Both Bekins Van Lines and Mayflower are reputable moving companies with extensive service offerings. Bekins excels in customer service and transparent pricing, while Mayflower provides personalized move strategies and includes Full Value Protection. The choice depends on individual priorities, such as the need for transparent pricing versus comprehensive initial insurance coverage.
| Attribute | Bekins Van Lines | Mayflower |
|---|---|---|
| Nationwide Availability | Over 350 agents nationwide, covering 95% of the U.S. | Operates in 46 states with over 500 locations (excluding Delaware, Hawaii, Rhode Island, and West Virginia). |
| Local Moving Services | Yes, Bekins offers local moving services through its network of agents. | Agents provide local moving services under their own brands. |
| Long-Distance Moving Services | Bekins Van Lines specializes in long-distance moving services. | Federally licensed for interstate moves, offering personalized strategies. |
| International Moving Services | Bekins Van Lines provides international relocation services through a partnership with Crown Relocations. | Serves over 150 countries, managing moves from start to finish. |
| Packing and Unpacking Services | Bekins offers full-service packing, unpacking, and crating services, including for specialty items. They also offer packing supplies for those who prefer to pack themselves. | Offers full-service and partial packing options, including custom crating. |
| Storage Options | Bekins Van Lines offers secure storage options, including storage-in-transit, in warehouses located across the country. They offer both short-term and long-term storage options. | Provides short-term and long-term storage at origin or destination for up to six months. |
| Insurance Coverage Options | Bekins offers two main protection plans: Limited Liability Protection (basic coverage at 60 cents per pound per item) and Full Replacement Value Protection (more comprehensive, with options to declare the value of your shipment). | Includes Full Value Protection in initial quotes, with options to increase valuation. |
| Vehicle Transportation Services | Bekins Van Lines can ship vehicles, either within their moving trucks or through a third-party carrier. | Assists with car shipping, offering open-sided and enclosed transport. |
| Online Tracking | Bekins is better than most overall due to its tracking features. | Provides an online shipment tracker and the MyMayflower Move Portal. |
| Customer Service Responsiveness | Bekins stands out positively for how well company reps communicate and respond to requests. | Offers online and telephone support with varying response times. |
| Price Transparency | Bekins has a transparent pricing policy and breaks down costs in detail. They offer different types of estimates: non-binding, firm-binding, and option-binding. | Requires in-person or virtual surveys for customized pricing. |
| Specialty Item Moving (e.g., pianos, antiques) | Bekins offers specialized moving services for items such as pianos, antiques, medical equipment, and artwork. | Handles pianos, antiques, and medical equipment. |
| Price | Not available | Not available |
| Ratings | Not available | Overall: Trusted moving company. Performance: Known for timeliness and efficiency. |