PODS® Reviews
I've had mixed experiences with Pods. On two occasions, as I have moved a lot for work about once a year for the last 7 (using them now 5 times). I have received containers with obvious holes from a forklift going through the side. If something goes wrong even with their insurance, good luck talking to a representative. I received an insurance form and dropped the ball on it, as I work long hours and damaged antique furniture is the result. My trips have usually been cross country, and have required months of storage... thus pods are the best option in that case.
The delivery of the original container was great. The pick-up to move it to my new home was a bit of a problem. The day that it was scheduled to be picked up, there was a high wind warning out so the pick up couldn't be done. The next day, they showed up as planned, but someone stupidly parked by the PODS and they could not pick up the PODS. Then there was a mismark in the records that my PODS was picked up, but it truly was not. It was finally picked up. I had to confirm that they were still dropping it off at the agreed date. That was fine. The guy that did that was on time, did a quick job and that was that. They messed up on the pick up date, yet again. At least they picked it up the next day. If I can give anyone some advice, if you've lived in an apartment/condo/home for more than 3 years, definitely go one size up than what you originally thought you needed. You probably have accumulated more things than you know if you don't live a minimalist life. Secondly, using a PODS, definitely tie down your boxes or belonging in the PODS. This way when you go to open the roll top door, you won't have any of the boxes fall towards the door, making for an slightly difficult time opening it back up when you receive it at your new home. Lastly, always, always, always, cone off the parking stalls next to your PODS when they are picking it up.
Terrific drivers - delivery and pick up exceptional skill in handling and maneuvering the POD. Even saved the rose bush which we thought might get crushed! On time; gave advanced notice of window of arrival, and driver called with anticipated eta given local, current traffic. Just a painless experience. PODS is the best. Recommendations for loaders was exceptional and Conquistador reviewed elsewhere.
DO NOT USE PODS. Poor customer service, and my pod was three days late with the excuse EACH day being "the truck broke down." Separate trucks. Different type of truck used for each transit. Do they only have ONE truck at each facility?! Completely unacceptable to just give up each day and not just switch trucks. Called customer service about 3 times a day and they said on multiple occasions, the driver would call me right away and let me know the situation. I never received any calls. I was completely shocked at how they were treating me. Luckily I had moved into a furnished home, and thought ahead and packed enough clothes with me. Otherwise, like most other customers who don't move to furnished homes, I would have needed a hotel for 3 nights and needed to buy new clothes. I read from other reviews that it is a struggle to get compensated, reimbursed, or refunded for ANYTHING from PODS. We'll see what they tell me. I didn't do my extensive research, like I should have. I somehow came across a site that had 5 star ratings and stellar reviews from everyone for PODS. Must have all been fake. Please read their Facebook reviews and comments on their page. That's where all the real stuff is.
Great customer service and great follow up. I have no doubt that they will follow through on the final delivery of my property. I rwould recommend PODS and use them again. (But I hope not to be moving again any time soon.) My last move was done with a rental truck and non-professional labor. The difference in cost and my time was well worth spending a few hundred more dollars.
Generally happy with PODS, good option for secure storage and potential long distance move. PODS drivers were polite, careful and considerate. Just frustrating to have to work with Corporate office in Florida and not the local CA franchise. Needed later hour pickup but was denied by PODs - then they did arrive several hours after the scheduled pick up time, but didn't bother to tell me of the additional timing. Wasted opportunity to pack more, and clear breakdown in customer service. Need to access PODS now at their site to finish packing up. Also, PODS has East Coast hours and is actually closed on Sundays - can't access PODS onsite on Sundays! Unheard of for a relocation company servicing paying clients who have to work on weekdays...