Local moving companies in Chicago
Out of 68 Chicago movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to New Jersey.
- New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars
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
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
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
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
Company Info
State license #: 158678
Years in Business: 16
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Hot Tubs
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in Chicago, IL
Here’s how many movers in Chicago include specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Chicago, IL to New Jersey
Check the table below for expected cost ranges to move from Chicago to New Jersey with various services, based on your home’s size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,149 – $3,919 | $769 – $1,754 | $539 – $1,017 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,192 – $5,619 | $1,437 – $2,641 | $606 – $1,196 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,845 – $7,513 | $1,910 – $3,693 | $767 – $1,495 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 811-mile move from Chicago, IL, to New Jersey using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes them monthly to account for seasonal shifts and market trends. Your actual cost can change based on move size, added services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Chicago to New Jersey
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Chicago to New Jersey, you can expect prices to land between $1,149 and $3,919. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,192 to $5,619 for the trip from Chicago to NJ. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,845 and $7,513.
Cost of moving containers from Chicago to New Jersey
Moving containers from Chicago to New Jersey will cost you $769 to $1,754 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,437 to $2,641. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,910 to $3,693. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Chicago.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to New Jersey
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 $539 and $1,017 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Chicago to New Jersey with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $606 to $1,196. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $767 to $1,495.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors influencing moving costs from Chicago to NJ
Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Chicago:
- Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
- Time of year: Summer moves in Chicago fall during peak season, which usually means higher prices.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.
What you should know before moving from Chicago to NJ
When relocating from Chicago to New Jersey, you can look forward to new experiences, yet it’s crucial to anticipate higher living expenses. With New Jersey typically being more costly than Chicago, careful financial planning is essential.
Compare the lifestyle in Chicago with that in New Jersey to better prepare yourself for your upcoming move:
Compare cost of living: Chicago vs. New Jersey
| Chicago, IL | New Jersey | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,045 | $1,368 |
| Average home cost | $295,743 | $534,773 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $97,126 |
| Cost of living index | 106 | 114 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 4.7% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 10.7% |
New Jersey sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- In New Jersey, rent is about 33% lower than in Chicago, making housing easier on your budget.
- Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 81% higher in New Jersey than in Chicago.
- On average, incomes in New Jersey run 36% above Chicago, potentially improving your financial flexibility.
- Expect the cost of living in New Jersey to be roughly 8% higher than in Chicago, which may require some budgeting adjustments.
- New Jersey has a lower unemployment rate than Chicago by about 48%, suggesting a stronger job market.
- Expect to pay about 116% more in income taxes in New Jersey compared to Illinois.
How life is different in Chicago, IL from New Jersey
From the weather and population to local politics, here’s how life in New Jersey stacks up against what you’re used to in Chicago.
| Chicago, IL | New Jersey | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 9,290,841 |
| Political leaning | Democrat 74-24 | Democratic 52-46.1 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 85ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 22ºF |
| Annual rain | 38″ | 48″ |
| Annual snow | 35″ | 23″ |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 16.2 |
New Jersey Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, New Jersey leaned Democratic, while Chicago supported Democrat.
- Summertime highs settle at approximately 85ºF in New Jersey as well as 84ºF in Chicago, ensuring the climate feels quite familiar. Apart from temperatures, it’s important to think about humidity, weather trends, and energy costs to grasp what summertime will be like in your new area.
- Winter lows are nearly identical, averaging 22ºF in New Jersey and 19ºF in Chicago. With so little difference, your move shouldn’t disrupt your cold-weather lifestyle.
- Get ready for about 48 inches of rain annually in New Jersey, compared to just 38 inches in Chicago. More rainfall means greener scenery and wetter days, so plan ahead with good rain gear and a flexible routine.
- In New Jersey, you’ll get about 23 inches of snow each year, far less than Chicago. That means moving to New Jersey will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
- New Jersey records a lower crime rate (16.2) than Chicago (35.19), meaning you may enjoy more security and peace of mind after your move.
Comparing the pros of Chicago, IL versus New Jersey:
There are always a lot of reasons to get excited about living somewhere new. These are the best parts of living in Chicago versus New Jersey side-by-side.
| Pros of living in Chicago, IL | Pros of living in New Jersey |
|---|---|
| Bountiful arts and recreational activities | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Delicious food | Diversity |
| Abundant entertainment | World-class entertainment |
| Intense sports culture | Leading education |
| Ample economic opportunity | Superb health care |
Comparing the cons of Chicago, IL versus New Jersey:
Transitioning from Chicago to New Jersey can present challenges; here’s what you need to keep in mind.
| Cons of living in Chicago, IL | Cons of living in New Jersey |
|---|---|
| High crime rate | Extreme weather |
| Temperamental weather | Congested population |
| Terrible traffic | High cost of living |
| High taxes | High tax burden |
| Pollution | Terrible traffic |
Other considerations when moving to New Jersey
When you’re moving from Chicago to New Jersey, you’ll want to do more than just pack your boxes and hire movers. Make sure you’re up to speed on local rules, permits, and other logistics that could affect your move.
- HOA rules: Always check community regulations beforehand so your move-in goes smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve the elevator if your building requires it for move-ins.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
- State licensing: In New Jersey, the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs handles the regulation of in-state moving companies. The state’s Division of Consumer Affairs works to ensure that warehousemen (public storage companies) and public movers provide safe, reliable, and ethical services while adhering to all relevant state rules and regulations. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
- State regulator: You can verify a New Jersey moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s site.
- Moving permits: There’s no need for a moving permit in New Jersey, but be sure to look up local parking rules before moving day.
- Change of address: Make sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You can choose your official move date and have your mail forwarded to New Jersey. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Released Value Protection is the most economical option as it incurs no cost. It is provided by movers at no additional charge, but the coverage is minimal. Under this option, no more than 60 cents per pound per article is the responsibility of the mover. For example, if a delicate china set weighing 20 pounds is lost or damaged by the mover, only $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds) would be received. If coverage for the full value of your items is needed, consultation with the moving company you’re hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider is recommended.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay organized and be sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in New Jersey
Whether you’re into sports, parks, museums, or universities, New Jersey has tons for you to discover and enjoy.
Museums in New Jersey
- Cape May Lighthouse
- Silverball Retro Arcade Asbury Park
- Battleship New Jersey
- Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
- Newark Museum
Parks in New Jersey
- Branch Brook Park
- Laurel Acres Park
- The Frelinghuysen Arboretum
- Roosevelt Park
- Bergen County Zoological Park
Sports teams in New Jersey
- New Jersey Devils (NHL)
- New York Giants (NFL)
- New York Jets (NFL)
- New York Red Bulls (MLS)
Universities in New Jersey
- Princeton University
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
- New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Seton Hall University
- Montclair State University
FAQ
How long does a move from Chicago to New Jersey take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Chicago, IL, to New Jersey? Most moves on this route usually take two to seven days, depending on your service. Just a heads up. Moving during the hectic summer season might leave you open to delays.
To keep your move on track and steer clear of delays, be sure to ask about the delivery timeline before you book your movers.
How many movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?
There are 46 movers in Chicago that offer customized crates for a variety of fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped pieces, including artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you will need special crating for any of your items, be sure to confirm with a Chicago moving company that they will be able to accommodate your specific needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Chicago to New Jersey?
Need to get your car from Chicago to New Jersey? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Chicago to New Jersey car shippers.
Why are people moving from Chicago to New Jersey?
Many people are moving to New Jersey because of its bountiful recreational opportunities and diversity. On the other hand, people are moving away from Chicago because of the high crime rate and temperamental weather.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to New Jersey.
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.
Can I pay for my move from Chicago, IL, with cash?
There are 29 movers in Chicago that accept cash payments. Even so, cash is not the norm in the moving industry, where traceable payment types are preferred. Plan to pay a deposit to lock in your booking and move date. The rest of the balance is usually due at pickup or after delivery—verify timing and accepted methods with your mover.
Helpful moving resources
Illinois moving services
Popular Illinois routes
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