What to Compare
If you're hiring a full-service carrier for an interstate move to Florida, United and Allied are the two biggest names you'll quote — and they're more alike than different: both are agent-based van lines with nationwide networks, full-value protection included in base quotes, storage-in-transit options, and decades of Florida delivery experience. Allied frequently prices a few percent sharper on flexible-date moves and its binding-not-to-exceed quotes are easy to get. The real variable is the local agent on each end — the origin agent packs and loads you, a Florida destination agent delivers.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
United Van Lines
Features and considerations
- Full-value protection standard in base quotes
- Large agent network in Florida for destination service and claims
- Storage-in-transit widely available when closings slip
Limits and questions
- Often quotes a few percent above Allied on the same inventory
- Peak-season (May–Sept) Florida capacity books out weeks ahead
Allied Van Lines
Features and considerations
- Binding not-to-exceed quotes standard and easy to obtain
- Frequently sharper pricing on flexible-date moves
- Equally deep Florida destination-agent network
- Full-value protection included; tiers are straightforward
- Long track record with military/corporate relocations to Florida bases and HQs
Limits and questions
- Delivery windows on long hauls can run wide in peak season
- Some Florida metros served by fewer Allied agents — less choice if one is weak
- Add-on pricing (crating, appliance service) varies by agent
- Claims experience varies more agent-to-agent than United's
Side-by-Side Comparison
| United Van Lines | Allied Van Lines | |
|---|---|---|
| Network type | Confirm current United Van Lines availability for your address. | Confirm current Allied Van Lines availability for your address. |
| 2BR interstate to FL (typical) | Ask the United Van Lines provider to document 2br interstate to for the exact offer. | Ask the Allied Van Lines provider to document 2br interstate to for the exact offer. |
| 4BR interstate to FL (typical) | Ask the United Van Lines provider to document 4br interstate to for the exact offer. | Ask the Allied Van Lines provider to document 4br interstate to for the exact offer. |
| Valuation coverage | Confirm current United Van Lines availability for your address. | Confirm current Allied Van Lines availability for your address. |
| Binding not-to-exceed quotes | Yes | Yes — signature offer |
| Storage-in-transit | Yes | Yes |
| Fit for your project | Ask the United Van Lines provider to document current quote and terms for the exact offer. | Ask the Allied Van Lines provider to document current quote and terms for the exact offer. |
| Watch out for | Peak-season capacity | Wide delivery windows |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my quotes differ by $3,000 for the same move?
Because you're really quoting two different local agents' labor, truck space, and season — not two brands. Get in-home (or video) surveys from both, insist on binding not-to-exceed quotes on identical inventory lists, and the gap usually shrinks to a few hundred dollars.
What's full-value protection and do I need more?
Compare United Van Lines and Allied Van Lines on network type, 2br interstate to fl, 4br interstate to fl, using the actual models or local proposals. Ask for supporting documentation and a written explanation of how the proposed option meets your needs.
How long will delivery to Florida take?
Ask each provider to give a written expectation for the exact United Van Lines and Allied Van Lines product or service being proposed. Clarify preparation, site conditions, maintenance and exclusions that could affect the result or schedule.
Will they deliver into my gated community or condo tower?
Florida is shuttle country — get these estimated IN the binding quote by telling the surveyor exactly what your destination looks like.
United and Allied vs the container companies (PODS, U-Pack)?
Full-service van lines cost roughly double containers but include loading, driving, unloading, and liability for damage. If your budget is tight and your back is fine, containers win. If you're moving a full household on a work timeline — or you can't be off work to load for two days — the van lines earn their premium.
Consumer resources
Use these official resources when evaluating an offer. They provide general guidance and do not establish a winner between these options.
- FMCSA: choosing an interstate mover — Interstate-move guidance; verify the actual mover or broker and the current agreement.