Best Long-Distance Movers in Illinois for 2024

Quick answer: Safeway Moving is our top choice for long-distance movers in Illinois. Based on our in-depth research and analysis, Safeway Moving offers the best overall value by providing quality service at an affordable price.

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We know that every move is different. Jump to a mover that fits your unique needs:
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
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  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
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  • Family owned & operated
  • Affordable pricing
  • Same-day estimates

Our track record

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
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Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 2,500+ moving companies analyzed
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  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
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Best long-distance movers in Illinois for those moving out of state

These are the best state-to-state long-distance moving companies available in Illinois:

  1. Safeway Moving: 4.85 out of 5 stars
  2. Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  3. BLVD Moving: 4.25 out of 5 stars
  4. PODS: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best for Quick Quotes
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
(844) 794-6004
At A Glance
  • Family owned & operated
  • Affordable pricing
  • Binding estimates
read our full review
(844) 794-6004
Best Nationwide Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
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Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
read our full review
(866) 835-2392

Best long-distance movers in Illinois for those staying in state

While it’s not as common, if you’re staying in Illinois but still moving a couple hundred miles, these are the best interstate movers for you:

  1. Mid-West Moving & Storage: 5 out of 5 stars
  2. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  3. Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  4. New City Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. Two Men and a Truck: 4.9 out of 5 stars

Mid-West Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar5 / 5

DOT #: 294025

Years in Business: 40

1255 Tonne Rd, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007

Mid-West Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in the Elk Grove Village, IL area since 1984, specializing in local residential moves. While their Yelp reviews average at 2.8 from 77 reviews, their stellar Google My Business rating of 4.7 from 385 reviews and an A+ BBB rating speak volumes about their overall customer satisfaction. Unlike many nearby movers, Mid-West Moving & Storage distinguishes itself with a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moves like pianos and antiques. They also offer full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking for added peace of mind.

Get a Quote (847) 593-7201

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Additional Information

  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 294025
  • State license #: 75043
  • DOD certified
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STI Moving & Storage Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.96 / 5

DOT #: 1308599

Pricing: $139/hr

Years in Business: 20

7400 Niles Center Rd, Skokie, IL 60077

STI Moving & Storage Inc., serving Skokie, IL since 2006, 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 $139 per hour and options for full valuation insurance coverage, they cater to a variety of moving needs, ensuring peace of mind for their clients.

Get a Quote (847) 675-1223

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • STI Moving & Storage, Inc.
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Alliance Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.96 / 5

DOT #: 2882675

Years in Business: 8

3201 Tollview Drive, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008

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.

Get a Quote (847) 378-4949

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • HK & RP, LLC
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New City Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.9 / 5

DOT #: 3078026

Years in Business: 16

2929 N Campbell Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

New City Moving, a reputable moving company based in Chicago, IL, has been providing local residential moving services since 2010. With an impressive 4.7 average rating from 1,096 Yelp reviews and a 4.8 average rating from 2,393 Google reviews, they stand out among nearby movers. They also boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction. Beyond local moves, New City Moving offers office moving, packing, and unpacking services, along with full valuation insurance coverage. They accept both cash and credit cards, ensuring a flexible payment process.

Get a Quote (773) 489-0600

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 3078026
  • State license #: 158051

Alternative Business Names

  • Windy City Moving, Inc.
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Two Men and a Truck

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.9 / 5

DOT #: 2527384

Years in Business: 20

1030 W Olympia Dr, Peoria, IL 61615

Two Men and a Truck has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Peoria, IL, since 2004. Standing out among other nearby moving companies, they offer extensive packing, unpacking, and labor-only services. Consumer reviews reflect a positive reputation, with a commendable 4.5 average rating on Google from 305 reviews, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. This company also accommodates specialized moves such as pianos and safes, making them a versatile choice for local relocations.

Get a Quote (309) 455-4036

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

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Best long-distance movers in Illinois for small moves

Most professional movers won’t handle moves under a certain minimum total weight, usually 2,000 pounds. If your Illinois move is from a college dorm or studio apartment, for example, a traditional full-service moving company might not work for you.

The good news is there are companies that specialize in small moves. Take a look at the options below if you are planning a small long-distance relocation.

Best for Small Moves
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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At A Glance
  • No minimum size
  • Top-quality materials
  • Full-service packing
read our full review
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best for small moves
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Check prices 800-626-1257
At A Glance
  • Specializes in small moves
  • Guaranteed delivery date
  • Online chatbot and resources for a seamless move
  • Car shipping services
  • Gives back with charitable donations
read our full review
Check prices 800-626-1257

Moving containers for long-distance moves in IL

If you’re comfortable doing the packing and loading but don’t want to drive from Illinois to your new state, a moving container can be a great cost-saving alternative to full-service movers.

Expect to pay somewhere around $1,274 to $7,296 for a moving container in Illinois. The cost depends on several factors, so we recommend getting multiple moving quotes.

We suggest starting with these two top-rated container companies.

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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
Check prices
Best value container
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
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At A Glance
  • Long distance moves only
  • Only pay for the space you use
  • No deposit or initial fees
  • Fast delivery time frames
read our full review
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Labor-only moving companies in Illinois

If you’re comfortable doing the driving from Illinois to your new state but want some help packing, loading, and unloading, look for labor-only moving companies.

You’ll typically pay $22 to $41 per hour per worker for Illinois-based labor-only movers.

Check out our top recommendations below.

Best Labor Only
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website
At A Glance
  • First call quoting, get a quote in just a couple of minutes
  • Rates are typically 20-40% lower than the industry averages
  • $1,000 money-back service guarantee
  • Fast and accurate delivery times
  • Free damage coverage with additional coverage options
read our full review
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Best customer experience
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
(866) 774-5063
At A Glance
  • Quick and easy booking process
  • National 4.75/5 star rating (these guys are good at what they do)
  • Dedicated move concierge specialist
  • Pay as you go service. 2-hour minimum and then prorated down to the minute
  • The time clock starts when the movers arrive and ends when you tell them
read our full review
(866) 774-5063

Rental trucks in IL for a total DIY long-distance move

The cheapest way to move out of state is with a full DIY approach — meaning you’ll handle driving, in addition to all the loading and unloading.

Moving rental trucks do require the most work on your part, but will save you the most money.

Best Availability
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Check prices (800) 468-4285
At A Glance
  • More than 20,000 locations with prominent pricing
  • Rental options include everything from pick-up trucks to 26-foot moving trucks
  • Gentle-Ride Suspension add protection to avoid damaging your items during transit
  • U-Box moving containers available if you don't want to drive
read our full review
Check prices (800) 468-4285
Most Reliable
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Check prices (844) 847-9517
At A Glance
  • Limits environmental impact as part of the EPA's SmartWay Program
  • Non-slip flooring makes loading and unloading easier
  • Easily choose truck size with their Truck Wizard Tool
read our full review
Check prices (844) 847-9517

How we chose the best long-distance movers in Illinois

Over the past 10 years, we’ve developed a rigorous review process to identify the absolute best long-distance moving companies in Illinois.

We look at:

  • Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
  • Industry reputation (15%): The company is well regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
  • Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
  • Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, expedited delivery, and more.

Read more about our moving company rating methodology.

Average cost of a long-distance move out of Illinois

Long-distance moving costs in Illinois range from $893 up to $12,181 or more, depending on the specific details of your relocation.

Factors that affect the cost

  1. Size: The volume of items you're moving directly affects costs. Evaluate what you truly need in Illinois — every extra item adds up.
  2. Distance: The distance you’re moving away from Illinois is a major cost factor. Whether it's a couple hundred miles or a cross-country trek, distance plays a key role in your moving budget.
  3. Type of move: How you choose to move out of Illinois is crucial. Your options include a full-service moving company, truck rental, moving container, or a freight trailer. Each option comes with a different price point and its own set of perks and downsides.
  4. Services: Consider whether to do it yourself or hire help for packing and unpacking. Professional services add convenience but also increase costs.
  5. Seasonal timing: When you move affects the price. Summer moves are typically more expensive. Planning your move during the off-season (October-April) can be more cost-effective.

To get an accurate cost estimate, check out our free moving cost calculator.

Thing to consider before hiring a long-distance mover in Illinois

Whether you’re staying in Illinois for the home of Chicago, ample economic opportunity, and bountiful recreational opportunities, or moving out due to the harsh winter weather, bad traffic, and high crime rate, here’s what you need to consider before your big move.

Company 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.

Insurance options

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 date

Weather factors influence how busy movers are, so those things play into the availability of movers and the cost.

In Illinois, you have to consider that the average winter temperature is 17°F, the average summer temperature is 86°F, you’ll see 40” of rain, and about 22” of snow each year.

Taking your car

If you’re moving across the country and don’t want to leave your car (or drive it cross-country), you may want to use an Illinois car shipper.

You’ll also want to consider vehicle inspections in your new location, as regulations can differ state to state and even by city. Take Illinois’s requirements, as an example. In Illinois, emissions inspections are mandatory on a yearly basis for eligible vehicles in the Chicago and East St. Louis metropolitan areas. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency conducts tests on automobiles before residents can renew their vehicle registration with the Secretary of State's office.

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