The BEST Long-Distance Movers in Lake Forest, IL

Ryan Carrigan

Last Updated: Aug 1, 2025 • 5 min read

Fact Checked by: Hilary Snow

Hi, I'm Ryan.
Let's get moving.

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.

Preferred partner:

STI Moving & Storage Inc.

4.9
Best overall value:

Safeway Moving

4.85
Best local mover:

STI Moving & Storage Inc.

4.9
Best for small moves:

MiniMoves

4.8
Best moving container:

PODS

4.8
Best labor-only mover:

STI Moving & Storage Inc.

4.9
Best rental truck:

U-Haul Truck Rental

4.15

Need more help? Build your move plan.

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Preferred partners

Company	Quote	Rating
STI Moving & Storage Inc.	Get A Quote	4.9 / 5
Bellhop Moving	Get A Quote	4.72 / 5
Safeway Moving	Get A Quote	4.85 / 5

Our track record

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

Founded in 2015
3,500+ moving companies analyzed
$50,000 in moving grants delivered
Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
Fact-checked for accuracy

Best long-distance movers in Lake Forest for those moving out of state

A move from Lake Forest to another state calls for a reliable long-distance mover. We've highlighted the companies that consistently deliver great service across state lines.

Safeway Moving: 4.85 out of 5 stars
American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Allied Van Lines: 4.75 out of 5 stars
Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.85 / 5

Get A Quote

(855) 650-0657

At A Glance

GPS tracking en route
Veteran-owned
Dedicated move coordinator
Flat-rate pricing
Donates a portion of moves to charity

read our full review

Get A Quote

(855) 650-0657

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.5 / 5

Get A Quote

866-835-2392

At A Glance

Experienced & fully trained moving crews
Specializes in moving art & antiques
Competitive pricing
Can handle last-minute moves
Climate-controlled storage

read our full review

Get A Quote

866-835-2392

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.5 / 5

Get A Quote

(844) 950-2963

At A Glance

Custom crates for electronics & art
Satellite shipment tracking
1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
Self-packing option
No deposit required

read our full review

Get A Quote

(844) 950-2963

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.75 / 5

Get A Quote

866-825-0554

At A Glance

Fragile packing
Storage options
24/7 shipment tracking
Quick & efficient
Accurate quotes

read our full review

Get A Quote

866-825-0554

Licensed

Insured

Price

4.9 / 5

Get A Quote

(980) 217-6841

At A Glance

Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
Hands-on customer service
24/7 support
Price-matching policy

read our full review

Get A Quote

(980) 217-6841

Best long-distance movers in Lake Forest for those staying in state

A move within Illinois can still involve long hours on the road, especially when you're leaving Lake Forest for a destination several hundred miles away.

For longer in-state relocations, we recommend sticking with the best long-distance moving companies we’ve vetted.

Below are our top moving company picks for Lake Forest, IL:

Preferred Partner

STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.9 out of 5 stars

New City Moving: 5.0 out of 5 stars
Mid-West Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.86 out of 5 stars
Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Advanced Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars

STI Moving & Storage Inc.

7400 Niles Center Rd, Skokie, IL 60077 US

68% of all reviews were positive

29% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

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

Alternate Names: STI Moving & Storage, Inc.

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

New City Moving

2929 N Campbell Ave, Chicago, IL 60618 US

92% of all reviews were positive

6% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

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

Alternate Names: Windy City Moving, Inc.

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

Mid-West Moving & Storage

1255 Tonne Rd, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 US

75% of all reviews were positive

23% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Customers point to Mid-West Moving & Storage’s efficient service and professional staff as major strengths, with nearly 75% leaving positive feedback from 299 reviews analyzed. Movers often work quickly, communicate well, and take great care of belongings, making many clients feel at ease during stressful moves. Many highlight helpful crews, organized processes, and affordable, transparent rates—qualities not easily found with many competitors.

In contrast, some feedback reveals concerns about damage to items, surprise charges, and missing belongings. These are the leading drawbacks and stand out among negative reviews, where clients report issues with insurance claims, billing, or lack of follow-up when problems arise. The majority, however, favorably compare their experiences here to other moving companies, finding Mid-West more reliable and service-minded.

Get a Quote (847) 593-7201

Company Info

State license #: 75043

Years in Business: 41

DOT #: 294025

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Hot Tubs
Pool Tables
Art
Antiques
Grandfather clocks
Crating
Crane vans
Shipment tracking
Full-valuation coverage
Storage
Fragile-only packing
Safes
Pay by credit card
Deposit Required
DOD certified

The Professionals Moving Specialists

3918 N Western Avenue, Chicago, IL 60618 US

93% of all reviews were positive

6% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

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

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

Alliance Moving & Storage

3201 Tollview Drive, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008 US

96% of all reviews were positive

5% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

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

Alternate Names: HK & RP, LLC

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

Advanced Moving & Storage, Inc.

1159 N Ellis St, Bensenville, IL 60106 US

54% of all reviews were positive

44% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Feedback on Advanced Moving & Storage, Inc. stands out for its sharp contrasts. Of 414 reviews, 54% are positive and center on efficiency, friendly and professional movers, careful handling, and jobs finished ahead of schedule. Many people mention hardworking, polite staff who move quickly, protect belongings, and ease stress on moving day.

Customers value organized operations and a helpful team. On the flip side, 44% report serious problems—damaged items, sudden extra charges, and late arrivals. Numerous customers describe property loss, hostage payments, ruined furniture, delayed deliveries, and a lack of accountability for damage or missing items. Neutral input notes incomplete jobs or occasional lapses between satisfactory moves. Compared to similar companies, Advanced shows a greater divide between high-quality hands-on moving crews and problematic company policies. Booking is easy and staff can be accommodating, but recurring issues like property damage and shifting costs reduce trust. Consumers seeking reliable and stress-free moves with respectful handling may find strong crews here, but transparent communication and guarantees may be better elsewhere.

Get a Quote (800) 394-4462

Company Info

Years in Business: 110

DOT #: 872553

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
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
Deposit Required

Best long-distance movers in Lake Forest, IL, for small moves

Did you know that most professional moving companies have a minimum requirement for the total weight of your belongings? This means that if you are moving a small amount of items, those companies will likely not be an option for your relocation.

Some companies, however, specialize in small moves. So, if you are moving a studio apartment or just have a few pieces of furniture to relocate from Lake Forest, check out these suggestions:

MiniMoves

rating

4.8 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

No minimum move size
Full-service packing
Short-term storage

Check prices Visit Website

Transit Systems Inc (TSI)

rating

4.7 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

34+ yrs experience
Online chatbot
Car shipping

Check prices 800-626-1257

Moving containers for long-distance moves in Lake Forest, IL

Moving containers, also known as moving pods, offer short- and long-term storage so you can move from Lake Forest at your own pace. With this option, you pack and load the container yourself and the professionals drive the container to your new home for you.

Our top picks for moving containers for long-distance moves from Lake Forest include:

PODS

rating

4.8 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Unlimited storage
3 container sizes
10% discount

Get A Quote

Visit Website

U-Pack

rating

5 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Fast delivery
Nationwide
100+ miles moves

Check prices Visit Website

Rental trucks in Lake Forest, IL for a total DIY long-distance move

Rental trucks are often the cheapest way to move long-distance from Lake Forest, but also require the most work. You do everything yourself — from boxing up your belongings to loading, driving the whole way, and unloading on your own. Costs can increase dramatically when you add on mileage fees, tolls, and gas though so make sure this option really is cheaper for your move before making a final decision.

Here are our favorite rental truck companies for long-distance moves:

U-Haul Truck Rental

rating

4.15 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Greatest coverage
7 truck sizes
One way rentals

Check prices (800) 468-4285

Penske Truck Rental

rating

4 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Most expensive
4 truck sizes
Unlimited mileage

Check prices (844) 847-9517

Labor-only moving companies in Lake Forest, IL

With labor-only moving services, you get professional help for the hardest parts — lifting, packing, and assembling furniture — while you handle the transportation and supplies. It’s a smart, cost-effective way to lighten the load without going full-service.

Here are a few reliable labor-only movers we recommend for long-distance moves from Lake Forest, IL:

STI Moving & Storage Inc.

rating

4.9 / 5

Years in Business: 20
Yelp: 2.9 / 5
BBB: A+

Get A Quote

(847) 675-1223

New City Moving

rating

5.0 / 5

Years in Business: 16
Yelp: 4.6 / 5
BBB: A+

Get A Quote

(773) 489-0600

Mid-West Moving & Storage

rating

4.8 / 5

Years in Business: 41
Yelp: 2.8 / 5
BBB: A+

Get A Quote

(847) 593-7201

Comparing the best long-distance movers in Lake Forest, IL

Company	Our Rating	Quote
Safeway Moving	4.85 overall rating	Get A Quote
American Van Lines	4.5 overall rating	Get A Quote
North American Van Lines	4.5 overall rating	Get A Quote
Allied Van Lines	4.75 overall rating	Get A Quote
Mayzlin Relocation	4.9 overall rating	Get A Quote

How we chose the best long-distance movers in Lake Forest, IL

Over the past 10 years, we’ve developed a rigorous review process to identify the absolute best moving companies. We look at:

Customer satisfaction (40%): Companies that consistently deliver services in a timely manner — with good communication and within the estimated cost — score the highest within this category.
Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry, so we look for companies that take a customer-focused approach to handling their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
Industry reputation (15%): We look at whether a company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
Online reputation (15%): It’s important to us that a company maintains a professional website with accurate information and promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
Service options (10%): We look for companies with a wide breadth of services, including packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Read more about our moving company rating methodology.

Average cost of a long-distance move out of Lake Forest, IL

Expect to pay around $97 per hour for professional movers in Illinois. Of course, that’s just a starting point—factors like how far you’re going and how much you’re moving help the best long-distance movers generate an accurate quote.

Here’s a breakdown of average long-distance moving costs from Lake Forest, IL to top U.S. cities:

Destination	Distance	Home size	Cost
Portland, ME	1,113 miles	3 bedroom	$4,260 - $7,435
Trenton, NJ	810 miles	2 bedroom	$2,941 - $6,471
Sioux Falls, SD	557 miles	1 bedroom	$2,056 - $4,742

To get an accurate estimate of the cost for your long-distance move out of Lake Forest, use our moving cost calculator. And, be sure to check out our detailed post about moving costs in Illinois.

FAQs

What else should you know about moving out of state?

Any company helping with your out-of-state move from Illinois must be licensed and have a registered USDOT number. All Lake Forest movers featured here are fully compliant, but it’s always smart to double-check using the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database.

You should also read through the FMCSA’s Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move to understand your protections.

Should I use a local company or a national company when moving from Lake Forest?

For short moves within Lake Forest, a local moving company will generally be the most cost-effective. But if you’re relocating out of Illinois, a national mover such as Safeway Moving can offer the added benefit of interstate moving expertise.

When is the cheapest time of year to move away from Lake Forest?

Movers in Lake Forest typically see less business in November and December due to the holidays and school schedules. That makes it a great time to negotiate with a moving company and potentially cut down on your moving costs.

What are the cheapest ways to move out of Lake Forest?

DIY options are generally the least expensive, especially for moves under 50 miles from Lake Forest. Some of the most budget-friendly methods include renting a truck like U-Haul or choosing a moving container company like PODS. You can also explore our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state for more ideas.