Best Cross Country Moving Companies: Honest Comparison (2026)
Full-Service Moving Companies
| Company | Est. Cost (2BR, 1,500 mi) | Years Operating | Binding Est. | Storage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allied Van Lines | $4,500-$7,500 | 95+ | Yes (binding not-to-exceed) | Yes |
| North American Van Lines | $4,200-$7,000 | 90+ | Yes | Yes |
| Atlas Van Lines | $4,800-$8,000 | 75+ | Yes | Yes |
| Mayflower Transit | $4,500-$7,800 | 95+ | Yes | Yes |
| United Van Lines | $4,500-$7,500 | 95+ | Yes | Yes |
Allied Van Lines
One of the oldest van lines in the US (founded 1928). Part of SIRVA. Strong network of agents nationwide. Generally reliable claims record. Provides dedicated move coordinators.
North American Van Lines
Also part of SIRVA. Typically priced slightly below Allied for the same service. Strong agent network. Offers convenient online tracking. Good for families with school-age children who need reliable delivery windows.
Atlas Van Lines
Employee-owned cooperative structure (agents own shares). Known for above-average care with specialty items. Good for art, antiques, and high-value furniture. Generally higher pricing reflects the service level.
Mayflower Transit
Founded 1927, one of the most recognized names in moving. Strong for large residential moves. Part of UniGroup (same parent as United Van Lines). Good agent consistency nationwide.
United Van Lines
The largest van line network in the US by number of agents. Part of UniGroup with Mayflower. Good option when local agent quality matters (you can select a specific local agent). Offers specialty packing for electronics and high-value items.
Moving Container Companies
PODS
The most recognized container brand. You keep the container as long as needed. Can be used as on-site storage before and after the move. Limited to 46 states -- check availability in your area. See podsmovingcost.com for detailed PODS pricing. Detailed PODS pricing →
U-Pack (ABF Freight)
Offers both ReloCubes (container-like) and trailer space (freight). You only pay for the space you use. Nationwide coverage including Alaska and Hawaii. Generally the most competitive pricing among national container/freight movers.
1-800-PACK-RAT
Part of Waste Connections. Similar service to PODS. Slightly lower pricing in many markets. Check availability -- coverage is not as broad as PODS. Good customer reviews for delivery and pickup responsiveness.
Truck Rental Companies
Penske Truck Rental
Generally considered the most reliable truck rental company with newer, well-maintained fleets. Higher base rates than U-Haul but fewer breakdown complaints. Unlimited mileage one-way pricing model is transparent. Fuel efficient trucks reduce cross-country fuel costs.
U-Haul
The most locations of any truck rental company. Widest range of equipment sizes. Lower base rates but mileage charges can add up on cross-country moves -- ask about one-way pricing specifically. Older fleet than Penske but acceptable for most moves.
Budget Truck Rental
Often the cheapest truck rental option. Operated by Avis Budget Group. Fleet is older on average. Availability in rural areas is more limited than U-Haul or Penske. Good option for budget-conscious movers in major metros.
How to Verify a Mover Is Legitimate
| Check | How to Do It | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| FMCSA License | Search USDOT number at protectyourmove.gov | Active operating authority for household goods |
| BBB Rating | Search company at bbb.org | A or B rating, complaint history shows resolution pattern |
| Physical Address | Google Maps the address from their website | A real office or warehouse, not a residential address |
| In-Home Survey | Request one -- any legitimate mover will agree | Refusal to survey = major red flag |
| Google Reviews | Search '[company name] moving reviews' | At least 50+ reviews, majority 4-5 stars, owner responses to negatives |
| Binding Estimate | Ask specifically for binding not-to-exceed | Should be available -- refusal is a red flag |