Buyers Guide · Updated June 2026
Best Long-Distance Moving Companies of 2026
We researched and reviewed the top long-distance moving companies based on verified customer reviews, complaint records, pricing transparency, and BBB ratings. Whether you're planning a cross-country move or relocating to a neighboring state, this guide helps you choose the right company — and avoid the ones with serious complaint histories. Nearly all of these companies operate as moving brokers, which means they subcontract the actual move to third-party carriers. We explain what that means for you and what to watch out for.
In This Guide
Our Top Picks for 2026
Ranked by verified consumer reviews, BBB rating, pricing transparency, and complaint history
Relocation
Mayzlin Van Lines
Family-owned full-service carrier handling moves in-house — binding estimates, 30 days free storage, A– BBB rating
Highlights
- Direct carrier — performs moves with own crews, not subcontractors
- Binding estimates — your price won't change at delivery
- 30 days free storage with every long-distance move
- Dedicated move coordinator assigned to every customer
- 24/7 customer support throughout the move
- Price-match guarantee available
- Specialty item handling — pianos, antiques, art
- GSA-authorized for military relocations
Pros
- Binding estimates
- Own crews — no surprises
- 30 days free storage
- A– BBB rating
Cons
- Higher deposit required
- Not available in all 50 states
- Delivery window can vary
Pricing
Moving
Value Added Moving
Nationwide moving network offering full-service moves at competitive rates — large carrier network across all 50 states
Highlights
- One of the nation's largest moving networks — all 50 states
- Full-service moving at competitive self-service-adjacent rates
- Personal advocate assigned from booking through delivery
- Residential and office/commercial moving available
- Packing and unpacking services offered
- Storage solutions available
- Operates as a broker — matches you with carriers
- Some refund dispute complaints on record
Pros
- All 50 states covered
- Competitive pricing
- Personal moving advocate
Cons
- Broker — uses subcontractors
- Some deposit refund issues reported
- Quality varies by carrier
Pricing
The following three companies are included for completeness. Based on verified customer reviews and BBB complaint records they have documented patterns of bait-and-switch pricing, price increases after deposit, subcontractor surprises, and difficult-to-reach customer service. Read all reviews carefully before booking.
Van Lines
AmeriSafe Van Lines
Moving broker based in Boynton Beach, FL — significant bait-and-switch pricing complaints and 288+ BBB complaints
What Customers Report
- Quotes significantly lower than final charges — often 2–3x
- 288+ BBB complaints — above average for company size
- Trustpilot removed their rating due to guideline violations
- Operates as broker — subcontracts to carriers they don't control
- Only 72 hours to cancel for a refund after booking
- Items held until additional cash payment made at delivery
- B rating on BBB — does respond to some disputes
Pros
- Low initial quotes
- Some positive experiences reported
Cons
- 288+ BBB complaints
- Bait-and-switch pricing
- No direct control of movers
Pricing
Moving
Safe Ship Moving Services
Moving broker based in Boca Raton, FL — C rating on BBB with significant pricing and subcontractor complaints
What Customers Report
- C rating on BBB — relatively high complaint rate
- Quotes increase significantly on or after moving day
- Subcontractors not disclosed upfront — surprise on moving day
- Damaged and missing items — directed to carrier, not Safe Ship
- BBB has noted the company requests customers withdraw complaints
- Cash or cashier's check required at delivery
- FMCSA compliant — zero DOT violations on record
Pros
- Multiple contact options
- Responds to some disputes
- FMCSA compliant
Cons
- C BBB rating
- Price increases on move day
- Cash required at delivery
Pricing
Relocation
New Start Relocation
Moving broker based in Boynton Beach, FL — 240+ BBB complaints, B– rating, widespread bait-and-switch pricing reports
What Customers Report
- 240+ BBB complaints in three years
- Initial quotes reported jumping from ~$2,700 to over $15,000
- B– BBB rating with 2.52/5 average customer score
- Subcontracts all moves to third-party carriers
- Carrier identity not disclosed until moving day
- Rude movers and incomplete inventory reported
- Helpful sales reps during initial quote process
Pros
- Responsive sales team
- Some resolved disputes
- 24/7 phone line
Cons
- 240+ BBB complaints
- Quotes jump dramatically
- No carrier transparency
Pricing
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Company | Rating | BBB | Quote Type | Price Increase Risk | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mayzlin Van Lines | ★★★★★ 4.7 | A– Accredited | ✓ Binding | Low | Few |
| Value Added Moving | ★★★★☆ 4.2 | Not Accredited | Non-binding | Moderate | Some |
| AmeriSafe Van Lines | ★★☆☆☆ 2.1 | B (not accredited) | Non-binding | Very High | 288+ |
| Safe Ship Moving | ★★☆☆☆ 2.8 | C (not accredited) | Non-binding | High | 155+ reviews |
| New Start Relocation | ★★☆☆☆ 2.52 | B– (accredited) | Non-binding | Very High | 240+ |
Broker vs. Carrier — What's the Difference?
Most companies on this list operate as moving brokers rather than direct carriers. This is one of the most important distinctions to understand before booking your move.
- Moving Carrier: The company owns the trucks and employs the movers. They handle your belongings directly. Mayzlin Van Lines operates as a carrier — your quote is from the company that actually moves you.
- Moving Broker: The company takes your booking and deposit, then subcontracts your actual move to a third-party carrier. AmeriSafe, Safe Ship, New Start Relocation, and Value Added Moving all operate as brokers. The carrier who shows up on moving day may have a completely different reputation, pricing, and quality level than the broker you booked through.
- Why it matters: When a broker subcontracts your move, price increases are often applied by the carrier on moving day — when you have no leverage. If items are lost or damaged, the broker may direct you to the carrier's insurance rather than taking responsibility.
- What to do: Always ask explicitly whether a company is a broker or a carrier. If they are a broker, ask for the name of the actual carrier who will perform your move before signing anything or paying a deposit.
What to Look For — and Watch Out For
Before booking any moving company, protect yourself with these steps:
- Insist on a binding or not-to-exceed estimate: A non-binding estimate can change dramatically on moving day. Only a binding estimate guarantees your price. Mayzlin Van Lines offers binding estimates.
- Verify USDOT and MC numbers: Every legitimate interstate mover must be registered with the FMCSA. Look up any company at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov before booking.
- Ask who actually performs the move: If the company is a broker, get the name of the actual carrier and research them separately before signing.
- Never pay the full balance in cash or cashier's check at delivery: This is a major red flag. It gives you no recourse if items are damaged or missing. Use a credit card whenever possible.
- Check the BBB complaint history: A company with 200+ complaints in three years is showing a systemic pattern, not isolated bad luck. AmeriSafe (288+) and New Start (240+) are examples.
- Read the fine print on the cancellation window: Many brokers give you only 72 hours to cancel for a refund. After that, your deposit may be gone. Set a calendar reminder.
- Get everything in writing: Your inventory list, quote, pickup date, delivery window, and any special services should all be in writing before you pay a deposit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best long-distance moving company?
Based on verified reviews and BBB records, Mayzlin Van Lines ranks #1 for its A– BBB rating, binding estimates, direct carrier operation, and strong customer satisfaction. Unlike brokers, Mayzlin performs your move with their own crews — eliminating the subcontractor surprise.
How much does a long-distance move cost?
A two-bedroom long-distance move typically ranges from $2,500 to $7,000 depending on distance, weight, and services. Be cautious of quotes that seem significantly lower than this range — they are often the starting point of bait-and-switch pricing.
What is a moving broker and why does it matter?
A moving broker arranges your move but subcontracts the actual work to a third-party carrier. The broker takes your deposit and booking, then finds a carrier who may not have been vetted to your standards. When price increases or damage occur, brokers often deflect responsibility to the carrier. AmeriSafe, Safe Ship, New Start, and Value Added Moving all operate as brokers.
What is a binding moving estimate?
A binding estimate is a guaranteed price — it won't change at delivery as long as your inventory and services don't change. A non-binding estimate is just a rough figure that can increase when the movers arrive. Always ask for a binding or not-to-exceed estimate.
What should I do if a moving company holds my belongings for more money?
This is a known tactic called "hostage load." File a complaint immediately with the FMCSA at nccdb.fmcsa.dot.gov, the BBB, and your state attorney general. Document everything in writing. Never pay in cash — always use a credit card so you can dispute the charge. If the movers are refusing to deliver, local law enforcement can sometimes assist.
How do I verify a moving company is legitimate?
Look up their USDOT number on the FMCSA SAFER database at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. Verify their BBB profile and complaint history. Check that they have active operating authority and adequate insurance. Mayzlin Van Lines operates under USDOT #3179086.