Jim Merritt - November 17, 2025

From time to time, we like to go off topic when we believe we have something to share that would benefit others. This is one of those times. :-)

As a wife and husband and business owners, we are in the midst of completing a move for family and business, and this topic is very near and dear to our hearts. Below are the lessons we've learned and want to share with those who may need this knowledge one day.

If you’ve ever shopped around for moving and storage options, you already know that PODS is one of the most convenient ways to relocate—especially for long-distance or multi-stage moves. But here’s something many people don’t know:

PODS pricing is not fixed. In fact, you can often secure a SIGNIFICANTLY lower price by using a simple strategy that many savvy movers now rely on.

In this article, we’ll break down how PODS pricing works, why your first quote is often the highest, and a step-by-step method that can help you save hundreds, if not thousands of dollars on your container rental.

Why PODS Prices Vary

PODS uses a dynamic pricing model—similar to airlines and hotels—meaning prices fluctuate based on:

• Your location
• Seasonal demand
• Availability of containers
• Distance you’re moving
• The timing of your move

Because of this, you may get a high quote one day and a much more affordable one later. That’s where this strategy comes in.

The PODS Price-Drop Strategy (Step-by-Step)

Here’s the real-world method that many customers use to lower their PODS bill—and yes, it actually works.

1. Start by Requesting an Online Quote

Begin the process by going to the PODS website and requesting a standard quote for your move. This first quote is often the highest price you’ll see, because PODS assumes you are a motivated buyer.

2. Go Ahead and Place the Order

Even if you’re not thrilled with the price, complete the booking. Don’t worry—you’re not locked in. PODS allows cancellations at no penalty as long as you cancel before they deliver the container. Your goal here is simply to get into their system as an “active” lead.

3. Cancel Your Order Within a Day or Two

After placing the order, wait briefly—then cancel it. This sends a signal to PODS that you are interested but price-sensitive. And that’s exactly the customer segment they try to win back with discounts.

4. Wait for the Call or Email

Here’s the magic part:

Within a few days (sometimes within 24 hours), PODS typically reaches out by phone or email offering you:

• A much lower base price,
• A special discount,
• Or both.

In many cases, the new quote can be hundreds, or in our case, $1,300 dollars cheaper than the original one. It’s not unusual to see a 10–30% price reduction, depending on season and container availability.

Why This Works

This technique works because PODS tracks:

• When customers abandon quotes
• When they cancel orders
• How long they’ve been shopping

Their system automatically tags you as a “price-sensitive churned customer”—a category they actively try to recover with promotional pricing.

Simply put:

You become more valuable to them after you cancel than before you place your order.

Tips to Maximize Your Savings:

✔ 1. Try the Strategy a Few Months Before Your Move

Cancelling early gives PODS more time to entice you back with better offers.

 2. Be Flexible With Dates

If you can shift your move by a week or two, you may find an even better price.

✔ 3. Use Multiple Emails (Optional)

Some people test prices by requesting quotes under another email address to compare rates.

✔ 4. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

This strategy works best when you’re not under deadline pressure.

A Final Thought: PODS Is Convenient, but Make Sure You Compare

PODS is a great option, but they're not the only player in the container-moving space.

Once you receive PODS’ discounted offer, compare it to alternatives like:

• U-Haul U-Box
• 1-800-Pack-Rat
• ZippyShell
• SMARTBOX

Often, PODS’ “win-back” pricing puts them in a much more competitive range.

Conclusion

Getting the best pricing on a PODS moving container is all about timing—and understanding how PODS’ follow-up discounts work. By placing an order, canceling it, and allowing PODS to reach out with a lower rate, you can often save a significant amount on your move.

It’s a simple, legitimate strategy many smart consumers use to keep moving costs under control—and now you can too.

Ok, back to what we do (and do well)... QuickBooks!

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