Long-distance moving companies carry unique qualifications that make them adept at handling longer moves. Our team researched and reviewed the best moving companies by vetting their services, reviews, and overall quality. From that list, we’ve ranked the best long-distance moving companies to help you choose the best option.
9 Best Long-Distance Moving Companies
Most companies you’ll encounter have different definitions for long-distance moves. There is no set mileage requirement, but moves that exceed 100 miles or take multiple days to complete often fall into this category. Here are our best long-distance moving companies for a range of relocation needs:
- International Van Lines: Best Overall Full-Service Mover
- American Van Lines: Most Experienced Moving Labor
- Interstate Moving & Relocation Group: Most Efficient
- Safeway Moving Inc.: Most Customer-Oriented
- Moving APT: Best Customer Service
- JK Moving Services: Most Customizable Full-Service Mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for Vehicle Relocation
- North American Van Lines: Best for Claims
- United Van Lines: Best for Moving Tech Items
Compare the Best Long-Distance Movers
To rate the top long-distance movers, we used a comprehensive methodology that factors in services, reputation, online resources, and more. Here’s how each company compares:
Star Rating | BBB Rating | Estimate Info | Link | ||
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International Van Lines |
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4.8/5
|
B | $2,500–$4,300 | VISIT SITE |
American Van Lines |
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4.5/5
|
B- | $3,200–$3,500 | VISIT SITE |
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group |
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4.3/5
|
B | $2,800–$4,000 | VISIT SITE |
Safeway Moving Inc. |
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4.4/5
|
A+ | $6,300–$7,500 | VISIT SITE |
Moving APT |
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4.2/5
|
B | $2,968–$5,668 | VISIT SITE |
JK Moving Services |
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4.6/5
|
A+ | $7,550 | VISIT SITE |
Allied Van Lines |
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4.7/5
|
A+ | $4,730–$5,380 | VISIT SITE |
North American Van Lines |
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4.6/5
|
A+ | $4,700–$5,350 | VISIT SITE |
United Van Lines |
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4/5
|
A+ | $5,169–$7,003 | VISIT SITE |
International Van Lines | |
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Logo |
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Star Rating |
4.8/5
|
BBB Rating | B |
Estimate Info | $2,500–$4,300 |
American Van Lines | |
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Logo |
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Star Rating |
4.5/5
|
BBB Rating | B- |
Estimate Info | $3,200–$3,500 |
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group | |
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Star Rating |
4.3/5
|
BBB Rating | B |
Estimate Info | $2,800–$4,000 |
Safeway Moving Inc. | |
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Logo |
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Star Rating |
4.4/5
|
BBB Rating | A+ |
Estimate Info | $6,300–$7,500 |
Moving APT | |
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Logo |
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Star Rating |
4.2/5
|
BBB Rating | B |
Estimate Info | $2,968–$5,668 |
JK Moving Services | |
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Logo |
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Star Rating |
4.6/5
|
BBB Rating | A+ |
Estimate Info | $7,550 |
Allied Van Lines | |
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Logo |
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Star Rating |
4.7/5
|
BBB Rating | A+ |
Estimate Info | $4,730–$5,380 |
North American Van Lines | |
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Logo |
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Star Rating |
4.6/5
|
BBB Rating | A+ |
Estimate Info | $4,700–$5,350 |
United Van Lines | |
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Logo |
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Star Rating |
4/5
|
BBB Rating | A+ |
Estimate Info | $5,169–$7,003 |
*Note: Estimate info above is for a two-bedroom move from Chicago, Illinois, to Atlanta, Georgia.
**Note: BBB ratings are accurate as of May 2023.
Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in Detail
From pros and cons to customer reviews, we outline all the details of the best long-distance moving companies below.
- Availability: 50 states
- Deposit: 25% up-front
- USDOT #: 2293832
International Van Lines (IVL) is a carrier and broker specializing in full-service long-distance relocations. It offers competitive rates and services moves in all 50 states and 180 other countries worldwide.
Our Rating
We rated International Van Lines 96 out of 100 and recognized it as the best overall full-service mover. We gave the company points for its extensive service profile, which includes full-service packing, crating, storage, and more. It lost points for its lack of self-service and financing options. However, we feel this drawback is balanced by its quality of service across all 50 states.
Pros and Cons
Moving Services
International Van Lines provides full-service moves for those moving long distances. Our written estimate listed an option to self-pack or pay for professional packing. Customers also have access to the following services.
Moving Services:
- Added insurance
- Assembly and disassembly
- Crating
- Loading/unloading
- Packing/unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Storage:
- Available? Yes
- Climate-controlled option? Yes, dependent on location
- Discount? 30 days of free storage
Cost
To get a personalized estimate, you can fill out a quote form on IVL’s website or call 877-647-1336 to talk to one of their representatives. You’ll provide basic information about your move, including your origin and destination addresses, inventory size, and preferred move date. Then, you’ll have a personalized consultation in person or via video call. The quote we received was a ballpark estimate. International Van Lines doesn’t provide binding estimates, but you can get cost estimates for all services to be rendered.
The sample quote below reflects low- and high-end pricing. The large price range accounts for services added, such as full-service packing and crating. Call to get your own customized pricing quote, and don’t take IVL’s cost calculator tool as a valid pricing estimate. We found that the cost calculator tool displayed the same price range for any move details we entered.
Sample Quote: $2,500–$4,300 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)
Deposit: 25% up-front
Payment Accepted:
- Cash
- Credit card (deposit only)
- Money order
- Cashier’s check
Reputation and Reviews
International Van Lines has a B rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), along with a 3.47 out of 5 customer rating and 100% response rate. This is in line with industry leaders, as is IVL’s safety record with the FMCSA. When pulling quotes, we noted that this provider offered a fairly easy shopping experience and a quick quote process. Here’s what previous clients said about their moves with IVL:
“The movers were fantastic! They moved quickly and carefully. I am very happy that I chose International Van Lines for the job as they were professional, on time, and very efficient. I am always concerned during moves with my electronics and fragile furniture. Highly Recommended.” —Jordyn via Trustpilot on April 4, 2022
“Great experience. We had one issue prior to our move but they were so helpful with assisting us after and making sure the problem did not escalate! Excellent customer service. Happy moving.” —June via Trustpilot on August 16, 2022
- Availability: 48 states
- Deposit: Up to 50%
- USDOT #: 614506
*American Van Lines is not available in Alaska or Hawaii
American Van Lines has decades of experience providing long-distance moving services. Its moving crews average a decade of experience, which enables it to offer premium packing and antique handling services. As a bonus, this provider offers binding flat-rate pricing for all moves.
Our Rating
We rated American Van Lines 86 out of 100 and recommend the company for its experienced moving crews. The company hires movers full-time, as opposed to the standard practice of contracting labor. It lost points for its lack of financing options and truck rentals. However, it gained points for requiring its crew members to routinely take certification courses.
Pros and Cons
Moving Services
American Van Lines’ qualified crews provide a suite of services to long-distance moving clients. In addition to full-service packing and long-term storage in secure facilities, its services include the following.
Moving Services:
- Custom crating
- Loading/unloading
- Packing/unpacking
- Piano moving
- Special item moving
- Vehicle shipping
Storage:
- Available? Yes
- Climate-controlled option? Yes, dependent on location
- Discount? Free first month with a standard move
Cost
Call American Van Lines or complete a contact form online to initiate your quote process. When we filled out the contact form, a company representative called us back a few hours later. All quotes from American Van Lines are transparent flat rates, which include all services and inventory to be handled.
Sample Quote: $3,200–$3,500 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)
Deposit: Up to 50% up-front
Payment Accepted:
- Cash
- Credit card
- Money order
- Traveler’s check
- Cashier’s check
Reputation and Reviews
American Van Lines holds an A rating with BBB and a 100% customer complaint response rate. Its flat-rate pricing and ability to provide direct service are mentioned in many positive reviews. We looked at AVL’s FMCSA profile and discovered that its out-of-service ratio for trucks exceeded the national average, with 31% of its 65 trucks listed as inoperable. Below, we’ve compiled two recent AVL customer reviews:
“Delivers items without any problems. Made sure all my items were properly handled with care and put in their correct place. I would highly recommend.” —Kevin via BBB on March 15, 2023
“[Mover] was friendly, re-assuring, responsible, and hard working! I would hire him again and highly recommend him to friends!” —Erika via BBB on March 14, 2023
- Availability: 50 states
- Deposit: Up to 33%
- USDOT #: 3034100
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) is a moving broker with partners nationwide. Its partners offer excellent moving services with price-matching capabilities and speedy quote processes.
Our Rating
We rated Interstate Moving & Relocation Group 86 out of 100, noting the company’s efficient approach to hiring professional movers and its user-friendly quote process. It lost points due to storage availability and consistency of contents protection plans. However, its packing services and long-distance moving availability are nearly unmatched.
Its lack of available customer service on weekends may be concerning for clients who plan to move over a weekend. If you’re planning a long-distance move, which spans multiple days, that includes weekend days, you may want to reconsider booking with this broker.
Pros and Cons
Moving Services
IMRG brokers long-distance moves to numerous partners across the country. We reviewed the partners listed on its website and found both full- and self-service providers. Its full and partial services include the following.
Moving Services:
- Added coverage plans
- Commercial moving
- Crating
- Disassembly and reassembly
- Loading/unloading
- Military moving
- Packing/unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Storage:
- Available? Yes
- Climate-controlled option? Yes, dependent on location
- Discount? No
Cost
Submit a contact form online to start the IMRG quote process. After providing basic information about your move, you’ll be contacted by a move coordinator to iron out the details and get a definitive estimate.
Sample Quote: $2,800–$4,000 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)
Deposit: Up to 33% up-front
Payment Accepted: Credit card and check
Reputation and Reviews
IMRG has a 3.59 out of 5 customer rating on BBB, which is high for a broker on this platform. Positive reviews mention honest pricing practices and efficiency, a testament to the quality of its partner companies. When getting quotes from this mover, we noted that its cost calculator gave fairly accurate price ranges and customized pricing was easy to obtain. Here is what some recent customers thought of their IMRG moves:
“I had a great experience with this company. The price that they offered was the price I got charged. Great service at a great price. I will for sure use this service again.” —Samson via BBB on February 20, 2023
“They were professional and yet easygoing enough to keep my nerves calm. Super efficient, the whole process took far less time than I thought it would. I don’t ever want to have to use another moving company!” —Antoinette via BBB on March 2, 2023
- Availability: 50 states
- Deposit: Up to 40%
- USDOT #: 237129
Safeway Moving Inc. offers long-distance moving services nationwide. Its binding flat-rate pricing makes it a great option for those with a defined budget.
Our Rating
Safeway Moving earned an 87 out of 100 on our rating scale. We noted Safeway’s emphasis on customer service in our overall rating, as well as its provision of packing and crating for all long-distance moving clients. Safeway lost points because its website isn’t functional and doesn’t yield instant quotes. However, its longer in-state, interstate, and international moving service offerings compensate for this lack of functionality.
Pros and Cons
Moving Services
Safeway’s service options for long-distance moves include packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking as part of the base package. Its long-distance service offerings include the following.
Moving Services:
- Assembly and disassembly
- Crating
- Loading/unloading
- Packing/unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Storage:
- Available? Yes
- Climate-controlled option? Yes, dependent on location
- Discount? 30 days of free storage
Cost
Safeway provides personalized binding estimates, meaning your price shouldn’t change unless your move inventory does. However, when we read customer reviews for Safeway, we noticed that many negative reviews reported pricing discrepancies. This is common among movers that operate primarily as brokers and important to keep in mind when signing a moving contract.
We received the sample quote below from a Safeway Moving representative over the phone.
Sample Quote: $6,300–$7,500 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)
Deposit: Up to 40% up-front
Payment Accepted:
- Cash
- Credit card
- Money order
- Certified check
Reputation and Reviews
Safeway Moving Inc. has favorable reviews crediting its flat-rate pricing and availability throughout all 50 states. It is currently undergoing a company-wide rebranding effort and has acquired a fleet of 20 trucks and taken on duties as a carrier. We noted that quotes took a few days to receive when we requested pricing. Due to the recent rebrand, many of its old reviews are no longer available. However, we’ve collected some recent testimonials:
“The crew was great! They showed up on time and worked very fast. They took great care with our items and wrapped/padded everything very well. I will definitely be calling Safeway Moving back for our next move.” —Juliette via Google Reviews in December 2022
“I had a great moving experience since this firm went above and beyond to protect my stuff. They looked after me so well during my move it was unbelievable.” —Roman via Google Reviews in March 2023
- Availability: 50 states
- Deposit: Varies
- USDOT #: 2247863
Moving APT is a moving broker that partners with movers nationwide. It offers a full range of relocation services with price-matching guarantees and transparent rates.
Our Rating
We gave Moving APT 84 out of 100 on our proprietary grading scale. Its breadth of services helps it rank competitively among our top movers. It loses points due to not offering full quotes online and having varied insurance coverage offerings. However, its moving calculator and moving checklists are a bonus.
Pros and Cons
Moving Services
Moving APT’s partners provide full- and self-service moving assistance for all long-distance relocations. Your options will include the following.
Moving Services:
- Crating
- Commercial moving
- Loading/unloading
- Packing/unpacking
- Piano moving
- Specialty packing for antiques
Storage:
- Available? Yes
- Climate-controlled option? Yes, dependent on location
- Discount? No
Cost
Moving APT provides a cost estimator tool to give quick quotes. However, you’ll have to call to get your own optimized pricing estimate. One benefit of Moving APT is that it offers price matching if you can get a competing lower price.
That said, price-matching guarantees should be taken with a grain of salt. Depending on your locale, such guarantees could be in violation of statewide tariff regulations. This could be the underlying reason for many “price switching” and “bait-and-switch” remarks in negative reviews, as movers may have their hands tied by local moving regulations.
The price range in the sample quote below reflects estimates we gathered from Moving APT’s quick quote tool. You should expect to pay more than the low-end estimate for almost any two-bedroom move of this distance. The high-end estimate likely accounts for heavy packing and protection services.
Sample Quote: $2,968–$5,688 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)
Deposit: Varies by partner
Payment Accepted:
- Cash
- Check
- Money order
Reputation and Reviews
Moving APT gets high marks for quick quotes, which we experienced firsthand when vetting this moving broker. Many of its partner companies are top providers within their respective service areas, with many reviews remarking on the professional conduct and timeliness of the movers. Negative reviews mentioned common issues among brokers, including shoddy packing practices and miscommunication. Here are a couple of recent reviews for Moving APT:
“We were moving from a condo into a new house and selecting Moving APT to help us with that move was a great choice. I would not hesitate to recommend this company to anyone. Thank you and your staff for making the move a great one.” —Ivan via Google Reviews in May 2022
“The movers arrived on time and were professional. I had to add additional items the day the movers came and the moving apt rep helped me keep the price low after adding the additional items. I would definitely use the[m] again.” —Hilda via BBB on July 5, 2022
- Availability: 50 states
- Deposit: $250
- USDOT #: 1065394
JK Moving Services operates as a carrier and broker and provides a la carte services to clients in all 50 states. It offers financing as low as 0% to help customers afford full-service moves and rates highly for customer service.
Our Rating
We gave JK Moving Services a score of 91 out of 100 and believe it’s the most customizable full-service mover. JK Moving stands out for its full- and partial-service packages, both of which can be complemented by an extensive menu of add-ons. JK Moving trains its employees on-site in a live training environment, which includes a furnished two-story home, at its headquarters. Here, employees learn how to properly care for all furniture and household goods. This bolsters its add-on offerings and should give clients more peace of mind during their moves.
JK Moving lost points for its lack of online pricing transparency. We could not locate sample quotes, standard moving rates, or a moving calculator on its website. However, its packing supplies, moving checklists, and quote flexibility make it a top mover on our list.
Pros and Cons
Moving Services
JK Moving Services offers access to premium long-distance moving services to clients across all 50 states. Its offerings include the following.
Moving Services:
- Antique moving
- Crating
- GPS tracking
- Loading/unloading
- Packing/unpacking
- Piano moving
Storage:
- Available? Yes
- Climate-controlled option? Yes
- Discount? No
Cost
We received the ballpark estimate below for a move of 10,400 pounds between Atlanta and Chicago. JK Moving gives non-binding estimates, which are subject to change after your quote day. Move size and distance will be the key determining factors for cost. We saved our estimate in JK Moving’s convenient mobile app, where you can also pay your deposit.
Sample Quote: $7,521 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)
Deposit: $250 up-front
Payment Accepted:
- Cash
- Credit card
Reputation and Reviews
JK Moving Services has more than 1,000 reviews on Google with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5. Positive reviews praised JK Moving for packing practices and professionalism. Some negative reviews mentioned spam calls after submitting contact information through JK Moving’s quote portal. While we didn’t experience spam calls during the quote process, it’s worth noting. Here, we’ve included a couple of reviews for JK’s moving services:
“JK Moving handled my move yesterday. They were extremely efficient and professional. They made a stressful day a lot less stressful. They treated all of my items with care and did a wonderful job. I highly recommend them!” —Jessica via Google Reviews in March 2023
“I was impressed from start to finish. The movers functioned well as a team, were efficient and friendly. They worked almost every minute as they loaded, drove about 3 hours and then unloaded. I’ve already recommended them to a friend and will continue to do so when I’m asked.” —Robin via Google Reviews in March 2023
- Availability: 50 states
- Deposit: None
- USDOT #: 076235
Allied Van Lines operates in all 50 states via 500-plus locations. It offers premium moving services and a wide range of vehicle-shipping options to ease the process for long-distance moving clients.
Our Rating
Allied Van Lines is among our highest-rated movers with a score of 94 out of 100. Allied’s standout service is vehicle relocation. Many long-distance movers outsource vehicle shipping, but Allied can ship your car, motorcycle, truck, RV, boat, or other vehicle using its own fleet of open and enclosed carriers. The company lost points for its lack of online pricing information. However, its availability and breadth of service offerings solidify Allied’s place on our list.
Pros and Cons
Moving Services
Allied uses its 500+ locations to offer full-service moving assistance across the United States, including the following services.
Moving Services:
- Assembly and disassembly
- Crating
- Expedited small moves via its Allied Express program
- Installation of appliances
- Loading/unloading
- Packing/unpacking
- Vehicle shipping for cars, boats, trucks, RVs, and more
Storage:
- Available? Yes
- Climate-controlled option? Yes
- Discount? No
Cost
We used Allied’s InstaQuote feature to generate the price range below. We entered the starting and ending residences’ addresses, the move date, the number of bedrooms in the current home, and basic contact information. To get a full personalized estimate, call Allied or fill out a contact form. You’ll provide your full inventory and can set up an in-person or visual consultation. Allied does not provide binding estimates, unlike many competitors.
Sample Quote: $4,730–$5,375 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)
Deposit: None required
Payment Accepted:
- Cash
- Certified check
- Money order
- Check
Reputation and Reviews
Allied has thousands of reviews across the United States. However, feedback quality is highly dependent on location. With more than 500 individual partners and carriers in all 50 states, your experience will vary. Our quote process with Allied was streamlined, which customers also noted in reviews. Here, we’ve collected two Allied reviews:
“We used Allied for our recent move from Maryland to Arizona. They were professional, quick and very efficient on both ends. Would highly recommend them.” —Barbara via Google Reviews in November 2022
“Our experience was great. Everyone was great to work with and they kept us informed of what was happening. [O]ur long haul driver was great!!!” —Jon via Google Reviews in January 2023
- Availability: 50 states
- Deposit: None
- USDOT #: 070851
North American Van Lines (NAVL) serves all 50 states and offers premium packing, crating, and protection services for all moves. It also offers added insurance options and a straightforward claims process for furniture protection.
Our Rating
We gave North American Van Lines a 92 out of 100 as the best moving provider for claims. Its straightforward claims process takes the headache out of filing for damages. We deducted points for its omission of online resources, such as a moving cost calculator, and because it does not provide ballpark estimates over the phone. However, NAVL offers nearly unmatched reach and maintains a high rating with the BBB.
Pros and Cons
Moving Services
North American Van Lines provides full-service moving solutions to clients in all 50 states, including the following services.
Moving Services:
- Added insurance coverage
- Appliance installation
- Crating
- Furniture assembly
- Loading/unloading
- Packing/unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Storage:
- Available? Yes
- Climate-controlled option? Yes
- Discount? No
Cost
North American Van Lines offers binding estimates to clients if they require them. This pricing model is labeled as either a “bottom-line” or “not-to-exceed” estimate. This is reassuring for clients moving across state lines, as long-distance moving costs can quickly spiral.
NAVL doesn’t explicitly require a deposit but does charge fees for late cancellations. This fee typically amounts to what your deposit would have been. Most moving companies reserve the right to retain any deposits in the event of a last-minute cancellation.
Below, you’ll see a sample quote we received from a NAVL representative. We recommend getting your own estimate for accurate pricing.
Sample Quote: $4,708–$5,350 (2-bedroom move from Atlanta to Chicago)
Deposit: None
Payment Accepted:
- Cash
- Certified check
- Money order
- Check
Reputation and Reviews
North American Van Lines’ service quality will vary from place to place. We encourage you to thoroughly review all recent customer testimonials for your local branch before you book a move with NAVL. In our customer review analysis, we read many NAVL testimonials citing positive experiences from start to finish for local and long-distance moves. Strong points included its breadth of service availability and quick quote process. Here are some recent NAVL reviews:
“I cannot say enough! [T]he best moving driver hands down. Personable, professional, expediate, and a pleasure to work with. He made moving our things easy and stress free.” —Pat via Google Reviews in February 2023
“I moved from CA to CT, got attractive quotes, best services and supports from team. All items are delivered safely. Appreciate [the] team.” —Mithilesh via Google Reviews in January 2023
- Availability: 46 states
- Deposit: None
- USDOT #: 077949
*United Van Lines is not available in Hawaii, Rhode Island, Vermont, or West Virginia.
United Van Lines has been in business since 1928 and offers residential, commercial, and international moves alongside its long-distance options. It provides tech breakdown and setup services for commercial and home office moves.
Our Rating
United Van Lines scored 90 out of 100 on our rating scale. Its specialty offerings for home theaters, computers, and electronics helped it measure up against the other companies on this list, while inconsistencies across its service area led to point deductions. Its full suite of services makes this provider a solid option for moves that involve more complex tech items or special packing.
Pros and Cons
Moving Services
United Van Lines offers full-service packing to accommodate customers with varying moving needs.
Moving Services:
- Debris removal
- Loading/unloading
- Packing/unpacking
- Tech breakdown and installation
- Vehicle shipping
Storage:
- Available? Yes
- Climate-controlled option? Yes, dependent on location
- Discount? No
Cost
United Van Lines will provide a moving quote after conducting an in-home estimate. Cost factors include move size, distance, and services to be provided. The low end of the sample quote we requested and listed below includes minimal add-on services. The high-end cost is a projection for a move that involves full-service packing for most of your home, along with more comprehensive furniture protection. You won’t have to pay a deposit to book your move with United. However, its estimates are non-binding. This means your move price could potentially shift between quote day and moving day.
We recommend getting additional hard copies of your estimate after getting quotes and on moving day if the prices you’re quoted are non-binding.
Sample Quote: $5,169–$7,003 (2-bedroom move from Chicago to Atlanta)
Deposit: None required
Payment Accepted:
- Cash
- Traveler’s check
- Cashier’s check
- Money order
Reputation and Reviews
United Van Lines offers packing and protection for all furniture and tech items. As is the case with any nationwide mover, service quality will depend on location. We found several negative reviews that cited unresponsiveness. On the other hand, positive reviews noted responsiveness and professionalism. Here are two recent United reviews:
“Truck and crew arrived on time, applied protective covering to all furniture, loaded up quickly with no issues. Crew Leader was responsive to our concerns. Delivery and unloading was prompt. The crew was professional, courteous and able.” —Robert via Google Reviews in November 2023
“Our move from NY to Florida was seamless! [Employee] was our coordinator and [mover] and his team were amazing. They took such care with our belongings. Couldn’t have asked for a better moving company.” —Patty via Google Reviews in January 2023
What Impacts Long-Distance Moving Costs?
Long-distance moves are more costly than local moves. Based on our in-depth quote process, we determined that a 700-mile, two-bedroom move costs anywhere from $2,015–$7,500. We found move distance and size to be the two primary cost factors for each company that gave us a quote.
Service requirements, such as packing and crating, and your move date will also affect your price. If you’re moving on a tighter budget, check out our guide to moving costs. If your move involves high-value items or antiques, read our guide to moving insurance to explore your options.
How To Choose the Best Long-Distance Moving Company for You
We’ve listed key criteria to consider when vetting a moving company.
- Moving services: Most movers display moving services offered on their websites. Examine your needed services, which may include packing, crating, and vehicle shipping. During the selection process, get quotes from movers who provide the services you need.
- Licensing: Moving companies must maintain federal licensing. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates interstate and long-distance moving companies in all 50 states. You can use a mover’s motor carrier (MC) number and United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) number to look up its licensing status via this FMCSA link. Most moving companies must comply with state regulations. The Texas and Ohio regulatory sites, for example, share regulations and consumer resources. Most states have their own regulatory bodies.
- Reviews and reputation: Check out a moving company’s previous reviews and service awards before booking a move. Look into positive and negative reviews for each mover you consider. Google Reviews, Yelp, Trustpilot, and Better Business Bureau are all excellent sources.
- Pricing: Look at reviews to get a sense of a mover’s pricing practices beyond its stated policies. Additionally, assess reviews to determine how well a provider follows through on its pricing policies and estimates. Once you’ve booked a mover, we recommend keeping copies of your move estimate and contract for your records.
How To Prepare for a Long-Distance Move
It can be a challenge to keep everything in order leading up to moving day. Below is a quick checklist to help you get started and prepare for some of the major steps in the moving process.
- Choose between a DIY or full-service move: First, you’ll want to decide whether to hire professionals or take a do-it-yourself approach. If you’re able to pay the higher cost of full-service movers and need all of the help you can get, a full-service moving company may be the right option for you. However, if you prefer doing things yourself and have a tight budget, then self-service may be a better option.
- Get rid of unwanted items: Planning a long-distance move gives you the perfect opportunity to get rid of items you no longer need. Since the weight of your belongings impacts the cost of your move, you should try decluttering before contacting a moving company for an estimate.
- Hire a moving company: Do some research on moving companies near you and read customer reviews to help vet the company. It’s best to start the process of hiring a mover about three months before your anticipated move date. Some movers will give discounts for early reservations, so the sooner you can get started on this process, the better.
- Create a detailed inventory: While you create an inventory of your belongings, make note of the condition of your items and take pictures of them. These photos and notes will come in handy if you have to file a damage claim for reimbursement.
- Start packing: If you’re not paying for packing services, you’ll want to start the process of packing as soon as possible. Read about packing tips beforehand to get ideas for streamlining the process and use your inventory list to determine the boxes you’ll need. To make the unpacking process easier, label your boxes and consider using specialty boxes, such as wardrobe boxes.
- Inform key entities of your move: Be sure to inform insurance companies, tax agencies, utility companies, the post office, the Social Security Administration, and your internet service provider about your move. By notifying these parties of your upcoming move, you can avoid potential issues and help ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
Our Conclusion
In many ways, a long-distance move entails more risk than relocating locally. There are more miles to cover and more room for issues to arise. However, several companies come out ahead of the competition in terms of the quality of their service.
We found International Van Lines to be a reputable provider, conducting full-service moves nationwide and offering a broader range of contents coverage plans than is customary. American Van Lines stands out for its moving teams that average 10 years or more of moving industry experience. Interstate Moving & Relocation Group is another top pick, using vetted carriers for its services and providing helpful online resources.
We recommend that you get quotes from three or more providers to compare prices and details about each company’s services.
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
FAQ About Long-Distance Moving
The cost of a long-distance move varies based on a variety of factors. You can expect a move to cost anywhere from $1,250 to $5,000. Most long-distance moves cost around $4,000.
Related: Cost To Move Out of State
Moving insurance will pay for or replace your items if the moving company damages them during your move. If you are planning on moving a long distance and have valuable items in transport, we recommend looking into moving insurance options.
In our recent survey of 1,000 people who had moved within the last five years, we found that 65% hired a full-service mover. Of that number, more than half opted to purchase additional liability coverage. Nearly 66% of those who bought additional insurance ended up filing a claim for damage, and a majority were satisfied with the outcome of those claims.
Depending on the time of year, you should book your move around four to six weeks ahead of your actual move date. Doing so will ensure that you book with your top choice of mover at a reasonable price.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates interstate moves throughout the United States. It ensures that all companies adhere to safety standards and provides a dedicated database of moving company complaint history. Use a moving company’s motor carrier (MC) number and U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number to make full use of this function.
The months between September and April mark the cheapest time to move long-distance. Rates tend to be higher during the summer months due to higher demand.
The cheapest way to move long-distance is to take the DIY approach. Going with a moving truck rental and doing the packing, loading, and unloading on your own will help minimize costs.
Moving companies have varied definitions of what is considered a long-distance move. Typically, any move that requires more than a single day to complete due to drive time will fall into this category. If your move is 100–150 miles or more, it likely will be considered a long-distance move.
Interstate moving companies are regulated by the FMCSA and, likely, a state-level governing body, depending on the state in which a mover is based. State regulatory bodies range from independent agencies to suboffices of a state’s Department of Transportation (DOT). Texas and Illinois are examples of states with such regulatory bodies.
Generally, a coast-to-coast move will take at least a week to complete. You should expect your long-distance movers to cover 400 miles per day on the road due to DOT drive time regulations and traffic.
Moving companies generally cannot ship hazardous materials, including toxic chemicals and firearms. You should also consider donating or selling bulky items you don’t need before you move to avoid additional labor fees.
Generally, your long-distance moving budget will be determined by the following factors:
- Add-on services
- Ease of access to your home
- Home size
- How far in advance you booked your move
- Move distance
- Time of year
Our Rating Methodology
The This Old House Reviews Team backs up our moving company ratings and recommendations with a detailed rating methodology to objectively score each company. We conduct research by reading through the company websites, analyzing customer reviews, conducting consumer surveys, requesting quotes, and speaking with customer representatives. We then score each moving company against our review standards for services, contents coverage, scheduling, trailer and container options, additional benefits, and reputation to arrive at a final score out of 100.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.