9 Best Illinois Moving Companies 2022

1. Best Full-Service Mover: International Van Lines
2. Best for Extended Storage: Allied Van Lines
3. Best Customer Service: North American Van Lines
4. Best Add-On Services: American Van Lines
5. Best for Military Moves: Safeway Moving Systems
6. Best Insurance Options: JK Moving Services
7. Most Competitive Pricing: U-Pack
8. Best for Self-Service: PODS
9. Best Long-Distance Moving Container: 1-800-PACK-RAT

We get it. You’re busy with so many different things, and it’s hard to find the time to research movers. If you just want a quick comparison of the top movers in Illinois, look at the table below. Or, if you’d like to read more about each company, continue scrolling to our full article:

Illinois Full-Service Movers

Illinois Self-Service Movers

* Long-distance average cost is based on aggregate data from customer reviews for a two-bedroom home, moving 250 miles. Cost can vary significantly based on move weight and distance. Be sure to request a free quote to get an accurate estimate for your move.

Where Are You Moving?

The first thing that you’ll need to consider when hiring a moving company is the total distance that you’ll be moving. Many companies limit their services by area, meaning that you’ll need to meet distance requirements before you can book your move. Most movers classify moves into one of two categories:

Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in Illinois

Most homeowners dread moving because it tends to be time-consuming and expensive. Working with a reputable moving company can help you save both time and money. Here are the top long-distance movers in Illinois today:

1. International Van Lines

International Van Lines (IVL) is the most widespread mover in the United States and can even help you move to over 160 countries. Whether your move is large or small, local or long distance, IVL can help. With its impressive range of services, you can design a custom moving plan that works best for your schedule and budget. As a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence, Forbes has rated IVL as the best moving company in the U.S., and Newsweek has awarded them with Best Customer Service of 2021.

IVL Services

No job is too big or too small for IVL. You can have them do everything for you, or just hire them for specific services. Make your move as easy as possible with:

• Local, long-distance, and international moving
• Packing and unpacking
• Storage (short-term and long-term)
• Custom crating
• Debris removal
• Auto transport
• Piano moving
• Air and ocean freight
• And more

IVL Cost

As you can see below, pricing can vary dramatically from customer to customer. This is normal in the industry. There are so many factors at play, like your moving date, how far you’re traveling, home size, and more. The ranges shown below represent moves of different sizes and complexity with IVL:

• Request an estimate
• Read our full review

2. Allied Van Lines

With nearly a century of experience, Allied Van Lines is one of the best moving companies operating today. Offering local, long-distance, and international moving services, they are more than ready to help you with everything you might need. Offering a variety of service options like packing and storage, Allied allows you to pay for only what you need. Plus, 24/7 customer service is available to help you get what you need and answer any questions you may have.

Allied Services

There are so many service options available when you work with Allied Van Lines, allowing you to design a unique moving package:

• Local and long-distance moving
• International moving
• Packing (full-service or partial)
• Unpacking
• Furniture assembly and disassembly
• Auto shipping
• Storage
• Debris removal
• GPS shipment tracking
• And more

Allied Cost

As with many top movers, local and long-distance moves are priced differently. Local moves are billed hourly, with rates ranging from $30-$60 per hour depending on your location. Long-distance moves, however, are priced at a flat rate, with distance and move size as the primary cost factors.

• Request an estimate
• Read our full review

3. North American Van Lines

With 500+ locations throughout the United States and more than eight decades of experience, North American Van Lines is a top pick in the moving industry. They are an excellent choice whether you’re moving across town, across the country, or overseas. Whether you want to do some work yourself or rely completely on the company’s trusted moving crews, this popular mover is ready to assist.

NAVL Services

No matter where you’re moving to or from, North American Van Lines can help. They currently serve all 50 U.S. states. The company also has a strong reputation for international moves, serving 130 countries around the world.

• Local and long-distance moving
• International moving
• Packing and unpacking (full-service or partial)
• Furniture assembly and disassembly
• Debris removal
• 24/7 shipment tracking
• Appliance installation
• Storage
• Excellent insurance options
• And more

NAVL Cost

As you can see in the table below, the greater the distance and weight of your move, the more you should budget. NAVL is on par with pricing in the industry, with an average two-bedroom 250 mile move costing from $1,800 to $4,500. Here is some more pricing data to help you estimate your moving cost:

• Request an estimate
• Read our full review

4. American Van Lines

As one of the best Illinois moving companies, American Van Lines (AVL) prides itself on providing the highest quality moving services available. They implement strict quality control standards on their teams. Though some moving companies contract moves to third-party teams without your knowledge, AVL employs its entire staff in-house. This allows them to ensure that every mover who touches your things is trained, background-checked, and drug tested before moving day arrives. This dedication to quality coupled with their broad service menu makes them a great choice for local and long-distance moves throughout the state.

AVL Services

Whether you’re moving a few blocks over or all the way to the coast, AVL’s highly experienced team is ready to help. Here are just a few services you can book with them:

• Local, long-distance, and international moving
• Residential and commercial moving
• Full-service or partial packing
• Car shipping
• Storage
• Antique moving
• And more

AVL Cost

AVL offers flat-rate pricing. This makes it easier to estimate the exact amount that you’ll need to save in preparation for your move. It also helps to prevent hidden fees that some competing moving companies may tack onto your bill. If you’ve found a better price with another reputable moving team but would still like to work with AVL, they also offer a price-matching policy. Simply get your alternative quote in writing and submit it to AVL’s team. Their team will then counter with a price match, allowing you to enjoy top-quality services while also keeping your budget in check. Here’s what previous customers have paid:

• Request an estimate
• Read our full review

5. Safeway Moving Systems

If you don’t have time to compare dozens of moving companies to get the best rate, consider making your first call to Safeway Moving Systems. Safeway Moving Systems is not itself a moving company, and it does not provide moving services. Instead, they operate as a moving broker. They’ll connect you with moving companies that have the services you need at a price that’s as competitive as possible.

When you book your move through Safeway, you’ll first speak to a representative. They will help you decide which services you need and collect information on your preferred moving dates. Safeway will then use its vast list of connections within the moving industry to book you with a local team that closely matches your needs and budget.

Safeway Services

Safeway is one of the best long-distance moving companies in Illinois. Headquartered in Chicago, their brokerage system is a win-win for everyone involved. You get personal assistance booking your move without spending hours online, and you’ll often pay significantly less compared to the standard booking process. Safeway’s partners get to maximize their time on the road, which also maximizes their profits. Safeway is so confident that you’ll love your moving team that they offer 100% guarantees on all moves booked through them. Here’s what makes them one of the best movers in Illinois:

• Long-distance moves only
• Commercial and residential moves
• Military moving
• Storage (Up to 30 days free)
• Packing (free)
• Furniture assembly and disassembly
• And more

Safeway Cost

Safeway leverages existing deals with their partners to pass the savings on to you. They are also open to matching competitor pricing if you do happen to get a better rate from another company. Here are some ballpark estimates for moves of different sizes with this company:

• Request an estimate
• Read our full review

6. JK Moving Services

Moving can be a stressful process, but it doesn’t need to be. JK Moving Services is a full-service moving company that prides itself on offering a highly personalized experience. When you book your move, JK will assign a personal moving coordinator to assist you with scheduling the right services. They’ll also take care of all necessary paperwork and ensure all your questions are answered before you hit the road. This can make the process of moving between states much easier and less stressful—especially if you’re moving for the first time.

JK Services

JK is only available for moves greater than 40 miles in Illinois, and they are a particularly good choice for interstate moves. With 24/7 customer service, a user-friendly mobile app, and some of the best insurance coverage levels in the industry, you can book the following services with confidence:

• Long-distance and international moving
• Residential and commercial services
• Packing (full-service or fragile-only)
• Climate-controlled storage
• Furniture wrapping
• GPS shipment tracking
• Financing assistance
• And more

JK Cost

JK doesn’t provide instant quotes or sample pricing. You’ll need to do a full home survey to get a written estimate, which can help to ensure accuracy. JK Moving Services is also one of the only moving companies that offers financing plans for its moving services. If you qualify for financing, you could enjoy rates as low as 0% APR. This can be a lifesaver for anyone who cannot pay for the entirety of their move upfront.

• Request an estimate
• Read our full review

7. U-Pack

While working with a full-service moving company will surely provide you with the easiest move possible, not everyone has the budget to afford this. If you’re looking to save as much money on your long-distance move as possible, consider scheduling your services through U-Pack. U-Pack is a moving container service, providing transportation services while allowing you to pack on your own.

U-Pack Services

U-Pack is one of the best interstate movers in Illinois. Here’s how a typical move with U-Pack works:

• Schedule your move. Schedule your move and book your moving date on U-Pack’s website. In most cases, you’ll get your quote instantly and can even complete your booking entirely online.
• Load on moving day. When your moving date arrives, U-Pack will deliver a portable moving container to your property. You’ll then have three days to complete the loading process, offering a more leisurely loading pace.
• Wait for pickup. After you’re finished loading, U-Pack will return to your home to pick up your moving container. They will then deliver it to your new home.
• Unload at your new property. After U-Pack delivers your container, you’ll have three days to unload your things. U-Pack will then pick up the container and remove it from your property.

U-Pack Cost

Fast, efficient, and exceptionally affordable, working with U-Pack’s moving container service can be a viable option for anyone looking to save money on their move while avoiding the need to rent a moving truck. There are no hidden fees when you book through U-Pack’s online system. The price that you see is the price that you’ll pay. Here are some estimates to help you plan your move:

• Request an estimate
• Read our U-Pack review

8. PODS

With over 14 service centers across Illinois, PODS as an excellent self-service solution for both local and long-distance moves. They offer clients three different container sizes that can fit anything from a studio apartment to a three-bedroom house. Plus, all bookings include 30 days of use, allowing you to enjoy a more casual moving process.

PODS Services

PODS is available for moving services and/or storage. Their portable containers can be kept on your property or at one of their secure facilities. Here’s what’s available:

• Local, long-distance, interstate
• Choose from a 7 foot, 12 foot or 16 foot container
• Short-term and long-term storage
• Hire loading assistance or do it yourself

PODS Cost

PODS is one of the most affordable container companies available today. If you need to move on a tight budget, they are well worth your consideration. Here are some sample estimates based on real customer data:

• Request an estimate
• Read our full review

9. 1-800-PACK-RAT

If you’re looking for a moving container service and don’t meet U-Pack’s distance requirements, you may want to consider scheduling your move through 1-800-PACK-RAT. Like U-Pack, 1-800-PACK-RAT is a moving container company that makes it possible to save money on professional movers without going through the hassle of renting a moving truck. However, unlike U-Pack, 1-800-PACK-RAT also provides local moving services. They also allow you to store your container at your own property for as long as you need.

Pack Rat Services

1-800-PACK-RAT understands how important your things are, which is why they take pride in the durable construction of their weatherproof containers. Pack Rat’s containers are crafted from 100% steel, which ensures that everything from heavy furniture to delicate glassware arrives at your new home without damage. Their containers also feature a vertical lift loading mechanism, which prevents your things from moving shifting inside when being loaded onto the moving vehicle.

• Local and interstate moves
• Choose from an 8 foot, 12 foot, or 16 foot container
• Storage at home or Pack Rat storage center
• 30-day rentals

Pack Rat Cost

A quick look at the sample pricing table below, and you’ll see why Pack Rat is a top Illinois mover for those who need to keep costs low:

• Request an estimate
• Read our full review

Best Local Moving Companies in Illinois

If you’re moving less than 40 miles, it can be a good idea to search for companies that specialize in your local area. Browse the best local movers in Illinois by city below.

Moving to Illinois

Are you still planning your move? We’ve put together a helpful guide on the benefits of living in Illinois, moving laws, some of the state’s hottest real estate areas, and more.

Moving Regulations in Illinois

Keep these guidelines in mind as you search for your ideal moving team:

• State Licensing. The Illinois Commerce Commission (ILCC) oversees household goods movers in the state. Companies providing local services in the state must have an active license and display their ILCC number.
• Minimum Insurance. Illinois state law requires minimum insurance coverage on all moves. Federal law requires moving companies to have basic liability coverage, but the state of Illinois requires additional insurance coverage on the state level as well. Trustworthy companies should offer you a few different insurance options.
• Written Estimates Required. While no company is required to provide you with a binding estimate, the ICC does require companies to provide a written estimate free of charge. This should be a written, not given over the phone.

Helpful Moving Resources

We hope these resources will help to make your transition to your new home easy:

• Update Your Mailing Address: USPS Online Change of Address Form
• Update Your Drivers License: Illinois Secretary of State
• Real Estate Trends: Illinois Housing Market Report
• State Government: State of Illinois
• Tourism Guide: Visit Illinois

Illinois Moving Costs

When you move, there are two primary factors that influence the price you will pay:

• The distance you’re traveling: Generally, long-distance moves are more expensive than short-distance moves, because the moving company must spend more money on things like staff costs and toll charges.
• The size of your home: If you’re moving a larger property, your moving team might need to bring more moving trucks or crew members to complete your move. This increases the price of the move.

Moving is a highly personalized process. You can’t be 100% sure what you’ll pay for your services until you request a quote. That said, it can be helpful to have some general idea of what you’ll pay. We’ve collected data from previous customers who moved into and out of Illinois in the table below:

Best Places to Live in Illinois

Are you interested in where new residents are moving when they come to the Prairie State? The cities featured below are some of the most popular destinations:

• Springfield. Lincoln’s birthplace is excellent for history fans and for those who want to explore the wealth of nature Illinois holds. You can hike on its many trails and visit the botanical gardens for a day out.
• Wheaton. Known as a hub for interdenominational Christian activities, Wheaton is home to Wheaton College as well as about two dozen religious publishing houses.
• Chicago. Chicago and its surrounding suburbs feel like a state unto themselves, with dozens of museums and a wealth of professional and educational choices. You can get around easily with its public transportation options while you experience life in one of the most vibrant and cultured cities in the country.
• Campton Hills. Campton Hills offers a rural residential feel with extremely low crime rates. This makes it particularly popular with families.
• Naperville. Located about 40 minutes west of Chicago, Naperville gives you access to one of the best public library systems in the world. It’s an excellent city to raise a family, although its cost of living is higher than the national average.

Top Reasons to Move to Illinois

Though Illinois is best known for the Windy City, this state also offers many other benefits for residents. This list only scratches the surface of what the state has to offer:

• Seasonal variation. As a Midwestern state, Illinois is situated in a temperate climate zone, which means that the full range of four seasons occurs. Summers are often hot and humid while winter temperatures can get well below freezing. In autumn, you’ll see Illinois trees displaying fiery colors. The seasonal range may appeal to prospective residents from more tropical or desert climates.
• One of the best cities in the world. Chicago, home to three million people, is an American tour de force, providing countless museums, attractions, food destinations, and historical sites like the Art Institute of Chicago and Wrigley Field. Even if you don’t live in Chicago, you’ll never run out of things to do when taking a day trip to the city.
• Outdoor activities. Chicago and Evanston are situated on the gorgeous coast of Lake Michigan, where beach and maritime activities abound. Illinois also has hiking trails, caves, waterfalls, and swamps to explore. This makes the state a dream for adventure lovers of all types.
• Fossil fuel alternatives. Illinois boasts the highest concentration of nuclear power plants in the United States. This provides alternatives for fossil fuel energy while creating hundreds of local jobs.

Tips for Living in Illinois

Illinois is a unique state with its own unique quirks. Before you decide to relocate, here are some things you should know:

• Harsh winter weather. For many Illinois natives, driving in the snow and being snowed inside the home for days at a time is an ordinary occurrence. Be sure to prepare appropriately, as the annual snowfall averages 32 inches.
• Agriculture, mining, and manufacturing are huge industries. If you’re a young professional looking to develop your business or find your niche, Chicago has plenty of opportunities. Illinois is a powerhouse of a state, and you might be surprised how diverse jobs in these fields can be.
• Educational hub. Illinois holds 184 institutions of higher education, including the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, and DePaul University. If you’re looking for a variety of prestigious educational programs, Illinois offers amazing colleges and universities statewide. Consider asking your employer if they offer ongoing education credit or tuition reimbursement to take advantage of these opportunities.

How to Choose the Best Moving Company

What should you look for when choosing a moving company for your relocation to Illinois? It depends on your needs and on your schedule. If you aren’t satisfied with our recommended movers, be sure to look for the following characteristics.

• Availability. This might seem obvious, but you need to choose a company that offers relocations from your start point to endpoint. Some companies offer only long-distance moves while some offer only local moves. You also need to make sure the company is willing to work with your schedule.
• Licensing. Make sure your moving company of choice is licensed and registered with the US Department of Transportation and that they offer insurance on your belongings. It’s always better to make sure your moving company complies with the rules and regulations put in place for the safety and satisfaction of all parties.
• Cost. Depending on your budget, you could widen or narrow the net in your search for the perfect mover. If you would like a hands-off approach where professionals take care of everything, it will be pricier than if you were to select packing services. The cheapest option is to use a company with which you pack and they move. Setting a budget before you begin exploring moving companies can make your search a little easier.