Best Rated Long Distance Movers: A Transparent Comparison

Choosing a mover for a long distance move can feel complicated. A quick online search often leads to sponsored results, paid listings, and a swirl of mixed reviews, making it tough to know who’s actually reliable. If you’re a family or individual looking for a mover you can trust, the real question becomes:

Which long distance moving companies are consistently top rated, and what does “top rated” really mean?

To answer that, we’ve compiled a list of five long distance moving companies that stand out across multiple independent review platforms. This list is based on publicly available ratings, third-party sources like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and editorial reviews from sites such as Forbes, NerdWallet, and ConsumerAffairs. We are not affiliated with any of these companies and do not receive compensation for including them.

Each mover on this list has been recognized for strong performance in key areas, but none are perfect… including us. While we’re writing this article as National Van Lines, we’re committed to honesty and transparency. We’ll cover both the strengths and the common concerns so you can decide which one best fits your needs.

By the end, you’ll know: 

• What “best rated long distance moving company” actually means 
• The top long distance moving companies you need to know about, plus their pros and cons, so you can choose the right fit for your move  

What Does “Best Rated” Actually Mean?

In this context, “best rated” is defined by three main criteria:

• Customer feedback: Verified reviews from platforms like Google, Yelp, Trustpilot, and ConsumerAffairs.
• Industry standing: Company age, national reach, and professional reputation.
• Consistency: How reliably companies meet their promises, resolve issues, and deliver on service expectations.

The Best Rated Long Distance Companies (Listed Alphabetically)

Allied Van Lines

Overview:
One of the largest moving companies in the U.S., Allied offers domestic and international services and is often chosen for its wide range of moving-related options.

What Stands Out:

• Reviewers on Yelp frequently mention efficient, courteous crews and smooth loading processes.
• Allied’s vehicle transport option receives positive feedback for cross-country moves.
• Some customers report that shipment tracking and binding estimates reduced their moving stress.

Common Concerns:

• BBB complaints point to challenges with damage claims, particularly around reimbursement timelines.
• Delays in delivery are reported by multiple customers, with some shipments arriving weeks late.
• Price changes between initial quotes and final bills have also been noted.

Best For: Families needing vehicle transport or a full-service option with international capabilities.

Not Ideal If: You’re concerned about tight delivery windows or want absolute quote transparency.

Mayflower Transit

Overview:
As one of the most recognized moving brands in the U.S., Mayflower has a wide agent network that supports interstate and international moves.

What Stands Out:

• ConsumerAffairs reviewers note professional movers and clear communication during the move.
• Forbes highlights Mayflower’s binding estimates, which reduce pricing uncertainty.
• The company doesn’t require large deposits to reserve a move, which some customers appreciated.

Common Concerns:

• Mayflower is not BBB accredited, which may be a factor for some when evaluating trustworthiness.
• Customers have reported long delivery delays and frustration with claim resolutions.
• Several reviewers mention missing or damaged items.

Best for: Those seeking a recognized brand with transparent pricing options.
Not Ideal If: BBB accreditation is an important trust signal for you.

National Van Lines

Overview:
Founded in 1929 and employee-owned, National Van Lines offers long distance and international moving through a U.S.-wide agent network.

What Stands Out:

• Yelp reviewers often mention polite, hardworking movers who finish on time.
• Coordinators are praised for keeping communication clear during cross-country moves.
• MoveAdvisor notes the company’s flexibility, including storage and international options.

Common Concerns:

• BBB complaints frequently cite delivery delays.
• Some reviewers had difficulty reaching customer support or getting timely updates.
• Damage during transit and slow claims processing are recurring issues in reviews.

Best For: Customers seeking a legacy brand with full-service options and responsive coordinators.
Not Ideal If: You expect real-time communication or need guaranteed delivery timing.

North American Van Lines

Overview:
With over 85 years of experience, North American Van Lines offers long distance and international relocation along with customizable service options.

What Stands Out:

• Forbes praises the company’s flexible packages, including vehicle shipping and storage.
• Many customers report helpful representatives and smooth coordination.
• Binding estimates are a recurring highlight for those concerned with budgeting.

Common Concerns:

• Complaints to the BBB involve delays and disputes over damaged shipments.
• Some reviewers mention discrepancies between the original quote and final cost.
• Inconsistent communication during moves is cited on Yelp and ConsumerAffairs.

Best For: Those who value customizable services and transparent pricing.
Not Ideal If: You’re moving on a strict timeline or want consistent communication throughout.

United Van Lines

Overview:
United Van Lines operates through more than 500 agents nationwide and offers a wide array of services, from packing to cleaning to auto transport.

What Stands Out:

• Reviews on ConsumerAffairs describe movers as efficient, professional, and courteous.
• NerdWallet emphasizes the company’s breadth of service offerings.
• No deposit is typically required, which many found helpful for early planning.
  

Common Concerns:

• Like Mayflower, United is not BBB accredited.
• Damaged or missing items have been reported, with some dissatisfaction about claims.
• Several reviews mention final costs coming in higher than the original quote.

Best For: Customers wanting a one-stop shop for full-service moving needs.
Not Ideal If: You prefer companies with BBB accreditation or fixed-cost transparency.

Finding Your Best Fit for Long Distance Moving

Each of these companies has built a strong reputation, but that doesn’t mean they’ll be the right choice for everyone. The best long distance mover for you depends on:

• Your budget: Some movers offer binding estimates, while others may have more variability.
• Your timeline: If timing is tight, pay close attention to delivery guarantees and reviews mentioning delays.
• Your preferences: Consider whether you’ll need vehicle transport, storage, or packing services.

Reading reviews, checking BBB records, and asking detailed questions before booking are smart ways to protect yourself. No moving company is flawless, but with preparation you can find the mover that fits your priorities best.

At National Van Lines, we’ve helped families relocate for nearly a century, which gives us perspective on what matters most during a move: clear communication, careful handling, and follow-through. Whether you choose us or another company, keeping these factors in mind will help you move forward with confidence.

Now that you know what the top options are for long distance moving companies, you’re likely ready to read the specific facts on the movers you have in mind. To get started, read our piece on Mayflower vs. National Van Lines, and comparing your options like a pro. 

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Disclosure: This comparison is based on publicly available information and editorial sources at the time of writing. We are not affiliated with any other moving company and do not earn commission for inclusion.