The bottom line: If you’re organizing a relocation from Montana to Illinois, your costs could range anywhere between $775 and $5,929.
The total you’ll need to budget for a move to the Land of Lincoln depends on multiple factors, such as the volume of your belongings and your chosen moving date. Your moving method from Montana — whether it’s a professional service, DIY, or a hybrid — will also influence the final price.
- Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Superlative: Best for Accurate Quotes
- Availability: 50 states
- Our Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Superlative: Best for Flat-Rate Pricing
- Availability: 48 states (not in AK or HI)
Planning a 1,370 mile move from Montana to Illinois? This guide explains what influences your costs and offers ways to save. Avoid unexpected fees and find a mover that fits your needs and budget.
- Best Long-Distance Movers
- Best Moving Containers
- Best Moving Truck Rentals
- Best Small Load Movers
Check out these options to narrow down your search:
Going the other way? Check out our moving from Illinois to Montana guide.
Cost To Move From Montana to Illinois
You’re starting a new chapter, moving from Montana to Illinois — memories, keepsakes, and all.
Expect professional moving services for this route to cost anywhere from $775 to $5,929. On average, movers in Montana charge $128 per hour for packing, loading, and transporting your items safely.
Below, you’ll find an estimated cost breakdown for your move to the Land of Lincoln.
| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $3,909 – $7,083 | $1,860 – $3,098 | $1,044 – $1,921 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,083 – $8,647 | $2,018 – $3,483 | $1,053 – $1,976 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,453 – $9,694 | $2,455 – $4,199 | $1,217 – $2,284 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,885 – $11,965 | $2,852 – $4,925 | $1,449 – $2,549 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $7,484 – $12,883 | $3,147 – $5,364 | $1,485 – $2,816 |
Cost Factors When Moving From Montana to Illinois
Moving from Montana to Illinois? These factors will shape your total costs:
- Quantity being moved: More possessions mean a higher cost. A few boxes and furniture from a studio are much cheaper to move than the contents of a multi-bedroom home with large, heavy items.
- Move timing: Costs surge in summer due to high demand. Scheduling in the less busy spring or fall months can help you save.
- Distance covered: The longer the move—from Billings, MT to Chicago, IL—the more it’s likely to cost because of added mileage charges.
- DIY or pro movers: Want to save 20%–30%? Handle the move yourself. Just be ready for the workload of transporting everything without help.
- Specialty services: Additional charges come into play if you need things like fragile item packing, piano moving, or disassembly services.
Get Accurate Estimates for Your Move From MT to IL
When moving from Montana to Illinois, getting a detailed and accurate quote can save you money and stress.
Many negative reviews trace back to poor estimates. Don’t settle for unclear or overly generic pricing that could balloon later.
Use these tips to secure an accurate estimate for your long-distance move:
- Ask for an in-home or video walkthrough. Let movers evaluate your belongings firsthand. A video or in-person estimate will be far more accurate than a quick call or online form.
- Request a binding estimate. This gives you price certainty and protects you from increases on moving day—unless you add more items last-minute.
- Get at least three estimates. Comparison helps you understand average costs and spot unrealistic low offers, which can indicate lower quality or hidden fees.
- Check the fine print. Look out for additional costs that may apply to your situation, like tricky access, long walkways, or stairs. Clear communication now avoids problems later.
- Verify all move details. Confirm pickup and delivery times and addresses are accurate and coordinated with your plan.
Learn more about the average cost of movers in Montana.
Best Montana to Illinois Full-Service Moving Companies
Moving from Montana to Illinois means crossing state lines—and that usually means added stress.
Your best bet for a smooth experience is to hire a trusted and cost-effective interstate mover.
We researched dozens of companies and found these top-rated movers to be the best picks for your journey from Montana to Illinois, thanks to stellar reputations and reliable service:
- Safeway Moving
- International Van Lines
- Mayzlin Relocation
- North American Van Lines
- JK Moving Services
1. Safeway Moving
Safeway Moving locks in pricing upfront, so you won’t get hit with surprise charges on long-distance moves. The company handles relocations across all 50 states and includes 30 days of free storage with every move, which can be helpful if your new home isn’t ready right away.
Safeway is known for its military-grade packing standards and commitment to price transparency. If you want a predictable, hands-off move with no hidden fees, it’s a solid option.
2. International Van Lines (IVL)
International Van Lines (IVL) provides full-service long-distance moving across all 50 states, offering everything from packing and storage to furniture disassembly and reassembly. If you’re moving overseas, IVL also has air and ocean freight options.
The company requires a deposit to book, but its flexible cancellation policy allows you to adjust plans if needed. With virtual estimates available, you can get a quote without scheduling an in-home walkthrough.
3. Mayzlin Relocation
Mayzlin Relocation focuses on long-distance moves with a personal touch, offering binding estimates so you know your total cost upfront. The company provides packing, storage, and furniture disassembly, with the option to add white-glove handling for fragile or high-value items.
Unlike some movers, Mayzlin doesn’t hand off jobs to outside crews, ensuring consistency from start to finish. It handles moves across the lower 48 states and builds customized moving plans to fit your needs.
4. North American Van Lines (NAVL)
North American Van Lines (NAVL) has been handling long-distance moves since 1933, with services available in all 50 states. The company provides binding estimates, so you’ll know your cost upfront, and offers full-value protection for extra peace of mind.
One of its standout features is real-time shipment tracking, which lets you follow your move every step of the way. Whether you need full packing services or just transportation, NAVL gives you the flexibility to plan your move your way.
5. JK Moving Services
JK Moving Services lets you customize your long-distance move, whether you want full-service packing or just transportation. The company offers financing — something most movers don’t — so you can pay in installments instead of all at once. GPS tracking, trained crews, and 24/7 customer support help keep everything on schedule
With experience handling moves since 1982 and service across the US, JK Moving is a strong choice for a flexible and stress-free relocation.
Learn more about the best movers in Montana.
DIY Montana to Illinois Moving Options
Montana to Illinois Moving Containers
If you’re looking to move from Montana to Illinois on a budget, renting a moving container is a smart alternative to hiring full-service movers or driving a truck yourself.
You pack at your own pace, and the company transports the container for you. With many offering storage options, it’s a flexible choice that keeps things simple if your schedule changes.
These moving container companies stand out as the best for your interstate move from Montana to Illinois:
1. PODS
PODS gives you flexibility with long-distance moves by letting you pack at your own pace. You can keep the container in your driveway, store it at a PODS facility, or have it delivered straight to your new home. Pricing is transparent, with month-to-month rental options, and there’s no rush to unload since you keep the container as long as needed.
2. U-Pack
With U-Pack, you only pay for the space you use on a moving trailer or in a ReloCube, making it a budget-friendly choice for interstate moves. Unlike PODS, you have just three days to load and unload, but transportation is included in the price. There’s no deposit required, and U-Pack regularly offers discounts, including savings for military members and students.
Montana to Illinois Moving Truck Rentals
Feeling confident about driving? Renting a moving truck is among the most affordable ways to relocate from Montana to Illinois. You’ll pack and load everything yourself, but you’ll also enjoy full control over your timing and route.
Truck rental services offer different sizes—from compact vans to large box trucks—so there’s an option whether you’re moving light or heavy.
Below are the top truck rental providers in Montana:
1. Budget Truck Rental
Budget Truck Rental keeps costs low with frequent discounts, including deals for students, military members, and AARP members. One-way rentals for interstate moves include unlimited miles, so you won’t get hit with extra fees for going over a mileage cap. Budget’s fleet isn’t as big as U-Haul’s, but if you find a location near you, it’s often one of the cheapest ways to move.
2. Penske Truck Rental
Penske trucks are well-maintained and newer than most competitors, reducing the chances of breakdowns on a long drive. Unlimited mileage is included on all one-way moves, making it ideal for cross-country trips where you don’t want to worry about tracking every mile. Penske also partners with AAA to offer discounts, and there are additional savings for college students and military members.
3. U-Haul
U-Haul has the largest truck rental network in the U.S., which means there’s a good chance you’ll find a location nearby. One-way rentals don’t include unlimited mileage like some competitors, but U-Haul often beats other companies on base rental prices. If you need flexibility, U-Haul also offers trailer rentals and the option to hire loading help through its Moving Help marketplace.
Montana to Illinois Small Load Movers
Many traditional moving companies aren’t ideal for small moves because of their minimum size requirements. If you’re going from Montana to Illinois with a lighter load, a specialized small move company is likely a better (and more cost-effective) option.
Here are our top picks for small load movers serving the Montana to Illinois route:
1. MovingYourself
MovingYourself is a cost-effective option for small moves, since you pay only for the truck space you need. Instead of renting an entire moving truck, you load your belongings into a designated section of a commercial trailer, keeping costs low. The company handles transportation, so you don’t have to drive a rental truck across state lines.
2. MiniMoves
MiniMoves specializes in small interstate moves, making it a solid option if you’re relocating a studio apartment or just shipping a few pieces of furniture. Unlike most full-service movers, MiniMoves doesn’t have high weight minimums, so you’re not stuck paying for space you don’t need. Packing and loading services are available, and the company offers custom crating for fragile or high-value items.
Living in Montana vs. Illinois
Every state is unique, from the economy to the weather to the people who live there. Here are a few key differences between living in Montana and Illinois to consider before your move.
Cost of living
| Metric | Montana | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $974 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $462,631 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,341 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 100 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | 5.3% |
| Average sales tax | Not available | Not available |
| State income tax | 6.75% | 4.95% |
Weather
| Metric | Montana | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Summer high | 84ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 12ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 15″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 49″ | 22″ |
Demographics
| Metric | Montana | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,132,812 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Republican 58.4-38.5 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Crime index | 23.37 | 19.7 |
Things To Do in Illinois
Moving can be overwhelming, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to explore a brand-new place, with new things to do.
Luckily, there’s plenty to discover in Illinois.
Popular Attractions in Illinois
- Millennium Park
- Navy Pier
- The Magnificent Mile
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Shedd Aquarium
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Starved Rock State Park
- Garden of the Gods – Shawnee National Forest
- Lincoln Park Zoo
- Anderson Japanese Gardens
Museums in Illinois
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Caterpillar Visitors Center
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
- Museum of Hummels
- Fabyan Villa Museum & Japanese Garden
- World’s Tallest Man Statue
- Halim Time & Glass Museum
- Museum of Science and Industry
- Graue Mill & Museum
Parks in Illinois
- Starved Rock State Park
- Matthiessen State Park
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Pere Marquette State Park
- Kankakee river State Park
- Shawnee National Forest
- Castle Rock State Park
- Rock Cut State Park
- Giant city State Park
- Ferne Clyffe State Park
FAQs
What are the benefits of moving from Montana to Illinois?
Some of the benefits of moving from Montana to Illinois include:
- Home of chicago
- Ample economic opportunity
- Bountiful recreational opportunities
- Delicious food
- World-class sports culture
Who regulates interstate moves out of Montana?
For interstate moves, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the agency that oversees all safety regulations for moving companies that handle moves out of Montana.
The FMCSA also makes sure all moving companies are registered through the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and maintain a USDOT number.
When is the worst time to move to Illinois?
The worst time to move to Illinois is during the summer months, when the weather is at its hottest and moving costs are at their highest due to the peak season.
How far in advance should I book movers from Montana to Illinois?
You should book your move from Montana to Illinois as far in advance as possible, but the rule of thumb is between three and six months ahead of moving day.
This will help ensure you get the moving date you want, and some companies may even offer an early-bird discount for booking early.
Should I get in-home estimates for a move from Montana to Illinois?
It’s a lot easier to get an online estimate for your move from Montana to Illinois, but this could cost you in the long run.
Taking a little extra time for an in-home or virtual walkthrough of your home will help ensure your mover accurately quotes you a price based on the amount of items you have and the size and layout of your home.
What’s the cheapest way to move from Montana to Illinois?
The cheapest way to move from Montana to Illinois is likely to rent a moving truck and handle the move yourself.
While this can save you some money, keep in mind that a DIY move means you’ll be doing the heavy lifting and driving on your own.
If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of moving, a full-service company, while more expensive, might be the better option.
What should you do when you arrive in Illinois?
Moving is more than just getting your stuff from Montana to Illinois. You also need to handle logistics to settle into your new home.
Here’s what to add to your to-do list for a seamless move:
- Forward your mail and change your address for things like banks, credit cards, tax agencies, and insurance companies.
- Contact local utility companies in Illinois to get your internet, cable, electricity, water, and gas set up.
- Plan for a safe transition by installing a security system, testing smoke detectors, and changing the locks on your new home.
- Register your car and visit the Illinois DMV for a new driver’s license.
- Plan a housewarming party and start exploring your new neighborhood in Illinois!
How We Chose the Top Montana to Illinois Moving Companies
To ensure we provide accurate and reliable recommendations, we use a thorough evaluation process to rate and review local and long-distance movers across the U.S. in these key categories:
- Pricing and payment options: Transparent pricing is a major factor. We assess whether companies offer flat-rate pricing and binding estimates to help customers avoid unexpected fees and stay within budget. We also look for multiple payment options (credit card, cash, and check).
- Services: We examine a company’s packages to see which services come standard and which ones come at an added cost, helping customers find the most comprehensive services at the most affordable rate.
- Customer feedback: We analyze online reviews from consumer review sites like the BBB, Yelp, Trustpilot, and Google and look for common praises and complaints.
- Reputation: A company’s reputation is crucial. We look at industry ratings, compliance with regulations, and whether they carry sufficient insurance to protect customers’ belongings.
- Add-on options: We evaluate optional services that carry an extra fee — like fragile-only packing, custom crates, and specialized handling of electronics — can make a move easier, especially if they’re not commonly offered by other companies.
- State availability: The number of states a company serves is key. Companies with a national reach are ranked higher than those within just the contiguous U.S. or with more limited availability.
- Ease of scheduling: We give higher ratings to companies that offer straightforward and accessible scheduling options to get things moving quickly.