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($1,202) Cost to Move From Huntsville, AL to Chicago, IL

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: For a 581 mile move from Huntsville to Chicago, costs typically range from $495 to $5,764. Plan for the travel time to be around one–six days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Huntsville to Chicago

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Huntsville to Chicago

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Huntsville to Chicago, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 8 interstate moving companies located in Huntsville, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Chicago seamless and enjoyable.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Huntsville to Chicago

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 581-mile move from Huntsville to Chicago using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,316 – $4,271
  • Moving Container $940 – $1,798
  • Rental Truck $468 – $789
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,198 – $5,764
  • Moving Container $1,180 – $2,461
  • Rental Truck $495 – $947
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,926 – $7,778
  • Moving Container $1,641 – $3,116
  • Rental Truck $570 – $1,131
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Roadway Moving
Ardmore, AL Chicago Ridge, IL
2 Bedrooms
Oct 14, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Eva, AL Lansing, IL
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 12, 2025
American Van Lines
Trinity, AL Wheeling, IL
4 Bedrooms
Oct 07, 2025
Mayflower Transit
New Hope, AL Blue Island, IL
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 07, 2025
North American Van Lines
Fairview, AL Worth, IL
4 Bedrooms
Oct 01, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Triana, AL Stone Park, IL
2 Bedrooms
Sep 23, 2025
United Van Lines
Guntersville, AL Gurnee, IL
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 23, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Skyline, AL Maywood, IL
4 Bedrooms
Aug 18, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Falkville, AL Downers Grove, IL
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 16, 2025
PODS
Paint Rock, AL Tinley Park, IL
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 11, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Chicago, IL to Huntsville, AL guide.

The best local movers for Huntsville to Chicago moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Huntsville that also handles long-distance moves to Chicago. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated eight local movers in Huntsville who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Huntsville to Chicago.

  1. Motivated Movers, Inc.: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Black Tie Moving: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  4. Applewhite Movers LLC: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  5. This Side Up Moving & Storage : 4.44 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.7% of all reviews were positive
5.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top marks for hustle: the vast majority of the 255 feedback entries for Motivated Movers, Inc. praise efficient moving, professional teams, and careful handling of customer belongings. Nearly 94% of customers shared a positive experience, highlighting staff courtesy, quick and organized service, and movers who routinely went the extra mile. Clients often compare Motivated Movers favorably to other companies, citing lower stress, reasonable prices, and reliable communication. On the rare occasion issues occurred (about 6% of input), most complaints centered on items damaged, unexpectedly high final bills, or unprofessional behavior by management during disputes. A single neutral review noted high costs and poorly protected appliances. Motivated Movers appears to perform far above industry averages in service quality, with especially strong marks for professionalism and efficiency, but future customers should clarify pricing and keep an eye on item care to avoid rare pitfalls.
Get a Quote (256) 858-6683

Company Info

Years in Business: 14

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.4% of all reviews were positive
12.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Two Men and a Truck frequently means careful handling and a courteous, professional team. Analysis of 247 pieces of customer feedback reveals 85% positive experiences. Movers stand out for treating furniture and fragile items with care, working efficiently, and keeping customers informed. Packing is meticulous, and jobs are often finished quickly. Communication from the office and booking staff is reliable. Many customers returned to the company after trying competitors who didn’t measure up. On the downside, about 13% of feedback reports notable problems. Damaged belongings top complaints, followed by delays and trouble resolving issues with the claims department. A handful of families described slow moves or items arriving late, and several noted poor follow-up when filing claims for broken items. Compared to most moving services, Two Men and a Truck’s drivers and teams deliver stronger respect for property and quicker, friendlier service. Some customers did pay more than expected or faced communication lapses when there was a problem, but the majority received a seamless, damage-free move with attentive, helpful service.
Get a Quote (256) 392-9462

Company Info

State license #: 614

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
96.5% of all reviews were positive
3.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers describe Black Tie Moving as exceptionally professional, careful with belongings, fast, and reliable. Out of 226 feedback samples, 96.5% express positive experiences. Reviewers consistently highlight the team’s respectful approach, excellent communication, and swift, efficient moves with no damage to items or homes. Many say the staff showed up on time, handled furniture with protection, and followed through on commitments—qualities that often set Black Tie apart from typical moving firms. While most input is glowing, a handful of reviewers faced issues, mostly around poor packing, unexpected extra costs, and some instances of damage or mishandling. Compared with others, Black Tie earns high marks for its professionalism and care, though a few customers encountered significant lapses in packing detail or billing clarity.
Get a Quote (256) 755-4836

Company Info

State license #: 4111

Years in Business: 4

DOT #: 2407712

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
87.1% of all reviews were positive
10.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—most customers describe Applewhite Movers LLC as prompt, polite, and highly efficient. Out of 140 reviews analyzed, 87% were positive. Clients often highlight the professionalism, careful handling of belongings, impressive speed, and helpful movers who communicate well. Many noted a stress-free experience and appreciated the team’s respectfulness and reliability, which set Applewhite apart from typical moving services in the region. Negative feedback mostly relates to property damage, delayed schedules, and unprofessional attitude during some moves, with a few reports of mishandling and poor claim resolution. Compared to other companies, Applewhite consistently delivers better communication and more diligent movers, though some improvements in damage claims and staff consistency could further strengthen their reputation.
Get a Quote (256) 430-1198

Company Info

State license #: 4119

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2172780

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.9% of all reviews were positive
5.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about This Side Up Moving & Storage for their professionalism, careful handling, efficiency, and strong communication, with 229 out of 244 reviews praising these traits. Movers regularly earn praise for their courtesy, quick moving process, and the care they show in protecting belongings and homes. Many mention seamless booking, reliable quote accuracy, and respectful treatment, even in physically demanding moves. Compared to other moving companies, This Side Up receives more consistent five-star input. Some negative feedback centers on property damage, poor complaint resolution, and lost items. Delays in claims handling and unaddressed damages frustrate the small minority of dissatisfied customers. One neutral review noted confusion and a truck mismatch, resulting in minor damages and unexpected charges. The company stands out for delivering a professional and respectful experience, but could improve by enhancing how it handles claims and follows up after reported issues.
Get a Quote (256) 653-7612

Company Info

State license #: 3959

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1874024

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Huntsville to Chicago?

The average hourly rate for movers in Alabama is . Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,202 – $3,397 $675 – $1,628 $441 – $864
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,198 – $5,764 $1,180 – $2,461 $495 – $947
4+ bedrooms $3,926 – $7,778 $1,641 – $3,116 $570 – $1,131
*Approximate cost ranges for a 581-mile move from Huntsville to Chicago are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Huntsville to Chicago

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Huntsville to Chicago will cost between $1,202 and $3,397. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Huntsville to Huntsville will range from $2,198 to $5,764, and a large move from Huntsville to Chicago will cost from $3,926 to $7,778.

Cost of moving containers from Huntsville to Chicago

If you’re moving from Huntsville to Chicago, expect to pay between $675 and $1,628 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,180 up to $2,461. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,641 and $3,116. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Alabama.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Huntsville to Chicago

Renting a moving truck from Huntsville to Chicago is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $441 and $864. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $495 and $947. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $570 up to $1,131 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Huntsville to Chicago

The cost of Huntsville movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,815, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $7,204.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Huntsville, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($441–$1,137) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Huntsville to Chicago

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Chicago runs about 16% higher for singles and 124% higher for families than Huntsville.

Singles spend around $3,648 in Huntsville versus $3,133 in Huntsville; families pay $9,266 compared with $4,140.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Huntsville Chicago
Average 1 BR rent $1,358 $2,368
Average 3 BR rent $2,400 $4,581
Average home value $266,736 $295,743
Average income (per capita) $60,959 $71,566
Cost of living (single) $3,133 $3,648
Cost of living (family of four) $4,140 $9,266
Unemployment rate 3.1% 9.0%
Sales tax 9.0% 10.25%
State income tax 5.0% 4.95%
  • Rent is estimated to be 45% higher in Chicago compared to Huntsville; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 11% greater in Chicago than in Huntsville.
  • Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 17% higher in Chicago than in Huntsville, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Chicago, since the cost of living for a single person in Chicago is 16% higher than in Huntsville. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • When relocating to Chicago, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Chicago is 124% greater than in Huntsville.
  • In Chicago, the unemployment rate is approximately 190% higher than in Huntsville, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes rise by 14% in Chicago over Huntsville, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Income taxes are on par between Illinois and Alabama, within a 5% range, providing a predictable deduction from your income as you change locations.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Huntsville and Chicago:

Living Expense Huntsville Chicago
Basic utilities $180.00 $191.26
Cell phone plan $50.56 $61.10
Dozen eggs $4.26 $4.52
Loaf of bread $3.33 $4.15
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.50 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $62.50 $100.00
Gym membership $44.00 $78.31
  • Basic utilities cost less in Huntsville than in Chicago, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Huntsville than in Chicago.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Huntsville than in Chicago.
  • Bread costs less in Huntsville than in Chicago.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Huntsville than in Chicago.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Huntsville than in Chicago.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Huntsville than in Chicago.

How life is different in Huntsville vs. Chicago

Huntsville Chicago
Population 241,114 2,746,388
Transportation score 2 9
Walkability score 24 77
Bike friendliness score 40 72
Crime index 42.55 35.19
Safety index 57.45 33.87
Air quality Good Good
  • Chicago’s population is about 1039% greater than Huntsville.
  • Chicago’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Huntsville’s score of 2.
  • Chicago is more walkable than Huntsville with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Huntsville’s 24 out of 100.
  • With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than Huntsville, which has a score of 40 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Chicago’s crime rate is lower than Huntsville with a score of 35.19 compared to Huntsville’s 42.55. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Huntsville neighborhoods are safer than 42.55%.
  • Chicago is considered to be less safe than Huntsville with a score of 33.87 vs Huntsville’s 57.45.
  • Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Huntsville it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Huntsville to Chicago move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Illinois moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Illinois doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Chicago. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Chicago

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Chi-Town, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Chicago.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Lake View
  • Lincoln Park
  • The Loop
  • Near North Side
  • West Town

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Beverly
  • Edison Park
  • Lincoln Park
  • North Center
  • West Loop

Things to do in Chicago

Once you’re settled into your new home in Illinois, it’s time to get out and discover what Chicago has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Chicago, such as the The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, and Chicago History Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606, and Lincoln Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Chicago Bears (NFL)Chicago Cubs (MLB)Chicago White Sox (MLB)Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)Chicago Bulls (NBA)Chicago Fire (MLS)Chicago Sky (WNBA) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Huntsville to Chicago?

The best time to move from Huntsville to Chicago is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Huntsville.

When is the cheapest time to move from Huntsville to Chicago?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Huntsville to Chicago, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Huntsville to Chicago take?

Moving from Huntsville, AL to Chicago, covers 581 miles and usually takes one to six days. Need to move faster? Some Huntsville movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Chicago.

Which movers in Huntsville give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers give special rates to military members. 1 movers have deals for seniors.

Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Huntsville?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 7 movers in Huntsville advertise piano moving expertise. 3 movers in Huntsville provide antique moving services. State totals show 35 piano movers and 16 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

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