Here’s the bottom line: The average cost of hiring professional movers in Illinois is $192.14 per hour. Your overall cost will be influenced by distance, weight, and additional services.
Compare the cost of Illinois movers by type:
Cost of Long-Distance Moves in Illinois
Long-distance moves in Illinois are calculated based on weight, mileage, and the selected services and add-ons like packing. The cost for a move within 500 miles ranges from $2,474 – $4,488, while moves over 1,000 miles may cost up to $6,000 or more.
Top Interstate Movers in Illinois
1. Safeway Moving, Inc.
Started in Florida in 2020, Safeway Moving rapidly earned a reputation as a top and trustworthy company. They prioritize efficient and timely moves at fair prices. Safeway offers full-service moving, 24/7 customer support, flat-rate pricing, a price-match guarantee, and special deals and resources for seniors.
The company can handle long-distance relocations in all 50 U.S. states, as well as international moves.
Get a quote: Safeway Moving
2. International Van Lines
Established in 2000, International Van Lines is a top moving company serving over 180 countries worldwide. They handle local, long-distance, and international moves, providing services like packing, auto transport, and 30 days of free storage. IVL is praised for its great customer service, fair prices, and special discounts for seniors and veterans.
Get a quote: International Van Lines
3. Mayzlin Relocation
Mayzlin Relocation, a family-owned moving company on the East Coast, prioritizes customer satisfaction. They provide 24/7 support, binding flat-rate pricing, 30 days of free storage, and full refunds for cancellations made seven days in advance. Mayzlin manages long-distance moves across 48 states and local moves in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, North Carolina, Oregon, and Texas. The company ensures reliability with its round-the-clock customer support.
4. BLVD Moving
BLVD Moving, located in California, focuses on both local and long-distance moves within the U.S. This family-run business offers affordable prices with guaranteed estimates and same-day quotes. Their services cover packing, furniture assembly, storage coordination, and careful handling of fragile items. BLVD hires full-time professional movers and does not use subcontractors. They also provide a flexible rescheduling policy. Known for their efficient quoting process and dependable service, BLVD Moving is a standout choice.
5. American Van Lines
American Van Lines, based in Florida, is a full-service moving company with skilled crews and expertise in long-distance moves. They offer packing, storage, and special care for items such as antiques and pianos. Operating across the continental U.S., they provide flat-rate pricing to prevent unexpected charges.
Get a quote: American Van Lines
Cost of Local Illinois Movers
The cost of local movers in Illinois varies based on where you live in the state, as well as your home size, and the services you select. On average, expect to pay $483 – $1,488 for a local move in cities like Chicago. Local movers typically charge by the hour, with generally higher rates in urban areas.
Top Local Movers in Illinois
- Alliance Moving & Storage, 4.96 out of 5.0
- H2H Movers Inc, 4.96 out of 5.0
- New City Moving, 4.9 out of 5.0
- Mid-West Moving & Storage, 4.86 out of 5.0
- Move-tastic, 4.86 out of 5.0
Alliance Moving & Storage
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 25
- Years in business: 2016
- State License: 214845
- Phone: (847) 378-4949
- Address: 3201 Tollview Drive, Rolling Meadows, IL, 60008
Alliance Moving & Storage surpasses the competition in the Chicago area with its comprehensive moving and packing services for both local and long distance residential clients. Established in 2015, this seasoned company has steadily built up a reputation that outshines others in the field. Among their offerings is office moving, making them a versatile choice for both individuals and businesses. With services extending to packing, unpacking, and extra-attention crating, they expertly handle all aspects of the moving process. Notably, they specialize in moving more difficult items such as pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, and safes. This level of industry prowess is hard to match in comparison to other local moving companies. Payment convenience is another edge for customers as they accept both cash and credit cards without requiring a deposit. It’s the little things like this that add to their overall customer experience. And an experience it is, backed by a solid online presence with an average rating of 4.0 on Yelp from 22 reviews, and 3.8 from 33 Google reviews. Additionally, their recognition with an A+ rating from Better Business Bureau is a testament to Alliance Moving & Storage’s commitment towards delivering a consistently high standard of service. Their full valuation insurance coverage ensures that in the unlikely event of damage, clients are guarded against any losses. Alliance Moving & Storage thus stands out as a reliable, comprehensive, and customer-centric moving company in and around the Chicago area.
H2H Movers Inc
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 401
- Years in business: 2015
- State License: 184599
- Phone: (773) 236-8797
- Address: 4250 N Marine Dr Aparment #1136, Chicago, IL, 60613
H2H Movers Inc is a comprehensive moving company based in Chicago, IL. Since 2014, they have distinguished themselves by offering a wide range of services including local and long-distance residential moves, office moves, and specialized services such as piano, hot tub, pool table, art, antiquities, and safe moving. Compared to other local moving companies, H2H stands out for its additional offerings like packing, unpacking, crating services, labor-only services, and fragile-only packing. They even provide crane vans for heavy items, which is a rarity among their competition. In addition, they offer the convenience of payment through both cash and credit cards, storage facilities if needed, and full valuation insurance coverage for peace of mind. H2H requires a deposit, which is standard practice in the industry. The company enjoys a solid reputation online, boasting a 4.5 average rating from 372 Yelp reviews, a 4.8 average from a whopping 1,216 Google reviews, and an A- rating from the Better Business Bureau.
New City Moving
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 1096
- Years in business: 2009
- State License: 158051
- Phone: (773) 489-0600
- Address: 2929 N Campbell Ave, Chicago, IL, 60618
Since its establishment in 2009, New City Moving has become a premier moving company in the Chicago area, providing a comprehensive range of services that set them apart from their competitors. They offer not only local and long-distance residential moving services, but also office transitions, showcasing a versatility that is rare in the industry. Uniquely, they provide both packing and unpacking services to ease the stress of moving, even accommodating fragile-only packing needs. This customer-focused approach extends to their payment options, accepting both cash and credit cards, albeit with a deposit. In a market where trust is paramount, their high ratings across Yelp (4.5 from over a thousand reviews), Google My Business (4.8 from over two thousand reviews), and an A+ Better Business Bureau rating demonstrate they excel in customer satisfaction. The company phases in a layer of security with full valuation insurance coverage, underscoring their commitment to their clients’ peace of mind. One could argue that with such a strong track record, New City Moving raises the bar for moving companies in the Chicago area.
Mid-West Moving & Storage
- BBB Rating: A+
- Reviews analyzed: 78
- Years in business: 1985
- State License: 75043
- Phone: (847) 593-7201
- Address: 1255 Tonne Rd, Elk Grove Village, IL, 60007
Mid-West Moving & Storage reigns as a comprehensive and trusted provider of moving services in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. In business since 1983, this seasoned company outshines local competitors with its wide range of offerings. From local to international residential moves, office relocations, and specialized services for military and seniors—Mid-West covers it all. Uncommon among its peers, Mid-West extends packing, unpacking, crating services, and even provision of crane vans for cumbersome items. Specific to fragile or unique possessions, they specialize in handling pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, and safes with utmost care. They also offer storage options and provide shipment tracking, ensuring peace of mind to their customers throughout the moving process. Payment convenience is assured with credit card acceptance and full valuation insurance coverage is provided. Despite a somewhat mixed Yelp rating of 3.0, they boast an outstanding Google profile rating of 4.7 based on 372 reviews and hold an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. A deposit is required for securing their services, testament to their high demand in the moving industry.
Move-tastic
- BBB Rating: C
- Reviews analyzed: 921
- Years in business: 2009
- State License: 158678
- Phone: (773) 715-3227
- Address: 3100 N. Tripp Ave., Chicago, IL, 60641
Established in 2008, Move-tastic is a leading moving company offering an array of services in and around Chicago, IL. Unlike many other moving companies in the area, Move-tastic goes beyond providing just local residential and office moving services. They also offer packing, unpacking, and crating services, ensuring that all your valuable items, whether sturdy or fragile, are handled with utmost care. For those needing specific assistance, they provide labor-only services and even have the expertise to move specialized items like hot tubs. The company’s top rating among competing moving companies is validated by their impressive online reviews. With 898 reviews on Yelp, they boast an average rating of 4.6 and have earned an exceptional 4.9 rating from 1288 reviews on Google My Business. Further testifying their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is their superb A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Move-tastic accepts a variety of payment methods, including cash and credit cards, and requires no deposit. This easy and flexible approach make them a go-to choice among customers. With their exceptional services and remarkable customer reviews, Move-tastic clearly stands out as a top-tier moving company in the Chicago area.
See a list of all the best movers in Illinois
Cost of Small Load Movers in Illinois
Small load movers are ideal for moves under 2,000 pounds, such as a studio or small one-bedroom apartment. Costs range from $317 – $1,492, depending on the specifics of your move. Factors like how far you’re moving, the types of items you have, and whether you choose any add-on options will impact your price.
Top Small Load Movers in Illinois
1. U-Pack
U-Pack is an excellent option for small moves because you only pay for the container space you use. Their “you load, we drive” model is economical and perfect for those with fewer items. U-Pack provides quick delivery, covers the whole country, and offers online tracking for your convenience. However, U-Pack doesn’t handle local moves, restricts loading/unloading to three business days, and charges fees for cancellations made within a week of the move.
2. Transit Systems Inc.
Transit Systems, Inc. (TSI), located in Pennsylvania, focuses on small moves, long-distance relocations, and secure shipping of delicate, valuable, and large or heavy items. Their services include white-glove packing, custom crating, car shipping, and guaranteed delivery dates. Since starting in 1989, TSI has built a reputation for reliability and great customer service in the contiguous U.S. They are ideal for one- to two-bedroom moves and offer clear pricing with personalized quotes.
3. uShip
uShip is an online marketplace linking customers with drivers and movers who have extra truck space, providing an affordable option for small moves, furniture, vehicle transport, or equipment shipping. Customers post their needs and receive competitive bids through a pay-as-you-go model. Perfect for flexible schedules, uShip can reduce costs for long-distance and interstate moves. However, prices and service quality can differ based on the independent driver offering their services on uShip.
Cost To Rent a Moving Truck in Illinois
Renting a truck in Illinois costs $30-$100 per day, plus mileage fees and fuel costs. Popular rental companies often charge additional fees for one-way trips.
Top Moving Truck Rentals in Illinois
1. Penske
Penske Truck Rental provides cost-effective and dependable moving trucks, complete with roadside assistance and guaranteed reservations, for both local and long-distance DIY moves. They offer clear pricing and unlimited mileage for one-way trips, eliminating extra mileage fees. With various truck sizes and additional options like towing equipment and moving supplies, Penske has you covered. Seasonal promotions and discounts for military members, AAA, and students offer further savings on your self-managed move.
2. Budget
Budget Truck Rental operates in all 50 states and offers an easy online reservation system. They make DIY moving more accessible without extra fees. Their base rates are very competitive, include unlimited mileage for long-distance trips, and they offer discounts for students, military personnel, and AARP members. They provide various truck sizes to fit anything from studio apartments to entire households.
3. U-Haul
U-Haul offers rental trucks across the U.S. with over 20,000 locations nationwide and in Canada. They provide various vehicles such as cargo vans, pickups, and trucks from 10 to 26 feet. Local rentals charge by the mile, while long-distance moves include a set mileage allowance. Extras like trailers, moving containers, and storage units help tailor your move to your needs.
Cost of Moving Containers in Illinois
Moving containers cost anywhere from $482 – $4982, depending on factors like container size and distance.
Top Moving Container Companies in Illinois
1. PODS
PODS provides flexible storage and DIY moving solutions with portable containers, letting customers pack at their own pace. The containers come in three sizes: eight, 12, and 16 feet, and are rented on a monthly basis. This rental plan includes storage time, ideal for those who need flexibility around their move. PODS services local and long-distance moves across the U.S., except in Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, and Wyoming.
2. U-Pack
U-Pack is available nationwide and offers clear pricing, making it both affordable and convenient. Costs are kept low as you pay only for the space you use in their 28-foot trailers or smaller ReloCubes. Fuel, driving, and transport are included, so you just need to handle packing and unloading. There are no monthly storage fees – charges are based on transit. U-Pack’s sturdy, weatherproof containers and fast delivery help ensure your items arrive safely at your new home.
Moving Cost Factors in Illinois
- Distance: Longer distances increase costs, since moving estimates also include the cost of fuel, as well as driver time and any toll roads.
- Home size: Larger homes require more time and resources to complete and may require a larger moving crew.
- Season: Moving during the peak summer season and on weekends is more expensive because demand is higher.
- Add-ons: Optional services like packing, storage, or specialty items will increase your costs.
- Insurance: If you want additional protection beyond the moving company’s free coverage, you will have to purchase a comprehensive plan.
Tips To Cut Moving Costs in Illinois
- Move during the off-season. Scheduling your move during the moving industry’s slower time of year (mid-September though early May) could save you some money. Movers typically charge more during their peak season due to high demand. Planning a move outside of the busy summer months can also help ensure you get the exact moving date you want.
- Declutter. Cleaning out your attic, garage, and closets is a good first step in the packing process — and one that can save you money. Since long-distance movers charge by weight, the less you have, the lower your rate will be. Plus, if you hold a yard sale or sell your items through an online marketplace, you may even make a little extra cash you can put towards your move.
- Handle packing on your own. While it may be tempting to hire movers to wrap and box everything up, professional packing is a sure way to drive up your moving costs. Reserving movers just for loading and unloading and doing the packing yourself will keep your moving expenses lower, particularly if you can get some free boxes from friends, family, or area businesses.
- Shop around. We recommend getting quotes from at least three companies so you can get the most accurate comparison of pricing and services. And since some movers offer price-matching guarantees, a little comparison shopping could result in additional discounts.
- Ask about discounts. Many moving companies provide discounts for one or more special groups like students, senior citizens, active military, veterans, first responders, and educators. Seasonal promotions might also be available, so make sure to check when you contact a company for a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire professional movers in Illinois?
It costs $192.14 per hour, on average, to hire professional movers in Illinois. Your specific costs will depend on cost factors like how much stuff you have, as well as when and where you are relocating.
How much should I tip movers in Illinois?
You should tip movers between 10% and 20% of the total cost — or about $5-$10 per moving crew member for each hour they work. Tipping movers is not mandatory but is considered a customary gesture if you are satisfied with the service.
What is the cheapest way to move in Illinois?
The cheapest way to move in Illinois is to rent a moving truck and handle loading and transportation on your own.