van lines moving explained for confident, stress-light relocations
How nationwide van lines operate
Van lines coordinate a network of local agents, combining in-home surveys, routing, and linehaul schedules to move household goods across states with predictable timing.
A driver and crew handle packing, loading, and inventory; dispatch plans the trunk route, then a destination agent manages delivery, reassembly, and debris removal.
What you can expect
Quotes come as binding or not-to-exceed; your Bill of Lading shows dates, services, and valuation coverage. Weight tickets, shuttle service, or storage-in-transit may appear when access is tight or timing shifts.
- Consistency: standardized crews, equipment, and claims support.
- Efficiency: consolidated freight lowers cost versus a single-truck move.
- Visibility: proactive updates, tracking windows, and a single coordinator.
- Protection: options for full-value coverage and specialty crating.
- Flexibility: short-term storage and staged deliveries for complex timelines.
To prepare, purge unneeded items, photograph high-value pieces, and note stairs, elevators, or parking limits. Clear expectations-and a realistic delivery spread-keep surprises to a minimum.