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Moving services: U-Pack vs. Bekins Van Lines

Quick Verdict

U-Pack is better for those who want to save money by packing and loading themselves, while Bekins Van Lines is a better choice for those who prefer a full-service moving experience with professional packing and loading.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeU-PackBekins Van Lines
Price TransparencyTransparent pricing with no hidden fees; online quotes default to the least expensive option.Provides moving quotes through online estimates, virtual surveys, and in-home estimates. Offers non-binding, firm-binding, and option-binding estimates. Transparent pricing policy with detailed cost breakdowns.
Service Area CoverageServices all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada; over 240 service centers.Covers 95% of the U.S. with over 350 agents nationwide. Offers local, long-distance, and international moving services. Partners with Crown Relocations for international moves.
Storage OptionsReloCube containers for as long as needed, or moving trailer for up to 120 days; storage available in most service areas.Offers short-term, long-term, and storage-in-transit (up to 180 days). Warehouses located across the country with high security standards. Provides climate-controlled, locked, clean, and secure storage options.
Insurance CoverageCatastrophic Liability ($3.00 per pound per piece) and Carrier Negligence Liability (10 cents per pound per piece); additional coverage available.Offers Limited Liability Protection (60 cents per pound per item) and Full Replacement Value Protection (FRVP). FRVP default value is shipment weight multiplied by $6. Free valuation up to $75,000 for employee relocations.
Customer Service Quality24/7 customer service line; experienced consultants.Aims for clear and timely communication. Known for responsiveness. Service quality can vary based on location and representatives.
On-Time Delivery RateFast delivery times, typically two to five business days; U-Pack Guarantee no longer offered.Offers guaranteed on-time pick-up but does not guarantee delivery dates.
Claims Process EfficiencyLoss and damage must be reported immediately; claims must be filed within nine months of delivery.Aims to resolve problems with professional claims representatives. Claims should be filed within nine months of the delivery date. Guaranteed claim settlement within 30 days for employee relocations.
Packing and Loading OptionsSelf-move service with packing and loading tips; professional movers can be hired.Offers full-service packing, crating, and unpacking services. Packs fragile and specialty items. Uses quality packing materials like dishpack cartons, wardrobe boxes, mattress boxes, and mirror boxes. Custom crates available. Protects floors and doorways, documents items, and wraps furniture in pads.
Tracking and CommunicationOnline dashboard for tracking shipments.Focuses on keeping customers informed throughout the moving process. Offers virtual moving estimates.
Contract FlexibilityFree cancellation up to 7 days before the move.Offers non-binding, firm-binding, and option-binding moving quotes.
Equipment and Vehicle QualityMoving trailers and ReloCube containers.Not available
Reputation and ReviewsA+ rating from the Better Business Bureau; mostly positive reviews.In business for over 130 years. A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Top provider for the General Services Administration (GSA). Specializes in senior moves. Considered better than most overall.

Overall Comparison

U-Pack: Transparent pricing, services all 50 states, A+ BBB rating. Bekins Van Lines: Full-service packing, covers 95% of the U.S., A+ BBB rating, Overall rating: 6.01 out of 10.

Pros and Cons

U-Pack

Pros:
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
  • Extensive service area coverage across all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada
  • Flexible storage options in ReloCube containers or moving trailers
  • 24/7 customer service line with experienced consultants
  • Online dashboard for tracking shipments
  • Free cancellation up to 7 days before the move
  • Sturdy containers and professional drivers
Cons:
  • Self-move service requires you to do the packing and loading
  • On-Time Delivery Guarantee is no longer offered
  • Final cost could be higher or lower than the original quote if you end up needing more or less storage than you requested

Bekins Van Lines

Pros:
  • Long-standing company with over 130 years of experience
  • A+ rating with the BBB
  • Wide service area covering 95% of the U.S.
  • Offers various storage options
  • Provides different types of insurance coverage
  • Full-service packing and loading options
  • Focuses on customer communication
  • Offers different types of moving quotes for flexibility
Cons:
  • Relatively low customer satisfaction scores
  • Some customer reviews mention damage, delivery issues, and pricing miscommunications
  • Customer service quality can vary based on location and representatives
  • Does not guarantee delivery dates
  • Some customers have reported dissatisfaction with the claims process
  • Some customer reviews mention dissatisfaction with unforeseen moving and packing costs

User Experiences and Feedback