10 Best Moving Companies in Illinois (2026 Reviews)
Fact Checked by:
moveBuddha analyzed 314 Illinois movers and 105,975 verified reviews. New City Moving is the highest-rated local mover in Illinois, with a 4.70/5 moveBuddha rating, 18 years in business, and 92% positive feedback across 1,451 verified reviews.
Local moves in Illinois cost $509 for a studio to $6,145 for a 5+ bedroom home. Get a personalized estimate with moveBuddha's free moving cost calculator, then compare movers, starting with our top-ranked Illinois mover, New City Moving.
rating
4.7 / 5
- Years in Business: 18
- Yelp: 4.5 / 5
- BBB:
rating
4.64 / 5
- Years in Business: 21
- Yelp: 2.9 / 5
- BBB: A+
rating
4.64 / 5
- Years in Business: 16
- Yelp: 4.6 / 5
- BBB: A+
10 Best Local Moving Companies in Illinois
The 10 best local moving companies in Illinois are led by New City Moving, which has a moveBuddha rating of 4.70/5 and 92% positive customer reviews. Ratings among the top 10 companies range from 4.56 to 4.70 out of 5, based on a combined 16,905 verified customer reviews.
moveBuddha evaluated 314 moving companies in Illinois, scoring each on industry experience, review quality, quote accuracy, and customer service. Our ratings incorporate verified customer reviews, FMCSA complaint data, BBB standing, and moveBuddha's proprietary data from more than 1,000 real moving quotes and moves. Last updated November 2026.
- New City Moving: 4.70/5 stars
- STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.64/5 stars
- Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.64/5 stars
- Good Move Movers, Inc.: 4.64/5 stars
- Mighty Moving & Storage: 4.62/5 stars
- The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.58/5 stars
- Windy City Movers Inc.: 4.58/5 stars
- MiniMoves Inc.: 4.58/5 stars
- H2H Movers Inc: 4.56/5 stars
- Jay Movers: 4.56/5 stars
Easy booking process
Affordable rates
Transparent pricing
Flexibility
Experienced movers
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. New City Moving has been in business for 18 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 5.0
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. New City Moving has about 92% positive reviews across roughly 1451 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.5.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from New City Moving.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. New City Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Booking was simple with a $100 deposit upfront and a $190 per hour rate. They were efficient, professional, and careful with everything. Highly recommend this team for a smooth and stress-free move.
Ricky and Rocky communicated every step, handled my things with extreme care, and saved about $120 versus the estimate. No hidden fees, and all pricing was transparent and clearly communicated.
Affordable rates
Quick moving process
Quick response times
Efficient service
Careful handling
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. STI Moving & Storage Inc. has been in business for 21 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. STI Moving & Storage Inc. has about 85% positive reviews across roughly 1590 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.9.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from STI Moving & Storage Inc., and STI Moving & Storage Inc. makes deposit expectations clear upfront. Discounts may be available for groups like military.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. STI Moving & Storage Inc. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
Extremely professional and courteous. They were very speedy! The whole move took me less time and money than the movers who only moved me into my first apartment!
I was really glad I chose STI. They were quick to respond and give an estimate. The crew was outstanding and did not waste time. STI estimated one day and finished under the estimated time.
Affordable rates
Consistency and follow-up
Quick moving process
Flexibility
Respectful of property
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Alliance Moving & Storage has been in business for 11 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 5.0
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Alliance Moving & Storage has about 95% positive reviews across roughly 896 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.8.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Alliance Moving & Storage.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Alliance Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Three guys showed up right on time and moved everything in about two hours. They were fast, efficient, careful, friendly, and the price was exactly what was quoted.
Communication was great, they were flexible with scheduling, and they always did an excellent job!
Affordable rates
Flexibility
Respectful of property
Consistency and follow-up
Careful handling
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Good Move Movers, Inc. has been in business for 16 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Good Move Movers, Inc. has about 93% positive reviews across roughly 488 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.6.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Good Move Movers, Inc..
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Good Move Movers, Inc. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Their rates were the most competitive in the area, and there was no compromise in service. We had a ton to get done quickly, and they worked with us well into the evening.
They arrived on time, packed/unpacked everything in a good time and not a single thing was broken; their communication with us was perfect.
Affordable rates
Respectful of property
Flexibility
Careful handling
Quick moving process
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.4
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Mighty Moving & Storage has been in business for 4 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 5.0
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Mighty Moving & Storage has about 97% positive reviews across roughly 178 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.5.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Mighty Moving & Storage.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Mighty Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
Three movers helped me move across my current city and they were quick and careful. Everything was well-wrapped and arrived to my new home without a scratch. The price was also great compared to another quote I received.
Erick and Clay were great. They moved efficiently and I was able to keep an open line of communication with them. They were flexible despite issues that occurred.
Experienced movers
Affordable rates
Quick moving process
Quick response times
Respectful of property
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. The Professionals Moving Specialists has been in business for 21 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. The Professionals Moving Specialists has about 97% positive reviews across roughly 5591 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.6.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from The Professionals Moving Specialists.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. The Professionals Moving Specialists emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
The Professional Moving Company Crew completed my move expeditiously and in good order. They are clearly very experienced and did the move very nicely and quickly.
Abraham, Erik, Jose, and Lucio were extremely careful with our two-bedroom move, including a 77-inch TV. They were reasonably priced compared with other companies and I’ll use them again.
Experienced movers
Affordable rates
Flexibility
Quick moving process
Respectful of property
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Windy City Movers Inc. has been in business for 44 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and estate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Windy City Movers Inc. has about 87% positive reviews across roughly 789 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.0.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Windy City Movers Inc..
Customer service 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Windy City Movers Inc. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
The three movers were fast, efficient, and extremely knowledgeable about safely wrapping, disassembling, and reassembling everything. We beat our time estimate despite several flights of stairs.
I had a last-minute emergency move, and Windy City Movers came through. They helped quickly at a reasonable price, carefully disassembled and reassembled furniture, and even offered to move my vehicle.
Consistency and follow-up
Affordable rates
Good communication
Flexibility
Careful handling
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. MiniMoves Inc. has been in business for 34 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and estate moving.
Review quality 4.6
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. MiniMoves Inc. has about 72% positive reviews across roughly 516 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.0.
Quote accuracy 4.2
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request instant email quotes from MiniMoves Inc.. Discounts may be available for groups like military.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. MiniMoves Inc. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
Items were wrapped securely prior to moving them. Great job, fair price. Eric Thompson made me feel comfortable about the move and was available whenever I called with questions. I highly recommend this team and Mini Movers.
Both crews were professional and friendly, nothing was damaged whatsoever. Items arrived on time and MiniMoves communicated with me consistently throughout the wait for a delivery date.
Affordable rates
Quick moving process
Consistency and follow-up
Quick response times
Good communication
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. H2H Movers Inc has been in business for 12 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and office moving.
Review quality 5.0
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. H2H Movers Inc has about 97% positive reviews across roughly 4892 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.2.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from H2H Movers Inc.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. H2H Movers Inc emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Pricing was transparent and consistent. Communication was constant and professional. Most importantly, they handled our stuff with great care as if it was their own.
100% would recommend. H2H was upfront, professional, and organized. They contacted me a week in advance and 2 days before the move. The final bill was less than the estimate.
Jay Movers
Affordable rates
Easy booking process
Transparent pricing
Flexibility
Quick moving process
Show details Hide details
Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Jay Movers has been in business for 29 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and office moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Jay Movers has about 74% positive reviews across roughly 514 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.9.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Jay Movers.
Customer service 4.7
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Jay Movers emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
BK was so helpful with providing a quote and coordinating for me! ... The price was very reasonable as well.
From the booking process to communication leading up to the move and the day itself, everything was seamless.
Top-rated movers in nearby cities
- Addison, IL movers
- Algonquin, IL movers
- Alsip, IL movers
- Alton, IL movers
- Antioch, IL movers
- Arlington Heights, IL movers
- Aurora, IL movers
- Barrington, IL movers
- Bartlett, IL movers
- Batavia, IL movers
- Beach Park, IL movers
- Belleville, IL movers
- Bellwood, IL movers
- Belvidere, IL movers
- Bensenville, IL movers
- Berwyn, IL movers
- Bloomingdale, IL movers
- Bloomington, IL movers
- Blue Island, IL movers
- Bolingbrook, IL movers
- Bourbonnais, IL movers
- Bradley, IL movers
- Bridgeview, IL movers
- Brookfield, IL movers
- Buffalo Grove, IL movers
- Burbank, IL movers
- Burr Ridge, IL movers
- Cahokia, IL movers
- Calumet City, IL movers
- Campton Hills, IL movers
- Canton, IL movers
- Carol Stream, IL movers
- Carpentersville, IL movers
- Cary, IL movers
- Centralia, IL movers
- Champaign, IL movers
- Channahon, IL movers
- Charleston, IL movers
- Chatham, IL movers
- Chicago, IL movers
- Chicago Heights, IL movers
- Chicago Ridge, IL movers
- Cicero, IL movers
- Collinsville, IL movers
- Columbia, IL movers
- Country Club Hills, IL movers
- Crest Hill, IL movers
- Crestwood, IL movers
- Crystal Lake, IL movers
- Danville, IL movers
- Darien, IL movers
- DeKalb, IL movers
- Decatur, IL movers
- Deerfield, IL movers
- Des Plaines, IL movers
- Dixon, IL movers
- Dolton, IL movers
- Downers Grove, IL movers
- East Moline, IL movers
- East Peoria, IL movers
- East St. Louis, IL movers
- Edwardsville, IL movers
- Effingham, IL movers
- Elgin, IL movers
- Elk Grove Village, IL movers
- Elmhurst, IL movers
- Elmwood Park, IL movers
- Evanston, IL movers
- Evergreen Park, IL movers
- Fairview Heights, IL movers
- Forest Park, IL movers
- Fox Lake, IL movers
- Frankfort, IL movers
- Franklin Park, IL movers
- Freeport, IL movers
- Gages Lake, IL movers
- Galesburg, IL movers
- Geneva, IL movers
- Glen Carbon, IL movers
- Glen Ellyn, IL movers
- Glendale Heights, IL movers
- Glenview, IL movers
- Godfrey, IL movers
- Granite City, IL movers
- Grayslake, IL movers
- Gurnee, IL movers
- Hanover Park, IL movers
- Harvey, IL movers
- Hazel Crest, IL movers
- Hickory Hills, IL movers
- Highland, IL movers
- Highland Park, IL movers
- Hinsdale, IL movers
- Hoffman Estates, IL movers
- Homer Glen, IL movers
- Homewood, IL movers
- Huntley, IL movers
- Jacksonville, IL movers
- Joliet, IL movers
- Justice, IL movers
- Kankakee, IL movers
- Kewanee, IL movers
- La Grange, IL movers
- La Grange Park, IL movers
- Lake Forest, IL movers
- Lake Zurich, IL movers
- Lake in the Hills, IL movers
- Lansing, IL movers
- Lemont, IL movers
- Libertyville, IL movers
- Lincoln, IL movers
- Lincolnwood, IL movers
- Lindenhurst, IL movers
- Lisle, IL movers
- Lockport, IL movers
- Lombard, IL movers
- Loves Park, IL movers
- Lyons, IL movers
- Machesney Park, IL movers
- Macomb, IL movers
- Markham, IL movers
- Matteson, IL movers
- Mattoon, IL movers
- Maywood, IL movers
- McHenry, IL movers
- Melrose Park, IL movers
- Midlothian, IL movers
- Minooka, IL movers
- Mokena, IL movers
- Moline, IL movers
- Montgomery, IL movers
- Morris, IL movers
- Morton, IL movers
- Morton Grove, IL movers
- Mount Prospect, IL movers
- Mount Vernon, IL movers
- Mundelein, IL movers
- Naperville, IL movers
- New Lenox, IL movers
- Niles, IL movers
- Normal, IL movers
- Norridge, IL movers
- North Aurora, IL movers
- North Chicago, IL movers
- Northbrook, IL movers
- Northlake, IL movers
- O'Fallon, IL movers
- Oak Forest, IL movers
- Oak Lawn, IL movers
- Oak Park, IL movers
- Orland Park, IL movers
- Oswego, IL movers
- Ottawa, IL movers
- Palatine, IL movers
- Palos Heights, IL movers
- Palos Hills, IL movers
- Park Forest, IL movers
- Park Ridge, IL movers
- Pekin, IL movers
- Peoria, IL movers
- Plainfield, IL movers
- Plano, IL movers
- Pontiac, IL movers
- Prospect Heights, IL movers
- Quincy, IL movers
- Rantoul, IL movers
- Richton Park, IL movers
- River Forest, IL movers
- River Grove, IL movers
- Riverdale, IL movers
- Rock Island, IL movers
- Rockford, IL movers
- Rolling Meadows, IL movers
- Romeoville, IL movers
- Roscoe, IL movers
- Roselle, IL movers
- Round Lake, IL movers
- Round Lake Beach, IL movers
- Schaumburg, IL movers
- Schiller Park, IL movers
- Shiloh, IL movers
- Shorewood, IL movers
- Skokie, IL movers
- South Elgin, IL movers
- South Holland, IL movers
- Springfield, IL movers
- St. Charles, IL movers
- Sterling, IL movers
- Streamwood, IL movers
- Streator, IL movers
- Summit, IL movers
- Swansea, IL movers
- Sycamore, IL movers
- Taylorville, IL movers
- Tinley Park, IL movers
- Troy, IL movers
- Urbana, IL movers
- Vernon Hills, IL movers
- Villa Park, IL movers
- Warrenville, IL movers
- Washington, IL movers
- Waterloo, IL movers
- Wauconda, IL movers
- Waukegan, IL movers
- West Chicago, IL movers
- Westchester, IL movers
- Western Springs, IL movers
- Westmont, IL movers
- Wheaton, IL movers
- Wheeling, IL movers
- Wilmette, IL movers
- Winnetka, IL movers
- Wood Dale, IL movers
- Wood River, IL movers
- Woodridge, IL movers
- Woodstock, IL movers
- Worth, IL movers
- Yorkville, IL movers
- Zion, IL movers
Don't see your company listed?
Reach customers actively searching for trusted movers in your area. Tell us about your company and services to get your business listed on moveBuddha.
Compare the top moving companies in Illinois
Based on moveBuddha's moving data, updated November 2026, here's how the top 10 movers in Illinois compare.
| Mover | moveBuddha score | Positive reviews | Verified reviews | Years in business | FMCSA status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 New City Moving Get A Quote |
4.70/5 | 92% | 1,451 | 18 | Active |
| #2 STI Moving & Storage Inc. Get A Quote |
4.64/5 | 85% | 1,590 | 21 | Active |
| #3 Alliance Moving & Storage Get A Quote |
4.64/5 | 95% | 896 | 11 | Active |
| #4 Good Move Movers, Inc. Get A Quote |
4.64/5 | 93% | 488 | 16 | N/A |
| #5 Mighty Moving & Storage Get A Quote |
4.62/5 | 97% | 178 | 4 | N/A |
| #6 The Professionals Moving Specialists Get A Quote |
4.58/5 | 97% | 5,591 | 21 | N/A |
| #7 Windy City Movers Inc. Get A Quote |
4.58/5 | 87% | 789 | 44 | N/A |
| #8 MiniMoves Inc. Get A Quote |
4.58/5 | 72% | 516 | 34 | Active |
| #9 H2H Movers Inc Get A Quote |
4.56/5 | 97% | 4,892 | 12 | Active |
| #10 Jay Movers Get A Quote |
4.56/5 | 74% | 514 | 29 | Active |
How to read FMCSA status: Movers that transport belongings across state lines must be registered with the FMCSA. "N/A" means we didn't find an active FMCSA registration, which is common for movers that only offer local or in-state moves, or labor-only services like loading and unloading. These movers are typically licensed or registered at the state level instead. If you're moving out of Illinois, choose a mover with an active FMCSA status.
Other local Illinois movers
These Illinois movers were reviewed by moveBuddha but did not make our top 10. See all 314 Illinois movers we've reviewed →
- Elite Moving & Storage
- Golan's Moving & Storage, Inc.
- Blankenship Movers, Inc.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
- 606 Movers, Inc.
- Amenity Moving & Storage, Inc.
- Del's Moving & Storage
- Move-tastic
- Coffey Bros Moving
- Midway Moving & Storage, Inc.
- Reebie Storage and Moving Co.
- Advanced Moving & Storage, Inc.
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
- Mid-West Moving & Storage
- Dreiske Moving & Storage
- Move4U movers
- Ampol Moving, Inc.
- Federal Companies
- MicroShip, Inc.
- Wolley Movers, Inc.
- Aaron Bros Moving System, Inc.
- Straightline Moving, Inc.
- Fallen Movers
- M.K. Movers Inc.
- J.C. Movers & Lumper Service Inc.
Best Interstate Movers in Illinois
The best interstate movers in Illinois are led by Safeway Moving, which scores 4.90/5 on moveBuddha. 239 of Illinois's 314 movers (76%) hold interstate operating authority, compared with 72% nationally. The top-rated interstate movers below average 4.87/5. Data last updated November 2026.
If you're moving from Illinois to a destination 500+ miles away, a local mover may not be the right fit. Long-distance moves require interstate operating authority, appropriate estimates, and the equipment and experience to handle moves across state lines. We recommend using one of the top-rated long-distance moving companies in Illinois for any out-of-state move of significant distance.
Safeway Moving
Safeway Moving (USDOT#: 3166589) offers the best overall value among full-service interstate movers for moves over 500 miles from Illinois because it combines solid pricing with premium features that make long-distance moving feel more manageable from start to finish.
- Best overall value: Safeway Moving stands out with a barcode-scanned inventory and 24/7 customer support, giving you more control and visibility than many competitors we reviewed.
- Competitive advantage: Safeway adds to that value with 30 days of free climate-controlled storage and optional full-value protection, which can be especially useful for expensive items or more complicated interstate moves.
- Average cost: Safeway Moving's pricing typically falls between $1,000 and $4,900 for long-distance moves, based on moveBuddha's pricing data.
- Better Moves data: One Illinois Better Moves participant hired Safeway Moving in November 2022 covering 2,000 miles, and paid $5,200 against a quote of $4,300.
American Van Lines
American Van Lines (USDOT#: 614506) is our top pick for the most experienced full-service interstate mover for moves over 500 miles from Illinois because it has the operational depth and specialized handling expertise needed for long-distance moves involving antiques, pianos, bulky furniture, and other high-value items.
- Most experienced handling: American Van Lines operates as a carrier with in-house crews trained to manage fragile, oversized, and high-value shipments, which makes it especially reliable for moves where careful execution is critical.
- Competitive advantage: American Van Lines backs that up with custom crating, climate-controlled storage, antique services, and support for last-minute long-distance moves, making it a leading choice for complex and specialty-item relocations.
- Average cost: Our moveBuddha data shows American Van Lines pricing around $3,948 for a typical 2-bedroom interstate move around 1,000 miles.
North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines (USDOT#: 070851) is our top pick for the best customized plans among full-service interstate movers for moves over 500 miles from Illinois because it provides more control over pricing, services, and booking terms than competing long-distance movers.
- Best customized plans: North American Van Lines offers flexible, build-your-own service options with a la carte pricing and tracking tools, making it easier to tailor a move to your budget and priorities.
- Competitive advantage: North American Van Lines has no upfront deposit, flexible service packages such as fragile-only packing, and vehicle-shipping add-ons, which gives it more customization than other full-service competitors.
- Average cost: Pricing typically falls between $5,330 and $13,462 for long-distance moves, based on firsthand moveBuddha pricing data.
- 1,800 trucks
- Storage available
- Customized moving plans
What specialty moving services are available in Illinois?
Not every mover in Illinois offers specialty services. Based on moveBuddha's review of 314 Illinois movers, here are the specialty services available in Illinois, how common they are, and who we recommend for each:
- Art handling: The best art handling company in Illinois is New City Moving (4.70/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 29% of Illinois movers offer art handling as a specialty service.
- Antique moving: The best antique moving company in Illinois is New City Moving (4.70/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 25% of Illinois movers offer antique moving as a specialty service.
- Junk removal: The best junk removal company in Illinois is STI Moving & Storage Inc. (4.64/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 27% of Illinois movers offer junk removal as a specialty service.
- Fragile-only packing: The best fragile-only packing company in Illinois is STI Moving & Storage Inc. (4.64/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 13% of Illinois movers offer fragile-only packing as a specialty service.
- Storage: The best storage company in Illinois is New City Moving (4.70/5 moveBuddha rating). About 61% of Illinois movers offer storage services.
- Climate-controlled storage: The best climate-controlled storage company in Illinois is New City Moving (4.70/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 24% of Illinois movers offer climate-controlled storage as a specialty service.
- Hot tub relocation: The best hot tub relocation company in Illinois is New City Moving (4.70/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 10% of Illinois movers offer hot tub relocation as a specialty service.
- Piano moving: The best piano moving company in Illinois is New City Moving (4.70/5 moveBuddha rating). Only 44% of Illinois movers offer piano moving as a specialty service.
How much do movers cost in Illinois?
Hiring local movers in Illinois costs an average $509 for a studio up to $6,145 for a 5+ bedroom home. Most local movers in Illinois charge $192/hour for a 2-person crew, based on moveBuddha's 2026 quote data. Compare flat-rate vs. hourly movers before you book.
The table below breaks down average local moving costs in Illinois by home size, including estimated total prices and hourly rates.
| Home size | Avg. total cost | Cost/hour |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $509 | $269 |
| 1 bedroom | $778 | $269 |
| 2 bedrooms | $1,370 | $377 |
| 3 bedrooms | $3,404 | $527 |
| 4 bedrooms | $3,931 | $527 |
| 5+ bedrooms | $6,145 | $738 |
Peak-season moves (May through August) and month-end dates cost 15% to 20% more. Get a personalized Illinois moving cost estimate →
Key Illinois Moving Tips & Consumer Protection
Whether your move stays in Illinois or becomes a cross-country move, here is what to know before you book:
- Weather: Illinois' climate is clearly different in the northern and southern halves of the state. The northern half experiences cold winters and mild summers whereas the southern half experiences mild winters and hot and humid summers. Illinois is a part of "tornado alley"
- Building and parking rules: If you are moving to or from an HOA community or a building with an elevator, check the handbook or ask management about moving days, truck size limits, and elevator reservations. Also check with your destination city for any truck or container parking permits, especially in downtown or high-traffic areas.
- Illinois mover 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. Verify a license → You can also confirm any mover's USDOT status and complaint history through the FMCSA site.
- Red flags: Be wary of movers that provide quotes without assessing your belongings, demand large cash deposits upfront, arrive in unmarked trucks, or refuse to provide a written estimate. These are common warning signs of a potential rogue moving company.
- Moving insurance: Interstate movers must offer free basic coverage, but it pays only $0.60 per pound per item (just $3 for a 5-pound item worth $500). Requirements for local moves vary by state, so ask your Illinois mover what coverage it includes and whether it offers full-value protection.
- Change of address: File your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move to keep your mail uninterrupted.
How to choose movers in Illinois
Choosing the right moving company in Illinois means looking beyond price. Licensing, customer reviews, transparent estimates, and consumer protections all matter. Use this checklist to compare movers before you book.
- Pricing and estimates: Get written estimates from at least three moving companies, ideally after an in-person or virtual walkthrough. Ask about binding estimates, potential extra fees, and what's included in the quoted price. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to see how estimates compare with typical moving costs.
- Discounts and price matching: About 6% of Illinois movers offer military discounts. Ask whether your mover offers additional savings or will match a competitor's written estimate.
- Service and reviews: Look beyond star ratings to see how movers handle customer complaints, damaged belongings, and unexpected charges. moveBuddha evaluates 314 Illinois movers on customer satisfaction, dispute resolution, industry reputation, online reputation, and service options. New City Moving leads with a 4.70/5 rating. See our guide on how to choose a moving company.
- moveBuddha Certified movers: Consider a moveBuddha Certified mover for added protection. Every Certified mover passes our vetting process for safety, licensing, reputation, transparency, and pricing, agrees to ongoing monitoring, and commits to additional customer protections.
- Booking and flexibility: Ask about deposit requirements, cancellation policies, and rescheduling fees before committing. Moving companies book up quickly during peak season (May through August), so try to reserve your preferred date at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance.
Final Verdict: Best Moving Companies in Illinois
After evaluating 314 moving companies in Illinois and comparing national providers, moveBuddha recommends these top picks for local moves, long-distance relocations, moving containers, and DIY moves.
- Best overall local mover in Illinois: New City Moving (4.70/5). New City Moving ranks first among the 314 local movers moveBuddha analyzed in Illinois. Local moving costs range from $509 for a studio to $6,145 for a 5+ bedroom home.
- Best overall value for interstate moves: Safeway Moving (4.90/5). Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top pick for value on long-distance moves from Illinois, offering flat-rate pricing and full licensing and insurance for interstate relocations. Read our Safeway Moving review.
- Best for professionally trained crews: American Van Lines (4.90/5). American Van Lines stands out for its experienced, professionally trained moving crews and transparent flat-rate pricing on interstate moves. Read our American Van Lines review.
- Best moving container: PODS (4.5/5). Moving containers offer a flexible alternative to full-service movers and can cost significantly less. Load at your own pace while PODS handles transportation.
- Best budget DIY option: Budget Truck Rental (4.3/5). Rental trucks are often the most affordable option for DIY moves in Illinois, especially over shorter distances. Factor in fuel, mileage charges, and other fees when comparing the total cost.
FAQs about moving in Illinois
How can I see all moving companies in Illinois?
You can see all moving companies in Illinois in our comprehensive list of Illinois movers.
What is the cheapest way to move in Illinois?
Rental trucks are the cheapest way to move in Illinois. DIY moves cost roughly 30% less than full-service movers. Renting a truck and hiring a labor-only crew for loading and unloading gives you professional help at a fraction of full-service pricing. Moving containers are the next most affordable option and remove the need to drive a large vehicle yourself.
What is a full-service move?
A full-service move means the moving company handles packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. About 79% of Illinois movers offer professional packing, and about 61% offer storage. Full-service is the most hands-off option but costs more than DIY alternatives. Confirm exactly which services are included in your quote before signing.
What is the difference between a moving broker and a moving carrier?
A moving carrier owns trucks and employs the crew that physically moves your belongings. A moving broker arranges moves through third-party carriers and does not handle your items directly. moveBuddha is not a broker and does not recommend working with moving brokers. We advise booking directly with a licensed carrier whenever possible.
How much should you tip movers in Illinois?
For a local move, $20 to $50 per mover is a standard tip. For a long-distance move, $50 to $100+ per mover is appropriate, especially if the crew handled heavy furniture, stairs, or challenging access conditions. Tipping is not required, but it is customary for good service. Tip each crew member individually in cash at the end of the job. Read our full guide on tipping movers for more information.
How long does a move take in Illinois?
A local move in Illinois typically takes 4 hours for a 1-bedroom and 8 hours for a 3-bedroom home. Long-distance moves out of Illinois add transit time that varies by distance and carrier. Full-service movers typically provide a delivery window of 1 to 14 business days for interstate moves, depending on distance. Rental trucks and moving containers give you more control over exact delivery timing.
When is the best time of year to move in Illinois?
The cheapest time to move in Illinois is during the off-season, from September through April. Peak moving season runs May through August, with June and July commanding the highest rates. Moves booked midweek and mid-month also tend to cost less than weekend or month-end bookings. Planning around these windows can save 15% to 20% on your total moving cost.
How we chose the best moving companies in Illinois
moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 314 Illinois moving companies using a five-factor weighted scoring system: customer satisfaction (40%), dispute resolution (20%), industry reputation (15%), online reputation (15%), and service options (10%).
That scoring system draws on moveBuddha's dataset of 1,000+ live price points and research across 4,500+ movers nationwide, so you're getting recommendations built on real market data, not just review aggregation.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently completes moves on time, communicates proactively, and delivers within the estimated cost. These factors matter most when hiring a mover.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Problems happen in every industry. We reward companies that take clear ownership of issues and make genuine, documented efforts to resolve them.
- Industry reputation (15%): The company holds standing in professional moving organizations and participates in industry oversight, which signals accountability beyond customer reviews alone.
- Online reputation (15%): The company maintains accurate, up-to-date information online and responds promptly and professionally to customer inquiries and complaints.
- Service options (10%): We favor companies that offer full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery. These services matter on a complex move.
Read our complete moving company rating methodology for the full scoring breakdown.