Brokers vs. Interstate Moving Companies: What Is the Safer Choice for Your Move?
Jul 04, 2025
Planning a long-distance move? One of the most important decisions you’ll make is who to trust with your belongings. You’ve likely come across two types of services: moving brokers and professional interstate moving companies, but they’re not the same.
While both may offer to coordinate your move, the way they operate, and the peace of mind they deliver, are very different. Here’s what you need to know to make the right choice.
What is a moving broker?
A moving broker is essentially a booking agent. They do not own moving trucks or employ movers. Instead, their role is to collect your information, provide a quote, and then contract your move out to a separate company, typically one you have never heard of and never spoken to.
This means the broker is not actually responsible for the execution of your move. Once you sign the agreement and pay a deposit, the broker’s job is done. From there, a third-party mover (often selected based on the lowest cost) handles your belongings. Your movers will be people you have never met or spoken to.
Unfortunately, this process can leave customers vulnerable to poor service, unverified movers, or even scams. If issues arise, brokers may deflect responsibility, and the actual movers may be difficult to contact. Some consumers have found themselves with no mover arriving at all on moving day. Others find that their belongings disappear for days or weeks at a time, must pay thousands in additional costs to get their belongings, or get damaged goods back.
Because of these risks you must verify whether you’re dealing with a broker or a direct carrier before booking a move. And if you find that you are working with a broker, consider switching to a safer option – An interstate moving company.
What is an interstate moving company?
An interstate moving company, sometimes called a van line or full-service mover, is a licensed and insured organization that handles long-distance moves across state lines. These companies handle every aspect of your move, from planning and packing to transportation and final delivery.
When you work with an established interstate mover like Atlas Allied, you benefit from a streamlined, start-to-finish process. You’ll work with the same trusted brand throughout the move, often with a single point of contact.
Unlike brokers, these companies operate their own fleets and hire trained, background-checked employees. They are accountable for the condition of your items, arrival timelines, and customer service.
With a professional interstate moving company, you get reliability, transparency, and peace of mind, without having to wonder who’s showing up on moving day.
Brokers vs. Interstate Moving Company: What’s the Difference?
| Category | Professional Interstate Mover | Moving Broker |
| Who handles your move? | In-house, background-checked movers | Outsourced third parties |
| Pricing | Transparent estimates and clear contracts | Often low quotes with hidden fees |
| Accountability | The company is fully responsible | Broker may disappear after booking |
| Scheduling | Confirmed pickup/delivery windows | Unreliable timelines or no-shows |
| Support | Ongoing customer service | Limited to no follow-up assistance |
The Risks of Hiring a Moving Broker
In many cases, what starts as a “great deal” from a broker can turn into an expensive hassle. According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), common complaints include:
Unexpected Charges on Moving Day
One of the most frequent issues reported is a bait-and-switch pricing scheme. Brokers may provide a low quote to win your business, only for the final bill provided by the third-party mover to be significantly higher. Some customers are told they must pay hundreds or even thousands more to receive their belongings.
Delayed Deliveries
Because brokers do not control the logistics of your move, delivery schedules can be highly unreliable. Movers contracted through brokers may take multiple jobs at once or operate inefficient routes, leaving you waiting days or even weeks beyond your expected delivery date, with little explanation.
Unresponsive Customer Service
Once a broker hands off your move to a carrier, they often step out of the process entirely. If something goes wrong, getting help can be nearly impossible. Many customers find themselves in a frustrating loop, with the broker pointing fingers at the mover, and vice versa.
Damaged or Missing Items
Without oversight or accountability, there’s no guarantee that your belongings will be handled with care. Third-party movers may not meet professional standards, increasing the likelihood of damaged furniture, lost boxes, or even stolen items.
You may also find yourself in a legal gray area if something goes wrong, because the broker has already passed your contract to another company. That means any claims for damage or loss must be pursued with the carrier, which can complicate and delay the resolution process.
You may also find yourself in a legal gray area if something goes wrong—because the broker has already passed your contract to another company.
Why Atlas Allied Is the Safer Choice
At Atlas Allied, we believe you deserve a move that’s straightforward, secure, and stress-free. That’s why we:
We handle every part of your move
At Atlas Allied, we don’t outsource your move. From packing and loading to transportation and delivery, our trained and background-checked crews manage every step. This maintains accountability and consistency, giving you peace of mind from start to finish.
We provide transparent, honest pricing
We believe in clear communication and integrity. That’s why we provide detailed, upfront estimates with no hidden fees. You’ll know exactly what to expect—before, during, and after your move.
We consistently communicate
A move should never feel like a guessing game. We keep you informed throughout the process with regular updates and reliable scheduling. You’ll always know where your belongings are, and when they’ll arrive.
Our team consists of licensed and insured professionals
Atlas Allied is fully licensed and insured to perform interstate moves across the U.S. This protects your move legally and financially, and gives you the confidence that your belongings are in qualified hands.
And if something doesn’t go as planned? We make it right.
Watch our quick video breakdown here:
Still Deciding? Let Us Help.
Need more guidance on how brokers compare to full-service moving companies? Visit our full breakdown. When comparing Brokers vs. Interstate Moving Company, the safer, smarter option is clear.
Choose a mover who will treat your move with care and accountability from start to finish. With Atlas Allied, you’re never handed off to a third party. You’re in experienced hands every step of the way.