
Bekins Van Lines, Inc. offers a range of moving options to suit different needs and budgets. They provide full-service moves, where their team handles everything from packing to delivery, as well as portable storage solutions, such as PODS, which allow customers to pack and store their belongings at their own pace.
Their expertise includes navigating complex logistics, like international moves, which require specialized knowledge and equipment. Bekins Van Lines, Inc. has a long history of successfully handling these types of moves.
Their network of agents and partners allows them to provide services to customers across the country. This extensive reach enables Bekins Van Lines, Inc. to offer a high level of flexibility and convenience to their customers.
About Bekins Van Lines
Bekins Van Lines has been a trusted name in the moving industry for over 125 years. The company was founded in 1891 by John Bekin, and it has since grown into one of the largest moving companies in the United States.
Bekins Van Lines is a family-owned business that has remained committed to providing top-notch moving services to its customers. With a focus on customer satisfaction, the company has built a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness.
What Is Bekins Van Lines
Bekins Van Lines is a leading moving and storage company that has been in business for over 130 years, with a rich history dating back to 1891.
Their extensive network of agents and facilities spans the United States, providing a wide range of moving and storage services to individuals and businesses alike.
Bekins Van Lines is a subsidiary of SIRVA Worldwide, a global moving and relocation company that offers a comprehensive range of services.
Their experienced team of professionals is dedicated to providing personalized moving solutions that meet the unique needs of each customer.
Bekins Van Lines has a long-standing commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, with a reputation for delivering reliable and efficient moving services.
History and Operations
Bekins Van Lines has a rich history that spans over 130 years, making it the oldest currently operating household moving company in the United States.
The company was founded in 1891 by John Bekius and his brother Martin in Sioux City, Iowa. They started a furniture moving business that would eventually become a household name.
In 1894, Martin Bekins brought the Bekins business to Los Angeles, where it continued to grow and expand. He even built his own estate in Eagle Rock, Los Angeles in 1927.
Bekins was purchased by Minstar Inc. in 1983 for $89.2 million, but the management team, led by president Thomas E. Epley, bought back 60% of the company in 1987 for $66 million.
Today, Bekins Van Lines operates over 300 locations with a fleet of over 2,100 vehicles, and owns warehouse space that exceeds four million square feet.
The company has undergone a few changes in ownership, including being acquired by Wheaton World Wide Moving in 2012, but the Bekins Van Lines brand name continues to be used as a separate brand.
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Services and Costs
Bekins Van Lines offers a range of services for residential and commercial moves, including planning, packing, hauling, and storage.
For a residential move, you can start with an online ballpark estimate, then arrange a free in-home estimate and get a more precise quote. Your move will be supervised by a Bekins agent, and you can have its movers pack for you or save money by packing yourself.
The company provides limited liability and full replacement value protection, and has short- and long-term storage options available. It also offers military relocation and is a service provider for the General Services Administration (GSA) and the Centralized Household Goods Traffic Management Program (CHAMP).
Prices for Bekins Van Lines vary widely depending on the distance and number of belongings, ranging from $200 to $5,000. You can save money by packing some of your own items and moving in the fall or winter, as peak times like spring and summer tend to be more expensive.
Services
Bekins Van Lines offers a range of services to suit your moving needs, from planning and packing to hauling and storage.
You can start with an online ballpark estimate, then a free in-home estimate will provide a more precise quote. The company will supervise your move, and you can choose to have its movers pack for you or save money by packing yourself.
Limited liability and full replacement value protection are available, giving you peace of mind during your move.
Bekins can store your belongings for the short-term or long-term, making it a convenient option for those who need extra space.
The company specializes in moving everything except hazardous materials, including industrial and medical equipment.
If you're a military personnel, Bekins offers relocation services that include language training and furniture rentals.
Costs
Bekins Van Lines costs can vary depending on the distance and number of belongings. The average cost of a move ranges from $200 to $5,000.
For a long-distance move, you can expect to pay between $8,500 and $10,500 for a 1,500-mile, 3-bedroom move. This price range includes additional services like extra protection, packing, and loading.
A 500-mile move is significantly cheaper, costing between $6,000 and $7,000. On the other hand, a 5-bedroom, full-service move could cost upwards of $15,000 to go 1,500 miles.
You can get a ballpark estimate on Bekins' website, but it's not a binding quote. To get a more accurate estimate, you'll need to request a phone call with a service agent or schedule an in-home or virtual walk-through.
Bekins offers a free ballpark estimate tool on its website, which can give you a rough idea of costs. For example, a move from a three-bedroom apartment in San Francisco to Seattle in mid-April was estimated to cost between $3,839.36 and $5,047.99.
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Moving Options

Bekins Van Lines, Inc. offers a range of moving options to suit different needs and budgets.
Their local moving services cover distances up to 50 miles and can be completed in as little as a day, making them ideal for short-distance moves.
With Bekins, you can choose from different types of moving equipment, including 24-foot and 53-foot trailers, to ensure your belongings are safely transported.
Their professional movers will take care of everything, from packing to loading and unloading, so you can focus on other things during your move.
Local Moving
Local moving is a great option for those who need to relocate within the same state. A local move can be just as complex as a move across the country.
These moves typically involve packing and loading services, which can be a huge relief. Bekins offers full-service packing and loading as an option with its local moves.
Local moving often requires careful planning and execution to ensure a smooth transition.
Long Distance Moving

If you're planning a long distance move, you have a lot of options to consider. Bekins is a reputable moving company that can handle moves to any state in the country.
Their network of 350 agents ensures that they can reach even the most remote areas of the U.S. This makes them a reliable choice for people who need to move to a new state.
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Customer Experience
Bekins Van Lines, Inc. prioritizes customer experience, offering a variety of services to meet their needs.
Bekins Van Lines, Inc. has a long history dating back to 1891, with over 130 years of experience in the moving industry.
Their experienced team of professionals ensures a smooth and efficient move, with a focus on customer satisfaction.
Bekins Van Lines, Inc. offers a range of moving services, including local and long-distance moves, to accommodate different customer needs.
Their fleet of modern trucks and equipment ensures that your belongings are transported safely and securely.
Bekins Van Lines, Inc. also provides storage solutions for customers who need to store their belongings temporarily.
Comparison and Evaluation

Bekins Van Lines offers a range of services, including specialty packing and priority moving, but some customers have complained about damage to their belongings.
Their online estimates are only available for long-distance moves, and they may not be available in all areas. This could be a drawback for those who need to move locally or have specific moving needs.
In terms of overall performance, Bekins Van Lines has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and is considered one of the top moving companies in the industry.
Here's a comparison of Bekins Van Lines with other top moving companies:
Our Thoughts
Bekins Van Lines has been operating since 1891, making it the longest-operating moving company in the U.S.
Reviews show that the company has stuck to its core value of “showing customers value and respect” for over 130 years, with an average Google review rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Many customers have described staff as “professional” and reported that their items were handled carefully.
The company's optional Priority Relocation Service is a standout feature, offering a fast and comprehensive moving option with full packing and unpacking, unshared truck space, and guaranteed on-time delivery.
This white-glove service comes with a price, but it's a good option for someone with zero tolerance for hassle.
Some online reviews complained of damage, though these reports were rare compared to Bekins' high number of moves completed.
To minimize the risk of damage, we recommend opting for full-value protection.
Bekins is a licensed household goods carrier with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and works with 350 licensed agents.
If you need your items delivered on a certain day with no wiggle room, inform your dedicated moving manager, and make sure you keep their contact information handy in case something goes wrong.
Here are some key benefits of Bekins' Priority Relocation Service:
- Last-minute requests are okay
- Full packing and unpacking
- Unshared truck space
- Guaranteed on-time delivery ($100-per-day late payment)
- Availability during peak moving season
Pros and Cons

If you're considering Bekins Van Lines for your moving needs, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons.
One of the main advantages of Bekins Van Lines is that they offer specialty packing, which can be a huge relief for those who don't want to handle packing themselves.
Their full-replacement value protection options are another plus, providing peace of mind for those who want extra protection for their belongings.
Bekins Van Lines also offers priority moving, which can be a game-changer for those with tight deadlines.
A dedicated move manager is assigned to each move, ensuring a smooth and personalized experience.
However, some customers have reported complaints about damage, which is a major concern for anyone moving their belongings.
Online estimates are only available for long-distance moves, which can be inconvenient for those planning a local move.
Additionally, Bekins Van Lines is not available in all areas, which may limit your options if you live in a remote location.
vs Other Movers

When choosing a moving company, it's essential to consider the services they offer. American Van Lines stands out for its specialty moves, making it a top choice for those requiring unique relocation services.
Their A rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is a testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction. In contrast, Moving APT and Interstate Moving & Relocation Group have B ratings, indicating some room for improvement.
Some movers offer packing services, which can be a huge time-saver. Bekins Van Lines, Mayflower, JK Moving Services, and United Van Lines all provide packing services, making it easier for customers to focus on other aspects of their move.
If you're looking for a company that can pack for you, consider Bekins Van Lines, Mayflower, or JK Moving Services. They all offer this service, but be aware that some may charge a deposit or have specific state availability.
For a more DIY approach, U-Pack is a great option. Their A+ rating with the BBB and lack of deposit requirements make them an attractive choice for those who want to take charge of their move.
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If you're moving to a new state, consider companies with wide state availability. Bekins Van Lines, Mayflower, and U-Pack all operate in 50 states, making them great options for those with a long-distance move.
Here's a comparison of some of the top movers in terms of their services and ratings:
Keep in mind that each company has its unique strengths and weaknesses, so it's essential to research and compare their services before making a decision.
Core Elements
Bekins Van Lines, Inc. has a long history dating back to 1891, making it one of the oldest moving companies in the US.
Their services include residential, commercial, and specialty moves, which can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each customer.
The company has a strong presence in the Midwest, with a network of agents and warehouses that enable them to efficiently handle moves across the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Bekins Moving Company?
Bekins Moving Company was acquired by Wheaton World Wide Moving in 2012 and continues to operate as a separate brand. It remains the oldest household moving company still in operation in the United States.
Are Bekins and Wheaton the same company?
No, Bekins and Wheaton are not the same company, but they are connected through a purchase in 2012. Bekins was acquired by Wheaton Van Lines in March 2012.
Who is the CEO of Bekins Van Lines?
The CEO of Bekins Van Lines is Mark Kirschner, who has been with the company since 1982 and brings extensive industry expertise.
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