Local moving companies in Seattle
Out of 63 Seattle movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Illinois.
- Eco Movers Moving & Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- On The Go Moving and Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Seattle Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Hansen Bros Moving and Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 3227005
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 3227005
Alternate Names: GS Moving Services LLC , Eco-Movers , The Big Guys , The Big Guys Home Delivery , Eco Movers
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: HG064180
Pricing: $180/hr
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2120054
Alternate Names: On The Go Moving and Storage , On The Go Moving & Storage Bellevue , On The Go Moving & Storage Redmond , On The Go Moving & Storage Seattle
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Offices
- Antiques
- Storage
Company Info
State license #: 19251
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: CHHJ Seattle, LLC. , College Hunks Hauling Junk Seattle
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: HG063388
Years in Business: 22
DOT #: 1731101
Alternate Names: Express Movers
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Antiques
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 1782
Years in Business: 134
DOT #: 8257
Alternate Names: Peasley Transfer & Storage , Hansen Bros Moving and Storage , Peasley Transfer and Storage , Hansen Bros Transfer and Storage Co , PortaBox Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
Local moving services in Seattle, WA
Quick breakdown of Seattle movers that offer specialty add-on services:
Cost to move from Seattle, WA to Illinois
The table below breaks down average costs for moves from Seattle to Illinois, varying by home size and service option.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,409 – $5,582 | $1,157 – $2,805 | $1,189 – $2,316 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,636 – $8,483 | $2,120 – $4,027 | $1,214 – $2,520 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,167 – $12,899 | $2,933 – $5,377 | $1,515 – $3,118 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,012-mile move from Seattle, WA, to Illinois using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from movers nationwide, updating the data monthly to track seasonal patterns and market trends. Your final quote may differ due to move size, optional services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Always compare estimates from several movers for an accurate picture.
Cost to hire movers from Seattle to Illinois
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Seattle to Illinois will cost between $1,409 and $5,582. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $3,636 to $8,483, and a large move will cost from $7,167 to $12,899.
Cost of moving containers from Seattle to Illinois
If you’re moving from Seattle to Illinois, expect to pay between $1,157 and $2,805 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,120 up to $4,027. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,933 and $5,377. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Seattle.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Seattle to Illinois
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck from Seattle to Illinois, expect to spend between $1,189 and $2,316. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,214 and $2,520. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,515 up to $3,118 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors influencing moving costs from Seattle to IL
When calculating the price of Seattle movers, consider:
- Move size: The bigger your home and the more stuff you have, the more expensive your move will be.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Seattle, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Going the DIY route can be less expensive but demands more effort compared to hiring experts.
What you should know before moving from Seattle to IL
Leaving Seattle for Illinois means embracing a new lifestyle — and likely saving some cash. Living in Seattle typically comes with a higher price tag, so your move could open the door to more affordable living.
Check out the cost of living comparison below to understand how Seattle and Illinois measure up, helping you to prepare for the future.
Compare cost of living: Seattle vs. Illinois
| Seattle, WA | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,975 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $842,068 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $77,845 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 158 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.8% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 4.95% |
Illinois sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 40% less expensive in Illinois compared to Seattle, leaving you more flexibility with your income.
- You’ll pay roughly 70% less for housing in Illinois compared to Seattle, saving you money each month.
- Incomes in Illinois are comparable to Seattle, so you won’t face major financial changes after relocating.
- You’ll spend roughly 43% less on the cost of living in Illinois compared to Seattle, a boost for your budget.
- Illinois has a higher unemployment rate than Seattle by about 10%. That means more job seekers and potentially tougher competition in the market.
- Illinois has a state income tax, while Washington does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in Seattle, WA from Illinois
When relocating from Seattle to Illinois, get ready for some changes. From weather and population to politics, here’s how living in Illinois stacks up against life in the Seattle.
| Seattle, WA | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 737,015 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-43 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high | 76ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 36ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 38″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 5″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 58.88 | 19.7 |
Illinois Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both Seattle and Illinois voted Democratic.
- Hot summer days in Illinois can escalate up to 86ºF, providing a distinctly warmer experience than Seattle, where temperatures average around 76ºF. Anticipate sunnier skies, enjoyable outdoor recreation, and possible increases in energy spending as you embrace the warmer atmosphere.
- Winter lows in Illinois can drop to 17ºF, colder than Seattle at 36ºF. Moving here means preparing for chillier winters, higher heating costs, and more intense seasonal weather — but also scenic snowy days and winter activities.
- In Illinois, you’ll see about 40 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 38 inches you’re familiar with in Seattle. Even with similar totals, don’t overlook differences in how and when that rain falls.
- Every year, Illinois gets around 22 inches of snow, much more than the 5 inches that Seattle 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.
- Illinois has a lower crime rate than Seattle, with indexes at 19.7 vs 58.88. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods and extra peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of Seattle, WA versus Illinois:
Moving to a new place brings exciting possibilities. Here’s what makes living in Seattle special compared to Illinois.
| Pros of living in Seattle, WA | Pros of living in Illinois |
|---|---|
| Beautiful nature | Home of Chicago |
| Ample economic opportunity | Ample economic opportunity |
| Safe | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Delicious seafood | Delicious food |
| Bountiful arts and recreational activities | World-class sports culture |
Comparing the cons of Seattle, WA versus Illinois:
Making the move from Seattle to Illinois isn’t always easy, and there are important factors to consider.
| Cons of living in Seattle, WA | Cons of living in Illinois |
|---|---|
| High cost of living | Harsh winter weather |
| Rainy weather | Bad traffic |
| Xenophobic residents | High crime rate |
| Terrible traffic | Dull landscape |
| Expensive housing market | Strict laws |
Other considerations when moving to Illinois
If you’re moving from Seattle to Illinois, there’s more to do than just booking a moving crew and transporting your stuff. Be sure you’re on top of local regulations, permits, and any logistics that might affect your move.
- HOA rules: Confirm whether your HOA has any moving restrictions or requirements before scheduling your movers.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
- Truck parking permits: Certain cities ask you to get parking permits for moving trucks or large vehicles. Check in advance to see if you’ll need one for your move.
- 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 your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can check a Illinois moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Illinois, but make sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
- 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.
- Moving insurance: Insurance requirements vary from state to state. 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: Use a checklist to move with confidence. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and ensures everything’s covered, so you can relax and focus on the move.
Things to do in Illinois
No matter what you’re into, from parks and museums to sports or college-town vibes—Illinois is packed with things for you to explore and enjoy.
Museums in Illinois
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Caterpillar Visitors Center
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
- Museum of Hummels
Parks in Illinois
- Starved Rock State Park
- Matthiessen State Park
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Pere Marquette State Park
- Kankakee river State Park
Sports teams in Illinois
- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
- Chicago Sky (WNBA)
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
Universities in Illinois
- University of Chicago
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Northwestern University
- University of Illinois at Chicago
- Northern Illinois University
FAQ
How long does a move from Seattle to Illinois take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Seattle, WA to Illinois? Typically, the process takes about six to 17 days, but the service you choose can affect the timeline. Keep in mind that if you’re planning a summer move, things might take a bit longer due to higher demand.
Keep your move on track by confirming delivery timelines with your movers ahead of time. That way, you won’t get stuck with any surprise delays.
How many Seattle movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?
There are 46 movers in Seattle that offer custom-built crates for delicate or unusual items like artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you need special crating, confirm with a Seattle moving company that they can accommodate your specific items.
What is the best way to get a car from Seattle to Illinois?
Looking to move your car from Seattle to Illinois? Choose a service that puts professionalism and vehicle care first, backed by real experience. Check out our top picks for car shippers from Washington to Illinois.
Why are people moving from Seattle to Illinois?
Many people are moving to Illinois because of its home of Chicago and ample economic opportunity. On the other hand, people are moving away from Seattle because of the high cost of living and rainy weather.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Illinois.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Seattle?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Seattle.
Do movers in Seattle, WA, accept cash?
Yes, 20 movers in Seattle accept cash. However, cash is uncommon in the moving space, where traceable payment types are standard. You’ll typically pay a deposit to secure your booking before moving day. The rest of the total is due at pickup or post-delivery—confirm the schedule and permitted payment methods with your mover.
Helpful moving resources
Washington moving services
Popular Washington routes
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