United Van Lines Review: Pricing and Services
Here’s the bottom line: United Van Lines is a national full-service mover that serves 46 states and includes full-value protection in every quote. Customers praise its move coordinators, but some report damage and delays tied to the local moving companies that handle many United moves. It doesn’t make our list of the best interstate moving companies, but it can be worth the higher price if you want extensive add-on services.
We’ve read hundreds of United Van Lines customer reviews, gathered cost data, and scored the company with the same 72-point rating system we use for every mover we review, then compared it to competitors to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your move.
Pros & cons of moving with United Van Lines
United Van Lines is a popular long-distance mover because it offers a wide range of services, including uncommon ones like home cleaning. Full-value protection on every move quote can also provide much-needed peace of mind as you ship your stuff.
- Dedicated move coordinator for every move
- Online shipment tracking
- Free cancellation before your load date
- No deposit required
- Debris removal, TV setup & car shipping add-ons
- Full-service packing, storage & custom crating
- Unavailable in Hawaii, Rhode Island, Vermont & West Virginia
- Slow quote process for tight timelines
- Often pricier than other full-service movers
- Service quality varies by local agent
Why moveBuddha:
- On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before booking.
- When you choose a moveBuddha Certified mover, you get $1,000 in added move coverage, plus dedicated support throughout your move.
- If something goes wrong, moveBuddha provides dispute mediation with Certified movers to help resolve the issue and protect your move.
Key takeaways
- Compare quotes for the best rate: moveBuddha users save 30% on average by comparing quotes instead of booking the first one. Our moving cost calculator factors in distance, home size, move date, and services to estimate your actual move.
- In-person estimates available: United Van Lines offers free in-person and virtual estimates, so your quote accounts for your full inventory and every service you need.
- More services than most competitors: United Van Lines (USDOT 77949) offers cleaning, technology support, and custom crating alongside its standard moving services.
- Not the lowest-cost option: United Van Lines tends to cost more than other full-service movers, but it’s a solid choice if customer service and coverage are your priorities.
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What do customers say about United Van Lines?
We analyzed hundreds of United Van Lines reviews. Positive reviews praised the company’s thorough estimates and support from a move coordinator. Negative reviews tended to focus on damaged items, usually tied to the local agents that handle packing, loading, and delivery on many United moves.
As of September 2026, United Van Lines holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, though it isn’t BBB accredited. United’s own website shows a 4.5-out-of-5 average across 4,143 customer reviews.
At moveBuddha, we get direct insights from people who have moved with companies like United through our Better Moves Project. Here are a few details from our reader Amy’s experience with United Van Lines.
- The move: After ruling out DIY and hybrid moving companies, our reader Amy reached out to United Van Lines for her move from New York to Texas.
- Moving day: Amy’s crew arrived within 30 minutes of the scheduled arrival time and loaded her entire three-bedroom home in seven hours. That time frame even included wrapping, custom crating, and loading her arcade machine into the truck.
- Transport: Amy got her driver’s phone number and received updates throughout the drive. Her items arrived in Texas nine days later, well within her estimated delivery window, and the driver called the day before delivery.
- Delivery: Amy checked items off as the crew unloaded them, and everything was accounted for, but a few items had damage. She submitted a claim right away, and within a couple of days, United approved it and mailed a check.
“I cannot say enough about how good the communication with United and its partners was. They were very professional and courteous. I cannot think of anything I would change. They were great to work with. I had a five-star experience and would recommend United Van Lines to anyone.”
—Amy, Better Moves Project
How do United Van Lines’ local moving partners affect your move?
United Van Lines doesn’t handle every part of your move itself. It works with more than 400 independently owned local moving companies across the U.S., called United agents, that handle local moves under their own business names and do much of the packing, loading, and hauling on interstate moves booked with United.
That structure explains why United Van Lines reviews vary so much. Your experience depends heavily on the local moving company and crew assigned to your move, so one customer’s five-star move and another’s damage complaint can both be accurate.
Interstate moves booked with United travel under United’s USDOT number, and damage claims go through United’s own claims portal. Federal rules give you nine months from delivery to file a written claim, and our guide explains how to file a damage claim after a move.
Pro tip: Ask which local moving company will handle your United move, check that company’s own reviews before you book, and get a binding estimate in writing. Our guide to binding vs. non-binding estimates explains what each type protects.
How much does UVL cost?
United Van Lines typically costs $500 – $3,000 for a local move and $2,000 – $14,000 for a cross-country move, depending on home size. Exact moving costs vary based on the time of year, your starting and ending locations, and the add-on services you choose. The following table gives a general idea of what to expect by move size and distance.
| Move size | Local (<50 miles) | 250 – 1,000 Miles | Cross-country (1,000+ miles) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 bedroom | $500 – $1,000 | $1,500 – $5,000 | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,250 – $2,500 | $3,000 – $6,000 | $5,500 – $9,000 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,500 – $3,000 | $4,500 – $7,500 | $7,600 – $14,000 |
Fuel is pushing full-service prices up in 2026. The U.S. average diesel price reached $6.529 per gallon on September 21, 2026, up from $3.749 a year earlier, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Fuel surcharges add 8% – 15% to transportation charges on long-distance moves, so ask how United Van Lines calculates yours.
To start the quoting process, fill out United Van Lines’ online form and choose whether to be contacted by phone, email, or text. In many cases, a representative from a local United agent will survey your belongings in person or virtually.
After you get a quote from United Van Lines, check it against our moving cost calculator. The calculator runs on 1,000+ live price points collected every month and research on 4,500+ movers, so you have a concrete benchmark to measure United’s number against.
What services does UVL offer?
United Van Lines offers a long list of services, including many you won’t find with other full-service movers. The company has more than 4,700 power units registered under its USDOT number, according to FMCSA records, and relies on its nationwide network of local moving companies for packing, loading, and local moves.
- Auto transportation: United’s car shipping services transport customers’ vehicles door-to-door. If the trailer can’t reach your home directly, the company will coordinate a local drop-off point in the area.
- Cleaning and debris pickup: United Van Lines offers home cleaning as an add-on service. Its debris removal service sends a crew back within 30 days of delivery to clear away boxes and packing materials once you’re done unpacking.
- Corporate moves: United Van Lines offers a full-service corporate package that covers everything from packing and storage to realtor acquisition.
- Electronics installation: United Van Lines’ top add-on package includes basic wall mount disassembly and setup for up to two TVs.
- Full-value protection: United Van Lines includes full-value protection at $6 per pound of your shipment’s estimated weight in every initial quote. That’s 10 times the $0.60-per-pound released value minimum, which makes United a solid option for high-value or fragile items.
- Government and military moves: United Van Lines is a DOD-approved carrier for military relocations, including Permanent Change of Station (PCS) and temporary duty (TDY) moves.
- International moves: United Van Lines’ international moving specialists create custom plans for moves outside the U.S., and parent company UniGroup serves more than 160 countries.
- Local moves: United Van Lines agents provide local moving services under their own business names for residential moves within the same city or metro area.
- Long- and short-term storage services: United Van Lines offers a variety of storage options. Residential and long-distance customers have access to short-term storage, and United can store items as long as necessary for international moves.
- Long-distance moves: United Van Lines move coordinators walk customers through federally required paperwork and documentation, so you have a thorough moving checklist and fewer surprises.
- Packing and unpacking: United Van Lines offers full-service packing and unpacking, including custom crating for specialty and bulky items. The company also sells packing materials if you prefer to box things up yourself, and some packages include basic furniture assembly and disassembly.
United Van Lines includes full-value protection at $6 per pound in every initial quote, 10 times the $0.60-per-pound released value minimum.
How does United Van Lines compare to other movers?
Below, we’ve compared United Van Lines’ services, reputation, and reach to other reliable moving companies. It’s a good idea to get quotes from each of these companies when planning your move.
United Van Lines vs. Safeway Moving
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha’s top-rated full-service interstate mover, ranking above United Van Lines in our 72-point evaluation across customer reviews, pricing transparency, and service quality.
Both companies offer dedicated move coordinators, full-value protection, and binding estimates. Safeway serves 48 states, two more than United Van Lines, and tends to come in at a more competitive price point for long-distance moves.
If you’re deciding between the two, get a quote from both. Safeway’s combination of strong customer ratings and competitive pricing is why it ranks at the top of our list of the best interstate moving companies.
rating
4.9 / 5
United Van Lines vs. American Van Lines
American Van Lines operates only as a carrier, while United Van Lines relies on local moving partners for much of the work on each move. Because American Van Lines handles moves itself, it can maintain tighter control over training and quality standards, which is a big part of why it ranks among the top moving companies.
United Van Lines has a big edge in experience. American Van Lines has operated since 1995, while United Van Lines has been in business since 1928, nearly a century.
American Van Lines advertises full-value protection, but it may not be available in all areas. United Van Lines includes it as a standard option in every quote. Like United Van Lines, American Van Lines offers flat-rate pricing or binding estimates that won’t change throughout the moving process.
rating
4.9 / 5
United Van Lines vs. International Van Lines
International Van Lines (IVL) is another strong choice for an international move. IVL ships to 180 countries and serves all 50 states, giving it an advantage over United in availability. Like United Van Lines, IVL offers full-value protection plans, and it includes one month of free storage with its moves.
IVL shares some of the same drawbacks as United. IVL doesn’t offer instant online quotes, so you’ll need to request a quote or schedule an estimate, though virtual in-home options are available. The website can be hard to navigate, and IVL has very few local branches, which can make it harder to coordinate your move.
rating
4.6 / 5
Here’s how United Van Lines compares with three alternatives on BBB rating, state availability, and full-value protection, as of September 2026.
| Company | BBB rating | State availability | Full-value protection? |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Van Lines | A+ | 46 (not in HI, RI, VT, or WV) | Yes |
| Safeway Moving | B | 48 (not in AK or HI) | Yes |
| American Van Lines | C | 48 (not in AK or HI) | Limited availability |
| International Van Lines | A+ | 50 | Yes |
Our take: Choose United Van Lines for the widest menu of add-on services and standard full-value protection. Choose Safeway Moving if you want our top-rated interstate mover at a more competitive price.
How does moving with UVL work?
United Van Lines’ moving process varies with the size of your move and how far you’re going, but a few steps apply to every move.
How to get a United Van Lines estimate
United Van Lines doesn’t offer instant online estimates, but the process is simple. Fill out a form on United’s website with basic details about your move and the services you want, then choose whether to be contacted by phone, text, or email.
A service representative will contact you to discuss your move in more detail. Depending on where you live, a United moving agent will either visit your home or conduct a virtual survey to produce a binding estimate. All estimates are free.
How to book your United Van Lines move
United Van Lines doesn’t require a deposit to book your move. Your move coordinator will schedule your pickup and delivery dates and answer any questions before the movers arrive.
Your move coordinator will also help you select and schedule add-on services. If you use United’s packing services, the crew typically arrives to pack your belongings at least one day before moving day.
Expensive items like jewelry must go on a High Value Inventory Form if you plan to use United’s full-value protection. Your move coordinator will help you complete this form.
When to book & what to expect on moving day
United Van Lines recommends scheduling your move four to six weeks in advance to secure your preferred dates. The company handles local and long-distance moves in 46 states and doesn’t serve Hawaii, Rhode Island, Vermont, or West Virginia.
On moving day, your driver may arrive a few minutes ahead of the rest of the crew, so leave some flexibility in your schedule. Movers will load your packed items and handle any wrapping or custom crating for fragile items.
On interstate moves, you can track your shipment’s progress online, so you’ll know exactly where it is. Drivers typically call before delivery day so you know when to expect them at your new home.
United Van Lines requires payment in full before the crew unloads your shipment at your destination. United accepts cash, major credit cards, traveler’s checks, money orders, and cashier’s checks.
Should you use UVL to move?
Use United Van Lines if you need:
- Car transport and specialty services: United Van Lines handles door-to-door auto transport, custom crating, and other add-ons that most full-service movers don’t offer.
- International relocation: United Van Lines builds custom international moving plans, and parent company UniGroup serves more than 160 countries.
- Personal move coordinator: Each reservation includes a dedicated coordinator who oversees logistics, helps with paperwork, and answers questions throughout the process.
- Wide selection of optional services: If you want debris removal, TV mounting, home cleaning, or technology setup, United Van Lines offers more add-ons than most full-service competitors.
Don’t use United Van Lines if you have a:
- Budget-sensitive move: United Van Lines typically costs more than other full-service movers. The moveBuddha Mover Marketplace gets you up to five no-obligation quotes with one request, and movers competing for your business drive prices about 30% lower on average.
- Last-minute relocation: United Van Lines typically schedules an in-person or virtual walkthrough before generating a binding estimate. If you need to move quickly, the longer quote process may not fit your timeline.
If you want added protection on your move, consider a moveBuddha Certified mover. Certified movers come with $1,000 in added move coverage and dispute mediation if something goes wrong.
FAQ
Why is United Van Lines so expensive?
United Van Lines bases its price on your shipment weight, distance, move date, and add-on services. Every initial quote also includes full-value protection at $6 per pound, which many movers don’t include by default. Compare quotes before you book to see how United’s price stacks up.
Does United Van Lines offer discounts?
United Van Lines offers discounts and promotions less often than many competitors. Ask your United representative about current deals when you get your estimate. Comparing quotes is the more reliable way to save money.
Who owns United Van Lines?
UniGroup owns United Van Lines. The parent company is based in suburban St. Louis and also owns Mayflower Transit and Allegiant Move Management.
Is United Van Lines better than most moving companies?
United Van Lines offers stronger coverage than many full-service movers, with full-value protection at $6 per pound instead of the $0.60-per-pound minimum. It also offers more add-on services than most competitors. Still, Safeway Moving ranks above United in moveBuddha’s 72-point evaluation.
How do I file a damage claim with UVL?
File your claim online through United Van Lines’ claims portal or call 800-325-9970. Federal rules give you nine months from delivery to submit a written claim. Moves within Texas require a separate form from your United agent.
How far in advance should I book UVL?
United Van Lines recommends booking four to six weeks before your move. Book even earlier for a summer move between May and September, when demand peaks.
How we chose the best moving companies
The moveBuddha team has spent nearly 10 years evaluating moving companies using a rigorous review system to identify the best moving companies. Our thorough methodology evaluates each moving company's services, cost, customer service, and reputation:
Moving services (35%):
We verify operating authority, insurance, and service scope against FMCSA/SAFER and state databases. We confirm availability via standardized mystery-shopping calls (packing tiers, storage type, specialty handling, delivery windows, valuation), and then review contracts alongside complaint and claims patterns over time.
Customer feedback (28%):
We run structured post-move surveys through our Better Moves Project with verifiable documentation. We emphasize on-time performance, care of goods, and estimates’ accuracy, and we investigate outliers before they influence scores.
Online reviews (7%):
We aggregate ratings across multiple third-party sites to reduce platform bias, analyze overall trends and company response behavior, and discount obvious spam/fake signals such as sudden bursts, duplicate language, and low-history profiles.
State availability (12%):
We confirm USDOT numbers, broker vs. carrier status, and any required state permits, then score a state-by-state service matrix that accounts for coverage gaps, seasonal limits, and lane strength. We award additional credit for documented cross-border or specialty lanes.
Additional services (12%):
We verify whether add-ons are performed in-house or subcontracted, look for crew training/certifications for high-value or oversized items, count only documented offerings (tariffs, photos, written service descriptions) confirmed via mystery shopping, and reward robust pre-move planning (virtual surveys, itemized crating).
Quotes/Payment options (6%):
We test standardized move profiles to assess estimate type (binding, not-to-exceed, non-binding), line-item transparency, and disclosed surcharges, require clear written policies for deposits, refunds, and cancellations, and award points for secure, flexible payment methods and customer portals.
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