Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($1,134) Cost to Move From Charlotte, NC to Chicago, IL

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 756 miles from Charlotte to Chicago typically costs between $596 and $5,378. The trip is expected to last from two–seven days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from Charlotte to Chicago

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Charlotte to Chicago

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Charlotte to Chicago much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In Charlotte, there are 34 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Chicago.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Charlotte to Chicago

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 756-mile move from Charlotte to Chicago using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,622 – $4,224
  • Moving Container $1,013 – $1,955
  • Rental Truck $516 – $1,010
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,210 – $5,378
  • Moving Container $1,314 – $2,527
  • Rental Truck $596 – $1,188
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,471 – $7,576
  • Moving Container $1,707 – $3,291
  • Rental Truck $712 – $1,411
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Budget Truck Rental
Lincolnton, NC North Aurora, IL
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 19, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Hemby Bridge, NC Hillside, IL
Studio apartment
Sep 23, 2025
United Van Lines
Harrisburg, NC Bellwood, IL
2 Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Fairview, NC Country Club Hills, IL
Studio apartment
Sep 01, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Ranlo, NC Thornton, IL
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 27, 2025
PODS
Davidson, NC Clarendon Hills, IL
3 Bedrooms
Aug 20, 2025
Roadway Moving
Gastonia, NC East Hazel Crest, IL
2 Bedrooms
Aug 09, 2025
American Van Lines
Claremont, NC Cary, IL
3 Bedrooms
Aug 08, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Kannapolis, NC Blue Island, IL
Studio apartment
Aug 03, 2025
BLVD Moving
Locust, NC Hoffman Estates, IL
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 03, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC guide.

Top-rated movers to make your Charlotte to Chicago move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Charlotte that offers long-distance services to Chicago can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 42 top local movers in Charlotte who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Charlotte to Chicago.

  1. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  2. You Move Me: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Easy Movers: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  4. Best Movers US: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  5. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
97.1% of all reviews were positive
2.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Like clockwork, Gentle Giant Moving Company stands out for delivering quick, careful moves with polite, professional teams. Out of 277 feedback entries, 97% praised their efficient service, careful handling, strong communication, and respectful crews. Customers commonly noted how rapidly yet delicately their belongings were moved, and many compared Gentle Giant favorably to other companies for great teamwork and customer care. Pricing came in as expected or lower for most reviewers. A small number of customers, 2.5%, encountered issues with communication or abrupt customer service, generally during scheduling or initial contact, and some found pricing policies confusing. Only one neutral review appeared. Compared to other movers, Gentle Giant earns trust and recommendations for their reliable, efficient approach, but could improve by streamlining communication for all situations.
Get a Quote (704) 376-2338

Company Info

State license #: 2406

Years in Business: 45

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving Co. (NC), LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.6% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about You Move Me for their consistently professional staff, careful handling of items, efficient moving process, prompt communication, and quick service. Out of 296 reviews, 94% are positive—a strong record compared to most moving services, where praise often centers on reliability and friendliness. Many clients highlight how polite, organized, and attentive the crews are, with moves usually completed faster than expected and within the quoted price. Negative feedback makes up just over 5% and focuses on reports of damaged or missing items and unexpected cost increases. A few customers mention property scratches or items left unpacked. Some describe communication issues after a problem occurred, mainly involving follow-up on claims for damaged or missing possessions. Neutral input, though rare, points to scheduling hiccups and occasional assembly mistakes. Compared with similar companies, You Move Me stands out for delivering smooth moves but should address isolated complaints about item care and billing accuracy.
Get a Quote (800) 926-3900

Company Info

State license #: 2572

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2518689

Alternate Names: TEC Ventures LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.1% of all reviews were positive
14.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Easy Movers stands out for making moving day simple. Analyzing 290 pieces of customer feedback, 84% reported positive experiences, highlighting the staff’s professionalism, fast service, careful handling of belongings, prompt communication, and efficient moving process. Customers praise the teams for their attention to detail, respect toward property, and clear estimates. Many reviewers point out that Easy Movers meets or beats budget expectations and finishes jobs within or ahead of schedule. On the downside, about 15% experienced issues such as significant delays, damaged items, or lapses in communication. Some shared stories of missed appointments and unexpected fees, which set Easy Movers apart from more consistent competitors. Despite these negative reports, positive feedback far outnumbers complaints, suggesting that Easy Movers excels at delivering quality, cost-effective service for most customers.
Get a Quote (704) 588-6868

Company Info

State license #: 2225

Pricing: $145/hr

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 648055

Alternate Names: EasyMovers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
% of all reviews were positive
% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Best Movers US has 11 customer feedback entries, with 73% being positive. Many customers praised the company for its efficient service, professional staff, and careful handling of items. They appreciated the organization and smooth moving process, noting how the movers treated their belongings with care. However, several customers reported issues such as unexpected charges, damage to items, and poor communication. Some expressed frustration over unprofessional behavior and a lack of response to their concerns. Overall, the company has a solid reputation but also faces challenges that potential customers should consider before hiring.
Get a Quote (704) 493-8212

Company Info

State license #: 2539

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2317956

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
42.3% of all reviews were positive
56.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer experiences with All My Sons Moving & Storage are sharply divided. Examining 544 feedback entries, just 42.3% were positive, while 56.6% expressed negative encounters. Many customers praise the efficient service, professional demeanor, and careful handling by moving crews, highlighting friendly staff and smooth, quick moves. Yet, a majority of reviews describe significant problems, with damage to belongings, costs far above estimates, and late or missed arrivals as frequent issues. Numerous reports indicate unresolved claims and poor communication. All My Sons stands out for efficiency and staff attitude when things go well, but compared to other movers, customers report more recurring complaints about property damage and financial dissatisfaction.
Get a Quote (704) 344-1300

Company Info

State license #: 601

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281

Alternate Names: Bournias, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from Charlotte to Chicago?

In North Carolina, moving services typically cost around $145 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,134 – $3,907 $715 – $1,750 $537 – $1,030
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,210 – $5,378 $1,314 – $2,527 $596 – $1,188
4+ bedrooms $3,471 – $7,576 $1,707 – $3,291 $712 – $1,411
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 756-mile move from Charlotte to Chicago, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Charlotte to Chicago

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Chicago from Charlotte, you can expect prices to land between $1,134 and $3,907. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,210 to $5,378 for the trip from Charlotte to Chicago. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,471 and $7,576.

Cost of moving containers from Charlotte to Chicago

Moving containers from Charlotte to Chicago will cost you $715 to $1,750 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,314 to $2,527. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,707 to $3,291. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of North Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Charlotte to Chicago

Renting a moving truck from Charlotte to Chicago typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $537 and $1,030 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $596 to $1,188. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $712 to $1,411.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Charlotte to Chicago move

The cost of Charlotte movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,901 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,433 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Charlotte.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $537 to $1,268, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Charlotte to Chicago

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Chicago runs about 16% higher for singles and 11% higher for families than Charlotte.

Singles spend around $3,648 in Charlotte versus $3,158 in Charlotte; families pay $9,266 compared with $8,325.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Charlotte Chicago
Average 1 BR rent $1,913 $2,368
Average 3 BR rent $3,790 $4,581
Average home value $391,658 $295,743
Average income (per capita) $64,814 $71,566
Cost of living (single) $3,158 $3,648
Cost of living (family of four) $8,325 $9,266
Unemployment rate 3.3% 9.0%
Sales tax 7.25% 10.25%
State income tax 4.5% 4.95%
  • Planning a move to Chicago? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 14% higher than in Charlotte, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
  • You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 24% more affordable in Chicago compared to Charlotte.
  • Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 10% higher in Chicago compared to Charlotte, which might allow for more savings or investments.
  • Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Chicago, as living costs for a single person are 16% higher than in Charlotte. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
  • If you’re moving your family to Chicago, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Chicago is 11% higher than in Charlotte.
  • Chicago shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Charlotte by around 173%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
  • Sales taxes in Chicago are 41% more than in Charlotte, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
  • Income taxes in Illinois are 10% above those in North Carolina. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Charlotte and Chicago:

Living Expense Charlotte Chicago
Basic utilities $156.99 $191.26
Cell phone plan $54.78 $61.10
Dozen eggs $4.55 $4.52
Loaf of bread $3.82 $4.15
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80.00 $100.00
Gym membership $51.90 $78.31
  • Basic utilities cost less in Charlotte than in Chicago, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Charlotte than in Chicago.
  • Eggs cost more in Charlotte than in Chicago.
  • Bread costs less in Charlotte than in Chicago.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Charlotte than in Chicago.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Charlotte than in Chicago.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Charlotte than in Chicago.

How life is different in Charlotte vs. Chicago

Charlotte Chicago
Population 874,579 2,746,388
Transportation score 5 9
Walkability score 26 77
Bike friendliness score 31 72
Crime index 46.52 35.19
Safety index 53.48 33.87
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Chicago’s population is about 214% greater than Charlotte.
  • Chicago’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Charlotte’s score of 5.
  • Chicago is more walkable than Charlotte with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Charlotte’s 26 out of 100.
  • With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than Charlotte, which has a score of 31 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Chicago’s crime rate is lower than Charlotte with a score of 35.19 compared to Charlotte’s 46.52. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charlotte neighborhoods are safer than 46.52%.
  • Chicago is considered to be less safe than Charlotte with a score of 33.87 vs Charlotte’s 53.48.
  • Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Charlotte it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Charlotte to Chicago move

  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: In Illinois, regulations on in-state moves and local movers are set forth by the Illinois Commerce Commission. To move household goods locally and intrastate, companies need to have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, so make sure the companies you’re considering have one and that it’s current. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Illinois’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: Illinois does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Chicago. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Chicago

Planning your move to Chi-Town? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Chicago.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Lake View
  • Lincoln Park
  • The Loop
  • Near North Side
  • West Town

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Beverly
  • Edison Park
  • Lincoln Park
  • North Center
  • West Loop

Things to do in Chicago

After settling into your new Illinois home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Chicago has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Chicago features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, and Chicago History Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606, and Lincoln Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Chicago Bears (NFL)Chicago Cubs (MLB)Chicago White Sox (MLB)Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)Chicago Bulls (NBA)Chicago Fire (MLS)Chicago Sky (WNBA) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Charlotte to Chicago?

Planning your move from Charlotte to Chicago? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Charlotte.

When is the cheapest time to move from Charlotte to Chicago?

Because most people are moving from Charlotte to Chicago in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Charlotte to Chicago take?

The 756-mile journey from Charlotte, NC to Chicago, , typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Charlotte offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Chicago.

Are there special savings available from movers in Charlotte?

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members. 2 have discounts for military personnel. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.

These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Charlotte?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Charlotte, 28 movers can manage piano relocations. 11 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, North Carolina has 78 piano movers and 38 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

Helpful moving resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle