Colonial Van Lines vs International Van Lines

Colonial Van Lines vs. International Van Lines

Colonial Van Lines and International Van Lines are both well-known names in the long-distance moving industry, often appearing in searches for interstate and cross-country relocations. While they overlap in the types of moves they handle, their business models, service structures, and overall customer experience differ in ways that can meaningfully affect how a move plays out. 

Services and availability

Colonial Van Lines focuses primarily on long-distance and interstate household moves within the continental U.S. They do not advertise local moving services and instead specialize in cross-country relocations, packing, storage, and corporate moves. Colonial also offers vehicle shipping and basic specialty item handling, though options are more limited compared to global movers. Their service area covers most U.S. states, but availability depends on scheduling windows rather than local branch presence.

International Van Lines offers a broader service mix that includes local, long-distance, interstate, and international moves. They also handle overseas relocations, military moves, corporate transfers, and specialty shipments, including fine art and large vehicles. In addition to full-service moving, they provide container-style options through partner networks. International Van Lines operates nationwide and maintains partnerships that support both domestic and international availability.

Reliability and moving experience

Colonial Van Lines operates using a centralized coordination model, meaning moves are managed through their main office rather than independent local agents. This can create a more uniform booking process, but execution may involve third-party carriers. Customer experiences often highlight clear sales communication upfront, with mixed feedback around delivery timing and follow-up once a move is underway. Tracking options are limited compared to larger fleet-based movers.

International Van Lines coordinates moves using a mix of in-house crews and vetted partner carriers, depending on location and service type. They are generally known for handling complex logistics well, especially for international or multi-leg moves. Tracking tools, assigned move coordinators, and structured documentation are common strengths. That said, scheduling changes can still occur when multiple vendors are involved.

Pricing and value

Colonial Van Lines typically provides binding estimates based on virtual or phone surveys, with pricing influenced by factors such as distance, shipment size, packing services, and storage needs. A deposit is commonly required to secure a move date. Add-on services, such as full packing, shuttle services, or storage, increase the total cost, and valuation coverage options are available at an additional charge.

International Van Lines offers both binding and not-to-exceed estimates, usually following a virtual or in-home survey. Pricing varies widely based on move type, especially when international shipping or container options are involved. Deposits are standard, and customers can choose from multiple valuation levels for cargo protection. Costs tend to scale higher for specialty handling or overseas moves but reflect the wider service scope.

Conclusion

Colonial Van Lines is often best suited for customers focused specifically on interstate or cross-country household moves who prefer a centralized booking process and straightforward long-distance specialization. International Van Lines is a stronger fit for moves that involve international destinations, specialty items, or flexible service formats. Comparing detailed estimates, service inclusions, and cancellation terms can help clarify which mover aligns better with your move size, timeline, and level of complexity.