Moving Comparison

International Van Lines vs American 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, American Van Lines takes the edge (4.1/5). That said, International Van Lines is the better pick for long-distance and overseas moves, while American Van Lines wins for specialty items (piano, fine art, antiques). Always get binding estimates from both before booking.

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Side-by-side

CategoryInternational Van LinesAmerican Van Lines
USDOT2293832614506
MC #729978294798
BBB ratingBA+
Founded20001995
HeadquartersCoral Springs, FLPompano Beach, FL
CoverageAll 50 statesAll 50 states
ServicesLong-distance, International, Packing, Storage, Auto transportLong-distance, Packing, Storage, Specialty/Piano
2BR estimate$2,700–$6,400$2,900–$6,800
Customer rating4.0 / 54.1 / 5

International Van Lines

IVL handles roughly 180 countries in addition to US interstate jobs. Their hybrid broker model can be useful for international shipments but introduces variability on the domestic side.

USDOT
2293832
BBB
B
Pros
  • Best for long-distance and overseas moves.
  • All 50 states coverage; founded 2000.
  • BBB rating: B.
Watch out
  • Operates as a broker-carrier hybrid — clarify whether your move is hauled by IVL crews or a partner before booking.
Read full International Van Lines review →

American Van Lines

American Van Lines uses W2 employees rather than day labor, which shows in handling quality. The required deposit policy is the main customer complaint pattern in BBB data.

USDOT
614506
BBB
A+
Pros
  • Best for specialty items (piano, fine art, antiques).
  • All 50 states coverage; founded 1995.
  • BBB rating: A+.
Watch out
  • Deposit required upfront on most quotes — confirm refund terms before paying.
Read full American Van Lines review →
International Van Lines
Best for

Long-distance and overseas moves

Not ideal for

Operates as a broker-carrier hybrid — clarify whether your move is hauled by IVL crews or a partner before booking.

American Van Lines
Best for

Specialty items (piano, fine art, antiques)

Not ideal for

Deposit required upfront on most quotes — confirm refund terms before paying.

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Frequently asked questions

Is International Van Lines or American Van Lines better in 2026?
On weighted score, American Van Lines edges ahead, but the right pick depends on your specific move. International Van Lines is best for long-distance and overseas moves; American Van Lines is best for specialty items (piano, fine art, antiques). Get binding-not-to-exceed estimates from both before deciding.
How do International Van Lines and American Van Lines compare on price?
For a typical 2-bedroom interstate move, International Van Lines estimates land around $2,700–$6,400 and American Van Lines estimates land around $2,900–$6,800. Actual quotes depend on weight, distance, service level, date, and availability.
Are International Van Lines and American Van Lines both FMCSA-licensed?
Yes. International Van Lines operates under USDOT 2293832 and American Van Lines operates under USDOT 614506. Always verify the specific entity quoting your move on FMCSA SAFER before signing an estimate.
Does International Van Lines or American Van Lines have a better BBB rating?
International Van Lines carries a B BBB profile and American 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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