What to Expect from missionvanlines.com

When engaging with missionvanlines.com, you should expect to interact with a moving brokerage service rather than a direct moving carrier.

This is a crucial distinction that the website explicitly states.

Their primary function is to connect you with an FMCSA-authorized motor carrier from their network that will physically transport your household goods.

Therefore, your direct interaction for the actual move, including pricing details, service specifics, and dispute resolution, will largely be with the selected carrier, coordinated by Mission Van Lines.

Role as a Moving Broker

Understanding their brokerage model is key to setting the right expectations.

• Intermediary Service: Mission Van Lines acts as the middleman, facilitating the connection between you and a licensed moving company. They do not own trucks or employ movers who will handle your belongings directly.
• Network of Carriers: Expect them to work with a network of “reputable” and FMCSA-authorized motor carriers. The quality and specific services of these individual carriers will vary.
• Coordination and Arrangement: Their role is primarily coordination and arrangement, meaning they handle the logistics of finding a suitable carrier for your move.
• Tariff-Based Pricing: The website mentions that “All estimated charges and final actual charges will be based upon the carrier’s tariff.” This means the final cost will be determined by the specific carrier’s published rates, which you are advised to inspect upon reasonable request.
• Quote Process: Expect to submit a “Request a Quote” form, after which Mission Van Lines will likely contact you to gather more details about your move to provide an estimate and find a suitable carrier.

Service Scope and Limitations

While they promise “seamless moving,” their direct service scope is limited to brokering.

• No Direct Transportation: Do not expect Mission Van Lines employees or trucks to arrive at your door for packing or loading.
• Dependence on Carrier Quality: The ultimate quality of your move—packing, loading, transportation, and delivery—will depend entirely on the specific motor carrier they assign. Mission Van Lines’ responsibility lies in finding and coordinating with a licensed carrier.
• Limited Direct Control over Move Execution: While they facilitate, their direct control over the minute-by-minute execution of your move by the carrier is likely limited once the carrier is engaged.
• Focus on Interstate Moves: Their declaration as an “interstate household goods broker” suggests their primary focus is on moves across state lines, rather than local, intrastate moves.
• No Direct Storage or Specialized Services: The homepage doesn’t explicitly mention direct storage facilities or highly specialized moving services (e.g., pianos, fine art) offered by Mission Van Lines itself, though their network carriers might offer these.

What to Prepare for as a Customer

As a consumer, you’ll need to be proactive and informed when using a broker like Mission Van Lines.

• Thorough Due Diligence: You should be prepared to conduct your own due diligence on the specific carrier Mission Van Lines assigns to you. Verify that carrier’s FMCSA license, check their safety record, and look for independent reviews.
• Requesting Carrier Tariffs: Be prepared to request and carefully review the assigned carrier’s tariff documentation. This document outlines all charges, services, and conditions. Understanding this before signing any agreement is critical to avoid unexpected costs.
• Detailed Inventory and Communication: Be meticulous in providing a detailed inventory of your belongings and clear communication about your moving needs to Mission Van Lines, as this information will be passed on to the carrier.
• Understanding Contracts: Pay close attention to the contract provided by the carrier, as this will be the legally binding agreement for your move. Understand cancellation policies, liability for damages, and payment terms.
• Potential for Multiple Points of Contact: You might communicate with Mission Van Lines for coordination and then with the actual carrier for operational details, potentially leading to two points of contact.

Is missionvanlines.com Legit?