Moving and Storage Container Guides

Estate moves are rarely as simple as packing up a house and heading to the next one. There’s often a lifetime of belongings to sort through — some items go to family, others are sold or donated, and some need to be discarded or stored. Maybe you’re clearing out a loved one’s home after a loss, helping a parent transition to assisted living, or helping them downsize for retirement. Whatever the reason, an estate move usually doesn't have one clean destination or one moving day. It has several, spread across people, timelines, and decisions that take time to make. So, the best moving option for an estate move looks different from a typical household move.

Thinking of renting a portable storage container? Good call! Before you get loading, though, check out these 18 dos and don’ts about what can and can’t go in a container and how to get the most out of your rental.

Choosing the right portable container or storage unit size is all about finding the sweet spot: Making sure there’s room for your stuff — and paying a reasonable price. How do you manage that? How big is a storage container? And what’s an acceptable rate? Read on for our storage unit size guide with tips, tools, and a handy chart to help you figure it all out.

Compared to traditional moving options, companies like PODS provide a hybrid moving approach that can be tailored to your unique situation. You can even have your belongings transported directly to your new home or keep them stowed in a secure storage facility for as long as you need. Is it the right fit for you, though? Our guide is here to teach you everything you need to know about moving long-distance with moving containers.

What size PODS container do I need? The right fit depends on your home size, furniture, and move distance — because a minimalist studio and a “just one more garage shelf” situation are very different moves. See which PODS moving container size works best for studios, apartments, 3–4 bedroom homes, long-distance moves, and storage projects.