Central Van Lines review 2026 (Pittsburgh, PA)
In business since 1996 · Updated
Central Van Lines is a Pittsburgh, PA mover ranked #10 of 10 Pittsburgh movers and #107 of 208 in Pennsylvania with a 3.70/5 rating.
93% of Central Van Lines' 59 verified customer reviews are positive. Customers most often praise its consistency and follow-up, while the most common complaint involves delayed arrival or delivery.
Central Van Lines has been in business since 1996. Ratings reflect moveBuddha’s independent analysis of customer reviews and FMCSA records.
How Central Van Lines measures up
Across 59 reviews, Central Van Lines in Pittsburgh, PA has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Central Van Lines ranks #107 out of 208 movers in Pennsylvania with a moveBuddha Score of 3.70 out of 5.
What goes into our score
Each category is scored out of 5. The line shows the overall score of 3.70.
- Customer service
- 3.6
- Industry experience
- 3.6
- Review quality
- 3.5
- Brand
- 3.0
- Website
- 3.0
Better Business Bureau
Based on BBB profile
Is Central Van Lines moveBuddha Certified?
Central Van Lines 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. Central Van Lines 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 Central Van Lines?
Out of 59 verified reviews, 93% of customers left a positive review about Central Van Lines in Pittsburgh, PA. 5.1% of reviews are negative and 1.7% are neutral. Central Van Lines has a 4% higher positive review percentage than the average Pennsylvania moving company (93% vs the Pennsylvania state average of 89%).
- Positive93.2%(55)
- Neutral1.7%(1)
- Negative5.1%(3)
Based on 59 reviews across Google, Yelp, and other review sites.
What customers like about Central Van Lines
Consistency and follow-up
Reviewers liked that Central Van Lines stayed in touch before and after the move to ensure everything went smoothly.
Organized packing
Central Van Lines is often recognized for labeling boxes clearly and packing with structure and care.
Respectful of property
Customers appreciated how carefully Central Van Lines's team maneuvered furniture through tight spaces without damaging walls or floors.
Careful handling
Belongings are treated with caution, and many customers report zero damage thanks to Central Van Lines's attention to detail.
Efficient service
Many customers praise Central Van Lines for completing moves smoothly and with minimal downtime.
What positive reviewers say
“Mark and the crew were awesome. They showed up on time, worked fast, and handled all my stuff carefully. The move was smooth and less stressful than expected. I’d recommend them as a reliable moving company.”
TenfouuuVerified ReviewerGoogle“The crew that did the packing, loading, delivery, and unloading was exceptional. They treated our belongings the way we would have done it ourselves. Professional, courteous and determined to make our move as easy as possible.”
Warren GundermanVerified ReviewerGoogle“From start to finish our moving process was so easy! Blending 2 houses was not an easy task, but the quote, moving, and unpacking were easy. So glad we chose Central Van Lines!”
James AlbertVerified ReviewerGoogle“Professional, courteous, efficient and fast. I was fully informed about where my shipment was, when it was expected to arrive and when it did arrive. Scheduling the drop off was also very easy.”
Harry FVerified ReviewerGoogle“They packed all household goods in boxes, including many fragile items, and loaded and unloaded the moving van with efficiency and care.”
A H.Verified ReviewerYelp
Most common complaints about Central Van Lines
Delayed arrival or delivery
Several reviewers experienced frustrating delays either on moving day or with final delivery.
Unprofessional behavior
Complaints included movers using foul language, showing up late, or acting inappropriately.
Unreliable timing
Customers reported inconsistent scheduling and lack of punctuality from Central Van Lines.
What negative reviewers say
“The driver was supposed to call the night before delivery, but we could not reach him. He texted at 7 a.m. saying he would arrive at 8 a.m. How unprofessional!”
Purvi S.Verified ReviewerYelp“It was weeks beyond the original guaranteed date before those items arrived. I received no proactive communications and had to keep asking when I would receive them.”
JEMP ScottVerified ReviewerGoogle“Terrible service all around. You wait longer here for fuel than any Penske I’ve ever been to. I’ve been late for appointments when first coming here.”
Philly Phan 1.Verified ReviewerYelp
Central Van Lines
3.70Pittsburgh, PASince 1996
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Central Van Lines
3.70
Pittsburgh, PA · Since 1996
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Central Van Lines, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Pittsburgh.
Compare prices side by side
See where Central Van Lines 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 Central Van Lines offer?
Central Van Lines is a long-distance mover in Pittsburgh, PA, listing 5 services on moveBuddha, including packing, storage, and climate-controlled storage.
Services offered
Is Central Van Lines licensed and insured?
moveBuddha holds no federal licensing record for Central Van Lines in Pittsburgh, PA. That is not the same as the company being unlicensed. Movers operating only within one state are licensed by that state rather than by the FMCSA.
Insurance is a separate question, and one this profile cannot settle: moveBuddha does not receive carriers' insurance filings, so nothing here confirms what cover Central Van Lines holds. Ask for a certificate of insurance before you book.
- FMCSA safety rating
- Not ratedMost carriers are unrated. A rating is only assigned after a compliance review. It is not a failed one.
How much does Central Van Lines cost?
Central Van Lines does not publish hourly rates or flat fees publicly. Based on moveBuddha's data on moving companies operating in Pennsylvania, you can expect to pay approximately $145/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 Pennsylvania moving companies similar to Central Van Lines typically bill the amounts below using a $145/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
Central Van Lines offers interstate moves, which are typically priced by weight and distance. Ranges below reflect totals from similar full-service Pennsylvania 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 Central Van Lines offer?
- Accepts
- Credit Cards
- Deposit
- Not listed, so ask
Central Van Lines accepts credit cards. Deposit policies vary by mover, so ask whether one is required when you request a quote.
How Central Van Lines compares with the top 9 Pittsburgh movers
With a moveBuddha score of 3.70 out of 5, Central Van Lines trails the nine highest-scoring Pittsburgh moving companies, 0.50 points behind Bellhop Moving. Central Van Lines's score rests on 59 reviews, fewer than any of the nine. Where Central Van Lines falls behind is customer service, with the lowest customer service score in the group.
The nine highest-scoring local movers near Pittsburgh, by moveBuddha score.
| # | Mover | Score | Reviews | Yelp | BBB | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Don Farr Moving & StorageWest Mifflin | 4.62 | 204 | 3.6 | 2.2 | A+ |
| 2 | Gardner MovingMcDonald | 4.56 | 168 | 4.7 | 4.6 | A+ |
| 3 | Diversity Moving CompanyMonroeville | 4.48 | 413 | 4.9 | 4.6 | A+ |
| 4 | TWO MEN AND A TRUCKPittsburgh | 4.44 | 871 | 4.8 | 3.4 | A+ |
| 5 | South Hills MoversBethel Park | 4.44 | 496 | 4.1 | 3.0 | A+ |
| 6 | All My Sons Moving & StoragePittsburgh | 4.38 | 3,082 | 4.3 | 1.3 | A |
| 7 | Friendly Movers LLCGIBSONIA | 4.28 | 258 | 4.8 | 4.5 | A+ |
| 8 | Miracle MoversPittsburgh | 4.26 | 187 | 4.3 | 1.8 | A |
| 9 | Bellhop MovingPittsburgh | 4.20 | 588 | 4.3 | 3.0 | — |
| 10 | Central Van LinesThis mover · ranks #10 | 3.70 | 59 | — | — | A+ |
How does Central Van Lines compare to other Pennsylvania movers?
- moveBuddha score#107 of 208(worse than average)
3.70vs 3.81 avg
Central Van Lines scores 3.70, below the Pennsylvania average of 3.81, and ranks #107 of 208 Pennsylvania movers.
- Positive reviews#98 of 208(better than average)
93%vs 89% avg
Central Van Lines has 93% positive reviews, above the Pennsylvania average of 89%, and ranks #98 of 208 Pennsylvania movers.
- Negative reviews#91 of 208(better than average)
5%vs 10% avg
Central Van Lines has 5% negative reviews, below the Pennsylvania average of 10%, and ranks #91 of 208 Pennsylvania movers. A lower percentage is better.
- Reviews analyzed#143 of 208(worse than average)
59vs 291 avg
Central Van Lines has 59 reviews analyzed, below the Pennsylvania average of 291, and ranks #143 of 208 Pennsylvania movers.
- BBB rating#64 of 208(better than average)
A+vs A avg
Central Van Lines has a BBB rating of A+, above the Pennsylvania average of A, and ranks #64 of 208 Pennsylvania movers.
- Years in business#35 of 208(worse than average)
30 yearsvs 32 years avg
Central Van Lines has been in business for 30 years, below the Pennsylvania average of 32 years, and ranks #35 of 208 Pennsylvania movers.
| Metric | This moverCentral Van Lines | Pennsylvania avg | Pennsylvania rank | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| moveBuddha score#107 of 208 in Pennsylvania | 3.70 | 3.81 | #107 of 208 | −0.11(worse than average) |
| Positive reviews#98 of 208 in Pennsylvania | 93% | 89% | #98 of 208 | +4 pts(better than average) |
| Negative reviewsLower is better#91 of 208 in Pennsylvania | 5% | 10% | #91 of 208 | −5 pts(better than average) |
| Reviews analyzed#143 of 208 in Pennsylvania | 59 | 291 | #143 of 208 | −232(worse than average) |
| BBB rating#64 of 208 in Pennsylvania | A+ | A | #64 of 208 | +1 step(better than average) |
| Years in business#35 of 208 in Pennsylvania | 30 years | 32 years | #35 of 208 | −2(worse than average) |
Compared with 208 Pennsylvania movers with moveBuddha profiles. Rank #1 is the best in Pennsylvania.
Central Van Lines
3.70Pittsburgh, PASince 1996
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 Central Van Lines, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Pittsburgh.
Compare prices side by side
See where Central Van Lines 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.
Central Van Lines
3.70
Pittsburgh, PA · Since 1996
Final verdict: Central Van Lines
Central Van Lines earns a 3.70/5 moveBuddha Score and ranks #10 among Pittsburgh movers, with 93% positive feedback across 59 customer reviews.
Customers consistently praise its consistency and follow-up and organized packing. It is best for customers prioritizing careful handling of belongings, efficient moves, and reliable service experience.
With a track record dating to 1996, it has less history than the average Pennsylvania mover, and the most common complaint is delayed arrival or delivery.
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 Pennsylvania 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 Central Van Lines
- Phone
- (412) 991-2945
- Website
- centralvan.com
- Profiles
Other Central Van Lines locations
Helpful Pennsylvania moving resources
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.