Are Self Storage and Storage Pods The Same?

Self storage and storage pods. Storage pods or self storage? What are they, how are they different, which one should I choose?

Self storage, otherwise known as storage units, public storage, mini storage, etc. is in some way, shape or form, a building containing storage units for rent. You pay a monthly or yearly fee to rent a said amount of storage space. You need to do all the moving yourself, using a uhaul moving truck rental or some other vehicle to move in (and out) all your belongings. Certain self storage units can be quite cost-effective, while others, such as those in cities, tend to be quite expensive.

How do these units differ from storage pods? There are a couple major differences. One, the storage pod company brings the actual storage to you. That is, they will drop off one, two, or three storage pods at your location. That's right, the pod can actually be dropped off right in front of your house. No more renting a uhaul truck or convincing your friends to unpack for you. All you need to do is pack it within a said amount of time. Once that is done, the company will pick it back up and take it to their storage warehouse.

What happens if you want or need to access your belongings? There's a misperception that you can't access your stuff in storage pods once they're gone. Untrue. Just call them up at least 24 hrs ahead of time and you can swing by and grab whatever you need.

Storage pods are often cheaper month-to-month than self storage as well. Yes you have to pay pick-up and drop-off fees, but when you consider the costs of renting a truck, gas, time, frustration it's all very worth it.