Local moving companies in Illinois
When making the move from Illinois to Columbus, OH, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.
Out of 78 Illinois movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Columbus, OH.
- STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Mighty Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 139020
Pricing: $150/hr
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 1308599
Alternate Names: STI Moving & Storage, Inc.
STI Moving & Storage Inc., serving Skokie, IL since 2004, has established itself as a reputable choice for local residential moving. Standing out from competitors, STI boasts an impressive Google rating of 4.7 from over 1000 reviews and holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized handling for fragile items and antiques. With a competitive rate of $150 per hour and options for full valuation insurance coverage, they cater to a variety of moving needs, ensuring peace of mind for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 214845
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2882675
Alternate Names: HK & RP, LLC
Alliance Moving & Storage has been providing dependable local residential moving services in and around Rolling Meadows, IL, since 2016. With an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 3.8 on Google, they have earned a solid reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby competitors, Alliance Moving & Storage stands out with their comprehensive offerings, including packing and unpacking services, as well as specialized capabilities to move pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. They accept both cash and credit cards, and no deposit is required, making them a convenient and flexible choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 158051
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 3078026
Alternate Names: Windy City Moving, Inc.
New City Moving, a reputable moving company based in Chicago, IL, has been providing local residential moving services since 2010. With an impressive 4.7 average rating from 1,096 Yelp reviews and a 4.8 average rating from 2,393 Google reviews, they stand out among nearby movers. They also boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction. Beyond local moves, New City Moving offers office moving, packing, and unpacking services, along with full valuation insurance coverage. They accept both cash and credit cards, ensuring a flexible payment process.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 3
DOT #: 3788656
Alternate Names: Heroic Moving & Storage Experts
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 136144
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 3383907
The Professionals Moving Specialists, serving Chicago, IL, since 2005, are a highly reputable local moving company specializing in residential relocations. With an impressive 4.6 average rating from 1013 Yelp reviews and a perfect 5.0 from 3993 Google My Business reviews, they stand out as a top choice compared to other area movers. They also boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. The company offers a variety of services, including packing, unpacking, and fragile-only packing, as well as the ability to move specialized items such as pianos, pool tables, and antiques. Known for their customer satisfaction and comprehensive services, The Professionals Moving Specialists are well-equipped to handle all local moving needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Illinois to Columbus, OH
The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from Illinois to Columbus, OH, by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $918 – $2,771 | $586 – $1,460 | $329 – $583 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,648 – $4,482 | $1,072 – $2,196 | $344 – $743 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,641 – $6,630 | $1,537 – $2,741 | $457 – $872 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 372-mile move from Illinois to Columbus, OH using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of authenticated price data points from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Your end price can vary by shipment size, added services, parking/access limitations, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing several mover quotes to confirm pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Illinois to Columbus, OH
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Illinois to Columbus, OH, you can expect prices to land between $918 and $2,771. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,648 to $4,482. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $2,641 and $6,630.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Columbus, OH
Moving containers from Illinois to Columbus, OH, will cost you $586 to $1,460 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,072 to $2,196. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,537 to $2,741. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Illinois.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Illinois to Columbus, OH
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $329 and $583 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Illinois to Columbus, OH with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $344 to $743. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $457 to $872.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Compare local moving companies from Illinois to Columbus, OH
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| STI Moving & Storage Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Alliance Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| New City Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Mighty Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| The Professionals Moving Specialists | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
Considering the 3,175 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how Illinois movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:
| Illinois | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 97% | 96% |
| Antiques | 48% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 1% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 2% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Illinois to Columbus, OH
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Columbus, OH stacks up against Illinois. We’ll cover everything, from cost of living and the social scene to daily life and can’t-miss attractions in your area.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Columbus, OH
| Illinois | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,179 | $1,441 |
| Average home cost | $249,224 | $238,832 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,433 | $65,075 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90 | 91 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% | 5.7% |
| State Income Tax | 4.95% | 3.5% |
Columbus sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 22% more expensive in Columbus than in Illinois, so be sure to plan ahead and allocate additional funds.
- Home prices in Columbus are on par with those in Illinois, so the buying experience should feel pretty familiar. Still, keep an eye on local market trends, as they could impact your housing options.
- Salaries in Columbus are typically about 17% lower than in Illinois. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
- Unemployment in Columbus runs 8% above Illinois, so be proactive with networking and applications.
- Income taxes are 29% lower in Ohio than in Illinois, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.
How life is different in Columbus from Illinois
| Columbus | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 905,748 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Republican 55-14 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high | 85ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 21ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 40″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 22″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 49.65 | 19.7 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Columbus voted Republican and Illinois voted Democratic.
- Summers in Columbus typically reach highs of 85ºF, which is comparable to the average 86ºF in Illinois. The temps in your new home shouldn’t come as a shock. However, be sure to consider the area’s humidity, local weather patterns, and changes in energy expenses for a complete picture of what summer will feel like in your new home.
- During the coldest months, Columbus sees lows of 21ºF, about the same as Illinois, which hits 17ºF. With similar winter temperatures, your move should go smoothly.
- You can expect about 40 inches of rain each year in Columbus, almost the same as the 40 inches you’d encounter in Illinois. Even though the annual rainfall is similar, different weather patterns and rainfall timing might still change up your daily routine.
- In Columbus, you’ll get about 22 inches of snow each year. Meanwhile, Illinois usually sees around 22 inches annually. With snowfall levels being similar, you shouldn’t run into any surprising weather issues after you move.
- Crime rates in Columbus are higher than in Illinois, with a crime index of 49.65 versus 19.7. This isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s worth researching local safety and thinking about how it might affect your daily life.
Things to do in Columbus
From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Columbus can meet a wide variety of interests.
Museums in Columbus
- Beeler Gallery
- Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum
- Central Ohio Fire Museum
- Columbus Historical Society
- Columbus Museum of Art
Parks in Columbus
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
- Scioto Mile
- Topiary Garden
- Schiller Park
- Whetstone Park / Park of Roses
Sports teams in Columbus
- Columbus Crew (MLS)
- Ohio State Buckeyes (NCAA)
- Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL)
- Columbus Clippers (AAAE)
Universities in Columbus
- Ohio State University
- Columbus State Community College
- Capital University Law School
- Columbus College of Art
- Design, Fortis College
Other considerations when moving to Columbus, OH
- HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Ohio, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can check your Ohio moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to Ohio, but you should check local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Ohio. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Illinois to Columbus take?
The time it takes to move from Illinois to Columbus, OH varies based on where you’re starting and the type of move you pick. No matter which option you choose, loading up your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it on your own.
If you’re heading to Columbus from northern Illinois, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Moving your belongings from Illinois to Columbus typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Illinois to Columbus?
Because of the 372-mile move, it’s best to book your move from Illinois to Columbus as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Columbus, OH?
With summer temperatures reaching 85°F and winter nights dipping to 21°F, most people make the move from Illinois to Columbus in the spring or fall. If you want to skip the crowds during peak moving seasons and potentially save some cash, consider scheduling your move in the summer or winter instead.
Helpful moving resources
Illinois moving services
Popular Illinois routes
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