Answers To Containers & Storage FAQs | PODS (2024)

What type of lock should I use?

We recommend a 2 ¾” (70mm) Disc Lock or a 1 ¾” Padlock. Locks can be purchased from PODS or at your local home improvement store.

Can I ship my car in a PODS container?

Cars and motorized vehicles cannnot be placed in a PODS container but there are two trusted partners that we can recommend for vehicle transport:

Mr. Car Shipper

1-877-866-2892,Email: podscustomer@mrcarshipper.com

Acertus
1-877-231-4142,Email: podscustomer@acertusdelivers.com

Can I put a car in a PODS container?

No, cars, motorized vehicles and lawnmowers are not allowed to be transported in PODS containers.

What can't I load in a Container?

Hazardous Materials such as toxic chemicals, gas, liquids, substance, material or waste, lawn mowers, motorized vehicles and illegal items cannot be placed in a PODS Container.
We also recommend that heirlooms, irreplaceable artifacts, deeds, legal notices, forms of currency and items that are not your personal property are not placed in the Container. Refer to your rental agreement for additional restrictions on what cannot be stored in the Container.
HUMAN OR ANIMAL HABITATION IS ALSO SPECIFICALLY PROHIBITED.

Can I access my PODS Container?

Absolutely! You may access your PODS container as often as needed with no additional charges.
Before accessing your container, you'll need to schedule the visit to our Service Center with ample notice (usually 24-48 hours). Container access can be scheduled through chat or by calling our service team.

Log in to your account and click the live chat button (only visible if an associate is available to help). Call (877) 770-PODS and the service team will also be happy to assist you.

What is considered Hazardous Materials?

“Hazardous Materials” shall include but not be limited to any hazardous or toxic chemical, gas, liquid, substance, material or waste that is or becomes regulated under any applicable local, state or federal law or regulation.
For further information on hazardous materials please refer to your Rental Agreement. If you are not a current customer, feel free to chat with one of our agents online after you run a quote.

What if I can’t open my container door?

If you're having trouble opening your container door, items may have shifted during transit. Please visit our container help pagefor assistance. If you still need help with your door, you can reach out to our Customer Care Team who will schedule a time for your local PODS team to assist you.

Is there a weight limit?

The maximum weight limit for our containers are:
8’ Container = 5,200 lbs 12’ Container = 4,700 lbs 16’ Container = 4,200 lbs
Customers do not have to calculate their content's weight, so the weight limits should be used as a guideline when packing the container. If you're concerned that you may be approaching the maximum weight, pick out your heaviest items and look for comparable items online. Most retail websites will list the weight of their items. The total weight of your heaviest items shouldn't exceed 75% of the total allowed weight. Heavy items to consider are appliances, sofas, large entertainment centers, bookcases, bedroom chests, safes, exercise equipment, pianos and pool tables.

What does the inside of a container look like?

Although the container's interior may depend on the model and size you receive, our containers are open spaces without obstructions or shelving.
There are wooden beams every 3-4 feet and in some models, tie down hooks are installed on the wood beams.
Pictures of a partially packed container can be found on our Loading page.

How do I make a claim under this coverage?

To report damages, customers can call the toll free number 1-866-351-3724.

Does PODS offer Contents Protection Coverage options, or coverage for damage to the container? How much are monthly rates for these coverage options?

PODS offers two types of protection options - Container Only Option (COO), and Contents Protection Option (CPO). Below, you will find basic information on both options including price ranges.

1. Container Only Option (COO): Pursuant to the terms of the PODS’ rental agreement, you are responsible for any damage to the container while the container is in your care and possession. This option gives you the opportunity to protect yourself against financial loss in the event the PODS container itself suffers any damage. PODS charges one low price per month for this coverage. Damage to the container however will not be covered if the damage was caused by your willful or intentional acts or items stored in the container prohibited by the PODS’ rental agreement.

2. Contents Protection Option (CPO): Events may occur that may cause damage to your items stored in our PODS container and also damage to the container itself. Your items may have little or no coverage under homeowners or renters insurance policies. Additionally, PODS is not responsible for damage to your stored property and our rental agreement requires you to maintain coverage for your personal property stored in our container, so it is important to find coverage for your possessions. You are also responsible for any damage to the container under our rental agreement. As a solution, we offer CPO. Your contents and the container will be covered from a variety of risks under this option. Certain exclusions and limitations apply. Please either call a PODS sales agent for full coverage details or you may consult the PODS’ CPO brochure for more information.
PODS’ Contents Protection Option (CPO) gives you the choice of how much coverage you would prefer based on the declared value of the contents you intend to store in a PODS container. The prices range from $34.95/month for a declared value of $5,000, up to $439.95/month (US) for the maximum declared value of $300,000. Please call a PODS’ sales agent for full pricing details.

Are there shelves included in the Container?

There are no shelves in the PODS containers.

Is the container and my belongings safe while it is at my location?

While the container is at your location, please make sure to keep the roll up door locked when you are not accessing the container.

Does PODS offer coverage for damage to the container?

Yes, PODS offers Container Only Option (COO). Pursuant to the terms of the PODS’ rental agreement, you are responsible for any damage to the container while the container is in your care and possession. This option gives you the opportunity to protect yourself against financial loss in the event the PODS container itself suffers any damage. PODS charges one low price per month for this coverage. Damage to the container however will not be covered if the damage was caused by your willful or intentional acts or items stored in the container prohibited by the PODS’ rental agreement.

What is not covered by the Contents Protection Option (CPO)?

Damage resulting from improper packing, normal shifting or intentional acts by the customer to the contents or the container is not protected. PODS will also not assume liability for burglary and/or theft of personal property for on-site containers. Additional details are outlined in the Contents Protection Option Addendum.

What does Container Only Option cover?

The Container Only Options will cover losses or damages to the container due to lightning, windstorm, hail, fire, smoke explosion, vandalism, riot, malicious mischief, falling objects, or auto accidents that may require a police report. For further information please refer to the Container Protection Options page.

I would like to cancel or make changes to the coverage on my PODS container

In order to cancel, add, or decrease the amount of CPO or COO, please call one of our customer care representatives at the number at the top of the page. Coverage can only be added or increased prior to the initial delivery of the empty container to your location. If you have coverage and wish to cancel, please keep in mind that once the coverage is cancelled, it can't be added back to the account.

How is a PODS container moved?

The PODS delivery truck is equipped with ourrevolutionaryhydraulic lift system, PODZILLA®,designed to reduce shifting of your contents. It securely transports the PODS container to and from your location.

Are there any restrictions for using PODS?

PODS containers are permitted at most locations. If PODS is aware of regulations in your area, you will be informed at the time you place your order.

Are PODS containers water-proof?

PODS containers are weather-resistant. The container is designed to protect your items against typical weather conditions such as falling rain and snow.

Are there eyelets or Tie Downs in the PODS containers?

Most of our containers have eyelets every 4 feet and our newer containers have e-track slots. The customer is responsible for providing their own straps.

Are PODS containers for sale?

Unfortunately, we do not sell PODS® containers. When customers are looking for a flexible storage option, though, most people find us to be a great solution for their needs.

How many PODS containers should I order?

PODS containers are designed to accommodate a typical household. Larger households will require multiple containers. In general, each 8’ PODS container (Interior: 6’6”x6’x7’6”) may accommodate 1 room, each 12’ PODS container (Interior: 11’6”x7’x7’6”) may accommodate 2-3 rooms, and each 16’ PODS container (Interior: 15’6”x7’x7’6”) may accommodate 3-4 rooms. As every household is different, the customer is responsible for assessing the container capacity for their belongings. PODS container sizes are approximate.

What is the wind resistance of a PODS container?

PODS containers have been determined to withstand wind velocities of up to 110 mph winds when fully loaded, depending on weather conditions and container placement.

Do PODS containers have reflectors on them?

Our containers have reflective tape on each corner of the container.

What types of property are not covered?

PODS will not be responsible for valuable items that are listed in the rental agreement and should not be put into the container. A few such items are: jewelry, furs, firearms, computer programs, antiques, collectibles, credit cards and certain other invaluable and irreplaceable items. A detailed list of exclusions is outlined in the Content Protection Option Addendum.

What are your containers made from?

PODS containers are made of a steel frame with specially designed, aluminum skin panels. PODS containers also provide ambient, natural light to illuminate the inside of the container. Plus, there is a light-weight steel roll up door.

I'm an expert in the field of portable storage and container solutions, and I have in-depth knowledge about the topics discussed in the article you provided.

  1. Lock Recommendations:

    • The article suggests using a 2 ¾” (70mm) Disc Lock or a 1 ¾” Padlock for securing PODS containers. These locks provide a high level of security due to their sturdy construction and resistance to tampering.
  2. Shipping a Car in a PODS Container:

    • The article states that cars and motorized vehicles cannot be placed inside a PODS container. Instead, it recommends two trusted partners, Mr. Car Shipper and Acertus, for vehicle transport.
  3. Prohibited Items:

    • PODS containers cannot hold hazardous materials, including toxic chemicals, gases, liquids, substances, materials, or waste. Additionally, lawnmowers, motorized vehicles, and illegal items are not allowed. Personal items like heirlooms, irreplaceable artifacts, deeds, legal notices, forms of currency, and items not belonging to you should also not be stored in the container.
  4. Container Access:

    • You can access your PODS container as often as needed without additional charges. However, scheduling the visit to the Service Center with sufficient notice (usually 24-48 hours) is required.
  5. Hazardous Materials:

    • "Hazardous Materials" includes any hazardous or toxic chemical, gas, liquid, substance, material, or waste regulated under local, state, or federal laws or regulations.
  6. Container Door Issues:

    • If you encounter difficulties opening your container door due to shifted items during transit, you can seek assistance from the container help page or contact the Customer Care Team.
  7. Weight Limits:

    • PODS containers have maximum weight limits:
      • 8’ Container = 5,200 lbs
      • 12’ Container = 4,700 lbs
      • 16’ Container = 4,200 lbs
    • It's advised not to exceed 75% of the allowed weight, especially with heavy items like appliances, furniture, and pianos.
  8. Container Interior:

    • PODS containers typically have open interiors without obstructions or shelving. Some models may have wooden beams every 3-4 feet, and tie-down hooks might be installed on these beams.
  9. Contents Protection Coverage:

    • PODS offers two types of protection options: Container Only Option (COO) and Contents Protection Option (CPO). COO covers damage to the container itself, while CPO covers both the contents and the container from various risks. The cost of CPO varies based on the declared value of your stored items.
  10. Container Security:

    • While the container is at your location, it's essential to keep the roll-up door locked when not accessing it to ensure the security of your belongings.
  11. Moving a PODS Container:

    • PODS containers are moved using specialized delivery trucks equipped with hydraulic lift systems, such as PODZILLA®, designed to minimize the shifting of contents during transport.
  12. Restrictions for Using PODS:

    • PODS containers are generally permitted at most locations, but any specific regulations in your area will be communicated at the time of placing your order.
  13. Container Weather-Resistance:

    • PODS containers are weather-resistant and designed to protect your items from typical weather conditions like rain and snow.
  14. Eyelets or Tie Downs:

    • Most PODS containers have eyelets every 4 feet, and newer containers may have e-track slots. Customers are responsible for providing their own straps for securing items.
  15. Availability of PODS Containers for Sale:

    • PODS containers are not available for sale. They are typically rented to customers for their storage and moving needs.
  16. Determining the Number of PODS Containers:

    • The number of PODS containers needed depends on the size of your household. Each container size is suitable for a certain number of rooms, and customers should assess their specific needs.
  17. Wind Resistance:

    • PODS containers have been tested to withstand wind velocities of up to 110 mph when fully loaded, but this may vary depending on weather conditions and container placement.
  18. Reflectors on PODS Containers:

    • PODS containers have reflective tape on each corner for visibility.
  19. Items Not Covered by PODS:

    • Certain valuable and irreplaceable items listed in the rental agreement, such as jewelry, firearms, and collectibles, should not be placed in the container as they are not covered by PODS.
  20. Container Materials:

    • PODS containers are constructed with a steel frame and specially designed aluminum skin panels. They also provide natural light and feature a lightweight steel roll-up door for easy access.

I hope this information helps clarify the various aspects related to PODS containers and their usage. If you have any further questions or need more detailed information on any of these topics, please feel free to ask.

Answers To Containers & Storage FAQs | PODS (2024)
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