Ado-it-yourself (DIY)portable containermove is one of the most popular methodsofmoving because itis perceived asthe easiestand cheapest option, but is it the right choice for you? Many people choose aportablecontainer option (like PODS) because theydonotknow professional movers can perform easy, local moves just like theyperforminterstate moves; with white-glove service and a stress-free customer experience.
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In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of hiring a professional moving company versus a DIY container move with PODS.
What is a professional moving company?
A professional (or full-service) moving company is a service provider that can handle every aspect of your move, from packing to unpacking. Essentially, a full-service moving company is perfect for individuals who don’t have time to dedicate to the consuming details of a relocation and don’t wish to assume the physical task of moving their household goods.
What are portable moving containers?
A portable moving container, like PODS, is alargerectangular container,typically made of steel and aluminum,that gets delivered to your driveway and left for you to load yourself. That container is then picked up and taken to a storage facility or transported to your new home where you unload your belongings.
PROS OF USING APROFESSIONALMOVING COMPANY:
The White-glove Treatment
Using a professional moving company for your localor long-distancemove means you’ll receivehigh-quality service. Professional movers, like Daryl FloodRelocation, specialize inprovidinga superior move experience through expert care for your belongings and attention to detail.Professional moversensureyour entire home is thoroughly protected during your move,carefully pad wrap furniture pieces to prevent damage and take a detailed inventory of the items being moved out of your home.
Your Belongings Are Protected Through Valuation
Protecting your household goods is typicallyhigh onaconsumer’s listof concernswhen evaluating moving methods.Unlike moving with PODS, moving with a professional moving company ensures your belongings arecoveredin the unlikely eventofdamage. Each move comes with a standard valuation protection package, which covers your goods at $0.60 per pound, at noaddedcost to you! If you have high-value items(grand piano,antique items, etc.),itis recommendedthat youpurchasefull replacementcoverage to protect these items as well as the entire shipment.
LessHassleandStress
As movers, we know how overwhelming a relocation can be. There isa lotto do, and it never seems like you have enoughtimeto get it all done. Hiring professional movers can greatly reduce stressand time requirementsby taking the physical packing, loadingand movingtasksoff your plate,so you can focus your efforts elsewhere. Moving with a DIY container option like PODS doesn’tprovidethat same peace of mind, because you’re still responsible forthe physical, heavy liftingportionsof your move.On top ofthat many times you may believe based on your home size you may only need one Pod when in fact many larger homes may require 2-3 PODS and the cost ends up very close to afull servicewhite glove move.
CONS OF USING A PROFESSIONAL MOVING COMPANY:
Finding A Reputable Mover
Unfortunately, in the moving and storage industry, there are dishonest companies called rogue movers. A rogue mover typically gives an estimate over the phone without physically (or virtually) surveying your household goodsand they may show up in unmarked trucks and out of uniform. They’re also known for asking for deposits or upfrontpayment fora portion of themove, whichis notstandard procedure for professional movers.Getting a detailed list of what should be moved and packed broken down by room is very important and will always be provided by a professional moving company.To avoid falling victim to a rogue mover, check out our article onhow to find a quality moving company.
PROS OF USING A PORTABLE CONTAINER OPTION:
More Flexible TimeFrame
If you aren’t under a strict time framefor your moveor are looking to pack and load a little at a time over an extended period, the portable storage container option may align better with your move goals. Because PODS are dropped off at your driveway and youcan schedule pickup anytime, you have greater control over your move timeline thanyou would with professional movers who operate with delivery windows and deadlines.
SometimesCheaper Than Professional Movers
If cost is a major factor in your relocation, PODS could be a feasible option. Historically, PODS cost less than hiring a professional moving company because you aren’t paying for the quality labor required to pack and load the contents of a home. However, we recommend getting a freein-home or virtualestimate from a professional moving company for comparison. Thedifferencein price for the added benefits may surprise you, especially if you’re moving locally.
*HelpfulTip:Understanding Moving Company Estimates
CONS OF USING APORTABLE CONTAINER OPTION:
Homeowners Associations May Restrict PODSUsage
Though PODS may seem like a convenient option, manyhomeownersassociations (HOA)donot allow temporary placement of PODScontainersbecause it goes against community guidelines.You’ll need to checkwith your HOA beforehand to confirm whether it’s allowed. Additionally,if you have a shared driveway orlive ina condo or apartment complex, finding somewhere to place thecontainermaybe challenging.
Limited PODS Availability
When moving with PODS or a similarportablecontainer service, youaresubject tothe availability ofcontainers,as well as nearby storage capacity.This can make your already stressful move especially inconvenient.
DifficultToEstimate The Container Size You Need
Anoftenoverlookedaspect of usinga DIY container serviceis estimating exactly how much space you will need for your belongings.During the loading of yourcontainer, youmay unexpectedly find youneed more space,haltingyour moving efforts until you find a solution.However, professional movers use a cube sheet method which accurately estimates the space needed for your belongings.
Using a professional moving company over a portable storage container option will ensurequality, white-glove service in the execution ofyour move, protection for your belongings and a stress-free customer experience.Ifyou areinterestedin comparing Daryl FloodRelocation pricing with PODS, call us today at (844) 350-4284 for a free estimate!
