When you are choosing a long distance moving company, the type of mover you select matters. While some movers focus on specific parts of the country and are considered to be a regional mover, others have the systems and agent network to move families and businesses across the country. This type of mover is called a nationwide or cross country mover.
At National Van Lines we’ve spent nearly a century moving families nationwide. Over that time, we’ve seen how the industry has changed and evolved, and what that means for our customers. We have gathered insights from our experts here at National Van Lines to further explain the difference between regional movers and nationwide movers.
Defining Nationwide Movers vs. Regional Movers
When you start looking at long distance moving company options, first verify that the company is registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation and the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). This registration means that the company is legally allowed to accept your moving job.
However, as you begin to research long distance moving companies, you may notice that there are some that only stick to certain states or geographic areas, while others seem to be active throughout the entire United States. So, what’s going on here?
Dick Scaffa, Director of Sales and Agency at National Van Lines, breaks it down.
“There are companies that can do long distance, but they will focus on a specific region,” says Scaffa. “If they are not affiliated with a bigger van line, they might just stay in a specific corridor or area and service that.”
For example, a California-based moving company might focus solely on the I-5 route. Or, an East Coast moving company might handle moves in only a few specific states in their region. In these cases it helps to think of such companies as regional movers.
In comparison, a nationwide mover will have an established network of agents and partners that spans the entire country. No matter where you’re coming from or where your new home is, a nationwide moving company will be able to handle it. At National Van Lines, we’re proud to be a licensed interstate carrier that can truly take you coast to coast. It’s our national reach and available resources that sets us apart from smaller regional movers.
Why the Difference Between Nationwide and Regional Movers Matters
The easiest way to tell the difference between nationwide and regional movers is that regional companies tend to focus on a smaller area than nationwide carriers. But what else sets the two apart? You can see it clearly in how a moving company like National Van Lines handles its business.
- Has great experience in handling military and international moves. Most large interstate movers like National Van Lines have years of experience moving military families and active service members to new base assignments. We’re also equipped to do international moves. This capability gives us a unique perspective and specific insights that a regional mover might not have.
- Bigger fleets and smarter routing. A larger nationwide moving company can handle a wider range of routes, as well as varied geography and weather conditions. They also tend to have more trucks and manpower than a regional mover.
- Features pricing based on weight, not hours. Regional and local movers may price their services based on the number of hours their crew spends on the job. With a nationwide moving company, you’ll complete a moving survey to inventory your furniture and items. They’ll then calculate a total weight (or tonnage) that will determine the final price you pay.
The right mover for your move depends on where you’re going. If staying within one region, a well-regarded regional company may be all you need. But when your move is going to cross several states or the entire country, that’s the kind of move a nationwide mover like National Van Lines is built for.
What Sets National Van Lines Apart as a Nationwide Carrier
Nationwide carriers have key differences that set them apart, but the number of trucks and the way your move is routed is only part of the picture. When choosing a truly great nationwide moving company, look for one with a strong reputation backed by a solid company structure.
At National Van Lines we’ve built a reputation to match our reach, and we’ve maintained that for nearly a century. Two key factors truly set us apart from our peers.
- We have a top Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) score from the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). The GSA determines this score through surveys sent after a completed military move. We maintain a 105.86 GSA Customer Satisfaction Index score (2025–2026 reporting period, based on surveys sent after completed military moves), well above the 100-point benchmark for a high score. This demonstrates our commitment to adhering to government regulations while also providing excellent customer service. Also, you don’t need to be a member of the military to benefit from this standard of attention to detail and dedication to a successful relocation.
- We’re 100% employee-owned. Through our ESOP structure the people supporting each move have a direct stake in the company’s success, and care deeply about every move we complete. This also encourages our employees to stay for many years, meaning your moves are handled by truly experienced and insightful moving professionals.
According to Paul Gregory, Vice President of Sales, these both demonstrate just how human National Van Lines is at its core.
“Especially in a really digital world, people are looking for that human interaction,” said Gregory. “We’re proud to provide that human element through our team’s skill and expertise. It allows for a much more hands-on approach.”
Key Questions to Consider When Choosing Between a Nationwide and Regional Moving Company
Choosing between nationwide and regional movers often comes down to the distance, route, and support your move requires. These questions can help you compare your options before booking.
Are regional movers cheaper than nationwide movers?
Not necessarily. Cost depends more on distance, home size and season than on network size. A regional mover working outside its usual territory may not have the same infrastructure in place to keep the move efficient.
What should I ask a mover to confirm they have a real nationwide network?
Ask whether they have an established agent or team already at your destination, how long they have operated there, and whether one point of contact stays with your move from booking and planning through delivery.
Choosing the Right Nationwide Mover for Your Move
While regional movers are a strong option for certain kinds of moves, nationwide movers are a natural fit if you’re going a long distance. A nationwide carrier like National Van Lines has the size, experience, and network to handle long distance moves across many states (or even from coast to coast).
When you’re moving long distance, choosing a nationwide provider like National Van Lines means that an experienced team will back you up and meet your unique needs. Ready to see what a real nationwide network looks like for your own move? Call 800-323-1962 or request a personalized long distance quote now from National Van Lines.