Local moving companies in Illinois

  1. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  2. Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  3. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  4. Move-tastic: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. Planes Moving & Storage Company: 4.9 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 delivery—especially for long-distance moves—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.


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
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


Alliance Moving & Storage has been providing dependable local residential moving services in and around Rolling Meadows, IL, since 2016. With an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 3.8 on Google, they have earned a solid reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby competitors, Alliance Moving & Storage stands out with their comprehensive offerings, including packing and unpacking services, as well as specialized capabilities to move pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. They accept both cash and credit cards, and no deposit is required, making them a convenient and flexible choice for local moves.

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/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


The Professionals Moving Specialists, serving Chicago, IL, since 2005, are a highly reputable local moving company specializing in residential relocations. With an impressive 4.6 average rating from 1013 Yelp reviews and a perfect 5.0 from 3993 Google My Business reviews, they stand out as a top choice compared to other area movers. They also boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. The company offers a variety of services, including packing, unpacking, and fragile-only packing, as well as the ability to move specialized items such as pianos, pool tables, and antiques. Known for their customer satisfaction and comprehensive services, The Professionals Moving Specialists are well-equipped to handle all local moving needs.

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/movetastic, https://x.com/movetastic
91% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Move-tastic moves customers with speed, skill, and care that set the standard for Chicago moving companies. After reviewing 1,169 pieces of feedback, 91% praised their efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, quick moves, and friendly staff—qualities mentioned far more than in most moving company reviews. Customers frequently highlight how the moving teams are not only fast and organized, but also protect homes and belongings with diligence and respect, often completing jobs ahead of schedule and below the original estimate.
The booking process and communication draw special mention for ease and transparency. Conversely, 7% of customers cite issues such as damage to items, unexpected costs, or delayed arrival, reflecting the main patterns among negative input. Some report furniture scratches or losses, with a few noting the claims process or repair follow-up as challenging; a handful mentioned bills far exceeding quoted rates or frustration over slow moves. Neutral feedback—just under 2%—pointed to sporadic minor mishaps, price increases, or items misplaced and later returned. Move-tastic’s positive feedback dominates, and problems are less common than with most regional competitors, though the risk of damage or extra fees still exists. When compared to others, it's the combination of outstanding efficiency, careful work, and friendly attitude that keeps so many customers recommending Move-tastic again and again.
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Get a Quote (773) 715-3227

Company Info

State license #: 158678

Years in Business: 16


Move-tastic, a reputable local moving company based in Chicago, IL, has been delivering exceptional residential moving services since 2009. Comparing favorably to other nearby movers, Move-tastic stands out with over 2,000 positive reviews, boasting an impressive 4.6 Yelp rating and a stellar 4.9 on Google, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their comprehensive service offerings include packing, unpacking, and office moving services, and they also provide labor-only services. Move-tastic secures customer trust by accepting both cash and credit cards, and no deposit is required, making them a reliable and convenient choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Hot Tubs
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/teamplanes/,
88% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving reliability makes all the difference, and Planes Moving & Storage stands out in customer feedback. 232 reviews were analyzed, with nearly nine out of ten customers satisfied. Customers rave about Planes’ professional and polite teams, efficient moving processes, careful handling of items, fast service, and consistent communication. Many moves finished ahead of schedule without hidden costs.
On the downside, a few reported item damage, inaccurate cost estimates, and occasional lost belongings, which affected their trust in the process. Some also flagged issues when delivery or claims didn't match their expectations. Compared to similar companies, Planes earns stronger praise for staff professionalism and handling but loses ground with damage and claim resolution concerns. This feedback points to a moving company that gets high marks for speed, courtesy, and organization, though some clients face setbacks with damage and missed estimates.
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Get a Quote (630) 381-6952

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

Things to know before moving from Illinois to Houston, TX

Cost of living: Illinois vs Houston, TX

Illinois Houston
Average rent cost $1,179 $1,549
Average home value $249,224 $263,945
Average income (per capita) $78,433 $69,833
Unemployment rate 5% 4%
State income tax 5% 0%
  • Rent is about 31% more expensive in Houston than in Illinois.
  • Home prices are about 6% higher in Houston than in Illinois.
  • The average income is about 11% lower in Houston than in Illinois.
  • Houston has a lower unemployment rate than Illinois by about 23%.
  • Income taxes are 100% lower in Houston than in Illinois.

How life is different in Houston from Illinois

Houston Illinois
Population 2,301,572 12,549,689
Political leaning Republican 56-42 Democratic 55-45
Summer high 94ºF 86ºF
Winter low 43ºF 17ºF
Annual rain 53" 40"
Annual snow 0" 22"
Crime index 63.5 19.7
  • The population of Houston is approximately 82% lower than the population of Illinois.
  • In the last presidential election, Houston voted Republican and Illinois voted Democratic.
  • The average high in the summertime in Houston is 94ºF and in Illinois, it’s 86ºF.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Houston reaches the temperature of 43ºF and Illinois gets down to 17ºF.
  • You can expect about 53 inches of annual rainfall in Houston vs 40 inches of rainfall in Illinois.
  • In Houston, it snows about 0 inches annually vs 22 inches of snow in Illinois.
  • Houston has a higher crime rate than Illinois with a crime index of 63.5 vs 19.7.

Things to do in Houston

Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Houston.

Museums in Houstontoggle

  • Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
  • Children’s Museum of Houston
  • The Menil Collection
  • Houston Museum of Natural Science
  • Holocaust Museum Houston
  • Houston Museum of African American Culture
  • The Health Museum
  • Contemporary Arts Museum Houston
  • Buffalo Soldiers National Museum
  • Czech Center Museum Houston

Parks in Houstontoggle

  • Hermann Park
  • Terry Hershey Park
  • Lake Houston Park
  • Memorial Park
  • Tranquility Park
  • Sesquicentennial Park
  • Discovery Green
  • Buffalo Bayou Park
  • Sam Houston Park

Sports Teams in Houstontoggle

  • Houston Texans (NFL)
  • Houston Astros (MLB
  • Houston Dash (NWSL)
  • Houston Dynamo FC (MLS)
  • Houston Rockets (NBA)
  • Houston SaberCats (MLR)

Universities in Houstontoggle

  • Houston Community College
  • San Jacinto College
  • University of Houston
  • University of Houston - Downtown
  • Texas Southern University
  • University of Houston - Clear Lake Public
  • Rice University
  • The University of Texas
  • University of St. Thomas
  • Houston Baptist University
  • Remington College - North Houston Campus
  • Remington College
  • College of Biblical Studies

Other considerations when moving to Houston, TX

  • Weather: Houston's weather is moderate to hot year-round but hurricane season in the late summer months may affect your move.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: One common and important example of something that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles, find out ahead of time with your new local rules.
  • State licensing: In-state movers operating in the Lone Star State are legally required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Texas moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: Texas does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Texas. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. In Texas, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It's crucial to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Texas.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.

Compare the pros and cons of Illinois vs. Houston, TX

Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. Houston, TX:

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

Pros of living in Illinois Pros of living in Houston, TX
Home of Chicago Bountiful arts and recreational activities
Ample economic opportunity Ample economic opportunity
Bountiful recreational opportunities Delicious seafood
Delicious food Diversity
World-class sports culture Affordable housing

Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Houston, TX:

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

Cons of living in Illinois Cons of living in Houston, TX
Harsh winter weather Tropical storms
Bad traffic Heat and humidity
High crime rate Terrible traffic
Dull landscape Limited public transportation
Strict laws High crime rate

FAQ

How long does a move from Illinois to Houston take?

The time frame for a move from Illinois to Houston, TX, varies based on your moving method and starting location. The actual loading up of your items should not take more than a day, even with DIY moves.

Obviously, the further upstate you are in Illinois, the longer the drive time to Houston will be. If you’re driving a rental truck, the move could be completed in one or two days, on average, depending on your route and how often you stop.

With professional movers or moving containers, delivery times to Houston from Illinois can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the company’s schedule and transit logistics. You can always ask for a general timeline before booking.

How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Illinois to Houston?

Because of the 941-mile move, it’s best to book your move from Illinois to Houston as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Houston, TX?

With the summer highs of 94ºF and the winter lows of 43ºF, most people move to Houston from Illinois during the spring and fall months. To avoid competing during those busy moving seasons, you could save some money by booking your move to Houston during summer or winter.

Helpful moving resources