10 Best Long-Distance Movers in Illinois for 2024
Fact Checked by: Safeway Moving, American Van Lines, Mayzlin Relocation, North American Van Lines, and JK Moving Services are the best long-distance moving companies available in Illinois. The average cost of Illinois movers is $192 per hour.
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How we picked 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.
Best Interstate Moving Companies in Illinois
These are the best interstate moving companies available in Illinois:
- Safeway Moving, 4.5 out of 5
- American Van Lines, 4.5 out of 5
- Mayzlin Relocation, 4.45 out of 5
- North American Van Lines, 4.25 out of 5
- JK Moving Services, 4.25 out of 5
- GPS tracked trucks and tractors
- Barcode scanned and tracked inventory of your possessions
- Dedicated move coordinator assigned to each client
- A portion of every move is donated to charity
93% of users select this mover
- Over 20 years in business
- Excellent customer service score
- Best pricing we've seen
- Can handle last minute moves
93% of users select this mover
- Family owned with locations covering the east coast
- Full refund for cancellations within 7 days of your move
- Packing and unpacking services available
- Handle residential, corporate, and military moves
93% of users select this mover
- Over 74 years in business
- More than 1,800 trucks in the fleet
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Top major moving company in the U.S.
- Highest rated agent van line among moveBuddha customers
93% of users select this mover
- Guaranteed pick up and delivery dates
- Low deposit requirement of $250 for interstate moves
- Easy and fast AI-powered in-home estimate tool
- Over 40k moves in the past 3 years
- Available Financing as low as 0% Interest for low monthly payments
- Extremely responsive customer service
93% of users select this mover
Best long-distance movers if you’re staying in Illinois
While it’s not as common, if you’re staying in Illinois but still moving a couple hundred miles, these are the best long distance movers for you:
- Moovers Chicago Inc, 5 out of 5
- Mid-West Moving & Storage, 4.9 out of 5
- Golan's Moving & Storage, Inc., 4.8 out of 5
- STI Moving & Storage Inc., 4.8 out of 5
- New City Moving, 4.8 out of 5
Moovers Chicago Inc
rating
5 / 5
Years in Business: 9
5359 N Kedzie Ave,Chicago, IL 60625
In the bustling realm of Chicago moving companies, Moovers Chicago Inc. stands out as a truly versatile and customer-centered provider. Operating since 2014, they go beyond the industry standard, offering an expansive repertoire of services encompassing local and long-distance residential moves as well as office relocation. Their extensive list of provisions, rarely matched by neighboring competitors, includes packing, unpacking, crating, and even specialized moving for delicate items like pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, and grandfather clocks. Unique services like provision of crane vans and fragile-only packing set them apart, while labor-only services cater to those seeking extra manpower. This considerate mover accepts cash, credit cards, and forgoes the routine deposit, easing the financial stress often associated with relocation. They boast an impressive online reputation with high ratings on Yelp and Google My Business, as well as an A+ Better Business Bureau rating – a testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction. Whether your moving needs involve storage, or insurance coverage, Moovers Chicago Inc. ensures every need is met with professional finesse.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- State license #: 187592
Local Associations
Mid-West Moving & Storage
rating
4.9 / 5
DOT #: 294025
Years in Business: 40
1255 Tonne Rd,Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
Mid-West Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in the Elk Grove Village, IL, area since 1984. Unlike other local moving companies, they provide a comprehensive range of services that cover local, long-distance, and even international moving. From residential to office relocations, their skilled team handles it all. Their service package is not only limited to moving; it also includes packing, unpacking, crating, as well as specialized moving of fragile items and valuable possessions such as pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, artwork, antiques, grandfather clocks, and safes. What sets Mid-West Moving & Storage apart from other movers in the area is their ability to provide specialized moving services catering to military personnel and seniors. They also make the moving process more manageable by accepting credit cards, requiring a deposit, offering full valuation insurance coverage, and providing shipment tracking. Despite the competitive nature of online reviews, Mid-West Moving & Storage has managed to maintain an impressive rating. With an average Yelp rating of 3.0 from 78 reviews, a significant Google My Business rating of 4.7 from 372 reviews, and a high-grade A+ Better Business Bureau rating, they undoubtedly stand out from the crowd. For those in need of storage solutions, they also offer storage options as required, making them a one-stop-shop for all relocation needs.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
Available services
- 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
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 294025
- State license #: 75043
- DOD certified
Golan's Moving & Storage, Inc.
rating
4.8 / 5
DOT #: 504435
Years in Business: 32
3640 Jarvis Ave,Skokie, IL 60076
Golan's Moving & Storage, Inc. is a seasoned moving company that's been serving the Skokie, IL area since 1991. With a capacity to handle both local and long-distance residential moves, they also cater to office relocations, setting them apart from local competitors. Their comprehensive suite of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, ensures a hassle-free moving experience. What really sets Golan's Moving apart, however, is their expertise in moving special items such as pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, and safes, an uncommon offering among other moving providers in the region. They accept money orders, cash, and credit cards, with a deposit required for their full-valuation insurance coverage. With over a thousand reviews across Yelp and Google My Business, they boast an impressive average rating of 4 stars. Their dedication to customer satisfaction has also garnered them an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, asserting their reliability in a competitive industry.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 504435
- State license #: 93712
Alternative Business Names
- Golan's Moving and Storage, Inc.
STI Moving & Storage Inc.
rating
4.8 / 5
DOT #: 1308599
Pricing: $139/hr
Years in Business: 18
7400 Niles Center Rd,Skokie, IL 60077
Established in 2005, STI Moving & Storage Inc. has made a reputable name for itself within the moving industry of Skokie, IL, and surrounding areas. This company outshines competitors by offering a comprehensive suite of services that extend beyond standard residential moving, including office relocations, packing and unpacking services, crating, and specialized handling of delicate items such as pianos, pool tables, artwork, antiques, and grandfather clocks. Unlike many of its regional competitors, this company provides crane vans and fragile only packing when necessary, catering specifically to the customer's personalized needs. STI Moving & Storage Inc. charges a competitive hourly rate of $139 for local moves, accepts credit cards, and requires a deposit, ensuring security and ease of transactions for its customers. The company further offers the convenience of storage options and labor-only services, highlighting its flexibility. Apart from its extensive service offerings, STI Moving & Storage Inc. stands out in reviews, boasting an impressive 4.7-star rating from over a thousand Google My Business reviewers and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. While their Yelp rating averages 3.0, the sheer breadth of positive reviews across platforms indicates a mostly satisfied clientele. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction is further underscored by its offer of full valuation insurance coverage, providing customers with assurance regarding the safety of their belongings during the moving process. In comparison to nearby moving companies, STI Moving & Storage Inc. consistently showcases its commitment to quality, comprehensive services, and customer satisfaction, making it a premier choice within the Skokie moving market.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 1308599
- State license #: 139020
Alternative Business Names
- STI Moving & Storage, Inc.
New City Moving
rating
4.8 / 5
DOT #: 3078026
Years in Business: 14
2929 N Campbell Ave,Chicago, IL 60618
New City Moving is a leading moving company in Chicago, IL, renowned for its superior residential and office moving services. Since their establishment in 2009, they have risen above their nearby competitors, consistently outshining them through diligent service and remarkable customer reviews. Offering both local and long-distance moving services, New City Moving also excels in packing, unpacking, and provision of labor-only services. They offer special care for fragile items while packing, ensuring safe and secure transportation. In terms of payment convenience, they accept both cash and credit card transactions along with a prerequisite deposit. Notably, the company also offers full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring peace of mind for their customers throughout the moving process. This commitment to stellar customer service is reflected in their impressive online presence, boasting an average rating of 4.5 from over 1077 Yelp reviews, and a 4.8 average from a whopping 2110 Google My Business reviews. They also hold the highest possible Better Business Bureau rating of A+, proving their reliability and exceptional service in the moving industry.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 3078026
- State license #: 158051
Alternative Business Names
- Windy City Moving, Inc.
Alternative long-distance moving options
While hiring full-service moving companies out of Illinois is usually the easiest option, it’s not for everyone. Find alternative options below:
Moving Containers
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.
Expect to pay somewhere around $1,050 to $6,711 for a moving container coming out of Illinois. The cost depends on several factors, so we recommend getting multiple moving quotes.
- Long distance moves only
- Only pay for the space you use
- No deposit or initial fees
- Fast delivery time frames
93% of users select this mover
- 30 days storage included
- Local and long distance moving options
- Unlimited loading/unloading time
- Store on property or at a facility
93% of users select this mover
Labor Only
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 $22 to $38 per hour per worker for Illinois-based labor-only movers.
- HireAHelper: 4.5 out of 5
- Bellhop: 4.3 out of 5
- 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
93% of users select this mover
- 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
93% of users select this mover
Full DIY
If budget is the biggest concern, the best long-distance moving options in Illinois are U-Haul Truck Rental and Penske Truck Rental. These moving rental trucks do require the most work on your part, but will save you the most money.
- U-Haul Truck Rental: 4.15 out of 5
- Penske Truck Rental: 4 out of 5
- 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
93% of users select this mover
- 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
93% of users select this mover
Average cost of a long-distance move out of Illinois
The average cost of a long-distance move out of Illinois is $1,107 up to $12,511+. There are several factors that factor into the total cost of moving.
Factors that affect the cost
- Size: The volume of items you're moving directly affects costs. Evaluate what you truly need in Illinois – every extra item adds up.
- 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.
- 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 offers different advantages and costs.
- Services: Consider whether to do it yourself or hire help for packing and unpacking. Professional services add convenience but also increase costs.
- Seasonal Timing: When you move affects the price. Summer moves are typically more expensive. Planning your move during off-peak seasons can be more cost-effective.
To get an accurate cost estimate, check out our free
moving cost calculator.
Thing to consider before hiring a 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.
Check the company’s 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.
Ask about their 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.
When to move
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. That’s a lot of weather that can determine when to plan your move.
Taking your car
If you’re moving across the country and don’t want to leave your car in Illinois (or drive it cross-country), consider using a car shipping company.
You’ll also want to consider vehicle inspections in your new state as they may be different. 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.
