U-Pack 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, U-Pack takes the edge (4.3/5). That said, U-Pack is the better pick for long-distance budget moves with self-loading, 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 | U-Pack | United Van Lines |
|---|---|---|
| USDOT | 125550 | 077949 |
| MC # | 207258 | 67234 |
| BBB rating | A+ | A+ |
| Founded | 1997 | 1928 |
| Headquarters | Fort Smith, AR | Fenton, MO |
| Coverage | All 50 states | All 50 states |
| Services | Long-distance, Container/Portable | Long-distance, International, Packing, Storage, Auto transport, Corporate |
| 2BR estimate | $1,500–$3,800 | $3,100–$7,400 |
| Customer rating | 4.3 / 5 | 4.3 / 5 |
U-Pack
U-Pack is operated by ABF Freight and uses commercial trucking for the actual transport, which keeps prices below traditional movers. You handle loading; they handle the long haul.
- Best for long-distance budget moves with self-loading.
- All 50 states coverage; founded 1997.
- BBB rating: A+.
- Three-day load and unload windows can pressure tight schedules.
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.
Long-distance budget moves with self-loading
Three-day load and unload windows can pressure tight schedules.
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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