Moving Comparison

HireAHelper vs United Van Lines

By Daniel Harper, Senior Editor, Moving Costs · Reviewed by Melissa Grant, Pricing & Estimates Reviewer · Last updated May 2026

At-a-glance

On our weighted score, HireAHelper takes the edge (4.5/5). That said, HireAHelper is the better pick for labor-only help with rented trucks or containers, 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

CategoryHireAHelperUnited Van Lines
USDOTMarketplace077949
MC #Marketplace67234
BBB ratingA+A+
Founded20071928
HeadquartersOceanside, CAFenton, MO
CoverageAll 50 statesAll 50 states
ServicesLocal, Long-distance, PackingLong-distance, International, Packing, Storage, Auto transport, Corporate
2BR estimate$200–$1,400$3,100–$7,400
Customer rating4.5 / 54.3 / 5

HireAHelper

Marketplace that connects you with local moving labor by the hour, billed transparently with reviews. Pairs well with a U-Haul rental or a PODS container for budget DIY moves.

USDOT
Marketplace
BBB
A+
Pros
  • Best for labor-only help with rented trucks or containers.
  • All 50 states coverage; founded 2007.
  • BBB rating: A+.
Watch out
  • You're hiring labor, not a turnkey move — you still need transport arranged separately.
Read full HireAHelper review →

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.

USDOT
077949
BBB
A+
Pros
  • Best for long-distance moves with full packing.
  • All 50 states coverage; founded 1928.
  • BBB rating: A+.
Watch out
  • Quotes are non-binding by default unless you specifically request a binding estimate.
Read full United Van Lines review →
HireAHelper
Best for

Labor-only help with rented trucks or containers

Not ideal for

You're hiring labor, not a turnkey move — you still need transport arranged separately.

United Van Lines
Best for

Long-distance moves with full packing

Not ideal for

Quotes are non-binding by default unless you specifically request a binding estimate.

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Frequently asked questions

Is HireAHelper or United Van Lines better in 2026?
On weighted score, HireAHelper edges ahead, but the right pick depends on your specific move. HireAHelper is best for labor-only help with rented trucks or containers; United Van Lines is best for long-distance moves with full packing. Get binding-not-to-exceed estimates from both before deciding.
How do HireAHelper and United Van Lines compare on price?
For a typical 2-bedroom interstate move, HireAHelper estimates land around $200–$1,400 and United Van Lines estimates land around $3,100–$7,400. Actual quotes depend on weight, distance, service level, date, and availability.
Are HireAHelper and United Van Lines both FMCSA-licensed?
Yes. HireAHelper operates under USDOT Marketplace and United Van Lines operates under USDOT 077949. Always verify the specific entity quoting your move on FMCSA SAFER before signing an estimate.
Does HireAHelper or United Van Lines have a better BBB rating?
HireAHelper carries a A+ BBB profile and United Van Lines carries a A+. Local agent or franchise ratings can differ from the parent profile, so check the agent that will actually handle your move.
What estimate type should I ask for?
For interstate moves, ask for a binding or binding-not-to-exceed estimate after an in-home or video survey. Sight-unseen non-binding interstate quotes are not reliable and tend to grow on delivery day.

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