Wilmington, DE to Chicago, IL Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

The best local movers for Wilmington to Chicago moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Wilmington that also handles long-distance moves to Chicago. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 63 local movers in Wilmington 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 Wilmington to Chicago.

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
Bayshore Transportation System, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
Move Crew LLC: 4.38 out of 5 stars
Town & Country Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Forward Moving LLC: 4.56 out of 5 stars

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

12 Hadco Road. Building 2 Unit 4, Wilmington, DE 19804 US

95% of all reviews were positive

4% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Moving with a smile is what customers report when hiring College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving. From 276 customer reviews, 95% express satisfaction, often mentioning fast, efficient service and movers who are both professional and genuinely friendly. People highlight careful handling of belongings, clear communication, and stress-free experiences. The movers work quickly without sacrificing attention to detail or politeness, and many say the teams go out of their way to help. In contrast, a small percentage of feedback points to arrival delays, inconsistent estimates, or unprofessional conduct, such as rudeness or poor communication—issues not commonly seen with highly rated moving companies. Neutral feedback remarks on unexpected charges or isolated damage, though many such issues are resolved. College Hunks stands out for dependable, courteous, and effective service, more reliable and personable than most in their industry.

Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #:

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: Northern Volunteer Enterprises, LLC

Services Offered

Local moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Storage
Pay by credit card

Bayshore Transportation System, Inc.

901 Dawson Dr, STE A, Newark , DE 19713 US

79% of all reviews were positive

21% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Moves made easy, but some bumps in the road—Bayshore Transportation System, Inc. stands out for professional and polite staff, quick and efficient service, careful handling of belongings, clear communication, and helpful movers, according to 211 customer inputs. Nearly 79% of feedback is positive, with many locals and cross-country customers praising attentive crews, timely delivery, and stress-free experiences. Customers highlight organized moves and friendly support that make Bayshore more reliable than many moving companies. Yet, about one in five customers reported damages to items, lost boxes, or communication gaps, sometimes leading to delays or unresolved claims. While most moves go smoothly and get high marks for care and professionalism, some clients felt let down by damaged possessions or a lack of timely updates, demonstrating Bayshore’s performance can be excellent but is not immune to serious mistakes. Bayshore’s satisfaction level appears notably higher than average for the moving industry, though the risk of loss or damage remains a concern for a minority of clients.

Get a Quote (800) 523-3319

Company Info

Years in Business: 52

DOT #: 540129

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Pool Tables
Art
Antiques
Crating
Shipment tracking
Storage
Fragile-only packing
Safes
Pay by money order
Pay by credit card

Move Crew LLC

14 Fresconi Ct, New Castle, DE 19720 US

85% of all reviews were positive

16% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Customers cite Move Crew LLC’s friendly, professional crews and affordable, efficient service as key reasons for high satisfaction. Staff handle belongings carefully, maintain strong communication, and consistently stick to transparent, flat-rate pricing. Many reviewers praise their punctuality and willingness to accommodate last-minute requests, making them more reliable than many competitors. Feedback highlights careful handling, quick moves, and helpful attitudes. A smaller group of customers experienced significant issues: property damage, lost items, unprofessional behavior, and unresolved complaints. Some noted crews at times arrived unprepared or failed to follow up on commitments, compared to other companies that are more consistent with quality and accountability. Reviewing 168 pieces of feedback, 84.5% reported positive experiences while 15.5% expressed dissatisfaction, mostly due to mishandling and disappointing resolution of issues.

Get a Quote (302) 290-4684

Company Info

Years in Business: 0

DOT #: 2899919

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Hot Tubs
Pool Tables
Art
Antiques
Grandfather clocks
Crating
Full-valuation coverage
Storage
Fragile-only packing
Safes
Pay by cash
Pay by credit card

Town & Country Moving & Storage

2145 Ticonderoga Blvd Suite 450, Chester Springs, PA 19425 US

74% of all reviews were positive

26% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Customer feedback for Town & Country Moving & Storage highlights prompt, professional, and polite movers who treat belongings with care and communicate clearly. Most users describe efficient, helpful crews and smooth, worry-free moves—often recommending the company to others. Still, issues stand out in some unfavorable feedback: several customers report damaged items and a frustrating insurance claims process, often receiving little or no compensation for losses. Discrepancies between quoted estimates and final bills come up for a few users, as well as communication challenges when resolving complaints. Compared to similar movers, Town & Country earns higher marks for staff professionalism and courtesy, but falls short when it comes to handling damage claims and billing transparency. Out of 96 reviews analyzed, nearly three-fourths express a positive experience, while about one in four cite significant concerns.

Get a Quote (610) 524-9099

Company Info

State license #: 00123180

Years in Business: 38

DOT #: 861241

Alternate Names: Genco Enterprises, LLC

Services Offered

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

Forward Moving LLC

245 Welsh Pool Rd, Exton, PA 19341 US

97% of all reviews were positive

3% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Exceptional service sets Forward Moving LLC apart in the moving industry. Of 231 reviews examined, a remarkable 97% reflect positive experiences, with clients consistently noting careful handling of their belongings, courteous and professional staff, efficiency, clear communication, and swift moving processes. Many customers highlight stress-free relocations, precise estimates, and crews who take the time to ensure each item arrives safely, resulting in high levels of trust and recommendations. The company also receives praise for transparent pricing with few surprise charges, and for being responsive from booking to delivery. In contrast, a small portion of feedback points to issues such as strict non-refundable deposits when moves are canceled, isolated incidents of unprofessional behavior, and occasional damage to property or items. Compared to typical moving companies, Forward Moving LLC stands out for its high customer satisfaction and reliability, while negative feedback remains rare and specific. This strong track record positions Forward Moving above most competitors for those seeking dependable, professional, and friendly movers.

Get a Quote (484) 473-4605

Company Info

State license #: 8920700

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 3078473

Alternate Names: Forward Moving, LLC.

Services Offered

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

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

The average hourly rate for movers in Delaware is $120. 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	$1,019 – $3,691	$746 – $1,687	$523 – $916
2 – 3 bedrooms	$2,067 – $5,280	$1,305 – $2,563	$569 – $1,179
4+ bedrooms	$3,451 – $6,875	$1,801 – $3,436	$721 – $1,416

*Approximate cost ranges for a 752-mile move from Wilmington to Chicago are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Feb 12, 2026. 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.

Get A Quote

Cost to hire movers from Wilmington to Chicago

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Wilmington to Chicago will cost between $1,019 and $3,691. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Wilmington to Wilmington will range from $2,067 to $5,280, and a large move from Wilmington to Chicago will cost from $3,451 to $6,875.

Cost of moving containers from Wilmington to Chicago

If you’re moving from Wilmington to Chicago, expect to pay between $746 and $1,687 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,305 up to $2,563. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,801 and $3,436. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Wilmington to Chicago

Renting a moving truck from Wilmington 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 $523 and $916. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $569 and $1,179. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $721 up to $1,416 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Wilmington to Chicago

The cost of Wilmington movers will depend on:

The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,675, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,196.
Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Wilmington, which means higher prices.
The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($523–$1,210) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Wilmington to Chicago

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Chicago runs about 3% higher for singles and 113% higher for families than Wilmington.

Singles spend around $3,648 in Wilmington versus $3,533 in Wilmington; families pay $9,266 compared with $4,350.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

	Wilmington	Chicago
Average 1 BR rent	$1,933	$2,368
Average 3 BR rent	$3,200	$4,581
Average home value	$307,799	$295,743
Average income (per capita)	$49,354	$71,566
Cost of living (single)	$3,533	$3,648
Cost of living (family of four)	$4,350	$9,266
Unemployment rate	10.3%	9.0%
Sales tax	0.0%	10.25%
State income tax	6.6%	4.95%

source: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation

Rent is estimated to be 13% higher in Chicago compared to Wilmington; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
Given that home prices are within a 5% margin between Chicago and Wilmington, sticking to your current mortgage strategy is sensible unless you’re planning for a bigger home.
Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 45% higher in Chicago than in Wilmington, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
The cost of living for a single person is within about 5% of the same in Chicago and Wilmington, so you likely won’t notice a major difference.
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 113% greater than in Wilmington.
Chicago enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 13% lower compared to Wilmington, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
Chicago has a sales tax, while Wilmington does not. That means you’ll pay more at checkout after your move, adding extra cost to everyday purchases.
Income taxes are 25% less in Illinois than in Delaware. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.

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

Living Expense	Wilmington	Chicago
Basic utilities	$126.92	$191.26
Cell phone plan	$44.10	$61.10
Dozen eggs	$3.05	$4.52
Loaf of bread	$3.56	$4.15
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal)	$16.00	$25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant)	$72.50	$100.00
Gym membership	$33.50	$78.31

Basic utilities cost less in Wilmington than in Chicago, helping trim your monthly bills.
Cell phone plans are cheaper in Wilmington than in Chicago.
Eggs are less expensive in Wilmington than in Chicago.
Bread costs less in Wilmington than in Chicago.
A quick meal is cheaper in Wilmington than in Chicago.
A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Wilmington than in Chicago.
Gym memberships are more affordable in Wilmington than in Chicago.

How life is different in Wilmington vs. Chicago

	Wilmington	Chicago
Population	70,898	2,746,388
Transportation score	6	9
Walkability score	74	77
Bike friendliness score	52	72
Crime index	67.32	35.19
Safety index	32.68	33.87
Air quality	Good	Good

source: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow

Chicago’s population is about 3774% greater than Wilmington.
Chicago’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Wilmington’s score of 6.
Chicago and Wilmington are similarly walkable.
With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than Wilmington, which has a score of 52 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 Wilmington with a score of 35.19 compared to Wilmington’s 67.32. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Wilmington neighborhoods are safer than 67.32%.
Chicago and Wilmington have a similar safety level, with scores of 33.87 and 32.68.
Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Wilmington it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Wilmington 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.

source: AttractionsofAmerica

FAQ

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

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

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Wilmington 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 Wilmington to Chicago take?

Moving from Wilmington, DE to Chicago, covers 752 miles and usually takes two to seven days. Need to move faster? Some Wilmington movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Chicago.

Which movers in Wilmington give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers here honor AAA discounts. 3 movers give special rates to military members. 2 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 Wilmington?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 49 movers in Wilmington advertise piano moving expertise. 39 movers in Wilmington provide antique moving services. State totals show 8 piano movers and 4 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,301 and 1,465.

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