USA TODAY released its 2026 “America’s Best In State Moving Companies” rankings in September, following a comprehensive review of consumer experience across the national moving industry. National Van Lines was included based on verified consumer feedback and performance data collected during the 2025 evaluation cycle. For families and businesses planning long distance relocations, the ranking provides an independently measured view of reliability and service quality among movers nationwide.
Understanding how major publications evaluate the best long distance moving companies can help families and businesses make more informed decisions. Most households and organizations compare movers using independent ratings, verified reviews, and third party evaluations like the USA TODAY ranking.
USA TODAY does not endorse individual moving companies. Its rankings reflect aggregated consumer feedback and independently analyzed performance data.
How Does USA TODAY Gather Its Consumer Satisfaction Data?
According to the USA TODAY methodology, the ranking includes a nationwide survey of more than 17,000 respondents, a review of over 2 million online ratings, verification of U.S. based operations, and minimum review thresholds for credibility.
The United States has more than 36,000 registered moving companies, making independent evaluations an important tool for comparing long distance movers. While no ranking captures every detail of the moving experience, large scale studies like this one offer a helpful snapshot of satisfaction trends.
What Criteria Influence a Mover’s Placement in the Rankings?
Based on the published criteria, the rankings reflect measured satisfaction levels from customers. Although USA TODAY does not review internal operations, the results align with practices at National Van Lines that directly support long distance moving success.
- Employee ownership that promotes professionalism and accountability
- Transparent pricing and clear communication
- Nearly 100 years of nationwide experience
- ATA MSC Super Van Operator award winning drivers
- A focus on punctual, careful handling
How Should Families and Businesses Use These Rankings?
USA TODAY’s independent evaluation helps clarify how real world experiences align with reliability, pricing transparency, and skilled handling among long distance movers.
Customer Comparison Chart
| Customer Priority | What the Ranking Helps Clarify | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Trust and Reputation | Independent assessment of consumer experience | Reduces uncertainty when comparing movers |
| Service Reliability | Consistent performance across states | Predicts outcomes for long distance moves |
| Pricing Clarity | Satisfaction trends showing transparency expectations | Supports confident budgeting |
| Skilled Handling | Driver performance reflected in reviews | Protects belongings in transport |
What Does This Mean Moving Forward?
Inclusion on the USA TODAY list reinforces the importance of reliability, communication, and careful handling in today’s long distance moving industry. For families and businesses looking ahead, National Van Lines offers planning resources such as the moving guide and an overview of long distance moving services.
As President of National Van Lines, I am grateful for the families and businesses who place their trust in us each year. Third party evaluations help set shared expectations for quality, and our commitment remains personal. We strive to earn that trust with every move, in every state, every day.
