FlatRate Moving vs United Van Lines
By Daniel Harper, Senior Editor, Moving Costs · Reviewed by Melissa Grant, Pricing & Estimates Reviewer · Last updated May 2026
On our weighted score, FlatRate Moving takes the edge (4.4/5). That said, FlatRate Moving is the better pick for binding flat-rate quotes across the country, while United Van Lines wins for long-distance moves with full packing. Always get binding estimates from both before booking.
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Side-by-side
| Category | FlatRate Moving | United Van Lines |
|---|---|---|
| USDOT | Verify on FMCSA | 077949 |
| MC # | Verify on FMCSA | 67234 |
| BBB rating | A+ | A+ |
| Founded | 1991 | 1928 |
| Headquarters | New York, NY | Fenton, MO |
| Coverage | Interstate (48) | All 50 states |
| Services | Local, Long-distance, Packing, Storage | Long-distance, International, Packing, Storage, Auto transport, Corporate |
| 2BR estimate | $2,200–$6,800 | $3,100–$7,400 |
| Customer rating | 4.4 / 5 | 4.3 / 5 |
FlatRate Moving
Pioneered binding flat-rate pricing for NYC moves and expanded nationally. The flat-rate model removes most move-day surprises but typically prices above hourly competitors.
- Best for binding flat-rate quotes across the country.
- Interstate (48) coverage; founded 1991.
- BBB rating: A+.
- Quote process requires a video survey for every booking.
United Van Lines
United is the largest brand under UniGroup and publishes the well-known annual National Movers Study. Claims handling and tracking tools rank above the industry median based on FMCSA data.
- Best for long-distance moves with full packing.
- All 50 states coverage; founded 1928.
- BBB rating: A+.
- Quotes are non-binding by default unless you specifically request a binding estimate.
Binding flat-rate quotes across the country
Quote process requires a video survey for every booking.
Long-distance moves with full packing
Quotes are non-binding by default unless you specifically request a binding estimate.
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Frequently asked questions
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