Local moving companies in Chicago

  1. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  2. Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  3. New City Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  4. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. H2H Movers Inc: 4.76 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/stimovingandstorage, https://twitter.com/stimovers?lang=en
68% of all reviews were positive
29% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
High marks for speed, professionalism, and careful handling set STI Moving & Storage apart from most competitors. In an analysis of 538 reviews, 68% reflect satisfied customers who consistently praise the efficient crews, friendly staff, and reliable communication. Many detail moves finished faster than expected, with careful packing and respect for belongings.
Negative feedback (29%) focuses on damage to items, delays in deliveryโ€”especially for long-distance movesโ€”and surprise or higher-than-expected charges. Customers also note issues with complex claims for damage resolution. Neutral feedback highlights occasional late arrivals and some pricing misalignments, but still mentions professionalism from staff. Compared to industry standards, STI earns stronger praise for crew attitude and efficiency but faces similar criticism to peers regarding damage claims and delivery timelines. Most customers find their moves easier and less stressful thanks to STI's organized and diligent teams, though potential clients should review policies closely for long-distance or specialty needs.
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Get a Quote (847) 675-1223

Company Info

State license #: 139020

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 1308599

Alternate Names: STI Moving & Storage, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/AllianceMovingTeam/, https://twitter.com/alliance_moving
96% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Alliance Moving & Storage feels like a breath of fresh air: 247 customer feedback entries were analyzed, with a remarkable 95.5% being positive. Most people describe the company as efficient, careful with belongings, highly professional, and quick. Customers consistently mention respectful staff and clear, reliable communication throughout the process.
Affordable, transparent pricing and rapid scheduling compared favorably versus rival companies. On the downside, a minority report unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, or trouble reaching someone after problems arose. Issues like last-minute price increases or lack of follow-up were sometimes cited by dissatisfied customers. Negative experiences remain much less common than positive ones. Compared with typical moving companies, Alliance stands out for speed, professionalism, and care, though some customers recommend confirming all charges up front to prevent misunderstandings.
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Get a Quote (847) 378-4949

Company Info

State license #: 214845

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2882675

Alternate Names: HK & RP, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/NewCityMoving, https://twitter.com/newcitymoving
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving magic happens when speed meets serviceโ€”New City Moving delivers exactly that, according to 1,451 pieces of customer feedback analyzed. With 92.4% positive reviews, most customers rave about the companyโ€™s efficient service, professional and polite staff, careful handling, and quick turnaroundโ€”which set them apart from many competitors. A high number praised clear communication throughout the move.
While affordability and responsiveness also stood out, some reported problems. About 6% said their main issue was damage to their belongings, unexpected charges, or struggles resolving complaints when things went wrong. Only 1.8% of feedback landed in the neutral zone, typically due to minor organizational or packing concerns rather than major failures. New City Moving earns above-average praise for efficiency and professionalism compared to other moving services, but a handful of customers cite billing, compensation, or damage disputes where they wanted swifter or better follow-up. For most, the companyโ€™s efforts made moving faster, simpler, and safer.
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Get a Quote (773) 489-0600

Company Info

State license #: 158051

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 3078026

Alternate Names: Windy City Moving, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/ChicagoMover, https://twitter.com/TheProMove1
93% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company makes relocations easier than expected. After analyzing 1,349 reviews, 92.5% of feedback for The Professionals Moving Specialists is positive. Customers routinely highlight efficient service, careful handling of belongings, moving crews that work quickly, a professional attitude, and clear communication.
People appreciate arriving on time, speedy completion, and the rare occurrence of damage compared to other movers. The overwhelming majority find the booking process straightforward, pricing fair, and the teams respectful of property and special requests. Some input does point to a few drawbacks: complaints about items being scratched or dented, final charges being higher than expected due to extra materials or time, and unexpected add-ons. These issues are reported far less often than praise for skilled, polite, and diligent crews. Compared to most moving companies, The Professionals stand out with stronger reliability and care for customer property. If dependability, efficiency, and peace of mind are top priorities, this company outperforms many local competitors.
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Get a Quote (888) 225-7351

Company Info

State license #: 136144

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 3383907


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/h2hmovingcompany/, https://twitter.com/h2hmoving
88% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day just got easier for H2H customers. Out of 640 real customer reviews analyzed, a remarkable 88% delivered positive feedback, placing H2H Movers above most competitors in the moving industry. Clients most frequently highlighted the companyโ€™s efficient service, careful handling of possessions, professional and polite staff, great communication, and a quick moving process.
People appreciated teams who arrived on time, completed moves ahead of schedule, and made stressful relocations feel manageable, often noting that quoted prices were accurate or even lower than expected. On the other hand, the most common complaints were unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, and delays in arrival or delivery. A few customers reported being billed more than their estimates due to extra fees or poor packing, and some faced slow resolution for claims or communication gaps after their move. While some neutral reviews cited problems with lost items or payment methods, these were far less frequent than the praise received. H2H Movers stands out with efficient, reliable, and friendly crewsโ€”a reputation that exceeds the service level of many moving companies, though attention to transparent billing and timeliness could make experiences even better.
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Get a Quote (773) 236-8797

Company Info

State license #: 184599

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2428328

Alternate Names: H2H Movers, Inc


Services Offered

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

Factors influencing moving costs from Chicago to Montana

The cost of Chicago movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much stuff youโ€™re bringing and the size and layout of your place will directly affect your moving costs.
  • Time of year: Moving in the summer in Chicago usually means higher prices, since that's peak season for movers.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: Going the DIY route can save money, but expect more hassle and effort than if you hire professional movers.

What to know before moving from Chicago, IL, to Montana

Leaving Chicago for Montana means embracing a new lifestyleโ€”and likely saving some cash. Living in Chicago typically comes with a higher price tag, so your move could open the door to more affordable living.

Take a look at the cost of living breakdown below to see exactly how Chicago and Montana stack up so youโ€™ll be ready for whatโ€™s ahead.

Compare cost of living: Chicago vs. Montana

Chicago, IL Montana
Average rent cost $2,045 $974
Average home cost $295,743 $462,631
Average income (per capita) $71,566 $66,341
Unemployment rate 9.0% 3.3%
State income tax 4.95% 6.75%
  • Rent is around 52% cheaper in Montana compared to Chicago, so you can pocket some extra cash each month.
  • Thinking about buying a home? Expect prices in Montana to be 56.4% higher than in Chicago, so budget accordingly.
  • Expect an average income thatโ€™s about 7.3% lower in Montana compared to Chicago.
  • Youโ€™ll find a 63.3% lower unemployment rate in Montana than in Chicago.
  • Brace yourself for steeper income taxes in Montanaโ€” 36.36% higher than what youโ€™re used to in Chicago.

How life is different in Chicago, IL, from Montana

If youโ€™re moving from Chicago to Montana, everything from the weather and local population to the predominant political views can feel pretty different. Letโ€™s break down what life in Montana is like compared to the Chi-Town.

Chicago, IL Montana
Population 1,132,812 2,746,388
Political leaning Democrat 74-24 Republican 58.4-38.5
Summer high 84ยบF 84ยบF
Winter low 12ยบF 19ยบF
Annual rain 15" 38"
Annual snow 49" 35"
Crime index 23.37 35.19
  • In the last presidential election, Montana voted Republican and Chicago voted Democrat.
  • Luckily, you wonโ€™t have to buy a new summer wardrobe since the average summertime high in Montana is 84ยบ F, which is right on par with the average of 84ยบ F in Chicago.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Montana reaches the temperature of 12ยบ F while Chicago only gets down to 19ยบ F, so you may need to buy a new winter coat for your move to the Big Sky Country.
  • When you move from Chicago to Montana you can put away your raincoats, with only 15 inches of annual rainfall in Montana compared to the 38 inches in Chicago that youโ€™re used to.
  • In Montana, it snows about 49 inches annually, compared to the 35 inches of snow in Chicago. Make sure you like the cold and enjoy snowy weather before making the move.

Comparing the pros of Chicago, IL, vs. Montana:

There are always a lot of reasons to get excited about living somewhere new. These are the best parts of living in Chicago vs Montana side-by-side.

Pros of living in Chicago, IL Pros of living in Montana
Bountiful arts and recreational activities Unmatched natural beauty
Delicious food Bountiful outdoor opportunities
Abundant entertainment Ample economic opportunity
Intense sports culture Delicious unique cuisine
Ample economic opportunity No traffic

Comparing the cons of living in Chicago, IL, vs. Montana:

Not everything is sunshine and rainbows, these are the things to be aware of when leaving Chicago for Montana.

Cons of living in Chicago, IL Cons of living in Montana
High crime rate Dangerous wildlife
Temperamental weather Remote lifestyle
Terrible traffic Touristy
High taxes Lacking in urban amenities
Pollution Challenging weather

Other considerations when moving to Montana from Chicago

When relocating from Chicago to Montana, a few details are worth keeping in mind to avoid last-minute hiccups. Beyond choosing a mover and packing your belongings, itโ€™s helpful to consider local rules, permit requirements, and other practical factors that could impact your move.

  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks or oversized vehicles, so be sure to find out ahead of time if youโ€™ll need one for your move.
  • State licensing: In Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT). Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Montana moving license anytime on the official state regulatorโ€™s site.
  • Moving permits: You wonโ€™t need a moving permit in Montana, but itโ€™s a good idea to check the local parking regulations ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before you move. Youโ€™ll be able to choose your official move date so your mail is forwarded to Montana seamlessly. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Insurance rules arenโ€™t the same everywhere. They change depending on the state. Opt for Released Value Protection, a no-cost option from movers with basic coverage. Movers assume liability for up to 60 cents per pound per item. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable painting weighing 20 pounds, you would only receive $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for the full value of your items, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Use a checklist to move with confidence. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and ensures everythingโ€™s covered, so you can relax and focus on the move.

Things to do in Montana

Whether youโ€™re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, youโ€™ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Montana.

Museums in Montanatoggle

  • National Museum of Wildlife Art
  • Museum of the Rockies
  • Aerial Fire Depot and Smokejumper Center
  • Moss Mansion
  • Conrad Mansion
  • World Museum of Mining
  • Images of Nature by Thomas Mangelsen
  • American Computer & Robotics Museum
  • Sunti World Art Gallery
  • Fort Missoula Museum

Parks in Montanatoggle

  • Lone Pine State Park
  • Caras Park
  • Sacajawea Park
  • Herron Park
  • Phil Baux Park
  • Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park
  • Whitefish Lake State Park
  • Pioneer Park
  • Crystal Park
  • Riverfront Park

Sports Teams in Montanatoggle

  • Montana Grizzlies (NCAA)
  • Montana State Bobcats (NCAA)

Universities in Montanatoggle

  • Montana State University
  • The University of Montana
  • Montana Tech
  • Montana State University Billings
  • Carroll College
  • Rocky Mountain College
  • Montana State University-Northern
  • The University of Montana Western
  • University of Providence

FAQs

How long does a move from Chicago to Montana take?

The time it takes to move from Chicago, IL, to Montana ultimately depends on the moving method you choose. But on average it will take three to eight days. Deliveries will likely take longer during the busy summer months.

For the fastest turnaround, ask your moving company for an estimated delivery window before booking.

What is the best way to get a car from Chicago to Montana?

Need to get your car from Chicago to Montana? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Chicago to Montana car shippers.

Why are people moving from Chicago to Montana?

Many people are moving to Montana because of its unmatched natural beauty and bountiful outdoor opportunities. On the other hand, people are moving away from Chicago because of the high crime rate and temperamental weather.

Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Chicago?

Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Chicago.

Helpful moving resources