Moving Comparison

International Van Lines 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, United Van Lines takes the edge (4.3/5). That said, International Van Lines is the better pick for long-distance and overseas moves, 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

CategoryInternational Van LinesUnited Van Lines
USDOT2293832077949
MC #72997867234
BBB ratingBA+
Founded20001928
HeadquartersCoral Springs, FLFenton, MO
CoverageAll 50 statesAll 50 states
ServicesLong-distance, International, Packing, Storage, Auto transportLong-distance, International, Packing, Storage, Auto transport, Corporate
2BR estimate$2,700–$6,400$3,100–$7,400
Customer rating4.0 / 54.3 / 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 →

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 →
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.

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 International Van Lines or United Van Lines better in 2026?
On weighted score, United Van Lines edges ahead, but the right pick depends on your specific move. International Van Lines is best for long-distance and overseas moves; United Van Lines is best for long-distance moves with full packing. Get binding-not-to-exceed estimates from both before deciding.
How do International Van Lines and United Van Lines compare on price?
For a typical 2-bedroom interstate move, International Van Lines estimates land around $2,700–$6,400 and United Van Lines estimates land around $3,100–$7,400. Actual quotes depend on weight, distance, service level, date, and availability.
Are International Van Lines and United Van Lines both FMCSA-licensed?
Yes. International Van Lines operates under USDOT 2293832 and United Van Lines operates under USDOT 077949. Always verify the specific entity quoting your move on FMCSA SAFER before signing an estimate.
Does International Van Lines or United Van Lines have a better BBB rating?
International Van Lines carries a B 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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