The Best Long-Distance Movers in Sterling, IL

ryan carrigan moving expert
Hi, I'm Ryan.
Let's get moving.
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.
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.
Need more help? Build your move plan.
Get Quote

Preferred partners

Our track record

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

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 Sterling for those moving out of state

If you're moving out of Sterling and heading beyond Illinois's borders, here are our top picks for interstate moving companies:

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 Sterling for those staying in state

Moves that stay within Illinois can still be considered long-distance if you’re covering serious ground from Sterling. 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 Sterling, IL:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100067039566250, https://x.com/OMaraMoving
74% of all reviews were positive
23% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with O'Mara means many customers get prompt, courteous service from professional and communicative staff who handle belongings with care. Out of 31 pieces of feedback studied, nearly three-quarters praised polite crews, careful handling, smooth coordination, affordable rates, and clear recommendations. Those with positive experiences frequently note how staff minimized costs, managed timing efficiently, and made the transition stress-free. On the other hand, some users reported problems such as damaged furniture, unreturned calls, unreliable arrival times, and disrespectful behavior. While most clients enjoyed dependable communication and respect for property, a small group experienced major setbacks with broken items and disappointing customer service. Compared to other movers, O'Mara stands out for reasonable pricing and professionalism but has received a few consistent complaints around accountability and handling in rare cases.
Get a Quote (815) 232-2512

Company Info

State license #: 5095

Years in Business: 159

DOT #: 144182


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/straightlinerockford/?locale=eo_EO,
88% of all reviews were positive
12% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers repeatedly highlight Straightline Moving, Inc. for their professional staff, careful handling, and fast, efficient moves. Nearly 88% of 230 customer feedback entries are positive. People appreciate transparent pricing and prompt, organized service. Many mention that crews handle possessions with care and communicate well throughout the process, providing peace of mind even with heavy or challenging items. Negative feedback centers on damaged goods, missing items, and delivery delays, with some reporting frustration resolving claims. These issues stand out but are mentioned far less frequently. Compared to other companies, Straightline’s strength is consistently courteous, skilled movers. Most clients report stress-free experiences and recommend the company for both local and long-distance moves. Straightline Moving excels at the core expectations of a moving company, but improvements could be made in claims response and inventory tracking to achieve a higher satisfaction rate.
Get a Quote (815) 708-7875

Company Info

State license #: 217042

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 3047914


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/twomenquadcities/, https://x.com/TwoMenAndATruck
85% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Two Men and a Truck stands out for consistently delivering friendly, efficient moves, as seen in 203 reviews out of 240 that praised their professionalism and careful handling. Customers frequently highlight quick moving, respectful teams, and stress-free experiences, often contrasting their reliability with typical frustrations found with other movers. Many note the movers were attentive, treated property with care, and stayed under quoted estimates, which is rare in the moving industry. Some feedback points to issues such as property damage, extra surprise charges, and lack of communication during complaints or claims. While most users found pricing transparent and crews skillful, a small group experienced challenges resolving concerns. This strong focus on efficiency, courteous service, and careful handling makes Two Men and a Truck a leading choice among local moving services, though addressing critical feedback could elevate satisfaction even further.
Get a Quote (563) 387-8263

Company Info

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 2527384


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/horizonmoversandclimatecontrolstoragequadcities, https://x.com/MoversHorizon
98% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Movers making moving easy—feedback for Horizon Movers & Climate Control Storage stands out among local moving companies. 232 reviews were analyzed, with 98% reporting positive experiences. Customers often highlight their careful handling of belongings, professional and polite teams, efficiency, fast process, and clear communication. Many mention respectful treatment of property and stress-free relocations, including for long-distance and complicated moves. A few reports note unprofessional scheduling behavior, some items being damaged, or poor communication, though these are rare. Compared to other movers, Horizon receives more praise for reliability, attention to detail, and courteous service, cementing its reputation as a top choice for hassle-free and trustworthy moving and storage services.
Get a Quote (563) 381-9866

Company Info

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 763103

Alternate Names: Megladon Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • 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

Moving services available in Sterling

Not all moving companies offer extras such as piano moving, antique handling, or climate-controlled storage — and availability varies by region. The comparison below shows how many movers in Sterling, in the state, and nationwide provide these specialized services. That way, you can easily see whether local or national providers best meet your needs.

Storage

Comparing Sterling, IL, & national movers

Sterling
1 (100%)
out of 1 total movers
Illinois
71 (91.03%)
out of 78 total movers
Nationwide
2,321 (87.88%)
out of 2,641 total movers

Top Sterling storage movers

Custom-built crates

Comparing Sterling, IL, & national movers

Sterling
1 (100%)
out of 1 total movers
Illinois
47 (60.26%)
out of 78 total movers
Nationwide
1,721 (65.16%)
out of 2,641 total movers

Top Sterling custom crating movers

Antiques handling

Comparing Sterling, IL, & national movers

Sterling
1 (100%)
out of 1 total movers
Illinois
39 (50%)
out of 78 total movers
Nationwide
1,337 (50.62%)
out of 2,641 total movers

Top Sterling antique movers

Piano loading & unloading

Comparing Sterling, IL, & national movers

Sterling
1 (100%)
out of 1 total movers
Illinois
61 (78.21%)
out of 78 total movers
Nationwide
2,072 (78.46%)
out of 2,641 total movers

Top Sterling piano movers

Fragile-only packing

Comparing Sterling, IL, & national movers

Sterling
1 (100%)
out of 1 total movers
Illinois
24 (30.77%)
out of 78 total movers
Nationwide
678 (25.67%)
out of 2,641 total movers

Top Sterling fragile-only packing movers

Specialty art handling

Comparing Sterling, IL, & national movers

Sterling
1 (100%)
out of 1 total movers
Illinois
41 (52.56%)
out of 78 total movers
Nationwide
1,319 (49.94%)
out of 2,641 total movers

Top Sterling art movers

Best long-distance movers in Sterling, 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 Sterling 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 Sterling, IL

Moving containers, or moving pods, make it easy to manage your move from Sterling on your terms. They’re ideal if you want storage flexibility and the freedom to pack and load at your own speed. Once you're done, the pros take over and transport everything to your new place.

Here are our top picks for moving container companies that handle long-distance moves from Sterling:

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 Sterling, IL for a total DIY long-distance move

Rental trucks are usually the most budget-friendly option for a long-distance move from Sterling, but they also come with the most responsibility. You’ll be in charge of everything: packing, loading, driving, and unloading. While you can save money this way, mileage fees, tolls, and gas costs can add up quickly. It’s good to double-check these hidden costs to confirm that a truck rental really is the most affordable choice for your situation.

These are 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 Sterling, IL

Labor-only movers are perfect when you need extra hands but not a full-service moving truck. They’ll handle the packing, heavy lifting, and even furniture assembly, while you’re in charge of the truck and materials.

Check out these top-rated labor-only moving companies for long-distance moves from Sterling, IL:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.36 / 5
  • Years in Business: 16
  • Yelp: 2.8 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.64 / 5
  • Years in Business: 14
  • Yelp: 4.2 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.38 / 5
  • Years in Business: 115
  • Yelp: 4.3 / 5
  • BBB: A+

Comparing the best long-distance movers in Sterling, 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 Sterling, 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 Sterling, IL

Professional movers in Illinois charge around $97 per hour on average. However, even the most reputable interstate moving companies need more details—like how far and how much you're moving—before giving you an accurate quote.

Here’s a look at average long-distance moving costs from Sterling, IL to major cities:

Destination Distance Home size Cost
Wichita, KS 614 miles 3 bedroom $3,061 - $4,955
Billings, MT 1,146 miles 2 bedroom $2,399 - $5,289
Albuquerque, NM 1,207 miles 1 bedroom $2,362 - $4,501

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

There are 10 movers in Sterling, 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 Sterling?

Movers in Sterling typically see less business in November and December due to the holidays and school schedules. That makes it a great time to negotiate with a moving company and potentially cut down on your moving costs.

What are the cheapest ways to move out of Sterling?

DIY options are generally the least expensive, especially for moves under 50 miles from Sterling. Some of the most budget-friendly methods include renting a truck like U-Haul or choosing a moving container company like PODS. You can also explore our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state for more ideas.

Long-distance movers in nearby cities

See More
See Less

Helpful Sterling Resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All