensions: 12’ x 8’ x 8’ (LWH) 
• Loading space: 689 cubic feet (about 2-3 rooms of furniture and belongings) 
• Weight limit: 4,700 lbs. 
• Comparable U-Pack equipment: 2 ReloCubes or 9-10 linear feet in a moving trailer 

Note: PODS® 12-ft containers are only available for local moves

PODS® 16-ft container

• Dimensions: 16’ x 8’ x 8’ (LWH) 
• Loading space: 835 cubic feet (about 3-4 rooms of furniture and belongings) 
• Weight limit: 4,200 lbs. 
• Comparable U-Pack equipment: 3 ReloCubes or 12-13 linear feet in a moving trailer 

How do U-Pack equipment sizes compare?

See how U-Pack equipment measures up compared to PODS® containers.

U-Pack ReloCube 

• Dimensions: 6' x 7' x 8' (LWH) 
• Loading space: 308 cubic feet (about 1 room of furniture and belongings) 
• Weight limit: 2,500 lbs. (it is extremely rare for 1 room of household goods to exceed this limit) 
• Comparable PODS® equipment: 1 8-ft container 

Note: The ReloCube’s double swing doors allow access to the whole Cube since you won’t have to leave space for a roll-up door. PODS® recommends leaving a 6-inch buffer in their containers.  

Get more details about the ReloCube size and how to load it.

U-Pack moving trailer

• Dimensions: 28' x 8' x 9' (LWH) 
• Loading space: Holds belongings for up to a 4-bedroom home 
• Weight limit: 22,500 lbs. 
• Comparable PODS® equipment: 1 12-ft container PLUS 1 16-ft container 

Learn more about U-Pack trailer specifications.

How many PODS® containers do I need?

Like U-Pack, PODS® offers equipment recommendations based on the size of your home. Let’s look at suggestions for home sizes with moderate furnishings:

How does U-Pack’s equipment differ from PODS®? 

What’s different about U-Pack equipment is its flexibility. You can use as much space as needed in the moving trailer, and the price will be adjusted up or down.  

When moving with ReloCubes, you’re free to reserve as many as you might need and only pay for the ones used. That means we'll pick up the extra one at no cost if you order 4 Cubes and only use 3.  

Unlike U-Pack, with PODS®, you’re obligated to pay for what you order, whether you use the space or not. 

Get a quote for your move

U-Pack offers equipment comparable to PODS® with the flexibility you need for a long-distance move. Get a free online quote today or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant. If you have questions about equipment sizes or how U-Pack services compare to PODS®, let us know in the comments. We’re happy to help! 

PODS® is a registered trademark of PODS® Enterprises, Inc. Use of third-party trademarks or registered trademarks does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by such third party.