How Big is a POD Storage Container?

POD storage containers have become an increasingly popular solution for people seeking flexible, mobile, and secure storage. Whether you’re relocating, remodeling, or simply decluttering, these portable storage units—commonly referred to as PODS (Portable On Demand Storage)—offer a convenient way to keep your belongings safe on your schedule. But before ordering one, many customers ask: how big is a POD storage container?

Understanding the dimensions and capacities of PODS is essential to ensure they fit on your property and accommodate your items. In this guide, we’ll take a close look at the size options available, how they compare to traditional storage units, and what considerations to keep in mind when choosing the right container for your needs.

Standard POD Storage Container Sizes

PODS offers a few standard container sizes, each designed for different use cases. The most commonly available sizes include:

• 8-foot container: This compact size is ideal for small spaces, tight driveways, and lighter moves. It typically holds one to two rooms of furniture or about 400–500 cubic feet of belongings.
• 12-foot container: Often used for apartment moves or smaller home renovations, this size holds two to three rooms of contents and offers approximately 600–700 cubic feet of space.
• 16-foot container: The largest commonly available POD, it can accommodate three to four rooms of furniture or roughly 850–1,000 cubic feet of contents.

Each POD container is 8 feet wide and approximately 7 to 8 feet tall, offering standardized dimensions that allow for predictable loading and transport logistics.

External and Internal Dimensions: What to Expect

While PODS may all be 8 feet wide, the interior dimensions vary slightly depending on the material and frame. Here’s a general breakdown:

• 8-foot POD: External dimensions are approximately 8’x7’x8’. Interior clearance is slightly less, generally around 7’6” in width and 7’ in height.
• 12-foot POD: External measurements average 12’x8’x8’, with a usable interior space closer to 11’6” in length.
• 16-foot POD: Measures 16’x8’x8’ externally and offers a usable length of just under 15’6”.

Each container is designed with steel frames and weather-resistant walls to keep contents safe, although they are not fully climate-controlled. Understanding these internal measurements is crucial for customers planning to pack furniture, boxes, and irregularly shaped items.

How Big is a POD Compared to a Storage Unit?

When comparing PODS to traditional storage units, a good way to estimate is by room equivalency or cubic footage. A 10×10 storage unit is roughly the equivalent of a 12-foot POD. However, the POD has the added advantage of mobility—allowing you to pack at your own pace and store the container either on-site or at a remote facility.

Here’s a quick reference:

• 8-foot POD ≈ 5×10 storage unit
• 12-foot POD ≈ 10×10 storage unit
• 16-foot POD ≈ 10×15 or 10×20 storage unit

One important consideration is access. Traditional storage units offer walk-in access at any time, whereas PODS are only accessible where they’re located. If stored off-site, you’ll need to coordinate access through the provider.

Driveway and Placement Considerations

Before ordering, homeowners often wonder if a POD will fit in their driveway or parking space. A standard single-car driveway is usually about 10 feet wide, which accommodates any size POD with clearance to spare. Length, however, is a key factor—especially for the 16-foot container, which may extend into sidewalks or roadways.

Check for overhead obstructions like trees, power lines, or eaves that may interfere with delivery. PODS are delivered using a patented hydraulic lift system that gently places the container on the ground. For hilly or uneven terrain, it’s best to consult with the PODS delivery team to confirm feasibility.

Use Cases Based on Container Size

The size of the POD storage container you choose should reflect the volume and type of belongings you plan to store or move.

• 8-foot POD: Best for college dorm moves, decluttering a single room, or storing small office supplies.
• 12-foot POD: Ideal for 1-bedroom apartments or small home renovations.
• 16-foot POD: Recommended for 2–3 bedroom homes, medium renovation projects, or storing seasonal equipment.

For people unsure about what size to choose, it’s always safer to go slightly larger. Overpacking or cramming items into a too-small container can lead to damage and inefficiencies.

How POD Sizes Affect Moving Costs

The size of the POD directly influences cost. Larger containers generally cost more due to increased space and weight. Rates also depend on location, duration, and whether you choose on-site storage or transportation to a storage center. Be sure to compare pricing tiers and inquire about any fees related to distance, duration, or extended rentals.

While PODS are a commercial brand, similar portable storage services exist, often with slightly different container dimensions. Companies like 1-800-PACK-RAT, U-Haul U-Box, and SMARTBOX offer comparable services and dimensions.

Climate and Environmental Considerations

POD storage containers are weather-resistant, but they are not climate-controlled. If you plan to store electronics, artwork, or temperature-sensitive materials, consider insulating your belongings or using alternate storage.

For outdoor POD use during extreme seasons, covering sensitive items with thermal blankets or placing moisture absorbers inside the unit can help mitigate humidity and temperature shifts.

Homeowners can further protect their stored goods by placing PODS near shaded structures or inside weather-resistant buildings. Hartville Outdoor Products offers custom garages and sheds that can house containers or serve as alternative long-term storage solutions.

PODS vs. Traditional Shed or Garage Storage

For those with extra space on their property, building a permanent storage solution may be more cost-effective in the long run. PODS are ideal for temporary use but may not be the best solution for years-long storage. Custom sheds and garages offer better climate control, access, and long-term savings.

Hartville Outdoor Products specializes in prefab buildings and storage solutions that can be used year-round without recurring rental fees. If you’re considering a POD to store lawn equipment, holiday decorations, or seasonal furniture, investing in a permanent structure could be the smarter move.

Conclusion

So, how big is a POD storage container? Sizes typically range from 8 to 16 feet in length, with a standard width of 8 feet and a height around 8 feet. The right size depends on your specific needs, space availability, and how long you intend to use the unit. PODS provide a flexible, secure, and mobile option for short-term storage and moves.

However, for those needing long-term, secure, and more accessible storage solutions, consider exploring permanent options like custom sheds, prefab garages, or modular buildings from Hartville Outdoor Products. With smart planning and a clear understanding of container sizes, you can choose the storage solution that best fits your space, timeline, and budget.