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Local moving companies in Illinois
When you’re moving from Illinois to Columbia, SC, make your move easy with one of the best local movers who know the ins and outs of relocating from the Land of Lincoln to the vibrant Soda City. We’ve chosen companies that are known for smooth, stress-free transitions, so you can settle in easily.
Out of 29 Illinois movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Columbia, SC.
- STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Amenity Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- MiniMoves Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Planes Moving & Storage Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- ADCO Van & Storage, Inc.: 4.72 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 139020
Pricing: $150/hr
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 1308599
Alternate Names: STI Moving & Storage, Inc.
STI Moving & Storage Inc., serving Skokie, IL since 2004, has established itself as a reputable choice for local residential moving. Standing out from competitors, STI boasts an impressive Google rating of 4.7 from over 1000 reviews and holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized handling for fragile items and antiques. With a competitive rate of $150 per hour and options for full valuation insurance coverage, they cater to a variety of moving needs, ensuring peace of mind for their clients.
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 #: 73744
Years in Business: 39
DOT #: 70719
Amenity Moving & Storage, Inc. has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Plainfield, IL since 1986. Their reputation for excellence is reflected in their stellar consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.8 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby moving companies, Amenity Moving & Storage offers a wide range of services, including office moving, packing and unpacking, and the ability to move specialized items like pianos, hot tubs, and safes. With no deposit required, they make the moving process seamless and stress-free for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Company Info
State license #: 107443
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 526036
MiniMoves Inc. offers comprehensive local residential moving services in and around Hillside, IL, positioning itself as a strong competitor among nearby moving companies. Not only do they specialize in local moves, but they also provide packing, unpacking, and crating services, ensuring a seamless experience for their clients. While their Yelp reviews indicate room for improvement with an average rating of 3.2 from 196 reviews, their Google My Business profile shows a more favorable average rating of 4.1 from 78 reviews. By accepting credit cards and offering full valuation insurance coverage, MiniMoves Inc. provides added convenience and peace of mind for their customers.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 7545
Years in Business: 104
DOT #: 1458935
Alternate Names: Planes Moving & Storage of Chicago, L.L.C.
Planes Moving & Storage Company, established in 1921, offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Aurora, IL. With a strong reputation built over a century, the company also provides packing, unpacking, and crating services, ensuring valuable items like pianos and antiques are handled with care. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, a 4.7 average rating from 320 Google reviews, and a solid consumer satisfaction. While their Yelp reviews show mixed feedback with a 3.1 average rating, their long-standing presence and comprehensive service offerings make them a trustworthy choice compared to other local movers.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 16484
Years in Business: 69
DOT #: 077949
ADCO Van & Storage, Inc., established in 1957, offers reliable local residential moving services in Crystal Lake, IL and the surrounding areas. With a strong reputation backed by an A+ BBB rating and an impressive 4.7 average rating on Google, ADCO stands out among nearby moving companies. Their services include packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for art and antiques, making them a comprehensive choice for local moves. Consumer reviews point to a trusted, competent service, ideal for those seeking a dependable local mover without the hassle of a deposit.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Comparing local moving companies from Illinois to Columbia, South Carolina:
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| STI Moving & Storage Inc. | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Amenity Moving & Storage, Inc. | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| MiniMoves Inc. | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Planes Moving & Storage Company | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
| ADCO Van & Storage, Inc. | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
Out of the 2,091 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how Illinois movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:
| Illinois | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 95% | 96% |
| Antiques | 64% | 54% |
| Military Discount | 3% | 5% |
| Senior Discount | 3% | 6% |
Things to know before moving from Illinois to Columbia, SC
Before you start packing, let’s explore what life in Columbia, SC has in store compared to Illinois. We’ll break down everything from the cost of living and local culture to spots you don’t want to miss.
Cost of living: Illinois vs Columbia, SC
| Illinois | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,179 | $1,447 |
| Average home value | $249,224 | $220,612 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,433 | $64,683 |
| Unemployment rate | 5% | 5% |
| State income tax | 5% | 7% |
Columbia sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Columbia is roughly 23% higher than in Illinois. Keep this in mind as you budget; you’ll need to plan for higher move-in expenses and monthly rent.
- On average, homes in Columbia are 11% cheaper than in Illinois, making your move easier on your wallet.
- Salaries in Columbia are usually about 18% lower than in Illinois. Make sure to review your finances and adjust your budget before you relocate.
- Moving to Columbia gives you the advantage of an unemployment rate that’s about 2% lower than in Illinois. That means you could find better job prospects and more career opportunities.
- Income taxes in Columbia are 41% higher than in Illinois, so be sure to factor this in when budgeting. Your take-home pay could be slightly lower.
How life is different in Columbia from Illinois
| Columbia | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 136,632 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 55-45 | |
| Summer high | 94ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 35ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 46" | 40" |
| Annual snow | 1" | 22" |
| Crime index | 3.0 | 19.7 |
Columbia sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Columbia voted , while Illinois voted Democratic.
- Summer temperatures in Columbia typically reach 94°F, while in Illinois, highs average around 86°F. Warmer weather means more sunshine and outdoor fun, but you’ll want to prepare for bigger cooling costs and a hotter days.
- In the coldest months, Columbia typically dips to 35ºF, while Illinois can reach lows of 17ºF. By moving to Columbia, you’ll experience milder winters, making everyday life simpler, less expensive, and perfect for enjoying more time outdoors.
- Expect about 46 inches of rain each year in Columbia—compared to just 40 inches in Illinois. With more rain comes greener scenery and wetter days, so get ready to adjust your routine and invest in some quality waterproof gear.
- In Columbia, you’ll only see about 1 inch of snow each year, less than the 22 inches you’re used to in Illinois. With these lighter winters, you can look forward to less shoveling, easier driving, and fewer winter headaches overall, making Columbia a great choice if you want a milder cold season.
- Columbia boasts a lower crime rate compared to Illinois, with a crime index of 19.7 versus 3.0. Lower crime rates typically mean safer neighborhoods, closer communities, and less to worry about. It’s not the only factor to consider when moving, but it definitely adds an extra layer of peace of mind.
Things to do in Columbia
From beautiful parks and fascinating museums to exciting sports and stellar universities, Columbia really has something for everyone.
Museums in Columbia
Parks in Columbia
Sports Teams in Columbia
Universities in Columbia
Other considerations when moving to Columbia, SC
- Weather: If you're considering to move to Columbia, SC, better to consider during October, April and May to make sure weather will be pleasant.
- HOA rules: Before your move, double-check any neighborhood or community guidelines to help everything go smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Something you’ll want to sort out early is booking your building’s elevator and checking their rules for moving.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
- State licensing: To promote safety, economic development, and ethical business practices, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) oversees movers in the state. They are responsible for inspecting, examining, and auditing public utility providers like movers. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they're properly licensed.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a South Carolina moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to settle in South Carolina, but it’s a smart idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, so your mail will be forwarded to South Carolina right on time. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Insurance rules vary from state to state. When moving in South Carolina, explore movers' insurance options. Many offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or consider third-party insurance providers. Prioritize understanding coverage limits and potential extra costs. Read reviews to make an informed decision on the best insurance for your South Carolina move.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Illinois to Columbia take?
How long it takes to move from Illinois to Columbia, SC depends on your starting point and the type of move you select. Regardless of your choice, packing and loading your belongings usually only takes a day or less, even when you’re doing it yourself.
If you’re heading to Columbia from northern Illinois, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Getting your stuff from Illinois to Columbia can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you choose movers or a moving container. Be sure to request a delivery estimate before you book.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Illinois to Columbia?
If you’re gearing up for a 816-mile move from Illinois to Columbia, lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. Booking your movers two to three months in advance helps you snag the best rates and ensures you get the date you want.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Columbia, SC?
Summer temperatures in Columbia can soar to 94°F, while winters can get as chilly as 35°F. That’s why most people making the move from Illinois to Columbia prefer the milder weather of spring or fall. But if you’re hoping to dodge the crowds and maybe snag a better deal, consider moving during summer or winter. Sure, you’ll have to handle a bit more heat or cold, but it could be worth it. Want more advice? Check out our tips on peak moving season.
