National Van Lines vs. Atlas Van Lines for Cross Country Moving

Trying to decide between National Van Lines and Atlas Van Lines for your cross country move? Wondering whether the biggest difference comes down to planning style? What about pricing structure? Or how communication works on moving day? 

This side-by-side comparison breaks down what really separates these two movers, without bias. We’ve written this honest and transparent guide so you can confidently choose the option that best fits your needs. 

In this article, we’ll tell you: 

• How each company approaches cross country moving
• How estimates and pricing are built
• Valuation and protection options
• Technology, tracking, and communication styles
• How to decide which mover is right for you

How does each company approach cross country moving? 

Atlas Van Lines: Modular and Agent-Based

Atlas coordinates moves through a national structure supported by local agents. This model allows customers to tailor their move based on budget, timeline, and service preferences.

Rather than offering a single packaged experience, Atlas emphasizes modular planning. Customers can select services individually and adjust their move based on what matters most to them.

The Atlas approach typically includes:

• Customizable service options
• Support for full household and small-load relocations
• Flexible delivery timing
• Coordination through local agents with centralized oversight

Atlas prioritizes tech, especially during the initial stages of a move. This structure often appeals to customers who want flexibility and prefer to manage parts of the move themselves.

National Van Lines: Coordinated and People-Led

National Van Lines uses an operational model built around continuity and accountability. As an employee-owned company, it has an entire team focused on proper planning and communication. Each customer works with a dedicated moving coordinator who serves as the primary point of contact from planning through delivery.

Virtual walkthroughs and move planning are guided by dedicated move coordinators (called MovePros) rather than rotating representatives. The goal is to understand what’s being moved. Questions are answered in real time, and customers can learn about logistics well before moving day. This tends to be the best approach for customers who prefer more guidance and who want to keep a consistent budget. 

How can I compare moving estimates and plans? 

When you get a quote from a moving company, you’ll submit information to their team so they can write an estimate. How an estimate is created can strongly influence confidence in the final price quote. Both Atlas Van Lines and National Van Lines use virtual surveys, but the experience differs.

Atlas Van Lines: Video Survey and Convenience Tools

Atlas offers video survey options designed to prioritize convenience and access.

This approach emphasizes:

• Fast scheduling
• Mobile-friendly tools
• Digital documentation
• No in-home visit requirement

For anyone who wants a quote without multiple conversations, this experience is ideal. 

National Van Lines: Guided Virtual Walkthroughs

National Van Lines conducts virtual walkthroughs led by trained MovePros.

This approach emphasizes:

• Live, guided walkthroughs
• Detailed scope and logistics review
• Real-time questions and clarification
• Confidence built through conversation

Both methods aim to reduce surprises. The difference lies in whether a customer prefers a tech-led experience or a human-led planning process.

How can I compare the price of Atlas Van Lines and National Van Lines without guessing? 

For cross country moves, understanding how pricing is built can be just as important as the final number.

Atlas Van Lines: Base Rates and Add-Ons

Atlas starts with a base price based on how much you’re moving and how far it’s going. The price may change if you add services such as packing, storage, or specific delivery dates. This structure allows customers to shape costs around their preferences.

National Van Lines: Planning-Based Custom Pricing

National Van Lines develops pricing through planning conversations conducted during the walkthrough process. Quotes reflect shipment size, distance, access challenges, and real-world logistics discussed during planning.

Both companies rely on similar core pricing factors. The key difference is how those factors are explained and how involved customers feel in shaping the final quote.

What can I expect in terms of valuation and protection options? 

Valuation coverage describes how your belongings are protected if something is lost or damaged during a long-distance move. Both companies offer options, but the way they explain those choices is different.

Atlas typically recommends Full Value Protection and shares written details about how claims are handled. National Van Lines explains valuation during planning conversations, helping customers choose coverage based on their belongings and comfort level.

Valuation Options at a Glance

 

What does each company offer for tech, tracking and communication? 

Communication style often shapes how a move feels day to day.

Atlas offers a customer portal that supports document access, scheduling, shipment tracking, and claims. This setup allows customers to manage many details independently.

National Van Lines emphasizes direct communication through a dedicated moving coordinator, with updates shared via phone, email, or text rather than through a portal.

Communication and Planning Comparison at a Glance

 

How do I decide which moving company is right for me? 

Both companies are reputable options for cross country moving. The better choice depends on personal preferences and planning style.

Atlas Van Lines may be a strong fit if:

• You value flexible service options
• You prefer digital tools and self-service access
• You want to manage parts of the move independently

National Van Lines may be a better fit if:

• You prefer consistent communication throughout the move
• You want guided planning with a dedicated point of contact
• You would rather work directly with a person than through a portal

Neither option is wrong. They simply offer different experiences.

Making the Final Call on a Cross Country Move

When you are comparing nationwide moving companies for a cross country move, the details matter. Beyond quotes and availability, the way a mover plans, communicates, and supports you throughout the process can shape the entire experience.

Today, you have the ability to look closely at how companies approach estimates, pricing structure, protection options, and day-to-day communication. Those differences can help you decide which mover aligns with your expectations and comfort level.

Moving forward, the goal is not just to choose a company that can transport your belongings. It is to choose one whose approach matches how you want to plan, prepare, and feel throughout your relocation.

You just learned about the main differences and similarities between Atlas Van Lines and National Van Lines. At this point, you’re likely ready to start having a serious conversation about your final choices. Get a quote today from National Van Lines, and discover what we can do for your move.