Best Long-Distance Movers in Illinois for 2025
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: Safeway Moving is our top choice for long-distance movers in Illinois, based on our in-depth research and analysis of 100 professional movers statewide.
For IL movers, 82.56% of customer reviews are positive, but Safeway Moving rose to the top as best overall value by providing quality service at an affordable price
Let's get moving.
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Safeway Moving
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STI Moving & Storage Inc.
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STI Moving & Storage Inc.
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PODS
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STI Moving & Storage Inc.
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Budget Truck Rental
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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 Illinois when moving out of state
Check out our favorite choices for long-distance moving companies in Illinois:
- 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
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- 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
Best long-distance movers in Illinois when staying in state
While it’s not as common, if you’re staying in Illinois but still moving a couple hundred miles, these are the best intrastate movers for you:
- STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Mighty Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Golan's Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- New City Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 139020
Pricing: $150/hr
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 1308599
Alternate Names: STI Moving & Storage, Inc.
STI Moving & Storage Inc., serving Skokie, IL since 2004, has established itself as a reputable choice for local residential moving. Standing out from competitors, STI boasts an impressive Google rating of 4.7 from over 1000 reviews and holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized handling for fragile items and antiques. With a competitive rate of $150 per hour and options for full valuation insurance coverage, they cater to a variety of moving needs, ensuring peace of mind for their clients.
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
Company Info
Years in Business: 3
DOT #: 3788656
Alternate Names: Heroic Moving & Storage Experts
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 214845
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2882675
Alternate Names: HK & RP, LLC
Alliance Moving & Storage has been providing dependable local residential moving services in and around Rolling Meadows, IL, since 2016. With an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 3.8 on Google, they have earned a solid reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby competitors, Alliance Moving & Storage stands out with their comprehensive offerings, including packing and unpacking services, as well as specialized capabilities to move pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. They accept both cash and credit cards, and no deposit is required, making them a convenient and flexible choice for local moves.
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
Company Info
State license #: 93712
Years in Business: 34
DOT #: 504435
Alternate Names: Golan's Moving and Storage, Inc.
Golan's Moving & Storage, Inc., based in Skokie, IL, has been a staple in the local moving industry since 1992, specializing in residential moves within the area. With a strong reputation backed by 553 Yelp reviews averaging 3.5 stars, and an impressive 4.5-star rating from 556 Google reviews, they stand out among nearby moving companies. They boast an A+ rating from the BBB, underscoring their commitment to customer satisfaction. Offering a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos and antiques, Golan's Moving & Storage ensures a smooth and efficient moving experience with full valuation insurance coverage for peace of mind.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- 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
Company Info
State license #: 158051
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 3078026
Alternate Names: Windy City Moving, Inc.
New City Moving, a reputable moving company based in Chicago, IL, has been providing local residential moving services since 2010. With an impressive 4.7 average rating from 1,096 Yelp reviews and a 4.8 average rating from 2,393 Google reviews, they stand out among nearby movers. They also boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction. Beyond local moves, New City Moving offers office moving, packing, and unpacking services, along with full valuation insurance coverage. They accept both cash and credit cards, ensuring a flexible payment process.
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
Long-distance movers in nearby cities
Best long-distance movers in Illinois for small moves
Many moving companies set a minimum weight — typically about 2,000 pounds — which can be a hassle if you’re moving out of a dorm or studio apartment in Illinois. In these cases, a traditional full-service mover might not be your best option.
Illinois has an impressive 51 small load movers, so you won’t be short on options. To save you the hassle of sorting through them all, here are our top picks.
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Moving containers for long-distance moves in IL
If you don’t mind packing and loading yourself but want to avoid a long drive from Illinois, a moving container is an affordable, easy alternative to hiring full-service movers.
In Illinois, you’ll typically pay between $709 and $7,043 to rent a moving container. Prices can vary based on a few different factors, so be sure to compare several moving quotes before deciding.
Kick off your move with these leading moving container companies.
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Labor-only moving companies in Illinois
If you’re up for driving from Illinois to your new home but could use a hand with packing, loading, or unloading, check out some great labor-only moving companies.
In Illinois, labor-only movers usually charge between $24 and $41 per hour for each worker.
Take a look at our favorite picks below.
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Rental trucks in IL for a total DIY long-distance move
If you’re looking to save the most money on an out-of-state move from Illinois, going the full DIY route is your best bet. You’ll take care of driving, loading, and unloading everything yourself.
Renting your own moving truck means you'll have to handle all the heavy lifting yourself, but it’s by far the most budget-friendly option.
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How we chose the best long-distance movers in Illinois
Over the past 10 years, we’ve developed a rigorous review process to identify the absolute best long-distance moving companies in Illinois.
We look at:
- 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, expedited delivery, and more.
Read more about our moving company rating methodology.
Average cost of a long-distance move out of Illinois
If you’re gearing up for a long-distance move, prices to relocate from Illinois typically start around $701 and can go up to $11,695 or more, depending on your needs.
What affects the price
- Size: If you’re moving from Illinois, the cost can go up with every extra item you bring. To save money, pack light. Every added belonging increases your total price.
- Distance: The distance you’re moving from Illinois plays a huge role in what you’ll pay. Whether you’re staying local or relocating cross-country, how far you go makes a big difference in your final moving cost.
- Type of move: Figuring out the best way to move out of Illinois is no small task. You’ve got options, from full-service movers and rental trucks to moving containers and freight trailers. Each option has different costs, benefits, and potential drawbacks.
- Services: You can either handle the packing and unpacking yourself or let the pros do it for you. While letting movers take over saves you time, stress, and back pain, it does come with an extra fee.
- Seasonal timing: When you move can seriously affect how much you pay. Since moving costs often spike in the summer, you’ll save money by planning your move between October and April, when rates are typically lower.
How to save money on your long-distance move from IL
Looking to save money on your long-distance move from Illinois? Check out these helpful moving tips to keep costs down.
- Declutter. Reducing the volume of items you need to move can significantly decrease your moving costs.
- Book in advance. Planning your move well in advance can help you secure better rates, since last-minute bookings are often pricier.
- Consider moving containers. If you're looking to save money and are willing to do some of the work yourself, renting a moving container can be a cost-effective option.
- Research and compare. Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Take the time to compare different companies and negotiate the best rate.
- Ask about discounts and deals. Across Illinois, 100 movers operate statewide. Of these, 1 give AAA savings, 2 provide senior-focused discounts, and 1 support military households with special pricing. Some companies also reward students, teachers, or first responders. Always ask about moving discounts before booking.
Keeping a moving checklist will also help you stay on budget and on schedule throughout the long-distance moving process.
Choosing the right IL long-distance moving option
Deciding whether to go with full-service movers, portable containers, or a DIY truck rental really depends on your budget, how involved you want to be, and how much you value convenience. Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the best moving option for your move from Illinois.
Full-service IL movers
For a move that’s completely hassle-free, go with a full-service moving company. In Illinois, these experts can handle it all — packing, loading, transporting, and unloading your belongings at your new home.
- Pros: Fast and effortless
- Cons: Costs more than simply renting a moving truck or storage container
- Consider if: If you’re gearing up for a cross-country move, need to haul loads of belongings, or just want to avoid all the stress, full-service movers are the way to go.
Moving containers in IL
Moving containers offer a great middle ground between do-it-yourself and full-service moving. You get to pack and load your belongings in Illinois at your own pace, while the company handles all the driving. Once your stuff arrives at your new place, all that’s left is unloading.
- Pros: Affordable rates and flexible moving solutions
- Cons: You will have to take care of all the heavy lifting
- Consider if: If you’re looking to save money but don’t want the stress of driving a moving truck, especially across long distances, this is the way to go.
Renting a moving truck in IL
If you like being in charge, renting a moving truck lets you handle every part of your move from start to finish. You’re behind the wheel, packing, loading, and unloading your belongings your way.
- Pros: Save money and take charge of your move
- Cons: Requires significant time and effort
- Consider if: If you’re on a tight budget or like to take charge of your own move, this is a perfect choice.
Things to consider before hiring a long-distance mover in Illinois
Whether you’re staying for the home of Chicago, ample economic opportunity, and bountiful recreational opportunities or leaving because of the harsh winter weather, bad traffic, and high crime rate, here’s what you need to know before your Illinois move.
Company 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.
Insurance options
Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items' full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
Moving date
Weather plays a big role in how busy moving companies get, which can mean higher prices and fewer available time slots for you.
- Low winter temperature: 17°F
- High summer temperature: 86°F
- Rain per year: 40”
- Snow per year: 22”
Taking your car
Want to get your car to your new home without making the long haul yourself? A Illinois car shipping company makes it simple and stress-free to have your vehicle delivered safely across the country.
Every state and city has its own vehicle inspection rules, so make sure you look up the exact requirements before your move. Take Illinois’s requirements, as an example. In Illinois, emissions inspections are mandatory on a yearly basis for eligible vehicles in the Chicago and East St. Louis metropolitan areas. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency conducts tests on automobiles before residents can renew their vehicle registration with the Secretary of State's office.
FAQ
What is considered a long-distance move?
What counts as a long-distance move can vary depending on the company. Some call anything over 50 miles long-distance, while others set the bar as high as 400 miles. Officially, though, the FMCSA defines a long-distance or long-haul move as anything over 450 miles. So, when you book a long-distance moving company, you’ve got help whether you’re relocating within Illinois, heading to a neighboring state, or making a cross-country leap.
How far in advance should I book a long-distance move?
It's smart to schedule your long-distance move at least four weeks ahead of time, but if you can, try to book your move even earlier — several months out is ideal. Booking in advance not only helps you snag the best rates, but it also gives you plenty of time to plan your budget, declutter before the move, and pack everything up without feeling rushed.
What happens if my belongings are delayed during a long-distance move?
If your stuff arrives late during a long-distance move, movers aren’t legally required to compensate you for the hassle. The Bill of Lading you get when your items are picked up will list an estimated delivery date, but most moving companies give themselves up to 30 days in case of unexpected delays. If you suspect the movers are intentionally holding your belongings, you can report them to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) through their National Consumer Complaint Database, or turn to a consumer advocacy organization like the Better Business Bureau.
Do I need to buy moving insurance for a long-distance move from IL?
Moving insurance isn’t required for long-distance moves, but if you have valuable or one-of-a-kind items, it’s definitely worth exploring your options. Most movers automatically include “released value protection,” which only gives you $0.60 per pound if something gets lost or damaged—so if your 10-pound $3,000 statue vanishes, you’d only get six bucks back.
If you want maximum peace of mind, upgrading to full-value protection is the way to go. In Illinois, there are 33 movers that provide it, giving you plenty to choose from. Nationwide, 29.69% of 3,180 movers also offer this option.
Helpful Illinois resources
Illinois moving services
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