The Best Long-Distance Movers in Ottawa, IL

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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.
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  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
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  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

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

If you’re crossing state lines for a new home outside of Illinois, these are our recommendations for top interstate movers in Ottawa:

Best Overall Value
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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
Most Experienced Mover
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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
866-835-2392
Best customized Plans
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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 for Contents Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
866-825-0554
Best for personalized service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
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

Best long-distance movers in Ottawa for those staying in state

Moves that stay within Illinois can still be considered long-distance if you’re covering serious ground from Ottawa. Even without crossing state lines, the distance can make a big difference in planning.

For longer in-state relocations, it’s best to choose from the best long-distance moving companies.

Here are our top-rated moving companies in Ottawa, IL:

https://www.facebook.com/teamplanes/,
88% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving reliability makes all the difference, and Planes Moving & Storage stands out in customer feedback. 232 reviews were analyzed, with nearly nine out of ten customers satisfied. Customers rave about Planes’ professional and polite teams, efficient moving processes, careful handling of items, fast service, and consistent communication. Many moves finished ahead of schedule without hidden costs. On the downside, a few reported item damage, inaccurate cost estimates, and occasional lost belongings, which affected their trust in the process. Some also flagged issues when delivery or claims didn't match their expectations. Compared to similar companies, Planes earns stronger praise for staff professionalism and handling but loses ground with damage and claim resolution concerns. This feedback points to a moving company that gets high marks for speed, courtesy, and organization, though some clients face setbacks with damage and missed estimates.
Get a Quote (630) 381-6952

Company Info

State license #: 7545

Years in Business: 104

DOT #:  1458935

Alternate Names: Planes Moving & Storage of Chicago, L.L.C.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/TwoMenJoliet/, https://twitter.com/TwoMenJoliet
94% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day magic stands out in the customer feedback for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. Of the 151 reviews examined, 94% were positive, highlighting an experience far better than most moving services. People frequently praise the efficiency, professionalism, and respectful attitude of the staff, often noting their careful handling of belongings and excellent communication throughout the process. Fast and organized moves, punctuality, and helpful crews consistently receive high marks. Contrasting this, a handful of customers reported problems, mainly revolving around cost estimates being much lower than the final charge, accidental damage to property or items, and unexpected extra fees. Negative feedback is far less common, but when present, it usually concerns inaccurate quoting or issues with response to damage claims. Compared to many moving companies, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK stands out for efficient execution and professionalism, leaving most customers highly satisfied with minimal complaints about broken items or delays.
Get a Quote (815) 570-4144

Company Info

State license #: 9932

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/MKMovers.STC/,
91% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with confidence starts with M.K. Movers Inc., a company backed by 234 pieces of customer input and a striking 91% positive feedback rate. Most customers praise the team's efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, quick moving process, and excellent communication—qualities not often found in the moving industry. People note how the staff works swiftly while remaining friendly and respectful of property. Difficult moves are often handled seamlessly, with furniture and belongings treated with care and moves often completed faster than expected. On the flip side, a handful of people report problems with items being damaged, communication gaps when issues arose, and final costs missing the quote. These negatives stand out by comparison because the majority of similar moving companies often experience even higher rates of complaints. M.K. Movers exceeds typical industry standards for reliability and courtesy, making them a trusted choice for anyone looking for movers who prioritize both speed and safety.
Get a Quote (630) 244-9655

Company Info

State license #: 174972

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2265788


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100055149622819,
98% of all reviews were positive
2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
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: 39

DOT #: 70719


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
https://www.facebook.com/murphyfamilymovers/, https://twitter.com/murphyfammovers
96% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Murphy Family Movers stands out with glowing customer feedback: out of 254 reviews, 96.1% were positive and just 3.9% negative. Customers praised the efficient, professional crews who handled belongings with exceptional care. Many highlighted great communication and affordable, transparent pricing, especially compared to other movers—something rarely encountered in the industry. Movers received repeated commendations for their promptness and polite attitude, leading to frequent referrals and repeat business. On the other hand, negative input mostly centered on damaged items, discrepancies with estimates, or issues with complaint handling. While rare, these experiences show some inconsistency in problem resolution, a problem found in many moving companies. Most clients, though, found the service to be trustworthy, detail-oriented, and competitively priced, making Murphy Family Movers a leading choice among local and interstate options.
Get a Quote (847) 778-7287

Company Info

State license #: 218566

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2965334

Alternate Names: Murph's Trucking LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

Moving services available in Ottawa

Specialty moving services like piano transport, antiques handling, and climate-controlled storage aren’t always offered everywhere. The table below shows how many movers in Ottawa provide these add-ons compared to state and national providers. This helps you quickly spot whether local, statewide, or national companies are your best bet for the services you need.

Storage

Comparing Ottawa, IL, & national movers

Ottawa
2 (100%)
out of 2 total movers
Illinois
71 (91.03%)
out of 78 total movers
Nationwide
2,317 (87.9%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Top Ottawa storage movers

Custom-built crates

Comparing Ottawa, IL, & national movers

Ottawa
1 (50%)
out of 2 total movers
Illinois
47 (60.26%)
out of 78 total movers
Nationwide
1,721 (65.29%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Top Ottawa custom crating movers

Piano loading & unloading

Comparing Ottawa, IL, & national movers

Ottawa
2 (100%)
out of 2 total movers
Illinois
61 (78.21%)
out of 78 total movers
Nationwide
2,071 (78.57%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Top Ottawa piano movers

Fragile-only packing

Comparing Ottawa, IL, & national movers

Ottawa
1 (50%)
out of 2 total movers
Illinois
24 (30.77%)
out of 78 total movers
Nationwide
677 (25.68%)
out of 2,636 total movers

Top Ottawa fragile-only packing movers

Best long-distance movers in Ottawa, IL, for small moves

Many full-service moving companies have shipment minimums that smaller moves just can’t meet. If you’re only relocating a few items, that can quickly limit your options.

Don’t fret — some movers are built for just this kind of job. These companies specialize in small moves, making them a great fit if you're moving out of Ottawa with only a studio’s worth of stuff or a handful of belongings.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • No minimum move size
  • Full-service packing
  • Short-term storage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • 34+ yrs experience
  • Online chatbot
  • Car shipping

Moving containers for long-distance moves in Ottawa, IL

If you're moving from Ottawa and want more control over your schedule, moving containers are a smart choice. You take care of the packing and loading on your own time, and the container company manages storage and delivery to your next home.

Below are our recommended container movers for long-distance relocations from Ottawa:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves

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

If saving money is your top priority, renting a truck for your move from Ottawa might be the way to go. Just remember — it’s a full DIY job. You’ll be packing, lifting, driving, and unloading everything yourself. And while it may look budget-friendly upfront, costs like gas, mileage, and tolls can sneak up on you. Do the math before locking it in.

Take a look at our top rental truck picks for long-distance moves:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage

Labor-only moving companies in Ottawa, IL

Labor-only companies handle the heavy-lifting for you, offering services related to packing, loading, and assembly. You’ll provide the truck, packing supplies, and other materials. Think of it as hiring professional movers without the truck.

Hire these top-notch labor-only movers for your long-distance move from Ottawa, IL:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.56 / 5
  • Years in Business: 14
  • Yelp: 4.4 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.62 / 5
  • Years in Business: 14
  • Yelp: 4.2 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
  • Years in Business: 39
  • Yelp: 4.7 / 5
  • BBB: A+

Comparing the best long-distance movers in Ottawa, IL

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

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

On average, movers in Illinois charge about $97 per hour. That said, final pricing depends on more than just hourly rates—factors like distance and shipment size still play a big role, even when working with the top interstate movers.

Here’s what you can expect to pay for a long-distance move from Ottawa, IL to some of the most common destinations:

Destination Distance Home size Cost
Los Angeles, CA 1,949 miles 3 bedroom $4,525 - $7,077
Kansas City, MO 444 miles 2 bedroom $1,817 - $4,277
Sioux Falls, SD 532 miles 1 bedroom $1,592 - $3,891

To get an accurate estimate of the cost for your long-distance move out of Ottawa, 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 Ottawa 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.

Is it better to use local or national movers to relocate from Ottawa?

There are 10 movers in Ottawa, which puts you in a good spot: enough options to weigh service and pricing, but not so many that the search becomes overwhelming. Across Illinois, you’ll find 78 movers. To simplify the process, we’ve spotlighted the best local moving companies.

For cross-state or cross-country moves, Safeway Moving consistently stands out as the most reliable partner.

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

Since demand for movers in Ottawa drops in November and December — thanks to the holiday season and school commitments — you’ll have more room to negotiate with moving companies and potentially lock in lower prices.

What are the cheapest ways to move out of Ottawa?

If you're staying within 50 miles of Ottawa, doing the move yourself is usually the most affordable option. That includes renting a truck from companies like U-Haul or going with a moving container service such as PODS. Read our full breakdown of the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Long-distance movers in nearby cities

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