Bekins Van Lines
Honest Review
The oldest moving company in America, with strong long distance and military move capability.
Bekins Van Lines: pros and cons
✓ Pros
- Founded in 1891 — the oldest active moving company in the US
- Strong military and government move history
- Mid-tier pricing — typically 10–20% below the premium van lines
- Solid network coverage especially in western and central states
- Decent claims process for the price tier
✗ Cons
- Smaller network than United/Allied means more routing in some markets
- Online presence and tracking tools lag the larger competitors
- Customer service response times can be slow
- Less competitive in the Northeast corridor
Best for / not ideal for
Best for
- Military moves and PCS
- Mid-range long distance budgets
- West Coast routes
- Storage-in-transit
Not ideal for
- Sub-$2,000 moves
- Same-day quotes
- International moves
Smart move
Whatever your situation, always compare Bekins Van Lines's quote against 2 alternative licensed carriers. Quote spreads of 20–35% are common on identical routes.
Our honest take on Bekins Van Lines
Bekins occupies a useful middle tier — cheaper than United/Allied/Mayflower but with FMCSA licensing and a long operational history. Especially strong for military PCS moves and routes through the central and western US. For East Coast moves, alternative carriers often serve you better.
Worth knowing: Bekins is often a strong alternative when the premium van lines come back over budget. For military moves specifically, ask us about PCS-experienced carriers that may offer additional military discounts.
FAQ — Bekins Van Lines
Is Bekins Van Lines a legitimate moving company?
Yes, Bekins Van Lines is a licensed FMCSA-registered interstate moving carrier with USDOT number 2256609 and MC number MC-770487. Founded in 1891 and headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. Verify current operating authority directly in the FMCSA SAFER Company Snapshot (safer.fmcsa.dot.gov) using USDOT 2256609.
How much does Bekins Van Lines charge for a long distance move?
Bekins Van Lines is priced in the $$ tier — mid-tier. Actual cost depends on shipment weight, distance, season, and add-ons. A typical 2-bedroom interstate move (~6,000 lbs, 1,000+ miles) ranges from $4,500–$8,500 with Bekins Van Lines. Always compare against 2 alternative quotes — savings of 15–30% are common.
What is Bekins Van Lines best known for?
Bekins Van Lines is best for: Military moves and PCS, Mid-range long distance budgets, West Coast routes, Storage-in-transit. They are typically not the best fit for: Sub-$2,000 moves, Same-day quotes, International moves. For your specific move, get a quote and compare against 2 alternatives.
Should I get other quotes besides Bekins Van Lines?
Yes — always. Long distance moving prices vary by 20–40% between licensed carriers serving the same route. Getting 3 quotes is the single most effective way to save money on an interstate move. We can match you with route-experienced alternatives in 60 seconds.
Does Bekins Van Lines require a deposit?
Most reputable FMCSA-licensed carriers (including Bekins Van Lines) request a small deposit (typically 10–25% of the quoted total) to secure your move date. Never pay more than 25% upfront. Bait-and-switch movers often demand large deposits early; legitimate carriers do not.
What insurance does Bekins Van Lines provide?
By federal law, interstate movers must offer two valuation options: Released Value Protection ($0.60 per pound, included free, minimal coverage) and Full Value Protection (covers replacement value, additional cost). Bekins Van Lines offers both. For valuable items, always opt for Full Value Protection and declare high-value items in writing.
How long has Bekins Van Lines been in business?
Bekins Van Lines was founded in 1891, giving them 135+ years of operating history. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. Long operational history is a strong signal of legitimacy but should always be verified against current FMCSA authority and recent customer reviews.
What if Bekins Van Lines damages or loses my belongings?
File a written claim with Bekins Van Lines within 9 months of delivery (federal law requirement). Document damage with photos before signing the bill of lading. With Full Value Protection, you can claim repair, replacement, or cash settlement. With Released Value, claims pay only $0.60 per pound regardless of item value. Keep all paperwork until the claim resolves.
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Verify Bekins Van Lines yourself
Never take our word on a carrier — check these primary sources before you book.
- FMCSA SAFER Company Snapshot: Bekins Van Lines — USDOT 2256609 — active operating authority, insurance status, out-of-service orders, safety rating.
- Better Business Bureau: Bekins Van Lines on BBB — complaint history, response record, accreditation.
- Your rights during a move: FMCSA: Protect Your Move — federal consumer protection guide.
- Household goods rules: FMCSA Household Goods Rights Handbook — full text of federal moving regulations.
Last updated: June 30, 2026 · Reviewed by: US Move Quote Editorial Team · Sources: FMCSA SAFER database, BBB complaint records, Google/Yelp/Trustpilot aggregated reviews.