American Van Lines vs Colonial Van Lines

2026 comparison for Florida moves · Updated May 2026

⭐ Top Pick

American Van Lines

Best for Antiques & Pianos

9.0 / 10 overall score
⭐ 4.4 BBB A+ FL-based
Runner Up

Colonial Van Lines

Best Moving Broker

7.8 / 10 overall score
⭐ 4.1 BBB A FL-based

Key Metrics Comparison

Metric American Van Lines Colonial Van Lines
Overall Score 9.0/10 7.8/10
Composite Rating ⭐ 4.4 ⭐ 4.1
Review Count 4,300 2,900
BBB Rating A+ A
Price Range mid mid
Deposit Required 10% Varies
Binding Estimates Yes No
USDOT Status active active
Headquartered Pompano Beach, FL Plantation, FL
Founded 1995 2000

Score Breakdown (0–5)

Pricing
American: 4.2 Colonial: 4.3
Reliability
American: 4.5 Colonial: 3.8
Customer Service
American: 4.5 Colonial: 3.9
Services Offered
American: 4.8 Colonial: 4.2
Transparency
American: 4.7 Colonial: 3.8

American Van Lines

Pros

  • Florida-based carrier (Pompano Beach)
  • Certified piano and antique movers
  • Background-checked employees
  • Binding estimates
  • A+ BBB rating

Cons

  • 10% deposit required
  • Not the cheapest option
  • Limited to 48 contiguous states

Colonial Van Lines

Pros

  • Florida-based broker with wide carrier network
  • Competitive pricing through carrier bidding
  • Wide availability — can book last minute

Cons

  • Broker model — you may not know your carrier upfront
  • Non-binding estimates common
  • Mixed customer reviews
  • Deposit varies and can be non-refundable

American Van Lines is Best For

PianosAntiquesValuable itemsSouth Florida moves

Colonial Van Lines is Best For

Budget-conscious moversThose who need carrier flexibility

Services Offered

American Van Lines

  • Long-distance moving
  • Interstate moving
  • Piano moving
  • Antique moving
  • Packing services
  • Storage
  • Last-minute moving

Colonial Van Lines

  • Long-distance moving
  • Interstate moving
  • Packing services
  • Storage
  • Auto transport

Our Verdict

Choose American Van Lines if you...

  • Need pianos
  • Need antiques
  • Need valuable items
  • Need south florida moves
  • Want a FL-headquartered carrier

Choose Colonial Van Lines if you...

  • Need budget-conscious movers
  • Need those who need carrier flexibility

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better: American Van Lines or Colonial Van Lines?
American Van Lines scores higher overall (9.0/10 vs 7.8/10). However, the best choice depends on your move type, budget, and timeline.
Does American Van Lines or Colonial Van Lines have lower prices?
Both movers are in the same price tier (mid). Always get binding estimates from both before deciding.
Which mover has better reviews — American Van Lines or Colonial Van Lines?
American Van Lines has a higher composite rating (4.4 vs 4.1). American Van Lines has 4,300 reviews and Colonial Van Lines has 2,900 reviews.