Container Delivery Checklist & Clearance Requirements

No matter your storage container size, it can be placed practically anywhere on your property that’s flat, level, and clear of obstructions. So let’s talk about the details of how to prepare for a moving and storage container rental and what to expect when it arrives.

• To accommodate PODZILLA and the PODS truck, clear a path that’s 12 feet wide, 15 feet high, and 40 feet long.
This is a little bit longer than two standard parking spots. And remember, if your driveway isn’t 40 feet long, it’s okay. The maneuvering area can include the street as well. If there’s anything in the way or any other obstructions, the PODS driver will use their discretion to determine where the container can be safely placed. If you have any questions, please call PODS Customer Care at (855) 706-4758. 

• Please ensure there are no overhead wires, tree branches, roof overhang, or any other obstructions hanging lower than 15 feet above ground. 

•  For street placement, you may need permits from your city or town. 
PODS requires copies of any permits prior to delivery, even if we’re dropping off and picking up your portable container on the same day. Call PODS Customer Care at (855) 706-4758 and we’ll let you know the best way to get us copies. You can also give any necessary permits to your PODS driver at the time of delivery, but please notify us ahead of time if this is the case. 

• Check with your neighborhood homeowners association. 
There may be HOA regulations concerning portable containers on your property. PODS delivers to many HOA neighborhoods without any issues, but it’s always good to check first if on-site storage containers are allowed.

• If you live in a condo or apartment, please check with building management concerning portable storage containers. 
PODS delivers containers to condo and apartment buildings all the time, and most have special requirements regarding where the container can be placed and for how long.

• Reserve enough parking spaces for PODZILLA to maneuver. 
Typical parking spaces are 9 to 10 feet wide. Your PODS container will easily fit in one space, but keep in mind, the driver will need 12 feet of width to place the container. This means that you will need approval from building management to either use two parking spaces, or have three adjacent spaces unoccupied while the PODS container is dropped off in the center space.  

NOTE: The same two adjacent spaces will need to be unoccupied when the PODS driver picks up the container. 

• Remember that our moving and storage containers love paved, level surfaces. 
If you’re thinking about having your container placed on an unleveled or non-paved surface, please discuss this with your PODS Customer Care Associate.

• You don’t need to be there when your container delivery or pick up.
But please make sure that access is clear, with no parked cars, narrow gate openings, or locked gates.

• Once your container is loaded, make sure to padlock it.   
Our drivers are prohibited from picking up loaded containers not secured by a padlock. You can purchase a padlock from us and have it delivered with your PODS container, or pick one up at your local hardware store or home improvement center. Once it is secure, our drivers can pick up your portable storage container for your long-distance move, local move or take it to one of our local storage unit facilities for indoor storage.  

Moving in or out of New York City?
Or, are you moving within NYC to a different neighborhood? Be sure to visit our City Services page or call our City Services Team at (855) 706-4758.

Got Questions about Portable Container Delivery?
If you have any questions at all about your PODS container delivery, we’re here to help.  Please call (855) 706-4758.

Connect with local professionals who'll pack and load your container. They'll help minimize damage and maximize your container space.