Is Mayflower really more reliable than National Van Lines? Or does the family-owned approach of National Van Lines make it the stronger choice for long distance relocations? Choosing a mover is one of the biggest decisions you will make when planning a long distance move, and the options can feel overwhelming. When it comes to Mayflower vs. National Van Lines, both have long histories and widespread recognition… but that makes it harder to see what truly sets them apart.
Since we’re writing this comparison as National Van Lines, you might expect us to lean in our own favor. But the truth is that both companies have strengths, and the right choice depends on what matters most to you. In this guide, you’ll find an honest look at services, pricing, and customer experiences, so you can make the call with confidence. Keep reading to explore:
- Who Mayflower and National Van Lines are
- How their services and coverage compare
- How they both quote and price long distance moves
- How responsive they are, both before and on moving day
- What the moving experience would be like with both companies
- What Mayflower and National Van Lines are best at
- What the customer reviews say
By the end, you’ll have a much better idea of which mover fits your needs and how to decide with confidence.
Who Are Mayflower and National Van Lines in Long Distance Moving?
Mayflower
This moving company was founded in 1927 and is now part of UniGroup, a parent company for several large moving brands. It calls itself “America’s Most Trusted Moving Company” and leans heavily on the promise of guiding customers “Every Step of the Way®”. With a large agent-based network, Mayflower is known more for its broad presence than for personal touch.
National Van Lines
This long distance mover was founded in 1929 by F.J. McKee, who had already been in the transportation business since 1901 with his earlier company, McKee’s Express. When he returned to Illinois and launched National Van Lines, the business quickly grew beyond local deliveries into a trusted long distance mover. They carry an A+ BBB rating, have been ranked by the General Services Administration (GSA) as a top van line for customer satisfaction, and market themselves as combining large-scale capability with a family-owned approach. Many customers describe this balance of scale and attention as what makes the company stand out.
How Do Their Services and Coverage Compare?
Here is a side-by-side look at the services and coverage both National Van Lines and Mayflower provide. Feel free to screenshot or save the image to your smartphone:
In summary: Mayflower offers more add-ons and programs, while National Van Lines emphasizes tailoring its services to each move.
How Do They Quote and Price Long Distance Moves?
Pricing is often the first detail families want explained before booking a long distance move. When it comes to long distance moving, major moving companies like National Van Lines or Mayflower will determine the final price based on a variety of factors, like the weight of your items and the amount of stuff you have to move.
Mayflower offers customizable packages, where services are bundled together. For small shipments, its Snapmoves program gives guaranteed dates and simplified pricing. Transparency, however, varies depending on the local agent providing your estimate.
National Van Lines focuses on clear, detailed estimates, with a focus on binding estimates. Each estimate includes line items like transportation charges, accessorial services (think things like packing or custom crating), and insurance. National Van Lines also offers an online Move Calculator to give families a starting point before speaking with an agent.
How Responsive Is Each Company Before and On Moving Day?
Mayflower
Mayflower assigns move coordinators who guide customers from planning to delivery. Reviews often highlight proactive updates and strong organization, leaving many families feeling well-supported. Some customers, however, report damage claims that were difficult to resolve and note that experiences can vary depending on the local agent handling the move.
National Van Lines
National Van Lines also provides coordinators, and reviews often describe their culture as very personal, with crews and coordinators frequently mentioned by name. Customers describe punctual deliveries and responsive planning, though a few note frustrations with rushed crews or communication gaps when partner companies are involved.
What Does the Moving Experience Feel Like?
Think of moving companies in terms of trade-offs: cheap, fast, and well done. Most movers can consistently give you two, but not all three.
- Mayflower tends to feel like a large, standardized network. Its strength is brand recognition and the reassurance of working with a nationwide name.
- National Van Lines often feels more personal. Being family-owned, National Van Lines emphasizes responsiveness and tailoring moves to fit the customer, especially in long distance relocations.
What Do They Say They Are Best At?
Mayflower presents itself as “America’s Most Trusted Moving Company.” It reinforces this claim with planners, checklists, and moving tips that show it wants to be seen as a guide at every step.
Meanwhile, National Van Lines highlights its nearly 100 years of family and/or employee ownership, compassionate service, and GSA recognition for customer satisfaction. It frames itself as a long distance expert, emphasizing transparency and customer satisfaction.
What Do Customers Say?
For Mayflower, reviews often focus on professionalism, clear communication, and strong move coordinators. Families appreciate the structure and organization, and many highlight the reassurance of working with a well-known national brand. Some customers, however, report frustrations when it comes to filing claims, particularly around the process for damaged items.
For National Van Lines, customers highlight crews that were polite, skilled, and punctual, often arriving right on time and delivering with care. Coordinators are praised for making the process smoother and being responsive when unexpected issues come up. On the other side, some reviews mention damaged items and frustrations with claims settlements.
Which Mover Fits Which Situation?
- Choose Mayflower if:
- You value a nationally recognized name
- You want access to a wide menu of add-on options
- You value a nationally recognized name
- Choose National Van Lines if:
- You want a mover that feels more personal
- Clear, itemized pricing is a top priority
- You are planning a long distance relocation and want an employee-owned approach
- You want a mover that feels more personal
How to Decide With Confidence
Before you commit, run through a short checklist:
- Does the mover explain pricing clearly?
- Will you have a single point of contact throughout the move?
- Can they handle your specific needs, such as storage or international shipping?
- Do reviews highlight the strengths you value most?
Now that you know these key differences, if National Van Lines sounds like the right choice for your move, you’ll want to reach out for a free quote. Comparing Mayflower and National Van Lines directly is the best way to decide which mover feels right for your long distance move. No matter which you choose, you now have more information to make that much more empowered final decision.
You just learned about the differences and similarities between National Van Lines and Mayflower. Now, keep your research going by getting a free quote from us here at National Van Lines, so you can keep comparing all your options.
