How Much Do Movers Cost in Illinois?

đź’ˇHere’s the bottom line: Local moves in Illinois typically cost $494 – $1,494 depending on size and time. Long-distance moves out of the Land of Lincoln range from $2,465 – $5,380 based on mileage, weight, and services.

We recommend getting free quotes from multiple Illinois movers to get the most accurate estimate.

Compare the Cost of Illinois Movers by Type

Moving Cost Factors in Illinois

  • Distance: Longer moves are more expensive because of higher fuel use, longer driver hours, and possible toll fees. Local moves are usually charged by the hour, while long-distance moves depend on weight and distance.
  • Home size and volume of belongings: Bigger homes take more time to move and need more movers and a larger truck, leading to higher labor and equipment costs.
  • Access challenges: Additional charges might be added for long-distance carries, stairs, elevators, or limited parking that needs a shuttle. Movers increase their fees when it’s hard to access your home.
  • Specialty items: Transporting pianos, antiques, safes, or artwork usually needs special care or crating, increasing your total cost.
  • Add-ons and services: Optional services such as packing, unpacking, storage, or furniture disassembly and reassembly will cost more but can save you time and reduce stress.
  • Season and timing: Moving during summer, weekends, and the end of the month is costly due to high demand. You’ll usually find better rates on weekdays or during off-peak times like winter.
  • Insurance coverage: Basic coverage is usually included, but you can get better protection for valuable items with full-value protection or third-party insurance at an extra cost.
  • Storage needs: If you need storage for a short or long time, be prepared to pay more, especially if you want climate control or need it for a long period.

Tips To Cut Moving Costs in Illinois

  • Move during the off-season. Movers usually cost more in the summer and on weekends. To save money, try to move between mid-September and early May when demand is lower.
  • Declutter before you pack. The less you move, the less you’ll pay, especially for long-distance moves where costs depend on weight. Get rid of items you don’t need by donating, selling, or throwing them away. A yard sale or online sales can help reduce your moving expenses.
  • Do your own packing. Hiring movers to pack is convenient, but it can be expensive. Save money by packing yourself with supplies you already have or by getting free boxes from local stores or friends.
  • Compare quotes from multiple movers. Obtain quotes from a minimum of three licensed companies to compare prices, services, and availability. Some movers might match competitors’ prices or offer bundled discounts.
  • Ask about available discounts. Many movers provide discounts for students, military members, seniors, educators, and first responders. They might also have seasonal promotions, so it’s worth asking about them when you request a quote.

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 $482 – $1492 for a local move in cities like Chicago.

The prices below are estimates for local moves (typically 50 miles or less) and are based on the average hourly rate of $192.14 for a moving crew in Illinois.

Home size Avg. total cost # of movers # hours
Studio $576 2 movers 3 hours
1 bedroom $769 2 movers 4 hours
2 bedrooms $961 3 movers 5 hours
3 bedrooms $1537 4 movers 8 hours
4 bedrooms $1729 4 movers 9 hours
5+ bedrooms $1921 5 movers 10 hours

Top Local Movers in Illinois

STI Moving & Storage Inc.

7400 Niles Center Rd, Skokie, IL, 60077
Our Score:
4.96 / 5.0
Established in 2005, STI Moving & Storage Inc. has been diligently serving Skokie, IL with expert residential and office moving services. Unlike the competition, they offer a comprehensive suite of services, including packing, unpacking, crating, and even provision of crane vans whenever necessary. They also specialize in the movement of fragile and unique items, such as pianos, pool tables, art pieces, antiques and grandfather clocks. STI Moving & Storage further distances themselves from other local movers with their “labor only” service and optional storage availability. A fully insured entity, they charge a competitive fee of $139 per hour for local moves and conveniently accept credit cards. A deposit is required, but peace of mind is immediately returned through their full valuation insurance coverage. Their reputation for reliability is well-documented with an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, a hefty 1012 reviews averaging a 4.7-star rating on Google My Business, and 294 Yelp reviews averaging a 3.0-star rating.
Get A Quote (847) 675-1223

Company Info

  • BBB Rating: A+
  • Reviews analyzed: 309
  • Founded: 2005
  • State License: 139020
  • Phone: (847) 675-1223
  • Address: 7400 Niles Center Rd, Skokie, IL, 60077

Services Offered

  • Antiques
  • Art
  • Cancellation policy
  • Climate controlled storage
  • Crating
  • Deposit required
  • Fragile only packing
  • Full service
  • Full valuation coverage
  • Instant email quote
  • Interstate
  • Intrastate
  • Labor only
  • Other discounts
  • Packing
  • Packing materials available
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Piano
  • Pool table
  • Small moves
  • Storage
  • Unpacking

Planes Moving & Storage Company

1100 Bilter Road, Aurora , IL, 60504
Our Score:
4.96 / 5.0
Planes Moving & Storage Company, a reputable name in the moving industry, has been ensuring hassle-free relocations since 1920. This Aurora, IL-based business stands out in the local, long-distance, and international moving arena, offering diverse services that even rival companies fail to provide comprehensively. Their specialties extend beyond standard residential moves, encompassing office moving, piano and pool table transfers, as well as careful transport of art and antiques. With additional services like packing, unpacking, and crating, they demonstrate a commitment to tailored customer experiences. Unlike many companies, Planes Moving & Storage doesn’t require a deposit and accepts credit card payments for the utmost convenience. Their superior service is validated by an average Yelp rating of 3.0 from 20 reviews and an impressive Google My Business rating of 4.7 from 320 reviews. Their track record of consistent quality is further confirmed by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, solidifying their position as a leading choice for those seeking an all-inclusive, customer-focused moving service.
Get A Quote (630) 381-6952

Company Info

  • BBB Rating: A+
  • Reviews analyzed: 19
  • Founded: 1921
  • State License: 7545
  • Phone: (630) 381-6952
  • Address: 1100 Bilter Road, Aurora , IL, 60504

Services Offered

  • Antiques
  • Art
  • Cancellation policy
  • Crating
  • Full service
  • Instant email quote
  • Interstate
  • Intrastate
  • Junk removal
  • Other discounts
  • Packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Piano
  • Pool table
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Unpacking

New City Moving

2929 N Campbell Ave, Chicago, IL, 60618
Our Score:
4.9 / 5.0
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.
Get A Quote (773) 489-0600

Company Info

  • BBB Rating: A+
  • Reviews analyzed: 1194
  • Founded: 2009
  • State License: 158051
  • Phone: (773) 489-0600
  • Address: 2929 N Campbell Ave, Chicago, IL, 60618

Services Offered

  • Cancellation policy
  • Climate controlled storage
  • Deposit required
  • Fragile only packing
  • Full service
  • Full valuation coverage
  • Instant email quote
  • Interstate
  • Intrastate
  • Labor only
  • Other discounts
  • Packing
  • Packing materials available
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Small moves
  • Storage
  • Unpacking

The Professionals Moving Specialists

3918 N Western Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60618
Our Score:
4.9 / 5.0
The Professionals Moving Specialists, a well-established mover since 2004, have carved a niche for themselves in Chicago, IL, by offering a comprehensive suite of services, both for local and long-distance residential moves. Unlike many movers in the vicinity, they also handle office moves with utmost professionalism. Their unique selling proposition includes specialized packing, unpacking, and crating services, ensuring a secure and smooth transition. Moreover, their ability to carefully move fragile items such as pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, and safes makes them stand out from their competitors. They are also commended for their convenient payment options, accepting cash, credit cards, and money orders without requiring a deposit. Full valuation insurance coverage is provided, reaffirming their customer-centric approach. The testament to their dependable service is their outstanding online reputation, evidenced by the 4.6 average rating from 1013 reviews on Yelp, the perfect 5.0 average from a whopping 3993 reviews on Google My Business, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Comparatively, The Professionals Moving Specialists have set a high standard in the moving industry in and around Chicago.
Get A Quote (888) 225-7351

Company Info

  • BBB Rating: A+
  • Reviews analyzed: 1086
  • Founded: 2005
  • State License: 136144
  • Phone: (888) 225-7351
  • Address: 3918 N Western Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60618

Services Offered

  • Antiques
  • Art
  • Cancellation policy
  • Climate controlled storage
  • Crating
  • Fragile only packing
  • Full service
  • Full valuation coverage
  • Instant email quote
  • Interstate
  • Intrastate
  • Labor only
  • Other discounts
  • Packing
  • Packing materials available
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Pay by money order
  • Piano
  • Pool table
  • Safes
  • Small moves
  • Storage
  • Unpacking

Mid-West Moving & Storage

1255 Tonne Rd, Elk Grove Village, IL, 60007
Our Score:
4.86 / 5.0
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.
Get A Quote (847) 593-7201

Company Info

  • BBB Rating: A+
  • Reviews analyzed: 78
  • Founded: 1984
  • State License: 75043
  • Phone: (847) 593-7201
  • Address: 1255 Tonne Rd, Elk Grove Village, IL, 60007

Services Offered

  • Antiques
  • Art
  • Cancellation policy
  • Climate controlled storage
  • Crating
  • Deposit required
  • Dod certified
  • Fragile only packing
  • Full service
  • Full valuation coverage
  • Hot tub
  • Instant email quote
  • Interstate
  • Intrastate
  • Junk removal
  • Labor only
  • Other discounts
  • Packing
  • Packing materials available
  • Pay by credit card
  • Piano
  • Pool table
  • Safes
  • Shipment tracking
  • Small moves
  • Storage
  • Unpacking

See a list of all the best movers in Illinois.

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 $2,463 – $4,472, while moves over 1,000 miles may cost up to $6,000 or more.

Top Interstate Movers in Illinois

1. Safeway Moving

Started in Florida in 2020, Safeway Moving has rapidly gained a reputation as a popular and trusted moving company. Safeway is known for its efficient and timely moves at fair prices. Along with their full-service options, they offer 24/7 customer support, flat-rate pricing, a price-match guarantee, and special discounts and resources for seniors.

The company can handle long-distance relocations in all 50 U.S. states, as well as international moves.


2. International Van Lines

International Van Lines, established in 2000, is a top moving company with operations in more than 180 countries. They handle local, long-distance, and international moves, provide packing services, car transport, and offer 30 days of free storage. IVL is recognized for great customer service, fair prices, and discounts for seniors and veterans.


3. Mayzlin Relocation

Mayzlin Relocation, a family-owned moving company, has locations on the East Coast. They focus on customer satisfaction by offering 24/7 support, flat-rate pricing, 30 days of free storage, and full refunds for cancellations made a week in advance. They manage long-distance moves in 48 states and local moves in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, North Carolina, Oregon, and Texas. With 24/7 support, Mayzlin ensures reliable communication.


4. BLVD Moving

BLVD Moving, located in California, handles both local and long-distance moving across the U.S. As a family-owned business, they focus on affordability, offering binding estimates and same-day quotes. Their services cover packing, furniture assembly, storage coordination, and the care of fragile items. BLVD uses full-time professional movers and does not rely on subcontractors. They offer flexible rescheduling and are known for their efficient quoting process and dependable service.


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 handling for items like antiques and pianos. They serve the entire continental U.S. and guarantee flat-rate pricing to prevent unexpected charges.


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 $312 – $1482, 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 a top option for small-load moves thanks to its flexible pricing. You only pay for the space you fill in their containers. The “you load, we drive” system is affordable and perfect for moving minimal items. U-Pack provides quick delivery, serves the entire country, and offers online tracking for convenience and reliability. However, it doesn’t cover local moves, limits loading and unloading to three business days, and charges a fee if you cancel within a week of your move.


2. Transit Systems Inc.

Transit Systems, Inc. (TSI) from Pennsylvania focuses on small moves, long-distance relocations, and shipping delicate, valuable, oversized, or heavy items. They offer a range of services such as white-glove packing, custom crating, car shipping, and guaranteed delivery dates. Since 1989, TSI has been reliable and known for great customer service in the contiguous U.S. Perfect for one- to two-bedroom moves, they offer clear pricing with customized quotes.


3. uShip

uShip is a website that links customers with drivers and movers who have extra room in their trucks. It’s a budget-friendly choice for small moves, furniture, vehicles, or equipment transport. Customers can list their needs and receive bids through a pay-as-you-go system. uShip is great for those with flexible schedules and can save on long-distance and interstate moves. However, prices and service quality can differ based on the driver you choose.


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. Budget

Budget Truck Rental operates in all 50 states and offers an easy online reservation system, making DIY moving more accessible without extra fees. They provide some of the lowest base rates in the industry, including unlimited mileage for long-distance trips, and offer discounts for students, military personnel, and AARP members. They have various truck sizes suitable for studio apartments to full household moves.


2. Penske

Penske Truck Rental provides cost-effective and dependable moving trucks 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 any extra mileage fees. You can choose from a variety of truck sizes and add-ons, such as towing equipment and moving supplies. Penske also offers seasonal promotions and discounts for military, AAA members, and students, helping you save more on your move.


3. U-Haul

U-Haul makes renting a truck simple across the U.S. and Canada. With over 20,000 locations, they offer a wide range of vehicles, from cargo vans and pickups to 10- to 26-foot trucks. Local rentals charge by the mile, while long-distance rentals include a set mileage. You can also add trailer rentals, moving containers, and self-storage units to tailor your move.


Cost of Moving Containers in Illinois

Moving containers cost anywhere from $482 – $4,989, depending on factors like container size and distance.

Top Moving Container Companies in Illinois

1. PODS

PODS provides portable storage and DIY moving solutions, letting customers pack without tight deadlines. Their containers come in three sizes: eight, 12, and 16 feet, rented monthly. This pricing includes storage time, ideal for flexible moving schedules. PODS services cover 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 has clear pricing, making it both affordable and convenient. Costs stay low because you pay only for the space you use in their 28-foot trailers or smaller ReloCubes. Unlike rental trucks, fuel, driving, and transport are included, so you only need to pack and unload. There are no monthly storage fees—pricing is based on the transit. U-Pack’s sturdy, weatherproof containers and fast delivery help ensure your items remain safe during the move.


Illinois Moving Regulations and Your Consumer Rights

If you’re hiring professional movers in Illinois, it’s important to understand your rights and what rules moving companies must follow. Knowing the basics can help you avoid scams, overcharges, and damaged items.

Licensing Requirements

All interstate moving companies must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a valid USDOT number. You can look up a mover’s credentials using the FMCSA’s mover search tool.

Estimate rules and pricing transparency

Movers are required to provide a written estimate — either binding (a fixed price) or non-binding (an estimate that may change based on actual weight and services). For interstate moves, FMCSA regulations apply. For local moves in Illinois, companies often charge by the hour, and you should receive a breakdown of labor, travel time, and any extra fees.

Your rights if something goes wrong

  • Loss or damage: All licensed movers are required to offer basic liability protection, which typically covers $0.60 per pound per item. This is minimal coverage, so you may want to purchase full-value protection for valuable belongings.
  • Filing a complaint: If you’re unsatisfied with your mover, you can file a complaint with the FMCSA for interstate moves or with the Illinois Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division for in-state moves.
  • Dispute resolution: Reputable movers in Illinois will offer arbitration or formal dispute resolution for claims that can’t be resolved directly. Be sure to ask how they handle claims before signing a contract.
Facts about Illinois
Population
12,549,689
Average Income
$78,433
Average House Value
$249,224
Average Rent
$1,179
Crime Index
A score from 0 to 100 indicating overall crime level—higher means more crime.
19.7
Cost Of Living Index
Shows local costs as a percentage of the U.S. average (100%)—higher means more expensive.
90%

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.

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