Allen & Coles Moving Systems review 2026 (Portland, ME)
In business since 1986 · Updated
Allen & Coles Moving Systems is a Portland, ME mover ranked #4 of 9 Portland movers and #4 of 25 in Maine with a 4.36/5 rating. It is one of the 10 top-ranked movers in Maine.
90% of Allen & Coles Moving Systems' 266 verified customer reviews are positive. Customers most often praise its flexibility, while the most common complaint involves damage to items.
In business since 1986, Allen & Coles Moving Systems holds active FMCSA registration (USDOT #070851). Ratings reflect moveBuddha’s independent analysis of customer reviews and FMCSA records.
How Allen & Coles Moving Systems measures up
Across 266 reviews, Allen & Coles Moving Systems in Portland, ME is rated 4.6/5 on Google (239 reviews) and 2/5 on Yelp (4 reviews), and has a B- rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Allen & Coles Moving Systems ranks #4 out of 25 movers in Maine with a moveBuddha Score of 4.36 out of 5.
What goes into our score
Each category is scored out of 5. The line shows the overall score of 4.36.
- Brand
- 5.0
- Website
- 5.0
- Industry experience
- 5.0
- Customer service
- 4.4
- Review quality
- 4.2
Google rating
Based on 239 reviews
Yelp rating
Based on 4 reviews
Better Business Bureau
Based on BBB profile
Is Allen & Coles Moving Systems moveBuddha Certified?
Allen & Coles Moving Systems is not moveBuddha Certified. Certified movers are licensed carriers vetted by moveBuddha and spot-checked every quarter. They meet higher standards for insurance, pricing transparency, and customer care.
With a Certified mover, moveBuddha does the vetting for you and provides added protection. Allen & Coles Moving Systems hasn't gone through that certification process, so it's important to check licensing, insurance, estimates, and claims policies yourself before booking.
What movebuddha certified movers offer
- Up to $1,000 in added move coverage*. Extra protection for eligible moves.
- Vetted for licensing and insurance**. We verify state-required insurance for local movers and liability and cargo coverage for interstate movers.
- Dedicated moveBuddha support. Help through the move process.
- Dispute mediation. moveBuddha steps in if issues arise.
Before you book, check:
- USDOT and MC numbers. Look up the license and complaint history on FMCSA's site.
- Insurance coverage. Ask for proof of liability and cargo insurance.
- A written estimate. Binding or not-to-exceed, with every fee listed.
- The claims process. Ask how damage claims are filed and how long they take.
* Added move coverage is not replacement-value insurance, or insurance, or an indemnity of any kind. About moveBuddha Certified
** Local movers must hold insurance that meets state requirements for local moves. Interstate movers must carry auto liability of at least $750,000, general liability of at least $1M, and motor truck cargo coverage at or above $5,000 per vehicle and $10,000 per occurrence.
What do customers say about Allen & Coles Moving Systems?
Out of 266 verified reviews, 90% of customers left a positive review about Allen & Coles Moving Systems in Portland, ME. 10.2% of reviews are negative and 0.4% are neutral. Allen & Coles Moving Systems has a 2% higher positive review percentage than the average Maine moving company (90% vs the Maine state average of 88%).
- Positive89.5%(238)
- Neutral0.4%(1)
- Negative10.2%(27)
Based on 266 reviews across Google, Yelp, and other review sites.
What customers like about Allen & Coles Moving Systems
Flexibility
Clients liked that Allen & Coles Moving Systems was willing to adjust schedules or accommodate last-minute changes.
Consistency and follow-up
Reviewers liked that Allen & Coles Moving Systems stayed in touch before and after the move to ensure everything went smoothly.
Good communication
Reviewers frequently mention clear, consistent updates from Allen & Coles Moving Systems throughout the moving process.
Quick response times
Customer support at Allen & Coles Moving Systems was often noted for responding to questions or concerns almost immediately
Friendly and approachable staff
Many customers felt at ease working with the courteous and personable team at Allen & Coles Moving Systems.
What positive reviewers say
“Tim was efficient and accommodated my request for a change in move-in date with short notice. The crew was on time and professional.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “Everyone we encountered was quick to respond, and Mark kept us updated throughout our cross-country move.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “The team showed up ready to roll, were kind, efficient, and communicated with me throughout the day.”
Ellen BerubeVerified ReviewerGoogle“They were responsive from start to finish. Their estimate was accurate, and the movers were friendly, fast, and efficient.”
Brittney BarrVerified ReviewerGoogle“The team was highly responsive, easy to work with, and took incredible care of our belongings. They were affordable and efficient.”
Kate MVerified ReviewerGoogle
What mixed reviewers say
“Professional, but slow. I spent 10 hours getting unloaded.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer
Most common complaints about Allen & Coles Moving Systems
Damage to items
Some customers reported that items were damaged during packing or loading.
Unexpected charges
Hidden fees or surprise costs caused dissatisfaction among some Allen & Coles Moving Systems clients.
Lack of communication
Poor or inconsistent updates from Allen & Coles Moving Systems left some customers feeling in the dark.
What negative reviewers say
“I paid approximately $8,000 and am now dealing with roughly $16,000 in damaged property. Communication and follow-up about my claim have been extremely frustrating.”
Cody RidlerVerified ReviewerGoogle“Allen & Coles failed to return most of my mother's calls, broke promises, and charged her more than the estimate without cause.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “The business was not upfront about its billing practices. We received paperwork a week after the job and were then told to pay a four-hour minimum.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “My leather sofa was severely damaged, and the claims department took over two months to respond. I received only about 25% of the amount requested.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “Our shipment was not scheduled despite a signed contract. Communication was abysmal, and it arrived two weeks after the initial load date.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer
Allen & Coles Moving Systems
4.36Portland, MESince 1986
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Allen & Coles Moving Systems
4.36
Portland, ME · Since 1986
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Allen & Coles Moving Systems, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Portland.
Compare prices side by side
See where Allen & Coles Moving Systems lands against similar movers.
Vetted movers only
Licensing and reviews checked, just like this page.
Free, no obligation
Nothing is booked until you choose a mover.
What services does Allen & Coles Moving Systems offer?
Allen & Coles Moving Systems handles local moves, long-distance moves, and international moves from Portland, ME, with services including small moves, packing, and fragile-only packing.
Services offered
- Full-service moving
- Local & in-state moving
- Long-distance moving
- International moving
- Office & commercial moving
- Small moves
- Packing
- Fragile-only packing
- Packing materials
- Custom crating
- Storage
- Climate-controlled storage
- Piano moving
- Fine art
- Antiques
- Debris removal
- Full valuation coverage
Is Allen & Coles Moving Systems licensed and insured?
Federally licensed, operating authority active
US DOT 070851 Check on SAFER
Verified against the FMCSA, not by moveBuddha
Yes, Allen & Coles Moving Systems is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under US DOT number 070851, as NORTH AMERICAN VAN LINES INC, and its operating status is currently active.
Insurance is a separate question, and one this profile cannot settle: moveBuddha does not receive carriers' insurance filings, so nothing here confirms what cover Allen & Coles Moving Systems holds. Ask for a certificate of insurance before you book.
- Registered legal name
- NORTH AMERICAN VAN LINES INCThe entity behind the trading name, as filed with the FMCSA
- FMCSA safety rating
- SatisfactoryAssigned after a compliance review
- Miles driven
- 33,152,156Reported to the FMCSA for 2024
- Roadside inspections
- 0Recorded by the FMCSA
- FMCSA record last updated
- May 2026
How much does Allen & Coles Moving Systems cost?
Allen & Coles Moving Systems does not publish hourly rates or flat fees publicly. Based on moveBuddha's data on moving companies operating in Maine, you can expect to pay approximately $225/hr. Total local-move costs from similar movers typically run $400–$750 for a studio or 1-bedroom, $850–$1,750 for a 2-3 bedroom, and $1,700–$3,400 for a 4+ bedroom home. Long-distance (500-1,000 mi) 2-3 bedroom moves from similar movers typically run $4,500–$7,500.
What similar movers typically bill for a local move
Full-service Maine moving companies similar to Allen & Coles Moving Systems typically bill the amounts below using a $225/hr rate for a 2-person crew and scaling up for larger homes that need more movers and hours.
| Home size | Typical total | Time and crew |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $400–$750 | 3–5 hours, 2 movers |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $850–$1,750 | 5–8 hours, 2–3 movers |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,700–$3,400 | 8–12 hours, 3–4 movers |
What similar movers typically bill for a long-distance move
Allen & Coles Moving Systems is licensed for interstate moves, which are typically priced by weight and distance. Ranges below reflect totals from similar full-service Maine moving companies.
| Home size | Distance | Typical total |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 bedrooms | 500–1,000 mi | $4,500–$7,500 |
| 4+ bedrooms | 500–1,000 mi | $7,000–$11,500 |
What payment options and discounts does Allen & Coles Moving Systems offer?
- Accepts
- No credit cards
- Deposit
- Not listed, so ask
Allen & Coles Moving Systems does not list any accepted payment methods on moveBuddha. Confirm how they take payment before moving day. Deposit policies vary by mover, so ask whether one is required when you request a quote.
How Allen & Coles Moving Systems compares with the top 8 Portland movers
With a moveBuddha score of 4.36 out of 5, Allen & Coles Moving Systems places fourth when ranked against the eight top-scoring movers in Portland, just behind Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine and 0.08 points ahead of Midwest Moving Company. Allen & Coles Moving Systems stands out with a quote accuracy score higher than six of the eight.
The eight highest-scoring local movers near Portland, by moveBuddha score.
| # | Mover | Score | Reviews | Yelp | BBB | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TWO MEN AND A TRUCKWestbrook | 4.44 | 931 | 4.8 | 2.8 | A+ |
| 2 | Bisson Moving & StorageWestbrook | 4.42 | 244 | 4.3 | 2.1 | A+ |
| 3 | Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of MainePortland | 4.38 | 236 | 3.8 | 3.4 | A |
| 4 | Allen & Coles Moving SystemsThis mover · ranks #4 | 4.36 | 266 | 4.6 | 2.0 | B- |
| 5 | Midwest Moving CompanyBiddeford | 4.28 | 262 | 4.8 | — | C |
| 6 | Tiny Tim's MovingPortland | 4.16 | 86 | 4.3 | 3.8 | A+ |
| 7 | Integrity MoversScarborough | 4.14 | 276 | — | 2.7 | — |
| 8 | SC Moving ServicesSouth Portland | 4.12 | 182 | 5.0 | 4.8 | — |
| 9 | Local Muscle MoversPortland | 3.94 | 645 | — | 3.7 | A+ |
How does Allen & Coles Moving Systems compare to other Maine movers?
- moveBuddha score#4 of 25(better than average)
4.36vs 3.87 avg
Allen & Coles Moving Systems scores 4.36, above the Maine average of 3.87, and ranks #4 of 25 Maine movers.
- Positive reviews#11 of 25(better than average)
90%vs 88% avg
Allen & Coles Moving Systems has 90% positive reviews, above the Maine average of 88%, and ranks #11 of 25 Maine movers.
- Negative reviews#15 of 25(level with average)
10%vs 10% avg
Allen & Coles Moving Systems has 10% negative reviews, in line with the Maine average of 10%, and ranks #15 of 25 Maine movers. A lower percentage is better.
- Reviews analyzed#5 of 25(better than average)
266vs 201 avg
Allen & Coles Moving Systems has 266 reviews analyzed, above the Maine average of 201, and ranks #5 of 25 Maine movers.
- Yelp rating#10 of 25(worse than average)
2.0vs 3.0 avg
Allen & Coles Moving Systems has a Yelp rating of 2.0, below the Maine average of 3.0, and ranks #10 of 25 Maine movers.
- BBB rating#12 of 25(worse than average)
B-vs A- avg
Allen & Coles Moving Systems has a BBB rating of B-, below the Maine average of A-, and ranks #12 of 25 Maine movers.
- Years in business#4 of 25(better than average)
40 yearsvs 27 years avg
Allen & Coles Moving Systems has been in business for 40 years, above the Maine average of 27 years, and ranks #4 of 25 Maine movers.
| Metric | This moverAllen & Coles Moving Systems | Maine avg | Maine rank | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| moveBuddha score#4 of 25 in Maine | 4.36 | 3.87 | #4 of 25 | +0.49(better than average) |
| Positive reviews#11 of 25 in Maine | 90% | 88% | #11 of 25 | +2 pts(better than average) |
| Negative reviewsLower is better#15 of 25 in Maine | 10% | 10% | #15 of 25 | ±0 pts |
| Reviews analyzed#5 of 25 in Maine | 266 | 201 | #5 of 25 | +65(better than average) |
| Yelp ratingBased on only 4 reviews#10 of 25 in Maine | 2.0 | 3.0 | #10 of 25 | −1.0(worse than average) |
| BBB rating#12 of 25 in Maine | B- | A- | #12 of 25 | −3 steps(worse than average) |
| Years in business#4 of 25 in Maine | 40 years | 27 years | #4 of 25 | +13(better than average) |
Compared with 25 Maine movers with moveBuddha profiles. Rank #1 is the best in Maine.
Allen & Coles Moving Systems
4.36Portland, MESince 1986
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Allen & Coles Moving Systems, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Portland.
Compare prices side by side
See where Allen & Coles Moving Systems lands against similar movers.
Vetted movers only
Licensing and reviews checked, just like this page.
Free, no obligation
Nothing is booked until you choose a mover.
Allen & Coles Moving Systems
4.36
Portland, ME · Since 1986
Final verdict: Allen & Coles Moving Systems
Allen & Coles Moving Systems earns a 4.36/5 moveBuddha Score and ranks #4 among Portland movers, with 90% positive feedback across 266 customer reviews.
Customers consistently praise its flexibility and consistency and follow-up. It is best for customers prioritizing strong communication, crew professionalism, and reliable service experience.
With a track record dating to 1986, it has more history than the average Maine mover, and the most common complaint is damage to items.
All ratings reflect moveBuddha's analysis updated October 2026, based on independent research and verified customer reviews.
Why moveBuddha?
- 30%+Average savings
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before booking.
Calculate your Maine moving cost - $1,000Added move coverage*
When you choose a moveBuddha Certified mover, you get $1,000 in added move coverage*, plus dedicated support throughout your move.
- 1-on-1Dispute mediation
If something goes wrong, moveBuddha provides dispute mediation with Certified movers to help resolve the issue and protect your move.
* Added move coverage is not replacement-value insurance, or insurance, or an indemnity of any kind.
Contact Allen & Coles Moving Systems
- Phone
- (207) 370-6323
- Website
- acmoving.com
How we score moving companies
Every mover on moveBuddha is scored on the same six factors, weighted by how much each one changes a move.
- Quotes & payment optionsWeighs most
The heaviest factor, because price certainty is where moves go wrong. We reward estimates you can hold a mover to, and terms disclosed before you pay.
- Online reputationMajor factor
An objective read from third parties rather than from the mover. The Google rating for the company's headquarters sets the band; Trustpilot, BBB, and independent review sites are read alongside it.
- ServicesMajor factor
The range a mover can actually cover, scored across seven categories, with extra credit for the uncommon ones most companies hand off to a subcontractor.
- Customer supportSupporting factor
How easily you can reach a human, and how clearly the mover sets expectations before, during, and after the move. Verified against company documentation and direct outreach.
- Review feedbackSupporting factor
A company's share of positive customer feedback, converted straight to points, with no curve and no editorial adjustment.
- State availabilityMinor factor
The lightest factor, and deliberately so: wide coverage helps more readers reach a mover, but it says nothing about how good the move will be.
What the scores are built on
- 4,500+Moving companies analyzed
- 1M+Authenticated reviews
- 25+Independent data sources
- 1,000+Live price points a month
- $0Paid for a ranking
- MonthlyRefreshed and re-verified
Written by
Ryan CarriganCo-founder, moveBuddha
Ryan Carrigan is the co-founder of moveBuddha and a leading voice in the moving industry, helping hundreds of thousands of Americans make smarter, safer relocation decisions each year. With more than a decade of experience analyzing moving companies, pricing trends, and industry regulations, Ryan brings hands-on industry knowledge and data-driven insight to every guide and review. His research has been featured in Forbes, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, and NBC News.