Best Movers from Alabama to Illinois (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: The average cost to move from Alabama to Illinois ranges from $717 to $6,883 and takes one–six days. The biggest cost factors are how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Illinois to Alabama guide.
Our track record
The best Alabama to Illinois full-service movers
Planning a move from Alabama to Illinois? With countless moving companies to choose from, finding the right interstate mover can be tough. We’ve made it easier by researching and handpicking the best options based on detailed reviews, upfront pricing, and exceptional services.
Start your journey from Alabama to Illinois with these top-rated long-distance movers serving Alabama.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- 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
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in Alabama
With so many options, finding a dependable local moving company isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top local movers in Alabama, including movers that are known for transparent pricing, strong customer reviews, and standout services to make your move smoother.
- Bellhop Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Applewhite Movers LLC: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Changing Spaces Moving Inc: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
- Affordable rates
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
- Lack of communication
Company Info
State license #: 2878240
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2878240
Bellhop Moving, serving the Birmingham, AL area since 2012, is a reputable choice for local residential moves. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, making them versatile compared to other local movers. Customer feedback is mostly positive, with an impressive 4.7 average rating from 435 Google reviews, though Yelp reviews average 3.6. Bellhop Moving is BBB accredited with a B+ rating and accepts credit card payments, ensuring convenience for clients, though a deposit is required.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
- Helpful movers
- Damage to items
- Unprofessional behavior
- Delayed arrival or delivery
Company Info
State license #: 4119
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2172780
Applewhite Movers LLC has been providing reliable local residential moving services in and around Huntsville, AL, since 2012. With over a decade of experience, they have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, 102 Google reviews averaging 4.5 stars, and a solid 3.7-star rating from 11 Yelp reviews. Compared to nearby moving companies, Applewhite Movers stand out with their comprehensive offerings, including office moving, packing, and unpacking services, as well as their ability to move pianos. Coupled with their no-deposit policy and acceptance of credit cards, they provide a flexible and customer-friendly moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
- Poor complaint handling
Company Info
State license #: 614
Years in Business: 35
DOT #: 2527384
Two Men and a Truck has been providing reliable local residential moving services in and around Huntsville, AL since 1990. What sets them apart from many nearby movers is their extensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options. Customers appreciate that they accept credit cards and do not require a deposit, making the moving experience more convenient. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and an impressive 4.8 average rating from over 800 Google reviews, they are a trusted choice, despite some mixed feedback on Yelp.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Helpful movers
- Unexpected charges
- Damage to items
- Unprofessional behavior
Company Info
State license #: 3822
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 1164434
Changing Spaces Moving Inc has been a trusted name for local residential moving services in and around Birmingham, AL since 2004. Unlike many nearby movers, they offer a comprehensive suite of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, and they can even handle specialized tasks like moving pianos. Customers consistently praise the company, as evidenced by their average Yelp rating of 4.1 and a perfect 5.0 on Google My Business. Furthermore, their A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau underscores their commitment to customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Helpful movers
- Quick moving process
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
- Unexpected charges
Company Info
State license #: 3915
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 902281
Alternate Names: All My Sons Moving & Storage Of Birmingham, LLC
All My Sons Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Alabaster, AL since 1999. While the company boasts an impressive average rating of 4.6 from over 1,780 reviews on Google My Business and holds an A rating with the Better Business Bureau, their Yelp profile tells a different story with an average rating of 1.3 from 62 reviews. In addition to local moves, they offer packing and unpacking services, and can handle special items like pianos and antiques. Although a deposit is required, All My Sons Moving & Storage accepts credit cards, making payments convenient. Comparatively, their longevity and extensive positive reviews on Google suggest reliability, making them a competitive choice among local moving companies.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
The best Alabama to Illinois moving container companies
Moving containers help you save money without having to do all the heavy lifting. You load and unload your stuff, while the company handles all the driving, picking up your container in Alabama and dropping it off at your new home in Illinois.
Check out our top picks for the best moving container companies:
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The best Alabama to Illinois moving truck rentals
Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from Alabama to Illinois, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best Alabama to Illinois labor-only movers
Need an extra set of hands for loading your belongings into a rental truck or storage unit? Labor-only movers have you covered. You pick the team size that works for you, and you’re only charged for the hours they’re on the job.
When you’re getting ready to move from Alabama to Illinois, make your move a breeze with these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your AL to IL move
How much does it cost to move from Alabama to Illinois?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Alabama to Illinois. Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
---|---|---|---|
Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,431 - $5,242 | $941 - $2,281 | $632 - $1,162 |
2 - 3 bedrooms | $2,938 - $6,883 | $1,712 - $3,194 | $717 - $1,466 |
4+ bedrooms | $5,180 - $10,579 | $2,338 - $4,409 | $888 - $1,689 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 731 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.
Cost to hire movers from Alabama to Illinois
Planning a move from Alabama to Illinois? For a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,431 and $5,242. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,938 and $6,883 for the same journey (AL to IL). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $5,180 to $10,579.
Cost of moving containers from Alabama to Illinois
Moving from Alabama to Illinois? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $941 and $2,281. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,712 to $3,194. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,338 up to $4,409. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Alabama.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Alabama to Illinois
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $632 and $1,162 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $717 to $1,466. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $888 to $1,689.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from AL to IL
There are many factors that influence Alabama moving costs. The cost to move from Alabama to Illinois will depend on these factors:
- Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
- Time of year: The peak moving season in Alabama is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from AL to IL
If you’re making the move from Alabama to Illinois, it’s worth checking out how life in your new state stacks up.
Cost of living: Alabama vs. Illinois
Before you move, it’s a good idea to compare living expenses in Alabama and Illinois. This simple side-by-side overview highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, so you can see how your budget might change. Take a look at how these two states measure up when it comes to the essentials that impact your cost of living:
Alabama | Illinois | |
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Average rent cost | $925 | $1,179 |
Average home cost | $227,508 | $249,224 |
Average income (per capita) | $59,609 | $78,433 |
Cost of Living Index | 88 | 90 |
Unemployment rate | 2.9% | 5.3% |
Average Sales Tax | 9.22% | 8.82% |
State Income Tax | 5.0% | 4.95% |
- Rent is about 27% more expensive in Illinois than in Alabama; make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
- Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 10% higher in Illinois than in Alabama.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 32% higher in Illinois than in Alabama, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- The cost of living is 2% higher in Illinois than in Alabama. If you're making the move to Illinois with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
- Illinois has a higher unemployment rate than Alabama by about 83%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring processes.
- Sales taxes are 4% lower in Illinois than in Alabama. If you have a larger family or higher consumption habits, the lower sales tax in Illinois can reduce your overall living expenses.
- Income taxes are the same in Illinois and Alabama, so your paycheck deductions should stay consistent, offering a level of financial predictability as you transition between states.
How life is different in Illinois vs. Alabama
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live. It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture, and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look at how life in Illinois stacks up against Alabama across important lifestyle factors:
Illinois | Alabama | |
---|---|---|
Population | 12,549,689 | 5,108,468 |
Political leaning | Democratic 55-45 | Republican 65-35 |
Summer high | 86ºF | 91ºF |
Winter low | 17ºF | 33ºF |
Annual rain | 40" | 56" |
Annual snow | 22" | 1" |
Crime index | 19.7 | 21.48 |
- If you’re relocating from Alabama to Illinois, you’ll notice that Illinois has about 146% more residents. With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
- In the last presidential election, Illinois leaned Democratic, while Alabama supported Republican.
- Summers in Illinois average 86ºF, while Alabama hits highs of 91ºF. Opting for a cooler destination means less heat, lower energy bills, and more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, perfect if you prioritize comfort and enjoy spending time outside.
- During winter, temperatures in Illinois can drop to around 17ºF, while Alabama usually only experiences lows near 33ºF. Moving to Illinois means adjusting to chillier winters, which could bring higher heating costs and more intense weather. On the bright side, you’ll also get to enjoy the unique charm and winter activities that come with a colder climate.
- In Illinois, you’ll get about 40 inches of rain each year—less than the 56 inches you’re used to in Alabama. That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
- Each year, Illinois gets about 22 inches of snow, far more than the 1 inch you might be accustomed to in Alabama. That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation, regular upkeep, and dressing warmly.
- Moving to Illinois means choosing a safer place to call home. With a lower crime index of 19.7 versus Alabama’s 21.48, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s comforting to know your new home offers extra security.
Comparing the pros of Alabama vs. Illinois
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Illinois to Alabama.
Pros of living in Alabama | Pros of living in Illinois |
---|---|
Low cost of living | Home of Chicago |
Tasty southern comfort food | Ample economic opportunity |
Bountiful recreational opportunities | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Top-notch college football | Delicious food |
Rich history | World-class sports culture |
Comparing the cons of living in Alabama vs. Illinois
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from Alabama to Illinois, keep these tips in mind.
Cons of living in Alabama | Cons of living in Illinois |
---|---|
Poor quality of life | Harsh winter weather |
Severe weather | Bad traffic |
Restrictive alcohol laws | High crime rate |
Poor healthcare | Dull landscape |
Cockroaches | Strict laws |
Other things to consider for your Alabama to Illinois move
- 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"
- HOA rules: Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
- State 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. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: Easily verify a Illinois moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Illinois, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Illinois right on schedule. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items' full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Illinois
Get excited to explore Illinois. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Illinois
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Caterpillar Visitors Center
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
- Museum of Hummels
Parks in Illinois
- Starved Rock State Park
- Matthiessen State Park
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Pere Marquette State Park
- Kankakee river State Park
Sports Teams in Illinois
- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
- Chicago Sky (WNBA)
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
Universities in Illinois
- University of Chicago
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Northwestern University
- University of Illinois at Chicago
- Northern Illinois University