Why Use a Van Line

Many companies have shipping needs, and in today's world many individuals have shipping needs also. I can recall the first time I visted EBay. Amoung my first thoughts were ... If I buy this Dining Room Set, how will it get here, UPS does not take furniture ... do they?

As the population continues to globalize, shipping and the transfer of goods becomes a critical part of all commerce. It is very immportant to understand what methods you should use to accomplish an economical solution for your shipping needs.

Companies and Consumers alike are faced with this need on a daily basis. 3 commonly used methods of shipment transportation in the U.S. are:

• Small Parcel (UPS, DHL, etc..)
• Common Carrier (Yellow, Bullet, etc..)
• Van Lines (United, Mayflower, etc..)

Common Carrier vs. Van Line

Common Carrier
Everything is moved by Forklift. If it can't be forked its skewered. If it can't be skewered its pushed. This method is great for low cost items that can stand a beating. Common Freight trucks do not secure loads inside. They simply pack the truck as full as possible and drive. This means that if you have any thing unpackaged you can count on scrapes, holes, dents etc.. If you have something in a crate, it may or may not arrive ok. Because the trailers are spring ride there is a lot of bumping, hoping, and smashing in transit. For this reason Fragile or High Value Goods are not regularly shipping via Common Carrier.

Van Line
Items are moved by hand, Pallet Jack, or Fork Lift where applicable. All the loads are secured using straps. Pricing is offered for Blanket Wrap Service and Non-Blanket Wrap Service. Blankets are used to protect your shipments from the damage that can occur with you move un packed items. Another major difference with many Van Lines is the usage of Air-Ride Trailers. I can not speak high enough about this technology. The difference in the back of the trailer during transit is remarkable. No hoping and shifting just a smooth ride. Most Van Lines also offer Liftgate equipped trailers for ground level service and additional labor for inside service.

Once you have decided to use a van line, you may have quite a few different questions. Here are a few common answers that any Van Line Shipper should know.

Who owns the Van Line if there are Independant Agents?
- Learn about Van Line Ownership Models -

What is an Agent Network, and how does it affect the Customer?
- Learn about Van Line Agency Networks -

How does a person choose the best Agent and Van Line?
- Learn about Van Lines and Agents -

Is there specific Terms and Language that I should be aware of?
- Learn the Lingo -