How Much Does Moving Container (PODS) Cost in Chicago, IL?

Chicago pricing is 15% above the national average. Updated for 2026.

Based on local labor rates, humid-continental climate conditions, and Chicago's finance-manufacturing-logistics economy.See our methodology

Low End

$1,150

Average

$2,875

High End

$5,750

per container

Moving Container (PODS) Pricing in Chicago, IL

In Chicago, moving container (pods) costs are 15% above the national average, reflecting the city's finance-manufacturing-logistics-driven economy. The union-heavy labor market means you have decent options when shopping for quotes. Most residents with a population base of 2.7M find the pricing competitive relative to the local cost of living.

Local climate plays a direct role in moving container (pods) costs here. Brutal winters create seasonal demand spikes for heating and snow-related services; summer is peak for outdoor projects.

Market-specific factors matter in Chicago: strong union presence means higher labor rates but consistent quality; city permit process can add 2-4 weeks.

Chicago has moderate permitting requirements. Depending on the scope of your moving container (pods) project, you may need local permits. A licensed contractor will handle the permitting process as part of the job in most cases.

Chicago vs National Average

Chicago Average

$2,875

National Average

$2,500

Difference

+15%

What Affects Moving Container (PODS) Cost in Chicago?

Distance

Local (under 50 mi): $1,000-$2,000. Cross-state: $2,000-$3,500. Cross-country: $3,000-$5,000+

Storage

First month: usually included. Additional months: $100-$200/month. Extended storage: $80-$150/month

Chicago Market Conditions

strong union presence means higher labor rates but consistent quality; city permit process can add 2-4 weeks

Local Climate Impact

brutal winters create seasonal demand spikes for heating and snow-related services; summer is peak for outdoor projects

📐 Moving Container (PODS) in Chicago Cost Calculator

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Top-Rated Moving Container (PODS) Pros in Chicago, IL

6 providers

Reliable Property Services

🏆 SPONSORED

★★★★★4(53 reviews)

📍 1086 Commerce Dr, Chicago, IL🏗️ Since 2019

✓ Licensed✓ InsuredBBB: A+⚡ Usually responds in 2 hours

Get a Quote 📞 (693) 223-1055

Serving Chicago and surrounding areas since 2019. Licensed, insured, and committed to quality workmanship at fair prices.

Elite Electrical

✅ VERIFIED

★★★★★4.6(88 reviews)

📍 743 Washington Ave, Chicago, IL🏗️ Since 2000

✓ Licensed⚡ Usually responds in 2 hours

Get a Quote 📞 (540) 447-1789

All-Pro Contractors

★★★★★4.8(174 reviews)

📍 574 Pine Rd, Chicago, IL🏗️ Since 1991

✓ Licensed✓ InsuredBBB: A

Get a Quote 📞 (437) 521-1184

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Tips to Save on Moving Container (PODS) in Chicago

1.Book during off-peak months (Oct-Apr) for 20-30% savings
2.One 16-ft container fits a 2-3 bedroom home
3.Compare PODS, U-Pack, and 1-800-PACK-RAT — prices vary significantly
4.Skip the company's insurance if your homeowner's policy covers items in transit
5.Chicago has a strong union labor market. While rates may be higher, union contractors typically carry better insurance and offer workmanship guarantees.

📈 Moving Container (PODS) in Chicago Cost Trends (2020–2024)

Prices have increased +17.7% over the last 5 years

$2,442

2020

$2,545

2021

$2,710

2022

$2,786

2023

$2,875

2024

Year	National Avg	YoY Change
2020	$2,442	—
2021	$2,545	+4.2%
2022	$2,710	+6.5%
2023	$2,786	+2.8%
2024	$2,875	+3.2%

Based on national averages adjusted for annual inflation. Actual costs vary by location and project scope.

💬 What Did You Pay?

Real costs reported by homeowners for Moving Container (PODS) in Chicago

$2,989

Avg Reported

$2,092

Lowest Reported

$4,334

Highest Reported

Recent Reports

$2,826

Dallas, TX · Jan 2024

★★★★☆

$2,640

Chicago, IL · Feb 2024

★★★★☆

$2,846

Phoenix, AZ · Mar 2024

★★★★★

$3,148

Denver, CO · Apr 2024

★★★★☆

$2,479

Atlanta, GA · May 2024

★★★★★

$4,019

Seattle, WA · Jun 2024

★★★★☆

Frequently Asked Questions

PODS vs hiring movers — which is cheaper?

Containers are typically 30-50% cheaper than full-service movers for long-distance moves. However, you do all the packing and loading yourself. For local moves, the savings are smaller.

Why does moving container (pods) cost different in Chicago than other cities?

Chicago's costs reflect local labor rates driven by the finance-manufacturing-logistics economy, humid-continental climate conditions that affect materials and scheduling, and moderate permitting requirements. The union-heavy labor market also influences competitive pricing.