10 Best Moving Companies in Illinois (2026 Reviews)
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Based on moveBuddha's analysis of 171 movers and 78,552 verified reviews in Illinois, Mighty Moving & Storage is the top-rated local mover with a 4.76/5 moveBuddha score, ranking #1 out of 287 movers we've scored in Illinois.
Local moves in Illinois typically cost $522 for a studio up to $6,158 for a 5+ bedroom home. Use moveBuddha's free moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate for your move.
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10 Best Local Moving Companies in Illinois
moveBuddha reviewed 171 Illinois moving companies, scoring each on customer satisfaction, dispute resolution, industry reputation, online reputation, and service options. Each mover was evaluated using verified customer reviews, FMCSA complaint data, BBB standing, and moveBuddha's own score, built from 1,000+ real quotes and moves. The 10 companies below represent the highest-scoring local movers in Illinois.
Affordable rates
Respectful of property
Flexibility
Careful handling
Quick moving process
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.4
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Mighty Moving & Storage has been in business for 4 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 5.0
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Mighty Moving & Storage has about 97% positive reviews across roughly 178 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.5.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Mighty Moving & Storage.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Mighty Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
Three movers helped me move across my current city and they were quick and careful. Everything was well-wrapped and arrived to my new home without a scratch. The price was also great compared to another quote I received.
Erick and Clay were great. They moved efficiently and I was able to keep an open line of communication with them. They were flexible despite issues that occurred.
Affordable rates
Quick moving process
Quick response times
Efficient service
Careful handling
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. STI Moving & Storage Inc. has been in business for 21 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. STI Moving & Storage Inc. has about 85% positive reviews across roughly 1590 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.9.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from STI Moving & Storage Inc., and STI Moving & Storage Inc. makes deposit expectations clear upfront. Discounts may be available for groups like military.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. STI Moving & Storage Inc. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
Extremely professional and courteous. They were very speedy! The whole move took me less time and money than the movers who only moved me into my first apartment!
I was really glad I chose STI. They were quick to respond and give an estimate. The crew was outstanding and did not waste time. STI estimated one day and finished under the estimated time.
Affordable rates
Quick moving process
Consistency and follow-up
Quick response times
Good communication
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. H2H Movers Inc has been in business for 12 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and office moving.
Review quality 5.0
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. H2H Movers Inc has about 97% positive reviews across roughly 4892 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.2.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from H2H Movers Inc.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. H2H Movers Inc emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Pricing was transparent and consistent. Communication was constant and professional. Most importantly, they handled our stuff with great care as if it was their own.
100% would recommend. H2H was upfront, professional, and organized. They contacted me a week in advance and 2 days before the move. The final bill was less than the estimate.
Affordable rates
Flexibility
Respectful of property
Consistency and follow-up
Careful handling
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Good Move Movers, Inc. has been in business for 16 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Good Move Movers, Inc. has about 93% positive reviews across roughly 488 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.6.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Good Move Movers, Inc..
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Good Move Movers, Inc. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Their rates were the most competitive in the area, and there was no compromise in service. We had a ton to get done quickly, and they worked with us well into the evening.
They arrived on time, packed/unpacked everything in a good time and not a single thing was broken; their communication with us was perfect.
Affordable rates
Quick moving process
Quick response times
Flexibility
Efficient service
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Move-tastic has been in business for 17 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Move-tastic has about 97% positive reviews across roughly 4873 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.6.
Quote accuracy 4.2
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Move-tastic.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Move-tastic emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Moved 2 bedroom apartment from lakeview to bucktown for total cost of $260. It took exactly three hours. These guys hustle, and are very personable, well-behaved, and conscientious.
What I liked most was the responsive service before the actual move. The quote came back that day, and every email I sent them was answered same-day.
Easy booking process
Affordable rates
Transparent pricing
Flexibility
Experienced movers
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. New City Moving has been in business for 17 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like international moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. New City Moving has about 92% positive reviews across roughly 1451 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.5.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from New City Moving.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. New City Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Booking was simple with a $100 deposit upfront and a $190 per hour rate. They were efficient, professional, and careful with everything. Highly recommend this team for a smooth and stress-free move.
Ricky and Rocky communicated every step, handled my things with extreme care, and saved about $120 versus the estimate. No hidden fees, and all pricing was transparent and clearly communicated.
Experienced movers
Affordable rates
Quick moving process
Quick response times
Respectful of property
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. The Professionals Moving Specialists has been in business for 21 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. The Professionals Moving Specialists has about 97% positive reviews across roughly 5591 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.6.
Quote accuracy 4.3
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from The Professionals Moving Specialists.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. The Professionals Moving Specialists emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
The Professional Moving Company Crew completed my move expeditiously and in good order. They are clearly very experienced and did the move very nicely and quickly.
Abraham, Erik, Jose, and Lucio were extremely careful with our two-bedroom move, including a 77-inch TV. They were reasonably priced compared with other companies and I’ll use them again.
Affordable rates
Quick moving process
Flexibility
Quick response times
Respectful of property
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. 606 Movers, Inc. has been in business for 8 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. 606 Movers, Inc. has about 96% positive reviews across roughly 336 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.7.
Quote accuracy 4.3
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from 606 Movers, Inc..
Customer service 4.1
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. 606 Movers, Inc. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
The crew showed up on time, worked quickly, protected our new floors and walls, and moved fragile items safely. The price was very fair.
The staff helped with items we had not packed, stayed transparent about costs, and charged an incredibly reasonable price after a full day of work.
Consistency and follow-up
Good communication
Respectful of property
Careful handling
Efficient service
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Reebie Storage and Moving Co. has been in business for 146 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like international moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 4.6
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Reebie Storage and Moving Co. has about 82% positive reviews across roughly 634 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.2.
Quote accuracy 4.2
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Reebie Storage and Moving Co..
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Reebie Storage and Moving Co. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
The customer service team was in contact with me every step of the way. Packers were efficient, careful and documented everything. The driver arrived in California on the promised day and unloaded quickly.
The movers showed up right on time. They took extra care wrapping items and taping boxes to the wood floor. Our items arrived quickly, nothing was damaged, and the estimate was close.
Affordable rates
Transparent pricing
Experienced movers
Quick moving process
Flexibility
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Expert Movers, Inc has been in business for 12 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Expert Movers, Inc has about 95% positive reviews across roughly 637 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.8.
Quote accuracy 4.3
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Expert Movers, Inc.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Expert Movers, Inc emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Clear and prompt communication, flexible scheduling, reasonable prices, and an accurate estimate with no hidden fees. The movers protected my furniture and worked quickly up three flights of stairs.
Their estimate was the most affordable among six companies. They communicated clearly, finished my one-bed move in three hours, and wrapped everything carefully with no damage.
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Compare the top moving companies in Illinois
Based on moveBuddha's 2026 moving data, here's how the top movers in Illinois compare.
| Mover | Years in business | BBB rating | Verified reviews | Positive reviews | Interstate moves | Get a quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mighty Moving & Storage | 4 | A+ | 178 | 97.2% | Yes | Get A Quote |
| STI Moving & Storage Inc. | 21 | A+ | 1,590 | 84.7% | Yes | Get A Quote |
| H2H Movers Inc | 12 | A+ | 4,892 | 96.9% | Yes | Get A Quote |
| Good Move Movers, Inc. | 16 | A+ | 488 | 92.8% | Yes | Get A Quote |
| Move-tastic | 17 | C | 4,873 | 97.2% | Yes | Get A Quote |
| New City Moving | 17 | B+ | 1,451 | 92.4% | Yes | Get A Quote |
| The Professionals Moving Specialists | 21 | A+ | 5,591 | 97.3% | Yes | Get A Quote |
| 606 Movers, Inc. | 8 | A+ | 336 | 95.8% | Yes | Get A Quote |
| Reebie Storage and Moving Co. | 146 | A+ | 634 | 81.9% | Yes | Get A Quote |
| Expert Movers, Inc | 12 | A+ | 637 | 95.3% | Yes | Get A Quote |
Other local Illinois movers
These Illinois movers were reviewed by moveBuddha but did not make our top 10. See all 171 Illinois movers we've reviewed →
- Planes Moving & Storage Company
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
- Bloomington Relocation Systems
- J.C. Movers & Lumper Service Inc.
- Federal Companies
- MI-Box Moving & Mobile Storage
- Aaron Bros Moving System, Inc.
- Aaron's Reliable, Inc.
- Advanced Moving & Storage, Inc.
- Alliance Moving & Storage
- All My Sons Moving & Storage
- All Seasons Movers
- Ampol Moving, Inc.
- Bellhop Moving
- Blankenship Movers, Inc.
- Chicagoland Moving & Storage, Inc.
- Coffey Bros Moving
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
- Collins Family Movers, Inc.
- Del's Moving & Storage
- Drew Transport Servies LLC
- Elite Moving & Storage
- Expert Movers, Inc
- Fallen Movers
- Golan's Moving & Storage, Inc.
- Jay Movers
- King David Moving & Storage, Inc.
- MicroShip, Inc.
- Midway Moving & Storage, Inc.
- Mid-West Moving & Storage
- MiniMoves Inc.
- Move4U movers
- New City Moving
- Next Door Movers, LLC
- Reebie Storage and Moving Co.
- Stark Moving and Storage
- STI Moving & Storage Inc.
- The Professionals Moving Specialists
- Windy City Movers Inc.
- Wolley Movers, Inc.
- Jenkins & Key Moving & Storage
- Hollander International Storage & Moving
- Dreiske Moving & Storage
- Shur-Way Moving and Cartage
- Amenity Moving & Storage, Inc.
- Thompson Moving & Storage, Inc.
- USA Moving & Storage
- Mordue Moving and Storage
- PODS Moving & Storage
- Quincy Storage & Transfer Co
- ADCO Van & Storage, Inc.
- Advantage Moving & Storage, Inc.
- M.K. Movers Inc.
- Murphy Family Movers
- O'Mara Moving & Storage Inc.
- Straightline Moving, Inc.
- University Movers, Inc.
- Father and Son Moving and Hauling
- Moscardelli Moving & Storage, Inc
- Springfield Van and Storage Co.
- The New Haven Companies, Inc.
Popular moving routes from Illinois
moveBuddha tracks pricing and mover performance across thousands of routes. Use the links below to find route-specific cost data and recommended movers for your destination. Find your exact moving route →
| Route | Route details |
|---|---|
| Illinois to California | Cross-country route; strong demand year-round |
| Illinois to Texas | Major migration corridor; competitive pricing |
| Illinois to Florida | High-volume retirement and lifestyle move |
| Illinois to New York | Northeast corridor; dense urban delivery complexity |
| Illinois to North Carolina | Growing Southeast destination; strong inbound demand |
| Illinois to Georgia | Southeast hub; major corporate relocation market |
| Illinois to Arizona | Sun Belt destination; seasonal pricing variation |
| Illinois to Washington | Pacific Northwest corridor; tech-sector demand |
| Illinois to Colorado | Mountain West route; strong year-round volume |
If you're moving from Illinois to a destination 500+ miles away, a local mover is not the right fit. Long-distance moves require interstate operating authority, binding estimate practices, and logistics capacity that most local carriers don't carry. We recommend using one of the top-rated long-distance moving companies in Illinois for any out-of-state move of significant distance.
Better Moves Data: One Illinois Better Moves participant hired Safeway Moving in November 2022 covering 2,000 miles, and paid $5,200 on a $4,300 quote.
What specialty moving services are available in Illinois?
Not every mover in Illinois offers specialty services. Based on moveBuddha's review of 171 Illinois movers, here is what is available and how often:
Piano movers in Illinois
| Piano moving in Illinois | Details |
|---|---|
| Top-rated Illinois piano movers | STI Moving & Storage Inc. H2H Movers Inc |
| Illinois movers offering this | 126 of 171 (51.46%) |
| National average | 42.33% |
| Upright piano | $720 to $1,350 |
| Baby grand piano | $1,080 to $2,250 |
| Grand piano | $1,620 to $3,150 |
The weight range for upright pianos is 400 to 800 lbs. Grand pianos exceed 1,200 lbs. Neither can be safely moved with standard furniture dollies or blankets. Crews certified for piano moving carry piano boards, rigging straps, and padded blankets designed for the instrument's weight distribution and finish. Adding a piano to a full-service household move is almost always cheaper than contracting a piano-only specialist.
See our full guide to the best piano movers for a breakdown of what to look for and how to compare quotes.
Antique movers in Illinois
| Antique handling in Illinois | Details |
|---|---|
| Top-rated Illinois antique movers | STI Moving & Storage Inc. New City Moving |
| Illinois movers offering this | 78 of 171 (32.16%) |
| National average | 26.25% |
| Added cost to a household move | $900 to $2,250 |
| Per-piece handling fee | $45 to $450 |
| Custom crating per item | $135 to $180 |
Released-value protection pays out at $0.60 per pound per item. For a 50-lb antique worth $5,000, that is a $30 reimbursement. Custom crating and acid-free padding lower the physical risk of damage, but they do not change the coverage math. Requesting full valuation coverage before booking is the only way to ensure a claim reflects what the piece is worth, not what it weighs.
See our guide to the best antique moving companies for tips on vetting specialty movers and protecting high-value pieces.
Art movers in Illinois
| Art packing in Illinois | Details |
|---|---|
| Top-rated Illinois art movers | Mighty Moving & Storage STI Moving & Storage Inc. |
| Illinois movers offering this | 83 of 171 (29.82%) |
| National average | 26.62% |
| Per-piece handling fee | $45 to $450 |
| Custom crating per item | $135 to $180 |
Archival materials and custom crates prevent UV exposure, humidity damage, and impact fractures that standard moving blankets cannot guard against for framed artwork and sculpture. Confirm the mover has direct experience with similar media before booking.
See our complete guide to how to pack and move art for a full breakdown of materials, techniques, and questions to ask before booking.
Climate-controlled storage in Illinois
| Climate-controlled storage in Illinois | Details |
|---|---|
| Top-rated Illinois providers | Mighty Moving & Storage STI Moving & Storage Inc. |
| Illinois movers offering this | 75 of 171 (33.33%) |
| National average | 24.36% |
| Storage-in-transit rate | About $0.50 per cubic foot per month |
| 1-bedroom monthly estimate (~514 cu ft) | $231 |
Temperature-only storage controls heat but not moisture. For wood furniture, vinyl records, and electronics, humidity fluctuation is the primary damage risk in storage, causing warping, cracking, and mold that a temperature-controlled unit will not prevent. True climate control regulates both. For storage gaps longer than 30 days or moves that cross seasons, confirming the distinction before booking is worth the extra step.
See our guide to climate-controlled storage for a deeper look at when it's worth the cost and how to compare options.
Fragile-only packing in Illinois
| Fragile-only packing in Illinois | Details |
|---|---|
| Top-rated Illinois providers | STI Moving & Storage Inc. Reebie Storage and Moving Co. |
| Illinois movers offering this | 37 of 171 (13.45%) |
| National average | 11.77% |
| Full professional packing rate | $0.15 to $0.21 per pound |
Not every item needs professional packing. Dishes, glassware, mirrors, and lamps are the items most likely to break in transit and the items most worth paying a crew to pack. Fragile-only packing covers exactly those categories without a full-service packing contract, keeping the per-pound packing cost contained to the portion of your shipment that actually needs it.
DIY Moving Options in Illinois
Full-service movers aren't the only way to move in Illinois. Moving containers, rental trucks, and labor-only crews are all solid DIY options that can cut your moving costs by roughly 30%, the right choice comes down to how much you want to handle yourself. If you're weighing the tradeoffs, our guide to professional movers vs. DIY moving breaks down the full cost and effort comparison.
What are the best moving containers in Illinois?
The best moving container companies available in Illinois are PODS (4.5/5), Units Moving and Portable Storage (4.3/5), and MovingYourself (5.0/5), based on moveBuddha's ratings. Container moves work by dropping a portable unit at your door, giving you several days to load at your own pace, then the company handles pickup and delivery. They cost significantly less than full-service movers and carry none of the one-way mileage risk of rental trucks. See our full moving container company guide for cost comparisons by move size.
What are the best rental trucks in Illinois?
The best rental truck options for a DIY move in Illinois are Budget Truck Rental (4.3/5), U-Haul (4.2/5), and Penske Truck Rental (4.0/5). Budget leads on transparent pricing and discount availability. U-Haul offers 7 truck sizes and one-way rentals for moves that won't bring you back. Penske carries the most consistently maintained fleet, with unlimited mileage on select routes.
DIY moves cost roughly 30% less than full-service moving. In Illinois, a full-service 1-bedroom move averages $791 and a 2-bedroom runs $1,382.
Who are the best labor-only hourly movers in Illinois?
The best labor-only movers in Illinois start with Move-tastic and STI Moving & Storage Inc., both offering loading, packing, and assembly services. At $192/hour for a 2-person crew in Illinois, labor-only is the most affordable way to get professional help on moving day.
You drive, they lift. Rent a truck, put these crews on the loading and unloading, and keep full control of your timeline and route.
Take a look at these highly recommended labor-only movers for your Illinois move:
How much do movers cost in Illinois?
Local moves in Illinois average $522 for a studio up to $6,158 for a 5+ bedroom home. Most local movers in Illinois charge $192/hour for a 2-person crew, based on moveBuddha's 2026 quote data.
| Home size | Avg. total cost | Cost/hour |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $522 | $269 |
| 1 bedroom | $791 | $269 |
| 2 bedrooms | $1,382 | $377 |
| 3 bedrooms | $3,416 | $527 |
| 4 bedrooms | $3,943 | $527 |
| 5+ bedrooms | $6,158 | $738 |
Summer moves (June–August) and month-end dates cost 15%–20% more. Get a personalized Illinois moving cost estimate →
Know Your Rights as a Illinois Mover
Illinois mover 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. Verify a license →
Insurance requirement: 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.
Final Verdict: Best Moving Companies in Illinois
Based on the research and data gathered by moveBuddha, here are our final takeaways on the best moving companies in Illinois:
- Best overall local mover in Illinois: Mighty Moving & Storage (4.76/5). moveBuddha ranks Mighty Moving & Storage #1 of 287 among reviewed Illinois movers. Local move costs range from $522 for a studio to $6,158 for a 5+ bedroom home.
- Best overall value for interstate moves: Safeway Moving (4.9/5). Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top-rated interstate carrier for moves out of Illinois, with flat-rate pricing, veteran ownership, and full licensing and insurance for long-distance relocations.
- Best for certified crew quality: American Van Lines (4.9/5). American Van Lines is the strongest pick for movers who prioritize professionally certified crews and transparent flat-rate pricing on interstate moves.
- Best moving container: PODS (4.5/5). Container moves cost significantly less than full-service movers. You load on your own schedule and the company handles transport, with no one-way mileage risk.
- Best budget DIY option: Budget Truck Rental (4.3/5). Rental trucks are the lowest-cost moving method in Illinois. Factor in fuel and per-mile charges on any move with real distance behind it before committing to the base rate.
FAQs about moving in Illinois
What should I look for when choosing a moving company in Illinois?
When choosing a moving company in Illinois, you should look for a solid reputation, fair and transparent pricing, a variety of services, and multiple insurance options. We consider those key factors, among others, in our analysis and rating of moving companies, so you can find the best moving companies in Illinois by reading our top picks.
We recommend obtaining quotes from at least 3 moving companies in Illinois, including a top flat-rate mover, to compare prices and services.
Are interstate moves common with Illinois movers?
Many movers in Illinois are qualified to take on cross-state relocations. Of the 171 total moving companies in IL, 144 are licensed for interstate service. This means most providers in the state are equipped to legally manage moves beyond state lines, with a USDOT number and oversight from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
To get started, check out our recommendations for the top long-distance movers in Illinois.
How can I see all moving companies in Illinois?
You can see all moving companies in Illinois in our comprehensive list of Illinois movers.
How much does it cost to hire movers in Illinois?
Local moving costs in Illinois range from $522 for a studio to $6,158 for a 5+ bedroom home. Most local movers charge $192/hour for a 2-person crew. Your total depends on home size, distance, access conditions, and any add-on services like packing or storage.
What is the cheapest way to move in Illinois?
Rental trucks are the cheapest way to move in Illinois. DIY moves cost roughly 30% less than full-service movers. Renting a truck and hiring a labor-only crew for loading and unloading gives you professional help at a fraction of full-service pricing. Moving containers are the next most affordable option and remove the need to drive a large vehicle yourself.
What is a full-service move?
A full-service move means the moving company handles packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. 231 of 171 movers in Illinois (86.55%) offer professional packing, and 179 (72.51%) offer storage. Full-service is the most hands-off option but costs more than DIY alternatives. Confirm exactly which services are included in your quote before signing.
What is the difference between a moving broker and a moving carrier?
A moving carrier owns trucks and employs the crew that physically moves your belongings. A moving broker arranges moves through third-party carriers and does not handle your items directly. Brokers can offer competitive pricing but add a layer between you and the company doing the work, which can complicate communication and claims if something goes wrong. moveBuddha is not a broker and does not sell or share your information. We recommend booking directly with a licensed carrier whenever possible.
How much should you tip movers in Illinois?
For a local move, $20 to $50 per mover is a standard tip. For a long-distance move, $50 to $100+ per mover is appropriate, especially if the crew handled heavy furniture, stairs, or challenging access conditions. Tipping is not required, but it is customary for good service. Tip each crew member individually in cash at the end of the job.
How long does a move take in Illinois?
A local move in Illinois typically takes 4 hours for a 1-bedroom and 8 hours for a 3-bedroom home. Long-distance moves out of Illinois add transit time that varies by distance and carrier. Full-service movers typically provide a delivery window of 1 to 14 business days for interstate moves, depending on distance. Rental trucks and moving containers give you more control over exact delivery timing.
When is the best time of year to move in Illinois?
The cheapest time to move in Illinois is during the off-season, from October through April. Peak moving season runs May through September, with June and July commanding the highest rates. Moves booked midweek and mid-month also tend to cost less than weekend or month-end bookings. Planning around these windows can save 15% to 20% on your total moving cost.
How does moveBuddha rank moving companies in Illinois?
moveBuddha scores 171 moving companies in Illinois on a weighted five-factor system covering customer satisfaction, dispute resolution, industry reputation, online reputation, and service options. Based on that scoring, Mighty Moving & Storage ranks #1 of 287 in Illinois, placing in the top 0.3% of Illinois movers.
How we chose the best moving companies in Illinois
moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 171 Illinois moving companies using a five-factor weighted scoring system: customer satisfaction (40%), dispute resolution (20%), industry reputation (15%), online reputation (15%), and service options (10%).
That scoring system draws on moveBuddha's dataset of 1,000+ live price points and research across 4,500+ movers nationwide, so you're getting recommendations built on real market data, not just review aggregation.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently completes moves on time, communicates proactively, and delivers within the estimated cost. These factors matter most when hiring a mover.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Problems happen in every industry. We reward companies that take clear ownership of issues and make genuine, documented efforts to resolve them.
- Industry reputation (15%): The company holds standing in professional moving organizations and participates in industry oversight, which signals accountability beyond customer reviews alone.
- Online reputation (15%): The company maintains accurate, up-to-date information online and responds promptly and professionally to customer inquiries and complaints.
- Service options (10%): We favor companies that offer full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery. These services matter on a complex move.
Read our complete moving company rating methodology for the full scoring breakdown.
How to hire movers in Illinois
Follow these steps to compare movers, get accurate quotes, and book a reliable Illinois moving company.
- Estimate your cost. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate for your Illinois move. Local moves typically cost $522 for a studio up to $6,158 for a 5+ bedroom home. Most local movers charge $192/hour for a 2-person crew.
- Choose your move type. Pick the option that fits your budget: full-service movers (they load, drive, and unload), moving containers (you pack, they haul), rental trucks (cheapest, but you drive), or labor-only crews for loading and unloading. DIY options like containers and rental trucks can cut costs by roughly 30% compared to full-service moving.
- Verify licensing and insurance. 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. Verify a license.
- Compare and vet movers. Compare movers using moveBuddha's weighted scoring: customer satisfaction (40%), dispute resolution (20%), industry reputation (15%), online reputation (15%), and service options (10%). Mighty Moving & Storage currently ranks first with a 4.76/5 moveBuddha score among 171 reviewed Illinois movers.
- Get quotes and book your move. Request written binding estimates from at least 3 Illinois movers before you commit. Compare line items including packing, access fees, and valuation coverage. Booking 4 to 6 weeks ahead and choosing mid-week, mid-month dates often saves on total cost.
- Prepare for move day. Account for local weather: Illinois' climate is clearly different in the northern and southern halves of the state. The northern half experiences cold winters and mild summers whereas the southern half experiences mild winters and hot and humid summers. Illinois is a part of "tornado alley". Confirm parking permits, elevator reservations, and HOA rules at both locations. File your USPS change of address at least a week before moving day. Review your mover's insurance coverage and document valuables before the crew arrives.