Moving and self-storage
one-way move
A one-way move is a move in which a portable storage container is picked up at one location and delivered to a different one, such as a new home in another city. The customer loads at the origin and unloads at the destination without driving the container.
Why it matters
NPSA describes the long distance version this way: once the container is loaded, the provider takes it to a warehouse, then a third-party carrier ships it toward the new home, and the provider delivers it for unloading. The customer avoids renting a truck and driving across the country. Price depends on distance, container size and timing, so get a written quote. A common mistake is to ask only about the day of delivery. Ask for the pickup window, the transit time and the storage terms at each end. Delivery dates for long moves are often estimates, not promises.
Definition source: npsa.org
Related terms
long distance move
A long distance move is a move to a distant city or another state. With portable storage, the customer loads a container at home, the provider moves it by third-party carrier to the new area, and a local team delivers it for unloading. The customer does not drive a truck.
local move
A local move is a move within the same area, usually the same city or region. With portable storage, the provider delivers a container, the customer loads it, and the provider takes it to the new address or to a storage center. The customer does not need a rental truck.
container shuttle
A container shuttle is a short trip that moves a container from one point to another nearby, such as from a yard to a job site, from one address to another, or from a customer site to a storage center. It is a local container relocation, not a long haul.
moving container
A moving container is a portable storage container used to move a household. PODS describes portable storage containers as large, secure, usually weather-resistant boxes that can be moved from place to place. The customer loads the container, and the company carries it to a storage center or a new home.
portable moving and storage (PMS)
Portable moving and storage, or PMS, is the part of the portable storage industry that delivers containers to homes for moving and storage. The customer loads the container, the company picks it up, and it is stored or delivered to a new address. PODS uses these steps in its rental process.
loading time
Loading time is the period a customer has to fill a portable storage container once it is delivered. Providers set it in the rental agreement. Some include a set number of days, and some describe it as however long the customer needs. After it ends, pickup or extra daily fees may apply.
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