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($719) Movers From Illinois to Madison, WI

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Estimated cost & time: Relocating from Illinois to Madison, WI generally runs between $246 and $3,864. The 205-mile trip often takes one–two days. Your cost will depend on your household size, move date, and choice of DIY vs. pros.
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Best movers from Illinois to Madison, WI

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Illinois to Madison, WI

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 205-mile move from Illinois to Madison, WI using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We collect thousands of trustworthy price points from movers nationwide, updating the figures monthly to mirror seasonal fluctuations and broader market trends. Your ultimate cost can shift with move size, service add-ons, parking/access issues, fuel prices, and schedule. Always compare multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $794 – $3,113
  • Moving Container $767 – $1,279
  • Rental Truck $220 – $376
Two Three Bed Icon

2 – 3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,288 – $3,864
  • Moving Container $919 – $1,734
  • Rental Truck $246 – $468
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,786 – $5,019
  • Moving Container $1,230 – $2,303
  • Rental Truck $286 – $529
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Colonial Van Lines
Noble, IL Plain, WI
3 Bedrooms
Nov 20, 2025
United Van Lines
Lake Ka-Ho, IL Waunakee, WI
4 Bedrooms
Nov 19, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Canton, IL Belleville, WI
3 Bedrooms
Nov 01, 2025
PODS
Gibson City, IL Friesland, WI
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 01, 2025
American Van Lines
Makanda, IL Mount Horeb, WI
Studio apartment
Oct 26, 2025
Safeway Moving
Oak Park, IL Randolph, WI
3 Bedrooms
Sep 25, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Old Shawneetown, IL Monona, WI
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 25, 2025
North American Van Lines
New Burnside, IL Arlington, WI
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 18, 2025
BLVD Moving
Aviston, IL Watertown, WI
Studio apartment
Sep 18, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Galva, IL Fitchburg, WI
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 09, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Madison, WI, to Illinois guide .

Local moving companies in Illinois

When relocating from Illinois to Madison, WI, let our favorite local movers take the stress out of your journey.

Out of 78 Illinois movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Madison, WI.

  1. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Mighty Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  3. Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. Golan’s Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  5. Advanced Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
68.4% of all reviews were positive
28.8% 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.
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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.9% of all reviews were positive
7.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Mighty Moving & Storage for their professional, efficient, and friendly crews. Out of 70 reviews, 93% are positive, with many highlighting careful handling, quick moves, and affordable rates. Movers consistently receive praise for their politeness and attention to detail, making stressful moves easier. Some feedback points to issues with damaged or lost items and unexpected charges, but these are rare compared to the volume of positive input. Compared to other moving companies, Mighty Moving & Storage stands out for reliability and customer satisfaction, though a few customers experienced problems with item care and billing transparency.
Get a Quote (855) 699-8999

Company Info

Years in Business: 3

DOT #: 3788656

Alternate Names: Heroic Moving & Storage Experts

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95.5% of all reviews were positive
4.5% 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.
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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
69.5% of all reviews were positive
29.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Golan’s is a tale of standout efficiency and careful handling, backed by a team known for their professionalism and great communication. Nearly 70% of the 814 customer experiences highlighted fast moves, respect for customers’ belongings, and crews who made even complex moves feel smooth. People mention polite staff, careful packing, and transparency more often than with other moving companies. On the other hand, almost a third encountered problems such as damaged items, higher-than-expected final bills, or delays on moving day. Some also point out that resolving claims and unexpected charges can be frustrating. Compared to similar companies, Golan’s receives more repeat business for their fast, careful service but also faces more complaints about damages or billing than some direct competitors. Golan’s consistently delivers safe, efficient moves with friendly crews, but be sure to clarify all charges and ask about insurance and delivery timing before booking.
Get a Quote (847) 262-9778

Company Info

State license #: 93712

Years in Business: 34

DOT #: 504435

Alternate Names: Golan’s Moving and Storage, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
54.3% of all reviews were positive
44.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback on Advanced Moving & Storage, Inc. stands out for its sharp contrasts. Of 414 reviews, 54% are positive and center on efficiency, friendly and professional movers, careful handling, and jobs finished ahead of schedule. Many people mention hardworking, polite staff who move quickly, protect belongings, and ease stress on moving day. Customers value organized operations and a helpful team. On the flip side, 44% report serious problems—damaged items, sudden extra charges, and late arrivals. Numerous customers describe property loss, hostage payments, ruined furniture, delayed deliveries, and a lack of accountability for damage or missing items. Neutral input notes incomplete jobs or occasional lapses between satisfactory moves. Compared to similar companies, Advanced shows a greater divide between high-quality hands-on moving crews and problematic company policies. Booking is easy and staff can be accommodating, but recurring issues like property damage and shifting costs reduce trust. Consumers seeking reliable and stress-free moves with respectful handling may find strong crews here, but transparent communication and guarantees may be better elsewhere.
Get a Quote (800) 394-4462

Company Info

Years in Business: 110

DOT #: 872553

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

Cost to move from Illinois to Madison, WI

The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Illinois to Madison, WI with different moving services depending on the size of your home.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $719 – $2,422 $521 – $1,284 $216 – $380
2-3 bedrooms $1,288 – $3,864 $919 – $1,734 $246 – $468
4+ bedrooms $1,786 – $5,019 $1,230 – $2,303 $286 – $529

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 205-mile move from Illinois to Madison, WI using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. Each month, moveBuddha updates thousands of vetted price points from nationwide moving companies to reflect seasonality and market trends. Your final total may vary with move size, add-on services, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and scheduling. Comparing estimates from multiple movers is the best way to nail down accurate pricing.

Cost to hire professional movers from Illinois to Madison, WI

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Illinois to Madison, WI, you can expect to spend between $719 and $2,422. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $1,288 to $3,864 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home will typically run between $1,786 and $5,019.

Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Madison, WI

When moving from Illinois to Madison, WI, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $521 and $1,284. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $919 to $1,734. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,230 up to $2,303. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Illinois.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Illinois to Madison, WI

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom from Illinois to Madison, WI, and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $216 and $380. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $246 and $468. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $286 and $529.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Compare local moving companies from Illinois to Madison, WI

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. × ×
Mighty Moving & Storage × ×
Alliance Moving & Storage × ×
Golan’s Moving & Storage, Inc. × ×
Advanced Moving & Storage, Inc. × ×

Out of the 3,180 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 97% 96%
Antiques 48% 46%
Military Discount 1% 4%
Senior Discount 2% 4%

Things to know before moving from Illinois to Madison, WI

Before you start packing, take a moment to get a feel for what life in Madison, WI is really like compared to Illinois. From the cost of living and local culture to daily routines, we’ll guide you through the biggest lifestyle changes and must-see attractions to be aware of.

Cost of living: Illinois vs. Madison, WI

Illinois Madison
Average rent cost $1,179 $1,600
Average home cost $249,224 $367,934
Average income (per capita) $78,433 $62,919
Cost of Living Index 90 103
Unemployment rate 5.3% 3.3%
State Income Tax 4.95% 7.65%
  • Rent in Madison is roughly 36% higher than in Illinois. You’ll need to plan for higher monthly rent.
  • Home prices in Madison are approximately 48% higher than in Illinois. Be sure to budget for a larger down payment, higher property taxes, and increased overall homeownership costs.
  • The average income is about 20% lower in Madison than in Illinois. It’s important to review your budget and plan accordingly.
  • Madison’s unemployment rate is 38% lower than Illinois, suggesting a healthier job market.
  • Expect income taxes in Wisconsin to run about 55% higher than in Illinois, which could cut into your paycheck.

How life is different in Madison from Illinois

Madison Illinois
Population 269,840 12,549,689
Political leaning Democratic 76-23 Democratic 55-45
Summer high 82ºF 86ºF
Winter low 10ºF 17ºF
Annual rain 36″ 40″
Annual snow 42″ 22″
Crime index 34.57 19.7
  • During the last presidential election, both Illinois and Madison supported the Democratic candidate.
  • Summer in Madison usually hits around 82ºF, pretty similar to the 86ºF you’re used to in Illinois. While you won’t face a dramatic change in temperature, you should still keep factors like local humidity, weather trends, and changes to energy costs in mind as you prepare for summer at your new home.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Madison gets down to 10ºF while Illinois only dips to 17ºF. Relocating to Madison means adjusting to colder winters, which could raise your heating bill and bring some changes to your routine. Still, you’ll get to enjoy the area’s one-of-a-kind winter scenery and seasonal activities.
  • You’ll get about 36 inches of rain each year in Madison, pretty similar to the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois. The overall rainfall might not change much, but the timing and patterns could still impact your day-to-day life.
  • Every year, Madison gets around 42 inches of snow, much more than the 22 inches that Illinois typically sees. With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
  • Madison has a higher crime rate than Illinois with a crime index of 34.57 vs 19.7. A higher crime rate isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s your cue to research local safety measures and think about how it might affect your day-to-day life.

Things to do in Madison

From parks and museums to sports and top universities, Madison has a little bit of everything waiting for you.

Museums in Madison

  • Chazen Museum of Art
  • Madison Children’s Museum
  • Wisconsin Veterans Museum
  • Wisconsin Historical Museum
  • University of Wisconsin Geology Museum

Parks in Madison

  • Olbrich Botanical Gardens
  • University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum
  • Lake Mendota
  • Allen Centennial Gardens
  • Tenney Park

Sports teams in Madison

  • Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA)
  • Madison Mallards (Baseball)
  • Madison Radicals (AUDL)
  • Madison Capitols (United States Hockey League)
  • Forward Madison (USL League One)

Universities in Madison

  • Herzing University
  • Madison Area Technical College
  • Madison Media Institute
  • University of Phoenix–Madison Campus
  • University of Wisconsin–Madison

Other considerations when moving to Madison, WI

  • HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community rules before moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to book your building’s elevator ahead of time and check on any moving rules they might have.
  • Parking permits: Some cities make you get a parking permit for your moving truck, so remember to look up your new neighborhood’s rules before moving day.
  • State licensing: Movers providing in-state relocation services in the Badger State must register with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), but strictly speaking, it’s not a regulated state. However, movers must comply with individual insurance, licensing, and other state laws and regulations. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Wisconsin moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
  • Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to Wisconsin, but it’s wise to check local parking regulations ahead of time.
  • Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your moving date so your mail will be forwarded to Wisconsin without any delays. Get started here.
  • Mover’s insurance: For a secure move in Wisconsin, explore movers’ insurance options to safeguard your belongings. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection with discussions on Full Value Protection or explore customized plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Wisconsin state moving insurance. Ensure a smooth and protected relocation experience with the right insurance coverage.
  • Moving checklist: Staying organized keeps your move stress-free. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay on top of every detail.

FAQ

How long does a move from Illinois to Madison take?

The time frame for a move from Illinois to Madison, WI, 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.

The farther north you are in Illinois, the longer it’ll take to reach Madison. If you’re renting a truck, expect the trip to take one or two days on average, depending on your route and how many stops you make.

Delivery from Illinois to Madison can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Always ask for a delivery estimate before booking.

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

If you’re gearing up for a 205-mile move from Illinois to Madison, 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 Madison, WI?

Summer in Madison can reach highs of 82°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 10°F. That’s why most people moving from Illinois to Madison opt for the milder spring or fall weather. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds—and possibly score a better price—think about moving in the off-season, even if you have to endure crazier temperatures. Need more help planning? Check out our tips on peak moving seasons.

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