Local moving companies in North Carolina

  1. You Move Me: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  2. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  3. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. E.E. Ward Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  5. American Moving & Hauling, Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/YouMoveMeCo/, https://twitter.com/youmovemeco?lang=en
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Good communication
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Misplaced or lost items
Review Analysis
Customers rave about You Move Me for their consistently professional staff, careful handling of items, efficient moving process, prompt communication, and quick service. Out of 296 reviews, 94% are positive—a strong record compared to most moving services, where praise often centers on reliability and friendliness. Many clients highlight how polite, organized, and attentive the crews are, with moves usually completed faster than expected and within the quoted price. Negative feedback makes up just over 5% and focuses on reports of damaged or missing items and unexpected cost increases. A few customers mention property scratches or items left unpacked. Some describe communication issues after a problem occurred, mainly involving follow-up on claims for damaged or missing possessions. Neutral input, though rare, points to scheduling hiccups and occasional assembly mistakes. Compared with similar companies, You Move Me stands out for delivering smooth moves but should address isolated complaints about item care and billing accuracy.
Get a Quote (800) 926-3900

Company Info

State license #: 2572

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2518689

Alternate Names: TEC Ventures LLC


You Move Me is a well-established local moving company that has been serving Charlotte, NC, and the surrounding areas since 2015. Unlike many nearby movers, You Move Me offers comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and even piano moving, making them a versatile choice for local residential moves. With an impressive 4.9 rating from 590 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they are highly regarded for their reliability and professionalism. Customers particularly appreciate that the company accepts credit cards and does not require a deposit, adding convenience to their already stellar service.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/gentlegiantmovingcompany/, https://twitter.com/gentlegiantnc
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Lack of communication
  • Unfriendly or rude staff
  • Overly complex pricing
Review Analysis
Like clockwork, Gentle Giant Moving Company stands out for delivering quick, careful moves with polite, professional teams. Out of 277 feedback entries, 97% praised their efficient service, careful handling, strong communication, and respectful crews. Customers commonly noted how rapidly yet delicately their belongings were moved, and many compared Gentle Giant favorably to other companies for great teamwork and customer care. Pricing came in as expected or lower for most reviewers. A small number of customers, 2.5%, encountered issues with communication or abrupt customer service, generally during scheduling or initial contact, and some found pricing policies confusing. Only one neutral review appeared. Compared to other movers, Gentle Giant earns trust and recommendations for their reliable, efficient approach, but could improve by streamlining communication for all situations.
Get a Quote (704) 376-2338

Company Info

State license #: 2406

Years in Business: 43

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving Co. (NC), LLC


Gentle Giant Moving Company has been a trusted name for local residential moving services in and around Charlotte, NC since 1981. With an impressive track record, they have garnered an average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and a perfect 5.0 on Google, alongside an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Compared to other nearby moving companies, Gentle Giant stands out for its additional offerings such as packing and unpacking services, crane vans, and specialized piano moving. Customers appreciate their reliability and professionalism, making them a top choice for those seeking a reputable local mover.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/AllMySonsCharlotte/?ref=py_c, https://twitter.com/allmysonsmoving
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Friendly and approachable staff
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Customer experiences with All My Sons Moving & Storage are sharply divided. Examining 544 feedback entries, just 42.3% were positive, while 56.6% expressed negative encounters. Many customers praise the efficient service, professional demeanor, and careful handling by moving crews, highlighting friendly staff and smooth, quick moves. Yet, a majority of reviews describe significant problems, with damage to belongings, costs far above estimates, and late or missed arrivals as frequent issues. Numerous reports indicate unresolved claims and poor communication. All My Sons stands out for efficiency and staff attitude when things go well, but compared to other movers, customers report more recurring complaints about property damage and financial dissatisfaction.
Get a Quote (704) 344-1300

Company Info

State license #: 601

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281

Alternate Names: Bournias, LLC


All My Sons Moving & Storage has been providing local residential moving services in and around Charlotte, NC since 1999, establishing itself as a reputable choice for those in need of reliable local movers. Compared to other nearby moving companies, All My Sons stands out with a diverse range of services, including packing, unpacking, and office moving services, as well as the capability to handle delicate items like pianos and antiques. They accept credit cards, though a deposit is required. Consumer reviews are mixed; while they boast a high rating of 4.4 on Google with over 2000 reviews and an A rating from the Better Business Bureau, their Yelp profile indicates some dissatisfaction with an average rating of 1.7 from 243 reviews.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/EEwardMovingandStorage, https://twitter.com/eewardmoving
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Good communication
  • Efficient service
  • Helpful movers
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Misplaced or lost items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
Review Analysis
E.E. Ward Moving & Storage stands out in customer feedback for its consistent professionalism and attention to detail. Among 140 reviews, 94% are positive, a rate higher than typical movers. Customers praise the knowledgeable, courteous staff, smooth communication, careful handling of belongings, and movers who go above and beyond. Many note efficient, stress-free moves, responsive team members, and reliable service at every stage. A small number of negative comments highlight issues with damaged or lost items and, in rare cases, unexpectedly high costs. Neutral feedback focuses on especially high pricing or incomplete moves. E.E. Ward earns a reputation for reliability and care far above industry averages, but some large-scale moves encountered costly errors or missing items that left lasting frustration.
Get a Quote (704) 774-4884

Company Info

State license #: 2774

Years in Business: 143

DOT #: 1222904

Alternate Names: E. E. Ward Moving & Storage Co., EE Ward Moving & Storage


E.E. Ward Moving & Storage has been a cornerstone of the moving industry in Charlotte, NC, since 1882, offering reliable local residential moving services. Unlike many newer, untested companies, E.E. Ward boasts over a century of experience and holds a strong reputation, reflected in their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Customer reviews generally speak highly of the company, with a 4.8 average rating on Google My Business outshining their 3.7 rating on Yelp. They provide comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos and antiques, making them a versatile choice for any local move.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/americanmovingandhauling,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Inaccurate estimates
  • Poor complaint handling
Review Analysis
Rave reports pour in for American Moving & Hauling, Inc., with over 90% of customer feedback applauding professional, courteous teams who treat possessions with care and efficiency. Customers praise fast service, clear communication, and friendly, organized movers who handle challenges with a positive attitude. Most describe stress-free moves—whether local or cross-country—and many highlight prompt scheduling, transparent pricing, and responsive office staff. Issues occasionally arise, including property or item damage, slow claims response, unexpected costs, or inaccurate estimates. Some clients encounter trouble resolving complaints or receiving insurance payouts, which makes the claims process slower than at top-rated competitors. While these negatives affect a small portion of moves, the overwhelmingly positive experiences far outweigh the few drawbacks, placing American Moving & Hauling among the most trusted moving services in the region.
Get a Quote (336) 765-3499

Company Info

State license #: 2411

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 2007351


American Moving & Hauling, Inc. offers top-notch local residential moving services in and around Winston-Salem, NC, and has been a trusted name in the industry since 2007. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they provide a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and special care for fragile items, as well as the ability to move large items such as pianos, hot tubs, and safes. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 from 635 Google reviews, a solid 3.8 from 48 Yelp reviews, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they demonstrate a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and reliability. Accepting credit cards and providing full valuation insurance coverage, American Moving & Hauling, Inc. ensures a dependable and seamless moving experience.

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 credit card
  • Deposit Required

Things to know before moving from North Carolina to Chicago, IL

Cost of living: North Carolina vs Chicago, IL

North Carolina Chicago
Average rent cost $1,093 $2,045
Average home value $328,715 $295,743
Average income (per capita) $66,186 $71,566
Unemployment rate 4% 9%
State income tax 5% 5%
  • Rent is about 87% more expensive in Chicago than in North Carolina.
  • Home prices are about 10% lower in Chicago than in North Carolina.
  • The average income is about 8% higher in Chicago than in North Carolina.
  • Chicago has a higher unemployment rate than North Carolina by about 143%.
  • Income taxes are 10% higher in Chicago than in North Carolina.

How life is different in Chicago from North Carolina

Chicago North Carolina
Population 2,746,388 10,835,491
Political leaning Democrat 74-24 Republican 51-49
Summer high 84ºF 88ºF
Winter low 19ºF 29ºF
Annual rain 38" 48"
Annual snow 35" 4"
Crime index 35.19 24.69
  • The population of Chicago is approximately 75% lower than the population of North Carolina.
  • In the last presidential election, Chicago voted Democrat and North Carolina voted Republican.
  • The average high in the summertime in Chicago is 84ºF and in North Carolina, it’s 88ºF.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Chicago reaches the temperature of 19ºF and North Carolina gets down to 29ºF.
  • You can expect about 38 inches of annual rainfall in Chicago vs 48 inches of rainfall in North Carolina.
  • In Chicago, it snows about 35 inches annually vs 4 inches of snow in North Carolina.
  • Chicago has a higher crime rate than North Carolina with a crime index of 35.19 vs 24.69.

Things to do in Chicago

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

Museums in Chicagotoggle

  • The Field Museum
  • Shedd Aquarium
  • Art Institute of Chicago
  • Chicago History Museum
  • Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Museum of Contemporary Photography
  • Museum of Science and Industry
  • Smart Museum of Art
  • The Oriental Institute Museum
  • Adler Planetarium
  • DuSable Museum of African American History
  • The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
  • National Museum of Mexican Art

Parks in Chicagotoggle

  • Millennium Park
  • Grant Park
  • The 606
  • Lincoln Park
  • Garfield Park
  • Jackson Park
  • Maggie Daley Park
  • South Shore Cultural Center Park
  • Humboldt Park
  • Douglass Park

Sports Teams in Chicagotoggle

  • Chicago Bears (NFL)
  • Chicago Cubs (MLB)
  • Chicago White Sox (MLB)
  • Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)
  • Chicago Bulls (NBA)
  • Chicago Fire (MLS)
  • Chicago Sky (WNBA)

Universities in Chicagotoggle

  • Chicago State University
  • Governors State University
  • Northeastern Illinois University
  • Northern Illinois University
  • University of Illinois at Chicago
  • Aurora University
  • Benedictine University
  • Concordia University Chicago
  • DePaul University
  • Dominican University
  • East–West University
  • Elmhurst University
  • Illinois Institute of Technology
  • Judson University
  • Kendall College
  • Lewis University
  • Loyola University Chicago
  • Midwestern University
  • National Louis University
  • National University of Health Sciences
  • North Park University
  • Northwestern University
  • Resurrection University
  • Roosevelt University
  • Saint Xavier University
  • Trinity International University
  • University of Chicago
  • University of St. Francis
  • University of Saint Mary of the Lake

Other considerations when moving to Chicago, IL

  • Weather: Although Chicago gets less snowfall than surrounding areas in the Midwest and the Great Lakes region, heavy snowfall could still affect your move in the wintertime.
  • 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 Illinois, regulations on in-state moves and local movers are set forth by the Illinois Commerce Commission. To move household goods locally and intrastate, companies need to have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, so make sure the companies you’re considering have one and that it’s current. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Illinois moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: Illinois 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 Illinois. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items' full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • 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 North Carolina vs. Chicago, IL

Comparing the pros of North Carolina vs. Chicago, IL:

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

Pros of living in North Carolina Pros of living in Chicago, IL
Great communities Bountiful arts and recreational activities
Low cost of living Delicious food
Ample economic opportunity Abundant entertainment
High quality of life Intense sports culture
Bountiful recreational opportunities Ample economic opportunity

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

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

Cons of living in North Carolina Cons of living in Chicago, IL
Hurricanes High crime rate
Bland weather Temperamental weather
High crime rate Terrible traffic
High tax burden High taxes
Poor education Pollution

FAQ

How long does a move from North Carolina to Chicago take?

The time frame for a move from North Carolina to Chicago, IL, 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 North Carolina, the longer the drive time to Chicago 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 Chicago from North Carolina 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 North Carolina to Chicago?

Because of the 789-mile move, it’s best to book your move from North Carolina to Chicago 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 Chicago, IL?

With the summer highs of 84ºF and the winter lows of 19ºF, most people move to Chicago from North Carolina during the spring and fall months. To avoid competing during those busy moving seasons, you could save some money by booking your move to Chicago during summer or winter.

Helpful moving resources