International Van Lines is better suited for those needing comprehensive services for international or long-distance moves, including packing, storage, and vehicle shipping, while U-Pack is a more economical choice for DIY movers focused on transparent pricing and quick delivery for long-distance moves within North America.
| Attribute | International Van Lines | U-Pack |
|---|---|---|
| International Moving Expertise | In business since 2000, top-rated freight forwarder and mover, serves over 140-180 countries, licensed by the FMC, door-to-door and port-to-port services, air and ocean freight transport, network of over 3,000 moving partners, member of the International Association of Movers, FIDI-accredited. | Offers long-distance moving services to and from Puerto Rico and five Canadian provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec. For overseas moves, it is recommended to use a reputable international moving company. |
| Long-Distance Moving Capabilities | National carrier, long-distance moves account for 80% of annual moves, licensed to move customers across state lines. | Specializes in long-distance moves, generally for moves over 100 miles. Does not service local moves under 50 miles. |
| Storage Options Availability | Offers storage services nationwide, one month of free storage, long-term/short-term/storage in transit (SIT), $0.50-$0.65 per cubic foot per month after the first month, container storage, temperature-controlled units and secure facilities. | Offers both on-site and at-home storage options. Storage is available in ReloCubes or in a moving trailer. Monthly storage costs start at $150 per container. Storage is offered in most U-Pack service areas, based on equipment availability. |
| Full-Service Packing Options | Full-service moving company, packing and unpacking services, fragile packing and custom crating, self-pack option, packing supplies sold, insurance costs 4% if IVL packs, 3% if self-pack. | Primarily a DIY moving service. Can refer you to Moving Staffers for loading or unloading help. |
| DIY Moving Options | Does not offer van or truck rentals, self-packing allowed. | Designed for DIY moves, where you pack, load, and unload your belongings. They provide the equipment and transportation. |
| Insurance Coverage Options | Insurance for domestic and international moves, limited liability coverage at $0.60 per pound per article, Full Value Protection (FVP), third-party insurance, all risk insurance, insurance costs 3% if self-packing, 4% if IVL packs. | Includes basic liability coverage for fires, theft of the trailer or container, overturned trailers, and trailer collisions. Offers two types of liability coverage: catastrophic liability and carrier negligence liability. Additional coverage for negligence can be purchased. |
| Price Transparency and Cost Estimates | Transparent pricing, free moving quotes, online form/call for quotes, online moving cost calculator, up to 25% deposit required, 100% refund if canceled up to 48 hours before the move. | Known for transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Offers free quotes online and over the phone. |
| Customer Service Responsiveness | Two account managers per move, 24/7 customer service, customer support at 754-547-6333, multiple follow-up calls, Newsweek Best Customer Service award for 2021. | Praised for its readily available customer service. Can contact them by phone or email. Local dispatchers answer promptly and assist. |
| Timeliness and Reliability of Delivery | Aims for timely delivery, handles over 20,000 moves per year. | Offers quick delivery, averaging 4-6 business days. Most deliveries within the contiguous 48 states take place between two and five business days after pickup. U-Pack Guaranteed allows selecting a specific date or window of time for delivery, for an additional fee. |
| Claims Process and Resolution | Notify company immediately for damaged/lost items, claims process starts with photos, can take up to a month. | To file a claim, email moving@upack.com with your name and reference number to receive a claim form. Claims must be filed within nine months of the delivery date. U-Pack has 30 business days to acknowledge the claim after it is submitted with proper documentation. |
| Online Tracking Availability | Online shipment tracking, real-time tracking. | Provides an online tracking system to monitor the status of your move. Can track your move using your U-Pack reference number or ABF tracking number and email address. |
| Vehicle Shipping Options | Nationwide and international auto transport, transports cars/motorcycles/boats/trucks/SUVs, enclosed and open trailers, container service for ocean freight, costs vary by destination and vehicle type. | Not available |