Best Long-Distance Movers in Illinois for 2025

Quick answer: Safeway Moving is our top choice for long-distance movers in Illinois. Based on our in-depth research and analysis, Safeway Moving offers the best overall value by providing quality service at an affordable price.

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We know that every move is different. Jump to a mover that fits your unique needs:
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned

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

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
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Best long-distance movers in Illinois for those moving out of state

These are the best state-to-state long-distance moving companies available in Illinois:

  1. Safeway Moving: 4.85 out of 5 stars
  2. Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  3. American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Allied Van Lines: 4.75 out of 5 stars
  5. North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(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
(855) 650-0657
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(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
(980) 217-6841
Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(866) 825-0554
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
(866) 825-0554
Best for Contents Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
(866) 935-3437
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
(866) 935-3437
Best customized Plans
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(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
(844) 950-2963

Best long-distance movers in Illinois for those 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:

  1. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  2. New City Moving: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  3. Mid-West Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  4. Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. Amenity Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.86 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/stimovingandstorage, https://twitter.com/stimovers?lang=en
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (36%)
  • Professional and polite staff (32%)
  • Good communication (29%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (38%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (30%)
  • Unexpected charges (28%)
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.


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
https://www.facebook.com/NewCityMoving, https://twitter.com/newcitymoving
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff (30%)
  • Efficient service (28%)
  • Careful handling (25%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (20%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (15%)
  • Lack of communication (10%)
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.


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
https://www.facebook.com/MidwestMoving/, https://twitter.com/MidwestMoving
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (30%)
  • Professional and polite staff (28%)
  • Good communication (25%)
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items (32%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (27%)
  • Unexpected charges (23%)
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


Mid-West Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in the Elk Grove Village, IL area since 1984, specializing in local residential moves. While their Yelp reviews average at 2.8 from 77 reviews, their stellar Google My Business rating of 4.7 from 385 reviews and an A+ BBB rating speak volumes about their overall customer satisfaction. Unlike many nearby movers, Mid-West Moving & Storage distinguishes itself with a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moves like pianos and antiques. They also offer full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking for added peace of mind.

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
https://www.facebook.com/AllianceMovingTeam/, https://twitter.com/alliance_moving
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service (30%)
  • Professional and polite staff (25%)
  • Careful handling (22%)
Customer Complaints
  • Unexpected charges (18%)
  • Damage to items (15%)
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (12%)
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


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
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100055149622819,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff (41%)
  • Careful handling (36%)
  • Efficient service (32%)
Customer Complaints
  • Delayed arrival or delivery (12%)
  • Damage to items (9%)
  • Lack of communication (8%)
Review Analysis
Customers tout Amenity Moving & Storage, Inc. for careful handling, friendly professionalism, and speedy, efficient service. Rates are often lower than competitors, and many repeat clients highly recommend the company. Of the 159 reviews analyzed, nearly 98% are glowing, praising the team’s precision—no damage or lost items, even on challenging jobs like pianos and safes. Staff consistently make customers feel at ease and respond flexibly to date changes or special needs. Few moving companies inspire such trust and loyalty, with many long-term customers using Amenity for years. Negative feedback is rare, mainly about being hard to reach or poor follow-up on quotes. Compared to other movers who may disappoint with hidden charges or rough handling, Amenity stands out for treating both property and customers with exceptional care. Minor communication issues aside, the company’s record sets the bar for quality moving services.
Get a Quote (630) 904-2300

Company Info

State license #: 73744

Years in Business: 38

DOT #: 70719


Amenity Moving & Storage, Inc. has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Plainfield, IL since 1986. Their reputation for excellence is reflected in their stellar consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.8 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby moving companies, Amenity Moving & Storage offers a wide range of services, including office moving, packing and unpacking, and the ability to move specialized items like pianos, hot tubs, and safes. With no deposit required, they make the moving process seamless and stress-free for their clients.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Best long-distance movers in Illinois for small moves

Most professional movers won’t handle moves under a certain minimum total weight, usually 2,000 pounds. If your Illinois move is from a college dorm or studio apartment, for example, a traditional full-service moving company might not work for you.

The good news is there are companies that specialize in small moves. Take a look at the options below if you are planning a small long-distance relocation.

Best for Small Moves
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • No minimum size
  • Top-quality materials
  • Full-service packing
read our full review
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best for small moves
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Check prices 800-626-1257
At A Glance
  • Specializes in small moves
  • Guaranteed delivery date
  • Online chatbot and resources for a seamless move
  • Car shipping services
  • Gives back with charitable donations
read our full review
Check prices 800-626-1257

Moving containers for long-distance moves in IL

If you’re comfortable doing the packing and loading but don’t want to drive from Illinois to your new state, a moving container can be a great cost-saving alternative to full-service movers.

Expect to pay somewhere around $736 to $7,170 for a moving container in Illinois. The cost depends on several factors, so we recommend getting multiple moving quotes.

We suggest starting with these two top-rated container companies.

Best Nationwide Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
Check prices
Best value container
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • Long distance moves only
  • Only pay for the space you use
  • No deposit or initial fees
  • Fast delivery time frames
read our full review
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Labor-only moving companies in Illinois

If you’re comfortable doing the driving from Illinois to your new state but want some help packing, loading, and unloading, look for labor-only moving companies.

You’ll typically pay $27 to $42 per hour per worker for Illinois-based labor-only movers.

Check out our top recommendations below.

Best Labor Only
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • First call quoting, get a quote in just a couple of minutes
  • Rates are typically 20-40% lower than the industry averages
  • $1,000 money-back service guarantee
  • Fast and accurate delivery times
  • Free damage coverage with additional coverage options
read our full review
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Best customer experience
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
(866) 774-5063
At A Glance
  • Quick and easy booking process
  • National 4.75/5 star rating (these guys are good at what they do)
  • Dedicated move concierge specialist
  • Pay as you go service. 2-hour minimum and then prorated down to the minute
  • The time clock starts when the movers arrive and ends when you tell them
read our full review
(866) 774-5063

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

The cheapest way to move out of state is with a full DIY approach — meaning you’ll handle driving, in addition to all the loading and unloading.

Moving rental trucks do require the most work on your part, but will save you the most money.

Best Availability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Check prices (800) 468-4285
At A Glance
  • More than 20,000 locations with prominent pricing
  • Rental options include everything from pick-up trucks to 26-foot moving trucks
  • Gentle-Ride Suspension add protection to avoid damaging your items during transit
  • U-Box moving containers available if you don't want to drive
read our full review
Check prices (800) 468-4285
Most Reliable
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Check prices (844) 847-9517
At A Glance
  • Limits environmental impact as part of the EPA's SmartWay Program
  • Non-slip flooring makes loading and unloading easier
  • Easily choose truck size with their Truck Wizard Tool
read our full review
Check prices (844) 847-9517

How we chose the best long-distance movers in Illinoistoggle

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

Long-distance moving costs in Illinois range from $873 up to $12,131 or more, depending on the specific details of your relocation.

Factors that affect the cost

  1. Size: The volume of items you're moving directly affects costs. Evaluate what you truly need in Illinois — every extra item adds up.
  2. Distance: The distance you’re moving away from Illinois is a major cost factor. Whether it's a couple hundred miles or a cross-country trek, distance plays a key role in your moving budget.
  3. Type of move: How you choose to move out of Illinois is crucial. Your options include a full-service moving company, truck rental, moving container, or a freight trailer. Each option comes with a different price point and its own set of perks and downsides.
  4. Services: Consider whether to do it yourself or hire help for packing and unpacking. Professional services add convenience but also increase costs.
  5. Seasonal timing: When you move affects the price. Summer moves are typically more expensive. Planning your move during the off-season (October-April) can be more cost-effective.

To get an accurate cost estimate, check out our free moving cost calculator.

Thing to consider before hiring a long-distance mover in Illinois

Whether you’re staying in Illinois for the home of Chicago, ample economic opportunity, and bountiful recreational opportunities, or moving out due to the harsh winter weather, bad traffic, and high crime rate, here’s what you need to consider before your big 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 factors influence how busy movers are, so those things play into the availability of movers and the cost.

In Illinois, you have to consider that the average winter temperature is 17°F, the average summer temperature is 86°F, you’ll see 40” of rain, and about 22” of snow each year.

Taking your car

If you’re moving across the country and don’t want to leave your car (or drive it cross-country), you may want to use an Illinois car shipper.

You’ll also want to consider vehicle inspections in your new location, as regulations can differ state to state and even by city. 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.

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