Cheapest Movers in Lincoln, IL (2025 Guide)

Quick answer: After reviewing 63 Illinois movers, our top pick for local moves in Lincoln, IL, is Bellhop Moving based on pricing, services, and customer reviews. For long-distance and out-of-state moves from Illinois, we recommend Safeway Moving because they provide a good balance of quality service and affordability.

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Recommended by Consumer Reports

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

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6 Cheapest movers when moving locally in Lincoln, IL

If you are moving within Lincoln — or to a nearby Illinois city like Broadwell or Hartsburg that is 50 miles or less from Lincoln — check out these affordable, top-rated moving companies:

Preferred Partner
Bellhop Moving: 4.2 out of 5 stars

Other top partners:
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff (30%)
  • Efficient service (27%)
  • Careful handling (23%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (30%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (25%)
  • Lack of communication (20%)
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving draws applause for professional, courteous staff and speedy, efficient moves. Customers’ input highlights careful handling of belongings, clear communication, and a straightforward booking process. Many describe movers as friendly, organized, and respectful of both property and timelines. Yet, some feedback details significant issues, such as property damage, late or no-shows, and communication breakdowns. A sizable portion of feedback reveals frustration with damages and unresolved complaints, especially when compared to other services where reliability and handling of items were stronger. While most customers report smooth, affordable moves with attentive teams, those experiencing scheduling problems or delayed arrivals faced extra stress. Across 56 reviews, 63% praised Bellhop’s professionalism and efficiency, while roughly 36% encountered unpredictable timing or carelessness. Bellhop Moving receives broad endorsements for professionalism but falls short for some on reliability and item safety.
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 2878240

DOT #: 2878240


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/TwoMenBloomingtonNormal/, https://x.com/TwoMenAndATruck
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (35%)
  • Professional and polite staff (32%)
  • Careful handling (30%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (25%)
  • Unexpected charges (22%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (20%)
Review Analysis
Two Men and a Truck stands out for its consistently high-quality service, with 88.6% of feedback being positive from 246 reviews analyzed. Customers regularly praise the movers’ professionalism, efficiency, politeness, and careful handling of belongings. Teams work swiftly and treat both property and people with respect, making stressful moves much smoother. Helpful staff and clear communication further elevate the experience for most clients. A handful of customers reported disappointments, such as damaged items, unexpected charges, and late arrivals or delivery. While such negative feedback is rare, it indicates that, compared to other movers, Two Men and a Truck achieves strong reliability but still faces challenges when it comes to large or complex moves. For individuals seeking professional, friendly, and efficient movers, this company delivers noticeable peace of mind and stands out from competitors.
Get a Quote (309) 717-0568

Company Info

State license #: 113793

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: TMT Chicagoland, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083218996436,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff (38%)
  • Efficient service (33%)
  • Careful handling (28%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (37%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (28%)
  • Unexpected charges (25%)
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Mordue Moving and Storage's polite, professional approach and careful handling of belongings. Three out of four reviewers shared great feedback, noting quick, efficient moves and clear communication throughout. Many praise the movers' reliability, attention to detail, and their ability to handle challenging or delicate items. Staff frequently receive compliments for being friendly and willing to go the extra mile. Some customers did report serious problems: the most significant concerns relate to property damage during moves, unexpected charges beyond estimates, and instances where items were lost or left behind. A few noted lapses in responsiveness from the company after issues occurred. Despite these problems, Mordue receives more enthusiastic praise compared to many moving companies. Most customers express high satisfaction and are comfortable recommending their service to others.
Get a Quote (800) 359-3011

Company Info

State license #: 10316

Years in Business: 89

DOT #: 70719

Alternate Names: Paul Arpin Van Lines


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/federalcos, https://twitter.com/federalcos
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff (30%)
  • Efficient service (27%)
  • Good communication (25%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (29%)
  • Unexpected charges (22%)
  • Lack of communication (21%)
Review Analysis
Customers say Federal Companies stands out for its professional, efficient, and communicative staff, often making stressful moves feel manageable. Employees like Kyle and Julie receive frequent praise for their professionalism, kindness, and expertise. Many customers mention careful handling of belongings, fair and binding estimates, and timely, organized moves—qualities that many other moving firms struggle to deliver as reliably. Some mention affordability, especially with discounts for university affiliates. On the downside, a minority report significant problems like broken or missing items, inaccurate weight or cost estimates, and poor packing quality. Several negative reviews highlight difficulty resolving claims and receiving compensation for damages. Federal Companies earns consistently high marks compared to competitors, particularly for professionalism and seamless coordination, but recurring issues with item damage and pricing disputes suggest room for improvement.
Get a Quote (217) 393-8224

Company Info

State license #: 4588

Years in Business: 111

DOT #: 642945

Alternate Names: Federal O'Byrne Moving & Storage, Federal/O'Byrne Moving & Storage, LLC, Allied Van Lines, Federal, Federal Brokerage, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (37%)
  • Professional and polite staff (30%)
  • Careful handling (26%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (22%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (15%)
  • Lack of communication (15%)
Review Analysis
Customers praise Jenkins & Key Moving & Storage for their efficient service, helpful and professional staff, low pricing, and careful handling of belongings. Many cite lower costs compared to competitors and recommend the company for both moving and storage. Movers are frequently described as courteous, hard-working, and reliable. On the other hand, some clients express frustration over unprofessional interactions, inaccurate estimates, and inexperienced handling of furniture. Negative feedback includes complaints about customer service and payment handling. With 85% positive feedback from 27 reviews, Jenkins & Key outperforms most moving companies for consistency, affordability, and care, but should address occasional management and professionalism issues.
Get a Quote (217) 367-6531

Company Info

Years in Business: 69

DOT #: 70719


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/p/Moscardelli-Moving-Storage-Inc-100054386206924/?paipv=0&eav=AfZ-6evF-fj7kwORLf1HAdnpN7f0uYsZ_mrph15_BsUQUrJpCF3WRvmAuemsGKxQJio&_rdr,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff (35%)
  • Efficient service (31%)
  • Careful handling (28%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (35%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (30%)
  • Unexpected charges (25%)
Review Analysis
Moscardelli Moving & Storage generates plenty of discussion, with 68 pieces of customer feedback analyzed. About 44% of responses praise the company’s efficient service, polite team members, careful handling of belongings, and swift process, often at affordable prices. Customers frequently cite punctual and hardworking crews, professional attitudes, and seamless moves—characteristics that place Moscardelli among movers known for quick, reliable work. In contrast, 56% of input points to damaging incidents during moves, unexpected delays, and poor follow-up or responses from management. Complaints also highlight items scratched, furniture broken, and inadequate support post-move. These problems occur more often than with most reputable moving companies, suggesting inconsistency across jobs. Shoppers can expect prompt, courteous movers when things run smoothly, but should be aware of reported issues with reliability and item care.
Get a Quote (217) 787-4043

Company Info

Years in Business: 74


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

Other local IL moverstoggle

While these local Illinois movers did not make our top list, they are still worth looking into:

Cheapest movers when moving out of Illinois

If you're relocating from Illinois to a new state, choosing a trusted interstate moving company is key to making the transition smooth. Here are a few of our top picks to get you started:

  1. Safeway Moving: 4.85 out of 5 stars
  2. International Van Lines: 4.45 out of 5 stars
  3. Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  4. PODS: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
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  • 24/7 cust. service
  • Competitive rates
  • 10% discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned

Cheapest DIY moving options in Lincoln, IL

While a full-service mover is the most convenient option for your Lincoln, Illinois relocation, it will also likely be the most expensive route. To save some money, you may want to consider using one of the top moving container companies, or moving truck rental companies in Lincoln instead.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts

Top-rated movers in other nearby Illinois cities

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How we chose the best movers in Lincoln, ILtoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 63 Illinois movers and listed the top five best movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Average cost of movers in Lincoln, IL

Take a look at the pricing table below to get a general idea of the costs associated with local moves in and around the Lincoln area. For more details, you can also check out our guide on the moving costs in Illinois.

Please note that the moving quotes provided in the table are rough estimates, and your actual costs may differ depending on the unique needs of your move. For a more precise estimate, consider using our moving cost calculator.

Home Size Avg. Total Cost Cost/hour # of Movers # Hours
Studio $875 $741 2 movers 3 hours
1 Bedroom $1,635 $749 2 movers 4 hours
2 Bedroom $3,199 $1,017 3 movers 5 hours
3 Bedroom $8,963 $1,483 4 movers 8 hours
4 Bedroom $10,431 $1,423 4 movers 9 hours
5+ Bedroom $16,433 $2,077 5 movers 10 hours

Compare the top Lincoln, IL movers

Let’s compare how the top movers in Lincoln, IL stack up in terms of their reputation.

Company moveBuddha rating BBB rating Yelp rating Google rating
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK 4.6/5 A+ 3.4/5 4.6/5
Mordue Moving and Storage 4.6/5 A+ 2.5/5 4.3/5
Federal Companies 4.6/5 A+ 2.5/5 4.3/5
Jenkins & Key Moving & Storage 4.2/5 A+ 4.2/5 /5
Bellhop Moving 4.2/5 3.5/5 4.5/5
Moscardelli Moving & Storage, Inc 4.1/5 NR 2/5 3.1/5
Bloomington Relocation Systems 4.1/5 NR 5/5 4.3/5
Springfield Van and Storage Co. 4/5 A+ /5 /5
Father and Son Moving and Hauling 3.8/5 3.7/5 4.8/5

FAQs

How do I know if my mover is properly licensed?toggle

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.

All of the movers on our list are properly licensed. Take a look at our best movers in Illinois list for more recommendations.

How do I find a reputable Lincoln mover?toggle

Looking for a reliable Lincoln moving company can be difficult, but there are certain things to consider to ensure you choose a trustworthy mover. These include:

  • Reputation: A mover's reputation is crucial, whether they're a new mom-and-pop business or a seasoned van lines company.
  • Dispute resolution: It's best to avoid movers with lots of unresolved customer complaints. Every Lincoln moving company will face customer issues. The best companies resolve customer disputes in a timely manner.
  • Relevant experience: Even if a mover has great reviews for local moves, they may not have the experience needed to handle a cross-country move. Check if they have experience with the type of move you require.

Do Lincoln moving companies handle long-distance moves?toggle

Some of the moving companies that service Lincoln can handle long distance moves, while others only offer local moving services. If you're moving out of state, see our list of the best long distance movers in Lincoln.

What is the cheapest day to hire a mover in Lincoln, IL?toggle

The cheapest day to hire a mover in Lincoln, Illinois, will typically be a weekday, since weekends are typically busier times for moving. In general, the cheapest time to move is between October and April. The peak season for movers is May–September, so you’ll pay more during this time due to increased demand.

The earlier you book your move from Lincoln, the better. Avoid weekends, holidays, and peak moving seasons (summer) to save money. Beware of choosing a mover solely based on the lowest quote, as some companies may low-ball their initial quote and raise the price significantly on moving day.

What is the cheapest way to move out of state from Lincoln, IL?toggle

Renting a moving truck is the cheapest way to move out of state or locally within Lincoln, Illinois. Keep in mind, though, that this is also the most bare-bones moving option — you’ll have to handle the packing and unpacking, loading and unloading, and driving.

Are moving containers a good idea for my move from Lincoln?toggle

Moving containers allow you to move at your own pace… although you’ll have to do all the heavy lifting yourself. Once you’re loaded up and ready to move, the container company will pick up your container and transport it to your new home, so you won’t have to worry about driving.

What if I need help loading my moving container in Lincoln?toggle

Labor-only moving companies can be a great addition to a more DIY move done with a rental moving truck or moving container. Hiring third-party assistance with loading and unloading can help cut down on the workload and make your move quicker and more efficient.

Do Lincoln movers offer storage?toggle

Most Lincoln moving companies offer short- and long-term storage solutions. However, keep in mind that some Lincoln movers use third-party warehouses to store your items. It's best to ask about storage options and pricing when screening potential movers.

Learn more: Should you use your mover's storage solutions?

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