United Van Lines
Honest Review
America's #1 mover by volume, with the largest network of long distance moving agents.
United Van Lines: pros and cons
✓ Pros
- Largest van line network in the US — coverage in every state
- Publishes annual National Movers Study (industry-recognized data)
- Strong corporate relocation program used by Fortune 500 companies
- Full-value protection and high-value item coverage available
- Average customer rating consistently above 4.2 across major review platforms
✗ Cons
- Premium pricing — typically 20–35% above budget carriers
- Service quality depends on the local agent fulfilling the move
- Long sales process compared to instant-quote competitors
- Less competitive on routes under 800 miles
Best for / not ideal for
Best for
- Cross-country moves
- Family relocations 3+ bedrooms
- Corporate transfer programs
- International moves
Not ideal for
- Studio and 1-bedroom budget moves
- Same-week emergency moves
- Local in-town moves
Smart move
Whatever your situation, always compare United Van Lines's quote against 2 alternative licensed carriers. Quote spreads of 20–35% are common on identical routes.
Our honest take on United Van Lines
United is the gold standard for cross-country and corporate moves. Their network depth means they can handle nearly any route, including remote destinations smaller carriers won't service. The trade-off is price — expect to pay 20–35% more than mid-tier alternatives. For 3-bedroom-plus relocations crossing multiple states, the premium often pays for itself in fewer claims and on-time delivery.
Worth knowing: United is rarely the cheapest option. We can match you with 2 alternative quotes (often from Allied, Mayflower, or strong regional carriers) for direct comparison. Most customers save $1,000–$2,800 by comparing 3 quotes.
FAQ — United Van Lines
Is United Van Lines a legitimate moving company?
Yes, United Van Lines is a licensed FMCSA-registered interstate moving carrier with USDOT number 077949 and MC number MC-67234. Founded in 1928 and headquartered in Fenton, Missouri. Verify current operating authority directly in the FMCSA SAFER Company Snapshot (safer.fmcsa.dot.gov) using USDOT 077949.
How much does United Van Lines charge for a long distance move?
United Van Lines is priced in the $$$ tier — premium. 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 United Van Lines. Always compare against 2 alternative quotes — savings of 15–30% are common.
What is United Van Lines best known for?
United Van Lines is best for: Cross-country moves, Family relocations 3+ bedrooms, Corporate transfer programs, International moves. They are typically not the best fit for: Studio and 1-bedroom budget moves, Same-week emergency moves, Local in-town moves. For your specific move, get a quote and compare against 2 alternatives.
Should I get other quotes besides United 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 United Van Lines require a deposit?
Most reputable FMCSA-licensed carriers (including United 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 United 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). United Van Lines offers both. For valuable items, always opt for Full Value Protection and declare high-value items in writing.
How long has United Van Lines been in business?
United Van Lines was founded in 1928, giving them 98+ years of operating history. Headquartered in Fenton, Missouri. Long operational history is a strong signal of legitimacy but should always be verified against current FMCSA authority and recent customer reviews.
What if United Van Lines damages or loses my belongings?
File a written claim with United 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 United Van Lines yourself
Never take our word on a carrier — check these primary sources before you book.
- FMCSA SAFER Company Snapshot: United Van Lines — USDOT 077949 — active operating authority, insurance status, out-of-service orders, safety rating.
- Better Business Bureau: United 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.