Pack-Yourself Moving Containers: The Pros and Cons, Plus Other Moving Methods

What is self-service moving?

Self-service moving is when you handle all the packing and loading yourself, while a provider rents you a truck or pack-yourself moving containers to fill. It’s a lot cheaper than full-service moving because you’re doing the heavy lifting instead of paying movers to do it. And it’s the perfect middle ground if you want to save money but don’t mind some sweat equity.

What are pack-yourself moving containers?

Pack-yourself moving containers are typically used in self-service moving. It’s basically a portable storage unit dropped off at your home so you can load it at your own pace, and then the company hauls it to your next destination for you. You can also take it a step further and have professionals do all the packing and loading for you.

Self-pack moving containers are great if you need options, since you can customize the order by determining how many rooms you need to move and the number of items that you have — perfect for the budget-conscious and those needing flexibility. 

Pack-yourself moving containers vs. other types of moves

What’s the difference between a self-pack move with pack-yourself moving containers and full-service movers? Well, for starters, you can opt for storage with pack-yourself moving containers. Have them delivered to your address, pack and load on your own time, and then have them picked up and taken either to your new home or a storage facility.

The decision between self-service moving and full-service moving comes down to a few things:

• Budget
• Your moving schedule
• Whether or not you want to drive
• Personal preference

Moving truck rental

A moving truck rental is probably the first option you think of when considering self-service moving. By far the most cost-effective option, a moving truck rental is great for saving money, but it takes time and often means doing all the work yourself. That’s right. Packing, loading, driving, unloading, and then unpacking, in that order. Plus, no storage is included.

The biggest difference between a moving truck rental and renting a self-pack moving container with PODS is the driving. Opting for self-moving with either option still means you have to pack everything and get it loaded either into the truck or storage container. For local moves, renting a truck can be an ideal option. For long-distance moves, or if you need storage between homes, you might find yourself wanting to have pack-yourself moving containers delivered.

Full-service movers

Although the most expensive option, a full-service moving company is also the most convenient. Full-service movers take care of everything, from packing and loading to transportation and unpacking. You don’t have to worry about logistics and physical labor unless there are valuables you want to keep close at hand during your move.

A full-service moving company provides all the tools, materials, and equipment, so you won’t have to worry about making a list the length of your arm. Opting for this type of move is great if you’re fine with being hands-off. You’ll pay for the convenience, but you won’t have as much stress — especially if you’re moving long-distance.

Planning an upcoming self-pack move? Start by getting a free moving quote from PODS.

Moving with pack-yourself moving containers

Depending on the moving company you choose, the overall process can vary. If you opt for pack-yourself moving containers, you’ll get a solution tailored to your unique moving situation. If you need any assistance with packing do-it-yourself moving containers, they’ll even refer you to local packing and loading assistance. Need to transport your car? They can also refer you to a reliable vehicle transport provider.

Get your quote and choose the container right for you

No matter how many belongings you plan on moving, PODS has pack-yourself moving containers to fit your needs. There are three sizes available to choose from, with 8-ft and 16-ft containers available for local and long-distance moves, and 12-ft containers available for local moving.

Schedule your container delivery

Figure out a time that works best for you and schedule a container delivery straight to your driveway.

One month of storage in every move

PODS pricing has one month of storage built into the cost of every quote for their pack-yourself moving containers — perfect for ensuring you have plenty of time to load and unload your container, no matter how far you’re moving.

Pick up process with PODZILLA

PODZILLA makes the pickup process easy. This level-lift system moves your container on and off the PODS truck while keeping everything balanced. After pick-up, you can have the container taken to your new home or dropped off at a secure PODS Storage Center. The flexibility means you can get to where you’re going on your own time — and get settled in the same fashion. 

Pros and cons of pack-yourself moving containers

When you choose pack-yourself moving containers with companies like PODS, you can opt for a more affordable moving process without sacrificing quality. You have complete control over your move and your rental options. To get a better overview of the benefits and disadvantages of pack-yourself moving containers, take a look at some of the standout pros and cons.

Pros of pack-yourself moving containers

• Save some cash: Compared to full-service movers, pack-yourself moving containers are usually cheaper for local relocations since you’re doing the loading on your own schedule.
• Storage on your terms: A self-pack moving container doubles as secure storage, unlike rental trucks. That means you can keep the pack-yourself moving containers as long as you need. And with PODS, you have the option of keeping your container at a secure PODS Storage Center if you don’t want to keep it on your property.
• Smaller than other options: Rental trucks can be bulky and difficult to maneuver. They also take up multiple parking spaces. PODS containers, on the other hand, fit in a single parking spot — no blocking traffic or worrying about being double-parked.
• Contactless convenience: With PODS, you don’t have to be there for delivery or pickup. Perfect for those with a packed schedule.

Cons of pack-yourself moving containers

• Larger homes aren’t as ideal: PODS containers come in different sizes, but if you’re moving out of a large home, multiple pack-yourself moving containers might not be practical. A rental truck might be more cost-effective, especially if you’re able to make multiple trips.
• Delivery delays happen: Depending on the demand and season, you might find yourself waiting a few days for your container to arrive or be picked up. (Be sure to schedule ahead of time!)
• Heavy lifting is required: Containers give you control and flexibility, but you have to handle the packing and loading yourself. If you’re not up to the task, though, PODS can connect you with local packing and loading help.

What option is best for your move?

There are a lot of important things to consider when it comes to the moving process. If you’re not careful, things can quickly spiral out of control and become quite overwhelming. Depending on your priorities, budget, and total moving distance, it’s important to consider all the options carefully.

Rental truck

Whether you’re moving locally or you just want to take the DIY route, a rental truck is a great option. It comes with a variety of features and allows you total control over the move — plus, you get a great workout.

Some major moving companies include U-Haul, Penske, and Budget. These are the bigger companies, so finding a location nearby isn’t usually a problem. You can also rent and buy moving supplies when you pick up the rental, and plenty of truck-size options ensure there’s space to fit all your belongings.

Who this works best for:

• Budget-conscious students moving locally.
• Young professionals with few belongings looking to save a few bucks while moving locally.
• New families or anyone looking to downsize who wants a more hands-on move.

Full-service moving

Those who prioritize a smooth experience and convenience can benefit from a full-service move. It’s ideal for those with less flexibility and breathing room in their budget. Compared to a self-pack move, full-service movers handle all aspects, including packing, loading, and transportation.

Who this works best for:

• Anyone prioritizing convenience over budget.
• Large families moving long-distance might find the investment worth it to help ensure the entire process goes smoothly.

Pack-yourself moving containers

A moving container can be a great alternative for individuals looking for a flexible and convenient way to move, either locally or long-distance.

Rather than hiring professionals, you can use a moving container and then pack and load items yourself. The pack-yourself moving containers cost is more affordable than that of full-service movers, making it an increasingly popular approach to moving. Think of it as the in-between of rental trucks and full-service movers.

Who this works best for:

• Anyone looking for a contactless move that makes space for extra storage.
• Families and young professionals who don’t know their exact move-in date and need flexibility within their dates.
• A single person with heavy stuff (especially since you can be referred to local packing and loading assistance).