International Van Lines: Moving is one of the most stressful experiences a person can face, and yet it is something millions of people must go through every year. In such an environment, trust, professionalism, and reliability matter more than anything else.
Among the companies that have managed to carve a lasting name in the relocation industry, International Van Lines (IVL) stands out as a leader that grew from a small licensed mover into one of the most recognized providers in the United States. The company’s story is one of grit, innovation, and a relentless focus on customer satisfaction.
Building on a Licensed Foundation
International Van Lines began with a specialized license from the Federal Maritime Commission, allowing it to operate as an international moving company. Rather than limiting itself to this niche, IVL used its foundation as a springboard to expand into the U.S. domestic moving market.
By combining expertise in global logistics with strategic investments in marketing and partnerships, the company built visibility in both international and national relocation services. Over time, IVL evolved into a household name by committing to service quality and customer trust.
Today, it is one of the largest private moving companies in the nation, handling more than 20,000 relocations each year.
International Van Lines: Innovation in the Digital Age
One of the hallmarks of IVL’s success has been its ability to embrace innovation. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when traditional in-home moving surveys were nearly impossible, the company developed its own software called MoveOne.
This tool allowed customers to record the contents of their homes virtually, replacing the need for in-person estimates. The results were not only effective but also faster than the traditional process. Customers welcomed the convenience, and the software has since become a key part of IVL’s operations. By solving an immediate problem, IVL created a long-term asset that keeps it ahead of industry competitors.
Quality Control at Scale
Managing tens of thousands of moves each year is no small feat, yet IVL has built systems to ensure that growth does not compromise quality. The company uses a proprietary CRM system that tracks shipments in real time, giving both staff and customers full visibility. Each move begins with a detailed intake process designed to capture customer needs, timelines, and compliance requirements.
The company also invests heavily in staff training, certifications, and compliance with U.S. and international regulations. Quality assurance teams monitor everything from packing standards to international documentation, ensuring consistency across its network. This combination of technology and human expertise allows International Van Lines to maintain reliability at scale.
Recognition and Customer Trust
Being ranked as the number one mover by outlets such as Forbes, Move.org, and Consumer Affairs has been a game-changer for International Van Lines. In an industry where customers often feel uncertain about who to trust, such endorsements act as powerful reassurance. Third-party recognition validates IVL’s claims and demonstrates that its commitment to service is more than just marketing. These rankings also help the company stand out in a competitive market, reinforcing customer loyalty and confidence.
Helping Customers Save
Relocating internationally can be costly, but IVL provides clear strategies to help customers reduce expenses. Purging belongings before a move is one of the most effective ways to cut costs since pricing is largely based on shipment size and weight. Customers are encouraged to sell, donate, or recycle items that are not essential, which also makes settling into a new home easier. Another option is self-packing non-fragile items like clothes or linens while leaving fragile or high-value items to IVL’s professional team. Flexibility in scheduling and careful preparation of customs documents can also lower expenses. These steps, combined with IVL’s guidance, allow customers to move more efficiently without unnecessary financial strain.
Balancing Global and Domestic Growth
Although IVL has expanded aggressively within the U.S., it has never lost sight of its original mission to serve international relocations. The company carefully integrates its domestic infrastructure—such as warehouses, staff, and logistics platforms—into its global operations. This dual expertise ensures that a customer moving across the country receives the same seamless experience as someone moving across continents. IVL also maintains partnerships with overseas agents and invests in specialized training for international regulations and customs requirements. Its global-first mission remains intact, even as its U.S. presence grows.
A Culture of Care and Community
The leadership of CEO and founder Joshua Morales has had a profound influence on IVL’s culture. Morales is known not only for his entrepreneurial drive but also for his deep commitment to giving back. He has supported struggling families, rehabilitation programs, and pro bono moving services for survivors of domestic violence. Alongside his wife, he has adopted children from foster care and continues to dedicate personal resources to community causes. This generosity has created a company culture rooted in compassion and integrity. Employees see their work as more than just a job, and that sense of purpose translates into the way they treat customers.
Tackling Industry Challenges
The moving industry is notorious for issues such as delays, damages, and unexpected charges. IVL addresses these challenges by combining preventative measures with transparency. Real-time logistics software helps minimize delays, while highly trained staff and quality packing materials reduce the risk of damage. The company also emphasizes upfront pricing, explaining variables like customs fees or storage charges so customers are not caught off guard. By addressing these pain points directly, IVL has built a reputation as a mover that people can count on in an industry where trust is often fragile.
The Visionary Behind the Company
Joshua “Josh” Morales embodies the entrepreneurial spirit that has fueled IVL’s rise. He entered the logistics industry at 18, working for a freight forwarding firm, and when that company shut down, he struck out on his own. By his early twenties, Morales was running IVL from his bedroom and had already become the youngest person in U.S. history to secure an ocean freight license from the Federal Maritime Commission. His vision was to create a moving company that blended global expertise with personal care. Today, IVL operates in more than 150 countries and manages tens of thousands of relocations annually. Morales continues to lead with the same mix of grit, innovation, and heart that defined the company’s early days.
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