Best Moving Companies in Illinois (April 2026)
After digging into 100 movers serving Illinois, we narrowed it down to the companies that stand out for fair pricing, honest estimates, and consistent performance. Check out the choices below to line up quotes, review services, and decide what fits your move best.
Colonial Van Lines
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Safeway Moving
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American Van Lines
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Alliance Moving & Storage | 4.96
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Colonial Van Lines | 5.0
Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?
At FreightWaves Checkpoint, we routinely evaluate more than 4,000 moving companies across the country using a data-driven scoring system built around performance, accountability, and overall customer experience. Our editorial team assigns weighted scores to the factors that matter most to consumers planning a move.
Here’s how we rank movers:
Customer feedback (40%): Verified consumer reviews carry the most weight in our methodology. We evaluate overall ratings, review volume, consistency across platforms, and patterns in customer experiences to measure satisfaction and service reliability.
Complaint track record (20%): While issues can arise in any move, resolution matters. We review complaint history through public consumer databases, focusing on frequency, severity, and how proactively a company works to address and resolve disputes.
Pricing transparency (15%): Clear estimates, well-defined deposits, and straightforward contracts score higher in our system. We prioritize movers that make it easy to understand what you’ll pay — without hidden fees or vague pricing language.
Service offerings (12%): Companies that provide a wide range of services — including full packing, specialty item handling, storage solutions, and interstate moving — earn stronger marks for flexibility and convenience.
Online experience (8%): We look at how easy a company makes it to get information, request a quote, and understand its services online. Up-to-date websites, clear contact details, and responsive review engagement all factor into the score.
Company track record (5%): Longevity, proper licensing, and overall business stability also play a role. Movers with a consistent operating history and verified credentials receive higher marks.
Our rankings are updated regularly to reflect new data, evolving consumer feedback, and shifts in company performance — helping you compare movers with confidence.
Top Local Movers in Illinois
Out of 100 movers operating throughout Illinois, Alliance Moving & Storage earned the top spot for their ability to handle household goods with professionalism and speed.
Check out all our recommended moving carriers in IL:
- Alliance Moving & Storage, 4.8 out of 5.0
- H2H Movers Inc, 4.7 out of 5.0
- Mighty Moving & Storage, 4.62 out of 5.0
- Reebie Storage and Moving Co., 4.66 out of 5.0
- New City Moving, 4.64 out of 5.0
Alliance Moving & Storage
Alliance Moving & Storage (DOT: 2882675) offers a comprehensive range of moving services, including interstate, full-service, and labor-only moves. They cater to specific needs such as moving fragile items, antiques, hot tubs, pianos, and pool tables. Additionally, they provide packing and unpacking services, climate-controlled storage, and full valuation coverage.
Though they offer several specialized services, Alliance Moving & Storage does not extend international moving services, which may be a consideration for those planning overseas relocations. Despite this, their extensive offerings make them a versatile choice for many moving needs.
"Alliance Moving exceeded our expectations! Our move went smoothly and on time. We never experienced a delay and were constantly updated. The four movers did an awesome job disassembling and assembling our furniture! Very friendly, fast and efficient service! Highly recommend!"
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
Cons
- Unexpected charges
- Damage to items
- Lack of communication
Services
- Full-service
- Out-of-state
- Senior moving
- Full unpacking
- Labor-only
- Piano
- Offsite storage
- Heavy safes
- In-state
- Accepts credit cards
- Full packing
H2H Movers Inc
H2H Movers Inc (DOT: 2428328) offers a comprehensive range of moving services, including full-service relocations, interstate and intrastate moving, and specialized services for pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, and safes. They cater to clients requiring delicate handling with options for antiques, fragile-only packing, and full valuation coverage.
They also provide packing materials and unpacking services, making them a convenient choice for those looking for a hassle-free moving experience. However, customers seeking international moving services may need to look elsewhere, as this service is not offered by the company. Additionally, climate-controlled storage and certain discounts like senior or student discounts are not available.
"The moving team was professional, efficient, and made the entire process stress-free. They handled everything with care and attention to detail. The staff was friendly and punctual. Highly recommend this company!"
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Good communication
- Quick moving process
Cons
- Unexpected charges
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
Services
- Full-service
- Out-of-state
- Senior moving
- Full unpacking
- Labor-only
- Piano
- Offsite storage
- Heavy safes
- In-state
- Accepts credit cards
- Full packing
Mighty Moving & Storage
Mighty Moving & Storage (DOT: 3788656) offers a comprehensive range of moving services, including full-service and interstate moves, as well as specialized care for antiques and pianos. They also provide climate-controlled storage options and cater to small moves and junk removal needs. Customers can benefit from full valuation coverage, ensuring their belongings are well-protected.
However, Mighty Moving & Storage does not offer international moving services, which could be a limitation for customers looking to relocate abroad. This company accepts payments in cash and credit card but does not support cryptocurrency transactions or provide instant email quotes.
"Martín and team were amazing. They were friendly, efficient, and accommodating. I highly recommend."
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Professional and polite staff
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Affordable rates
Cons
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
- Misplaced or lost items
Services
- Full-service
- Out-of-state
- Junk hauling
- Full unpacking
- Piano
- Offsite storage
- Heavy safes
- In-state
- Accepts credit cards
- Full packing
Reebie Storage and Moving Co.
Reebie Storage and Moving Co. offers a comprehensive range of moving services, including full-service options, interstate and international moving, and specialized services such as fragile-only packing. They cater to those who need both storage and office moving services, providing packing materials and the convenience of an instant email quote.
However, a potential downside is that they do not offer labor-only services, which might be a consideration for some customers. Despite this, Reebie ensures flexibility with payment options, accepting both cash and credit card payments.
"The crew was professional and efficient. They packed everything carefully and stayed in constant communication. Highly recommend for a stress-free move!"
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Professional and polite staff
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
Cons
- Damage to items
- Misplaced or lost items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
Services
- Full-service
- Out-of-state
- Offsite storage
- Accepts credit cards
- Full packing
New City Moving
New City Moving (DOT: 3078026) offers a wide array of services, including full-service moves, interstate moving capabilities, and climate-controlled storage. They cater to specific needs with options like fragile-only packing and small moves, and they also provide unpacking services to make transitions smoother for their clients.
While they do not offer international moving services, which might be a limitation for some customers, the company facilitates convenience with features like instant email quotes and the option to pay by credit card.
"Best moving experience hands down. The movers took great care of my stuff, finished ahead of schedule, and were super professional. Highly recommend New City Movers for a stress-free move!"
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
Cons
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
- Poor complaint handling
Services
- Full-service
- Out-of-state
- Full unpacking
- Labor-only
- Offsite storage
- In-state
- Accepts credit cards
- Full packing
Local Movers In Illinois
Looking for a local moving company to work with? Check out these resources:
How Much Does It Cost To Hire Local Movers in IL?
In Illinois, expect to pay around $192 an hour for local movers. Rates are based on how many people are needed to do the job and how many hours it takes, so bigger homes cost more. Get a complete breakdown of Illinois mover costs. Here's how long it takes — and what size crew is needed — for local IL moves based on home size:
| Home Size | Crew Size | Move Time | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio/1 BR | 2 movers | 3–4 hours | $1,153 – $1,537 |
| 2 BR | 3 movers | 4–5 hours | $2,306 – $2,882 |
| 3 BR | 4 movers | 6–7 hours | $4,611 – $5,380 |
| 4+ Bedroom | 4–5 movers | 8+ hours | $6,148 – $8,646 |
Best Long-Distance Movers in Illinois
We picked Colonial Van Lines as the top mover from among 100 companies across Illinois. After analyzing each IL mover based on factors like how well they handle the actual transport of household goods, we found Colonial Van Lines to be the best overall balance of cost and customer service.
Here’s our full list of recommended long-distance movers in IL:
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Colonial Van Lines
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Safeway Moving
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American Van Lines
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Colonial Van Lines
Colonial Van Lines (USDOT: 1434373) is a full-service moving company based in Pompano Beach, Florida, that handles long-distance moves across 48 states. With more than 50 years in the business and over 12,000 moves completed each year, they know their way around an interstate move. Colonial offers packing, storage, and long-distance transport throughout the continental US, all handled by highly trained crews. Their easy-to-use mobile app makes getting a quote quick, and customers often highlight the company’s friendly, professional, and reliable customer service.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Expert in-house crews
- Home electronics setup
- Trash & debris removal
Cons
- No local or international moves
- Not available in AK or HI
Services
- Long-distance moving (nationwide service across contiguous 48 states; excludes Alaska & Hawaii)
- Cross-country & interstate moving (full-service coordination from packing to delivery)
- Professional packing & unpacking (trained packers, specialty blankets, shrink-wrap, custom crating)
- Moving storage services (in-transit, short- & long-term climate-controlled storage options)
- Corporate & commercial relocation (efficient packing, storage, furniture assembly/disassembly)
- Full-service moving (end-to-end handling by CVLU-trained professionals)
- Customizable quotes via moving app or specialist (accurate, transparent estimates with virtual inventory)
- Colonial Moving App (virtual estimates, inventory updates, checklists, and box ordering)
- Colonial Van Lines University training (movers with 2–4 week curriculum and ~10-year average experience)
- Family-owned national service (50+ years, 250k+ moves, 4.6 Trustpilot rating)
Safeway Moving
Safeway Moving (USDOT: 3756000) is a veteran-owned moving company built around the idea of military-level precision. Thanks to its nationwide network of truck capacity, Safeway is able to offer very competitive pricing without cutting corners. The company also uses a multi-stage quality assurance process to keep moves on track from pickup through delivery. That combination of accurate pricing and consistent quality is a big reason Safeway earned a spot on our list.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 30 days of free storage on all interstate moves
- Long distance and cross country moves only
- A portion of every move is donated to charity
- Verification process to guarantee pricing and quality of service
- High level of customer service and support
- Veteran owned company
Cons
- Require a deposit at booking
- No local moving services offered
Services
- Long-distance moving (all 50 states, GPS tracking, barcode-scanned inventory)
- Flat-rate pricing (virtual walk-throughs, no hidden fees)
- Price matching (meets or beats quotes from qualified competitors)
- Comprehensive insurance ($6/lb full-value protection option)
- Packing and unpacking services (includes last-minute packing for an extra charge)
- Custom crating (for fragile, heavy, or high-value items like art and electronics)
- Storage options (30 days free, climate-controlled, long-term available, prorated billing)
- International moving (limited info online, contact customer service)
- 24/7 customer service (available by phone at all times)
American Van Lines
American Van Lines (USDOT: 614506) is a long-distance moving company known for its hands-on approach and experienced crews. Based in Florida, the company handles interstate moves nationwide and stands out for using full-time, background-checked movers rather than temporary labor. American Van Lines offers packing, storage, and specialty services for items like antiques and pianos, with a strong focus on careful handling. Customers often point to the company’s professionalism and attention to detail as key reasons it earns high marks.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent customer service
- Last-minute moves
- Private storage options
- Handles antiques, pianos & fine art
- Flat-rate pricing
Cons
- May require a deposit at booking
- Automated calls may be overwhelming
Services
- Local moving (affordable hourly rates, packing, custom crating)
- Long-distance moving (nationwide service, excludes Alaska and Hawaii)
- Packing services (upgrade to include professional wrapping, packing, inventorying)
- Antique and piano moving (specialized handling of fragile/oversized items, custom crating available)
- Military moves (in-home estimates, discounts, packing, storage, furniture assembly/disassembly)
- Corporate relocation (commercial moving, furniture disassembly/reassembly, storage)
- Storage options (secure, private units with surveillance, climate control, fire/storm protection)
- Moving boxes and supplies (available for purchase from AVL)
Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines (USDOT: 076235) is one of the most recognizable names in the moving industry, with a nationwide and global network backed by more than 80 years of experience. Alongside full-service local, long-distance, and international moves, Allied offers Allied Express, a portable container option that includes professional loading and unloading. With packing, storage, and specialty services also available, Allied provides flexible solutions for a wide range of moving needs.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Specialty packing services
- Short- and long-term storage
- Appliance disconnection & reconnection
- International shipping
Cons
- Pricing is generally higher than other van lines
- Pricing estimates can take 3-5 days
Services
- Household moving (local, long-distance, cross-country — packing, loading, transport, unloading, unpacking)
- Long-distance & interstate moving (contiguous U.S.; full-service options)
- International moving (130+ countries; online tracking, customs clearance, destination services)
- Military moves (PCS, deployment; temporary/in-transit storage; compliance with DoD regulations)
- Corporate & office relocation (employee moves, office packing, furniture disassembly/reassembly)
- Packing & unpacking services (professional crews, specialty materials, custom crating for fragile/odd items)
- Moving supplies & kits (boxes, shrink-wrap, moving kits available)
- Storage solutions (in-transit, short- & long-term climate-controlled units with security)
- Portable storage containers (rentable containers for packing/storing during move)
- Full-service moving coordinators & 24/7 support (dedicated move coordinator, transparent pricing, no hidden fees)
Mayzlin Relocation
Mayzlin Relocation (USDOT: 2513600) is a long-distance moving company that focuses on transparent pricing and a more hands-on customer experience. The company coordinates interstate moves nationwide and is known for assigning a dedicated move coordinator to guide customers from booking through delivery. With professional packing, storage options, and consistent communication throughout the process, Mayzlin Relocation is a solid choice for customers who want clarity, support, and fewer surprises on moving day.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund for cancellations within 7 days of your move
- 24/7 customer support
- Residential, corporate & military moves
Cons
- Only service moves originating on the east coast
- Deposit required at booking
Services
- Local moves (residential service with professional teams and packing assistance)
- Long-distance & out-of-state moves (nationwide across all contiguous states with online quotes, price-match guarantee, and real-time GPS tracking)
- Corporate moves (commercial & office relocation, employee moves, furniture disassembly/reassembly)
- Military moves (compliant with regulations, trained crews, full-service support)
- Packing & unpacking services (trained packers, durable materials, wrapping for fragile items like antiques, pianos, fine arts)
- Storage solutions (in-transit, short- & long-term climate-controlled units, 30 days free storage included)
- Small moves (efficient handling of smaller load requirements)
- Price match guarantee (ensures competitive pricing)
- Deposit & cancellation policy (25% deposit, full refund if canceled within 7 days)
- Online estimates & booking (virtual inventory, transparent pricing, no hidden fees)
- Furniture disassembly & reassembly (handled by crew as part of full-service)
- Dedicated move coordinator & customer support (personalized planning, 24/7 assistance throughout)
Popular Moving Routes from Illinois
How Illinois Movers Stack Up
- Total movers: Of the 3,177 total professional moving companies in the U.S., 100 are located in IL.
- Average rating: 4.36 stars — compared to the national average rating of 4.32 stars.
- Mover associations: IL does not currently have any official moving associations. A lack of in-state mover associations doesn’t necessarily reflect poorly on movers in IL — many still meet high standards — but it may mean there's less local oversight or coordination compared to states with active industry groups.
Specialty Services Offered
| Service | IL Movers | IL % | National Movers | National % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antiques | 48 | 48.0% | 1,462 | 46.02% |
| Art | 50 | 50.0% | 1,448 | 45.58% |
| Climate-Controlled Storage | 34 | 34.0% | 1,048 | 32.99% |
| Debris Removal | 28 | 28.0% | 817 | 25.72% |
| Fragile-Only Packing | 31 | 31.0% | 755 | 23.76% |
| Labor-Only | 59 | 59.0% | 1,736 | 54.64% |
| Office Moving | 83 | 83.0% | 2,711 | 85.33% |
| Small Moves | 51 | 51.0% | 1,567 | 49.32% |
| Total Movers | 100 | 100% | 3,177 | 100% |
Discounts Offered
| Discount Type | IL Movers | IL % | National Movers | National % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAA Discount | 1 | 1.0% | 36 | 1.13% |
| Military Discount | 1 | 1.0% | 126 | 4.15% |
| Senior Discount | 2 | 2.0% | 154 | 4.85% |
| Student Discount | n/a | n/a | 36 | 1.13% |
| Teacher Discount | n/a | n/a | 9 | 0.28% |
| Total Movers | 100 | 100% | 3,177 | 100% |
What Impacts the Cost of Illinois Long-Distance Moves?
- Where you're moving: Cross-state or cross-country moves cost more due to increased mileage, fuel charges, and travel time.
- How much you're moving: More items mean more weight and volume, which translates into higher freight charges and labor costs.
- The time of year: Prices tend to rise in the summer and fall, when demand for moving trucks and crews is highest.
- Additional services: 96.0% of movers in Illinois provide packing and unpacking help, and 90 also offer storage solutions. Both services come at an additional cost.
How To Choose the Right Illinois Mover
Trusting a moving company with your household freight in Illinois means doing a little research upfront. Beyond cost, look for companies that communicate well and follow through on their promises.
These are the top criteria to keep in mind:
- Licensing and credentials: All interstate movers must be insured and registered with the FMCSA.
- Pricing and estimates: Get binding estimates via walkthroughs — the more detailed the quote, the fewer surprises later.
- Discounts and price matching: Look for movers who provide deals or honor lower prices from competitors. In IL, 1 support military pricing and 2 have senior deals. Ask about any active promos.
- Service and reviews: Read up on past customer experiences to ensure your mover has a solid reputation.
- Booking and flexibility: Understand how far in advance you need to book and what happens if your timeline shifts.
FAQs
Why do long-distance moving deliveries sometimes take over a week?
Scheduling depends on route optimization, driver hours, and truck availability. Consolidated moves can also slow things down if multiple deliveries are involved.
Are my items insured during transport?
Yes, but basic valuation coverage is minimal. You can purchase full-value protection or third-party insurance for higher-value shipments.
Can I pack my own boxes to save money?
Yes. Self-packing can reduce labor costs, but make sure your boxes are properly labeled and packed securely. Improper packing could void insurance coverage for damaged items.
Do movers charge extra for stairs or long carries?
Often, yes. Additional labor for stairs, elevators, or long distances from truck to door can add to your final moving quote.
Thinking About Moving to Illinois?
If you’re making the move to Illinois, it helps to know what day-to-day life looks like. Here, we’ll break down the essentials, from housing expenses to things to explore, work options, and more.
Life in Illinois: What To Expect
- Illinois is 10% cheaper than the national average, with average rent near $1,179 and home values around $249,224.
- The job market in Illinois is more competitive, with an unemployment rate of 5.3%. Top industries include Manufacturing ($37.6 billion), Real estate and rental and leasing ($23.6 billion), and Professional and business services ($22 billion).
- Recreation options in Illinois include attractions like Millennium Park and Navy Pier, outdoor escapes such as Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park, and museums like The Art Institute of Chicago and Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
- Sports lovers can cheer on teams like Chicago Cubs (MLB) and Chicago White Sox (MLB), which draw fans from across the state.
Illinois Relocation Resources
