How to Pack PODS and Other Moving Containers

Christa Baxter
Feb 08, 2022
bullet4 min read
family carrying moving boxes

Back in 1998, PODS revolutionized the way people moved and stored their stuff. Now other moving and storage container companies have followed suit with similar portable storage containers.

While moving services and moving trucks make moving easier, they also tend to be more expensive and less convenient. Moving containers—a combination moving truck and storage unit in one—are a great alternative with no time constraints.

But you could find yourself paying for containers you don't actually need if you don't know how to efficiently and securely pack a moving container. We've gathered tips and tricks for how to pack a moving container, including PODS, so you can avoid a costly mistake and ensure your belongings arrive safe and sound. Here's what we'll go over:

  1. Getting ready to pack your storage container
  2. Preparing your belongings
  3. What, when, and how to load
  4. How to pack fragile items and valuables
  5. The best way to load and unload
  6. Our recommended moving supplies
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The whole picture

1. Getting ready to pack your moving container

The company you rent from will deliver an empty moving container to your home and leave it at ground level for easy loading and unloading.

A moving container can stay on your property for as long as you need it—unless local regulations prohibit doing so. This gives you plenty of time to pack your container properly, and gives you the option for backyard storage (though this often costs a monthly fee).

When you're ready to move the unit, the company moves it for you to your new home or to a storage facility.

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Do your research

Storage unit size and construction varies from company to company, so you'll want to do some research before you order your PODS or moving container. Check out our guide on estimating your storage container size you need and our Best Moving Container Companies list for quick tips and recommended companies.

2. Prepare your stuff

Before you pack your moving container, you'll need to get your belongings ready to be packed in your storage container. In order for your items to best fit in the unit, you should follow these rules:

  • Use as many of the same-sized boxes as possible
  • Don't overload boxes
  • Aim for a firm pack for greater protection
  • Reinforce the bottom and top of the boxes with tape

3. What, when, and how to load

Where you load your things it's important to create a solid foundation that won't shift during transportation so your items won't get damaged during the move. Here's how to do that:

Create a wall

Pack your items from floor to ceiling, creating wall-like layers on one side or end of the container until they reach the ceiling of the container.

Pack boxes and other items as tightly as possible to keep them from shifting during transportation and to evenly distribute weight.

Distribute weight

When loading boxes and other items, such as furniture, distribute the weight evenly from end-to-end and side-to-side of the moving container.

Start by packing some of your heavier items, such as appliances and furniture, on the bottom. If you can’t get proper weight distribution with your items, place the heaviest items in the center of the storage container and place lighter items on top.

Fill and maximize space

Fill any open spaces with boxes and other small items to provide stability. If there's space between the top of the boxes and the unit's ceiling, place soft items on top of the boxes, such as bags of clothing or linens.

Odd-shaped items, such as bikes, can go on top of boxes or near the doors. Remove the legs from furniture and stand large items, such as couches, on end to maximize space. If you have a mattress to load, load it last to finish off the last layer of stability.

4. How to pack fragile and important items

Not everything you own should go in your moving container.

Keep your valuables, heirlooms, legal documents, important papers, and any essentials separate and carry them with you when you move. While storage containers are generally a safe way to move your things, it's better not to risk the loss or damage of such items.

With that in mind, here are some extra ways to make sure your stuff is safely secured and protected inside the container.

Cushion and wrap fragile items

Clothing, newspaper, and pillows work well to cushion fragile items. You can wrap glass, televisions, and other fragile items in furniture pads or bubble wrap—or grab a special box for transporting those items. (We've even got a list of recommended boxes for art and photos.)

Furniture padding also works well to protect wood surfaces and corners, and you should cover appliances and furniture with moving blankets. You can wrap couches, mattresses, and other soft furniture with stretch wrap.

Protect your items from light exposure

Cover any items near the top of your container with a layer of cardboard or other material to protect them from light exposure. This is especially important if you're storing the container outside for an extended period of time.

Keep your items from moving during transit

Most storage containers have points where you can install loading straps. We recommend using ratchet straps or tie-down rope whenever possible to secure the items inside your unit and to prevent shifting.

Be sure to secure the last section of items near the doors with loading straps to prevent them from shifting and blocking the door. (P.S. Don't apply force when securing the straps or you may damage your items!)

Protect against mold and mildew

The last thing you want is to open your storage container and find out your grandma's antique hutch is now dotted with black mold. Even if you're not moving to a humid climate, it never hurts to place moisture absorbers inside the moving container.

Don't forget to lock up

Keep your moving container safe from theft by locking it whenever it's unattended. Some companies provide locks, while others leave it up to you to purchase one.

5. Take your time loading and unloading

“Most damage occurs from people rushing to load or unload a container. When people are packing or unpacking after a long and stressful day, they can get a little clumsy or careless,” according to Ross Black, owner of Simple Box.

Whether you go with PODS or another one of our recommended moving container companies, taking the extra time and planning to pack your container carefully will make unpacking easier and quicker while eliminating the unnecessary stress caused by dealing with broken, damaged items.

6. Move.org's moving supply picks

You can make moving that much easier by having the right supplies and equipment on hand before you even get started.

Aside from our recommendations for the best moving boxes, moving equipment, and tools, we think these are good to have on hand when you move too.

Product
Estimated price
What it's for
Learn more

BLOKKD Fireproof Lock Box Bag, 16" x 11.5" x 3

BLOKKD Fireproof Document Bag

$26

Important documents and valuables

Arm & Hammer Moisture Absorber & Odor Eliminator

Arm & Hammer Fragrance Free Hanging Moisture Absorber

$8

Moisture and odor control

Master Lock Set Your Own Combination Padlock

$9

Securing your storage pod

Master Lock 2-Inch Shackle Padlock

Master Lock 2-inch Shackle Padlock

$17

Securing your storage pod


Recap

Packing your moving container properly ensures your items arrive safe and sound—but it doesn't have to be difficult or take up a lot of time from your already busy schedule.

Do you have tips for packing storage PODS or moving/storage containers we didn't cover? Share them with us in the comments below.

Christa Baxter
Written by
Christa Baxter
Christa Baxter has worked as an editor for more than eight years and specialized in moving content for the last three. She leads the Move.org content team in producing whip-smart moving tips and recs. After relocating four times in the last calendar year, she’s got strong opinions about moving best practices. (Just don’t ever pull a Marie Kondo and suggest she whittle down her personal library.) She earned a BA and MA in English with a minor in editing.