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How Much Do Movers Cost in Chicago, IL?

Quick answer: Moving within Chicago, Illinois will typically cost you from $504 to $6,140, or about $192 per hour. For longer moves out of state, long-distance movers in Chicago price jobs based on total distance, home size, and services like packing.

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I’ve helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that’s right for you.
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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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Average cost of local movers in Chicago, IL

Engaging a moving company in Chicago offers the ultimate convenience, making the moving process much simpler. Keep in mind, though, that this convenience does have a higher price tag compared to doing it yourself.

Here’s how much professional movers cost in Chicago based on your move size:

Home size Avg. total cost Cost/hour # of movers # hours
Studio $504 $269 2 movers 3 hours
1 bedroom $773 $269 2 movers 4 hours
2 bedrooms $1,365 $377 3 movers 5 hours
3 bedrooms $3,399 $527 4 movers 8 hours
4 bedrooms $3,926 $527 4 movers 9 hours
5+ bedrooms $6,140 $738 5 movers 10 hours

Read more cost details

  • Studio: Moving a studio apartment usually calls for the help of two movers, with the job potentially taking three hours. How long it takes often depends on your items, at an hourly fee of $269.
  • One bedroom: If you have a one-bedroom apartment or home, expect to pay around $269 per hour for four hours using a two-person moving crew.
  • Two bedrooms: The typical expense to relocate a two-bedroom residence in Illinois is around $377 per hour. Plan on needing three movers to assist for approximately five hours.
  • Three bedrooms: If you’re moving a three-bedroom house in Illinois, the hourly rate for hiring movers is $527. This job usually requires eight hours and a crew of four people.
  • Four bedrooms: When moving a four-bedroom residence in Illinois, it will involve four movers and take approximately nine hours, costing $527 per hour.
  • Five or more bedrooms: Opting for Illinois movers for a dwelling with five or more bedrooms incurs an hourly fee of $738. Usually, this process requires five movers, taking nearly 10 hours.

Moving here isn’t cheap: The average hourly rate in IL is $192, which means your Chicago move could run higher than the national norm of $139.

Easily compare personalized moving quotes for your Chicago move using our free and instant moving cost calculator.

Best local moving companies in Chicago, IL

By examining licenses, insurance packages, digital feedback, and numerous other elements, our proficient team has selected the leading moving services in Chicago.

  1. Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  3. H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  4. Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  5. New City Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  6. 606 Movers, Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  7. Golan’s Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  8. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  9. Reebie Storage and Moving Co.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  10. Blankenship Movers, Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Unexpected charges
  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Moving with Alliance Moving & Storage feels like a breath of fresh air: 247 customer feedback entries were analyzed, with a remarkable 95.5% being positive. Most people describe the company as efficient, careful with belongings, highly professional, and quick. Customers consistently mention respectful staff and clear, reliable communication throughout the process. Affordable, transparent pricing and rapid scheduling compared favorably versus rival companies. On the downside, a minority report unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, or trouble reaching someone after problems arose. Issues like last-minute price increases or lack of follow-up were sometimes cited by dissatisfied customers. Negative experiences remain much less common than positive ones. Compared with typical moving companies, Alliance stands out for speed, professionalism, and care, though some customers recommend confirming all charges up front to prevent misunderstandings.
Get a Quote (847) 378-4949

Company Info

State license #: 214845

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2882675


Services Offered

  • 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
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company makes relocations easier than expected. After analyzing 1,349 reviews, 92.5% of feedback for The Professionals Moving Specialists is positive. Customers routinely highlight efficient service, careful handling of belongings, moving crews that work quickly, a professional attitude, and clear communication. People appreciate arriving on time, speedy completion, and the rare occurrence of damage compared to other movers. The overwhelming majority find the booking process straightforward, pricing fair, and the teams respectful of property and special requests. Some input does point to a few drawbacks: complaints about items being scratched or dented, final charges being higher than expected due to extra materials or time, and unexpected add-ons. These issues are reported far less often than praise for skilled, polite, and diligent crews. Compared to most moving companies, The Professionals stand out with stronger reliability and care for customer property. If dependability, efficiency, and peace of mind are top priorities, this company outperforms many local competitors.
Get a Quote (888) 225-7351

Company Info

State license #: 136144

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 3383907


Services Offered

  • 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
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Good communication
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Unexpected charges
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Moving day just got easier for H2H customers. Out of 640 real customer reviews analyzed, a remarkable 88% delivered positive feedback, placing H2H Movers above most competitors in the moving industry. Clients most frequently highlighted the company’s efficient service, careful handling of possessions, professional and polite staff, great communication, and a quick moving process. People appreciated teams who arrived on time, completed moves ahead of schedule, and made stressful relocations feel manageable, often noting that quoted prices were accurate or even lower than expected. On the other hand, the most common complaints were unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, and delays in arrival or delivery. A few customers reported being billed more than their estimates due to extra fees or poor packing, and some faced slow resolution for claims or communication gaps after their move. While some neutral reviews cited problems with lost items or payment methods, these were far less frequent than the praise received. H2H Movers stands out with efficient, reliable, and friendly crews—a reputation that exceeds the service level of many moving companies, though attention to transparent billing and timeliness could make experiences even better.
Get a Quote (773) 236-8797

Company Info

State license #: 184599

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2428328


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Friendly and approachable staff
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Move-tastic moves customers with speed, skill, and care that set the standard for Chicago moving companies. After reviewing 1,169 pieces of feedback, 91% praised their efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, quick moves, and friendly staff—qualities mentioned far more than in most moving company reviews. Customers frequently highlight how the moving teams are not only fast and organized, but also protect homes and belongings with diligence and respect, often completing jobs ahead of schedule and below the original estimate. The booking process and communication draw special mention for ease and transparency. Conversely, 7% of customers cite issues such as damage to items, unexpected costs, or delayed arrival, reflecting the main patterns among negative input. Some report furniture scratches or losses, with a few noting the claims process or repair follow-up as challenging; a handful mentioned bills far exceeding quoted rates or frustration over slow moves. Neutral feedback—just under 2%—pointed to sporadic minor mishaps, price increases, or items misplaced and later returned. Move-tastic’s positive feedback dominates, and problems are less common than with most regional competitors, though the risk of damage or extra fees still exists. When compared to others, it’s the combination of outstanding efficiency, careful work, and friendly attitude that keeps so many customers recommending Move-tastic again and again.
Get a Quote (773) 715-3227

Company Info

State license #: 158678

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Hot Tubs
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Poor complaint handling
Review Analysis
Moving magic happens when speed meets service—New City Moving delivers exactly that, according to 1,451 pieces of customer feedback analyzed. With 92.4% positive reviews, most customers rave about the company’s efficient service, professional and polite staff, careful handling, and quick turnaround—which set them apart from many competitors. A high number praised clear communication throughout the move. While affordability and responsiveness also stood out, some reported problems. About 6% said their main issue was damage to their belongings, unexpected charges, or struggles resolving complaints when things went wrong. Only 1.8% of feedback landed in the neutral zone, typically due to minor organizational or packing concerns rather than major failures. New City Moving earns above-average praise for efficiency and professionalism compared to other moving services, but a handful of customers cite billing, compensation, or damage disputes where they wanted swifter or better follow-up. For most, the company’s efforts made moving faster, simpler, and safer.
Get a Quote (773) 489-0600

Company Info

State license #: 158051

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 3078026


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Moving should be easy, and 606 Movers receives praise from nearly all customers for making this possible. An impressive 96.5% of 254 customer feedback entries laud the company’s efficient service, careful handling of belongings, professional staff, fast moves, and clear communication. Many highlight 606 Movers’ speed and attention to detail, with crews arriving on time and treating every item with care. Friendly teams and easy scheduling earn repeat business and strong recommendations. Although issues are rare, a small percentage raised concerns about item damage, higher-than-expected costs, and some extra charges. Compared to typical moving services, 606 Movers stands out for reliability and customer satisfaction. Such consistently positive input positions them among the best options in Chicago for hassle-free moving.
Get a Quote (312) 728-7388

Company Info

State license #: 222496

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3476069


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Moving with Golan’s is a tale of standout efficiency and careful handling, backed by a team known for their professionalism and great communication. Nearly 70% of the 814 customer experiences highlighted fast moves, respect for customers’ belongings, and crews who made even complex moves feel smooth. People mention polite staff, careful packing, and transparency more often than with other moving companies. On the other hand, almost a third encountered problems such as damaged items, higher-than-expected final bills, or delays on moving day. Some also point out that resolving claims and unexpected charges can be frustrating. Compared to similar companies, Golan’s receives more repeat business for their fast, careful service but also faces more complaints about damages or billing than some direct competitors. Golan’s consistently delivers safe, efficient moves with friendly crews, but be sure to clarify all charges and ask about insurance and delivery timing before booking.
Get a Quote (847) 262-9778

Company Info

State license #: 93712

Years in Business: 34

DOT #: 504435


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
High marks for speed, professionalism, and careful handling set STI Moving & Storage apart from most competitors. In an analysis of 538 reviews, 68% reflect satisfied customers who consistently praise the efficient crews, friendly staff, and reliable communication. Many detail moves finished faster than expected, with careful packing and respect for belongings. Negative feedback (29%) focuses on damage to items, delays in delivery—especially for long-distance moves—and surprise or higher-than-expected charges. Customers also note issues with complex claims for damage resolution. Neutral feedback highlights occasional late arrivals and some pricing misalignments, but still mentions professionalism from staff. Compared to industry standards, STI earns stronger praise for crew attitude and efficiency but faces similar criticism to peers regarding damage claims and delivery timelines. Most customers find their moves easier and less stressful thanks to STI’s organized and diligent teams, though potential clients should review policies closely for long-distance or specialty needs.
Get a Quote (847) 675-1223

Company Info

State license #: 139020

Pricing: 150/hr

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 1308599


Services Offered

  • 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
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Misplaced or lost items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Moving with Reebie Storage and Moving Co. gets top marks from most customers. Out of 386 feedback entries, nearly 73% gave strong praise for the team’s professionalism, careful handling of belongings, quick and efficient service, and clear communication throughout. Input often recognizes polite, skilled movers who deliver a smooth process by arriving as scheduled and taking care to prevent any damage. Many clients highlight respectful treatment of property and accurate estimates. When issues occur, most often the complaint is about items being damaged, lost, or delayed, especially for long-distance moves. A sizeable share report disappointment with the claims resolution or missed delivery deadlines. The majority of Reebie’s reviews stack up better than those of other companies, with more positive experiences than is typical in the moving industry, though a minority face frustrating setbacks. When reliability, organization, and genuine customer care matter, Reebie stands out; yet as with many movers, careful documentation and close attention to claims are wise.
Get a Quote (844) 473-3243

Company Info

State license #:

Years in Business: 145

DOT #: 1343707


Services Offered

Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Transparent pricing
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Inaccurate estimates
  • Poor complaint handling
Review Analysis
Blankenship Movers, Inc. earns high marks from 408 customer entries, with about 84% reflecting satisfied feedback. Clients often single out efficient service, careful handling, and skilled, professional staff as standout qualities. Many appreciated quick, transparent processes and services meeting or exceeding expectations, especially for challenging or complex moves. Issues reported center on property or item damage, estimates falling short of final bills, and complaints not always handled well by management. While most moves proceed without major problems and rates are generally more affordable than larger competitors, some customers experienced significant cost overruns or unresolved damages. Compared with other movers, Blankenship stands out for dependable, speedy teams and clear pricing but falls short on consistency when problems arise, pricing accuracy, and complaint resolution. Most customers would recommend them for value and efficiency but advise confirming details and insurance in advance.
Get a Quote (773) 385-6683

Company Info

State license #: 1800079

Years in Business: 63

DOT #: 1800079


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

Moving costs in other nearby Illinois cities

Average cost to hire interstate movers in Chicago, IL

The cost of moving out of Illinois can shift a lot depending on where you’re headed. To give you an idea, we’ve listed a few sample routes below. For the most accurate estimate, take a look at your specific route from Illinois or use our moving cost calculator.

Cost to move a one-bedroom home out of state from Chicago

Determining the cost of moving a one-bedroom apartment from Chicago involves several key factors, such as the distance of the move, the volume of belongings, and your chosen method of transportation.

Here are some typical cost ranges to give you an idea of what long-distance moves from Illinois might require:

Cost to move a two- or three-bedroom home out of state from Chicago

Out-of-state moving costs from Chicago for two- or three-bedroom homes vary based on the actual total volume and weight of your belongings. Move costs for a three-bedroom that is sparsely furnished and relatively small, for example, could be less than a two-bedroom home with a lot of square footage and decor.

In general, though, you can expect to pay within these ranges for two- to three-bedroom moves of similar distances from Chicago:

Cost to move a four-bedroom (or larger) home out of state from Chicago

Moving a four-bedroom home from Chicago to another state comes with a wide range of possible costs. The final price often depends on how far you’re going, how much you’re moving, and the time of year.

Here’s a general look at what out-of-state moves with four or more bedrooms from Chicago might cost:

Best interstate moving companies in Chicago, IL

Now that you’ve got a clearer idea of what your move from Illinois might cost, it’s a good time to start comparing the best long-distance moving companies in Chicago .

Best overall value
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • Best overall value
  • Veteran owned
  • Portion to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Most experienced mover
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392
At A Glance
  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
read our full review
(866) 835-2392
Best for contents coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.8 / 5
(866) 825-0554
At A Glance
  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years’ experience
read our full review
(866) 825-0554
Best customer service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best customized plans
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • 1,800 trucks
  • Storage available
  • Customized moving plans
read our full review
(844) 950-2963

Average cost of moving containers in Chicago, IL

In Chicago, using moving containers typically starts at around $480 for a local move. For longer in-state or regional relocations, that number can rise to about $2,980. If you’re planning a coast-to-coast move, expect rates in excess of $6,930. Your final price will largely depend on how far you’re moving and your container size.

Best moving containers in Chicago, IL

To help you get started, take a look at these other top-notch moving containers.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 5.0 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount

Average cost to rent a moving truck in Chicago, IL

In Chicago, renting a moving truck typically costs around $60 per day. However, daily rates can vary from $19 to $38. Additionally, expect a per-mile charge ranging from $1 to $1, which is influenced by how far you’re moving and the truck size needed. This remains the most cost-effective moving choice, but remember, it involves all the lifting and driving solo.

Here are the typical costs of Chicago rental trucks:

  • Base cost: $19 – $39 per day
  • Mileage fee: $1 – $1 per mile
  • Fuel cost: Depends on driving distance
  • Truck coverage: $20-$55 based on coverage level
  • Equipment costs (optional): Dolly, straps, blankets

The total cost to rent a truck from companies like Budget or U-Haul will depend on:

  • How far you drive the truck
  • How long you have the truck rental
  • Additional insurance
  • Parking
  • Toll fees
  • Fuel
  • Accommodations and dining
  • Moving equipment rentals

Best moving truck rentals in Chicago, IL

If you’re looking to save the most money, your best bet is to pack up and drive a rental truck yourself. Luckily, finding moving truck rental companies in Chicago is easy. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, here are some of the top options:

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.0 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.2 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

Average cost of labor-only moving companies in Chicago, IL

Labor-only moving services in Chicago are generally priced at an hourly rate of $50 for each individual mover. Whether you’re moving a small apartment or a larger space, you will usually require two movers, which means budgeting around $100 per hour for their assistance in Chicago.

Best labor-only moving companies in Chicago

Not all labor-only moving services in Chicago are created equal. The best ones combine fair pricing with dependable service. Some even go the extra mile by helping with packing or providing supplies.

Here’s a look at our favorite labor-only moving companies.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Hire moving labor
  • Online quotes
  • Nationwide
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Online booking
  • Move Concierge
  • Affordable

Factors that affect the cost of movers in Chicago, IL

The biggest factor that affects the cost of movers in Chicago, IL, is distance, but there are several other price considerations to keep in mind, including:

  • Where you’re moving: The farther the distance between your current home and your new one, the more you can expect to pay. A local move within the same city or nearby area will usually cost less than a long-distance or cross-country relocation due to fuel, mileage, and labor time.
  • How much stuff you have: More belongings mean more work. Larger moves often need a bigger truck and additional crew members, which increases the overall cost.
  • When you move: Timing matters. Summer, weekends, and month beginnings are in high demand—and more expensive. You can save by scheduling your move for mid-month or mid-week.
  • Moving method: Full-service movers offer convenience, but they charge for it. If you go with a moving container company, you can cut costs by handling the packing and lifting yourself.
  • Any add-on services you select: Even if you go with a DIY move, you may want to hire third-party movers to assist you with loading and unloading. And professional movers offer a variety of optional services like packing and unpacking to help customize and streamline your relocation. But these additional services will come at an extra cost.

Quick tips for a stress-free move

  • Buy additional insurance. Full-service movers are required by federal law to provide basic insurance, known as released value protection, at no cost. While you can’t beat free, released value protection provides very minimal coverage — $0.60 per pound per item, regardless of the item’s value. So, your reimbursement on a damaged 25-pound TV worth $1,000 would only be $15 ($0.60 x 25 pounds). Most moving companies — and some home insurance providers — offer optional comprehensive insurance plans. While these come at an added cost, they will protect your items based on estimated value instead of weight.
  • Confirm your move is approved. Certain neighborhoods, especially those with HOAs, may restrict moving days or hours. Be sure to check those policies ahead of time and notify your property manager of your planned move-in or move-out date.
  • Get all your documents together ahead of time. Apartment complexes may require documents like proof of insurance and elevator bookings on moving day. Review your moving contract in advance so you’re not rushing to find what you need last minute.

What discounts do Chicago movers offer?

Some movers in Chicago advertise discounts for specific groups. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available locally compared to state and national averages:

Type of discount Chicago Illinois National average
AAA members 0.0% 1.0% 1.13%
Seniors 2.94% 2.0% 4.32%
Students 0.0% 0.0% 1.17%
Teachers 0.0% 0.0% 0.35%
Law enforcement 0.0% 0.0% 0.72%
Military 0.0% 1.0% 3.97%

Not every company promotes discounts publicly, so ask your mover directly about available savings in Chicago.

What is the cheapest way to move to Chicago?

An economical approach is to use a container service, which lets you handle the packing and loading, while they take care of transporting your belongings in Chicago. Alternatively, renting a truck lets you manage the move entirely by yourself.

Here are the average moving costs from Chicago to another state with different types of movers:

Destination Professional Movers Containers Rental Trucks
Mount Hood Village $3,312 – $6,781 $2,052 – $4,235 $1,252 – $2,877
North Branford $2,237 – $5,288 $1,481 – $2,789 $653 – $1,345
Camp Pendleton North $3,338 – $7,029 $1,992 – $4,057 $1,213 – $2,574

How to pay for your Chicago move

Whether you prefer plastic or paper, the table below shows which payment types are most widely accepted in Chicago, and how that compares to state and national movers.

Payment method Chicago Illinois U.S.
Credit card 64 90 2859
Cash 29 35 822
Money order 10 12 272

Whether you’re paying in cash or card, it’s smart to double-check your options before moving day.

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