Can You Put A Pod On A Sloped Driveway? (Find Out Now!)

Jennifer Eggerton
by Jennifer Eggerton

Pods have become the preferred way to move. You have plenty of time to get organized and move at your pace. Moving pods can be placed just about anywhere on your property, but can you put a pod on a sloped driveway?

You can put a pod on a driveway that has a slight incline. Let the company know that you have a sloped driveway, and find out what is required. If the driver determines that your driveway is too steep, the pod may not be delivered.

Let’s take a look at how moving pods work and where they can be placed.

Related Guide: Do I Need A Permit To Put A Shipping Container On My Property?

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What are Pods for Moving?

Pods for moving are metal containers that hold your belongings while you move. This is an alternative to renting a truck or hiring a moving company. The pod is delivered to your property, and you load the container. The pod company picks up the container when it’s ready, and moves it to your new home.

Moving Pod Sizes

Moving pods come in three sizes.

  • Small (6’ 6” x 6’ x 7’6”): Good for one room
  • Medium (11’ 6” x 7’ x 7’ 6”): Two to three rooms
  • Large (15’ 6” x 7’ x 7’ 6”): Three to four rooms

Moving Pod Cost

The cost of a moving pod ranges from $820 to move a one-bedroom apartment 100 miles to $5,850 to move a house with five rooms 2,000 miles. The total cost is based upon:

  • Container size
  • Season (higher costs during peak moving season)
  • Distance
  • Number of containers
  • Advance notice to the container company (plan ahead, and stick to the schedule)

Pods Moving Timeline

When a moving pod container is delivered to your property, it is considered a short-term rental. What this means is that, for a fee, you can take all the time you need to pack your belongings. Most container agreements include 30 days at your current property and 30 days at your new home. You can make arrangements to keep the pod longer.

Moving Pods Return

Returning a moving pod is very easy. Once the container is empty, call the company, a truck comes by to pick up the pod.

Can You Store Pods on Your Property?

You can store moving pods on your property. It is managed as a month-to-month storage rental. The average cost is $165 every 30 days. The pod is delivered and removed by the company. You can also have the pod stored at a secure facility.

Where Can Pods Be Placed?

When you are deciding on the best place for your moving pod delivery, two factors should be considered. The first is the requirements of the pod container company. The second is what is allowed in your community.

Container Company Requirements for Placing a Moving Pod

Pods are delivered by truck and then moved into position using a machine that lifts the pod from the truck. The machine needs a space that is at least 12’ wide, 40’ long, and 15’ high to safely lift and place the pod. The 40’ length can include your driveway and the street in front of your house. Make sure that there is at least 12’ of space for the driver to maneuver the truck and pod.

There should be at least 15’ of clearance above the pod. This is in addition to the 6’ to 7’ for the container itself. Check the area for branches, roof overhangs, and overhead wires.

Moving pod companies prefer that the area be level and paved. If you need to place the pod on your lawn or a sloped area, discuss this with the company when you reserve the pod.

Community Rules and Moving Pod Placement

Before you arrange for a moving pod to be delivered to your property, check with your homeowner’s association (HOA) or the property manage if you live in a rental unit. Pods may not be allowed because they take up valuable parking spaces.

Ideally, a pod should be placed on your private property, but some container companies allow the pods to be placed on public streets. Check with your local authorities to see if you can place the pod on the street and if you need a street permit.

Can You Put a Pod on a Sloped Driveway?

You can place a pod on a sloped driveway, but not just any sloped driveway. Each company sets its own requirements for their pods can be placed. They should have a clear definition of what is considered a sloped driveway, as well as what is considered as too steep.

What Happens If the Driveway is Too Steep?

If your driveway is too steep, the moving pod company may deny your reservation. Even worse, the driver may arrive at your home only to take the empty container back to the storage facility. A quick test with a car door lets you know if your driveway is too steep for a pod. Park with the front of your car facing the incline of your driveway. Open the door, and let go. If the door closes, your driveway is probably too steep for a pod.

Will a Pod Damage Your Driveway?

The pod itself should not damage your driveway. The containers are designed with smooth metal bottoms that sit on top of concrete and asphalt. Damage to your driveway is possible while the driver places the pod. Arrange to be home when the moving pod is delivered, and watch the driver carefully. Assist when necessary to protect your driveway and other property.


Related Questions

What should you not pack in a pod?

Don’t pack any hazardous materials in a moving pod. This includes oil and gasoline for vehicles and lawn equipment.


Can I put a pod on my lawn?

The container company may agree to place a moving pod on your lawn. Expect some damage to your lawn as the pod settles into the soil. Also, the lack of sunlight and water under the pod damages your grass.

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Conclusion

Pods are convenient and affordable for long-distance moves. The ideal place to put your moving pod is on a level, paved surface. The company may be willing to place the pod on a driveway that has a slight incline. Each company sets the requirements for placing their pods.

Jennifer Eggerton
Jennifer Eggerton

Jennifer L. Eggerton loves being hands-on, whether it's with a home DIY project, making repairs, re-decorating a room, or keeping life organized. She enjoys helping people by sharing her knowledge, insights, and experiences, as well as her lessons learned. In addition to her work as a writer, Jennifer is a Jeep® overlander, self-published author, and nature photographer who loves being outdoors.

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