Best Moving Companies in Illinois

Moving to or from Illinois requires careful planning and choosing the right moving company. Whether you’re relocating locally within the state or moving across the country, finding a reliable and affordable moving service is essential. Our comprehensive guide reviews the top moving companies serving Illinois, helping you make an informed decision based on pricing, services, experience, and customer satisfaction.

Top Moving Companies in Illinois

When selecting a moving company in Illinois, several factors come into play including reputation, pricing structure, range of services, and years of experience. The following companies have been carefully evaluated and ranked based on their performance and customer feedback.

American Van Lines

American Van Lines stands out as a premier choice for Illinois residents due to its innovative pricing model and comprehensive service offerings. Founded with a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, American Van Lines has earned recognition as one of the nation’s leading moving companies.

Why Choose American Van Lines

American Van Lines distinguishes itself through a unique price-matching guarantee, ensuring customers receive competitive rates. If you obtain a lower quote from another moving company, American Van Lines will match that price, providing exceptional value. The company also offers flat-rate pricing, which means costs are transparent and predictable from the start.

Services and Pricing

The average cost for moves with American Van Lines is approximately $3,218. The company provides an extensive array of services tailored to different moving needs:

• Fragile-only packing services
• Furniture disassembly and reassembly
• Professional loading and unloading
• Corporate office relocations
• Full packing and unpacking solutions
• Specialized piano moving services
• Fine art and antique transportation
• Moving supplies provision

These services make American Van Lines an excellent option for customers with valuable or delicate items requiring specialized handling.

Allied Van Lines

With nearly a century of experience in the moving industry, Allied Van Lines brings unmatched expertise and reliability to Illinois relocations. The company has been operational since 1928, building a reputation as one of the nation’s most trusted moving providers.

Experience and Resources

Allied Van Lines operates one of the largest networks in North America, featuring over 3,500 vehicles, 4,200 drivers, and 300 agents spread across the continent. This extensive infrastructure enables the company to handle moves of any size and complexity, from small local relocations to complex interstate transitions.

Services and Pricing

Moving costs with Allied Van Lines average $3,520, reflecting the premium quality and comprehensive nature of their services. The company offers an impressive suite of services for Illinois customers:

• Appliance and electronics disconnection services
• Fragile item packing expertise
• Furniture disassembly and reassembly
• Junk removal and disposal
• Full loading and unloading
• Corporate moving solutions
• Professional packing and unpacking
• Piano and specialty item moving
• Vehicle shipping services

Allied Van Lines’ versatility makes it an ideal choice for comprehensive moving needs, including additional services like junk removal and vehicle transportation.

International Van Lines

International Van Lines has established itself as a dependable option for Illinois residents seeking quality moving services at reasonable rates. The company combines affordability with professional expertise.

Cost-Effective Solutions

Moving with International Van Lines costs approximately $3,112 on average, making it a competitive choice for budget-conscious customers. Despite moderate pricing, the company does not compromise on quality or service breadth.

Available Services

International Van Lines provides the following services for Illinois customers:

• Selective fragile-item packing
• Furniture disassembly and reassembly
• Junk removal services
• Professional loading and unloading
• Comprehensive packing and unpacking
• Piano moving expertise
• Office relocation services
• Vehicle shipping capabilities

North American Van Lines

North American Van Lines distinguishes itself by offering both long-distance and local moving services in Illinois. The company operates as both a carrier and broker, providing flexibility and reach that many competitors cannot match.

Carrier and Broker Model

By functioning as both a carrier and broker, North American Van Lines maintains its own fleet of trucks and professional teams while also connecting customers with local moving specialists. This dual approach ensures reliable service for both local moves within Illinois and long-distance relocations.

Pricing and Services

North American Van Lines represents a premium option, with average moving costs of $3,600. The company offers comprehensive services including:

• Appliance and electronics disconnection
• Fragile-only packing solutions
• Furniture disassembly and reassembly
• Junk removal and disposal
• Professional loading and unloading
• Office moving expertise
• Full packing and unpacking services
• Piano and specialty item moving
• Vehicle shipping services

Moving Costs in Illinois

Understanding moving expenses is crucial for budgeting and planning your relocation. The average cost of a move in Illinois is $2,908, which is slightly below the national average of $3,020. This makes Illinois a relatively affordable state for relocations compared to many other regions.

Local vs. Long-Distance Moves

Illinois statistics reveal important patterns about moving behavior in the state. Approximately 73% of Illinois residents move locally within state lines, with most local moves completing within a single day. Local moves generally cost less than long-distance relocations due to reduced travel time and mileage.

Comparing Moving Companies

Services Offered by Illinois Moving Companies

Traditional full-service moving companies provide far more than basic transportation. Modern moving services have evolved to address diverse customer needs and preferences.

Standard Services

Most professional moving companies in Illinois offer essential services including professional loading and unloading of your belongings. These fundamental services form the foundation of any move.

Specialty and Additional Services

Beyond basic moving, Illinois movers typically provide:

• Professional packing and unpacking services
• Vehicle shipping and automobile transport
• Moving supplies sales and provision
• Short-term and long-term storage solutions
• Furniture disassembly and reassembly
• Piano and fine art moving
• Antique handling and specialized moving
• Office and corporate relocations
• Junk removal and disposal services

These expanded service options allow customers to customize their moving experience based on individual needs and preferences.

Selecting the Right Moving Company in Illinois

Choosing an appropriate moving company requires careful consideration of multiple factors beyond price alone. Making the right selection can significantly impact your moving experience.

Key Selection Criteria

When comparing moving companies, experts recommend evaluating the following aspects:

• Company experience and years in business within your area
• Availability of services matching your specific relocation needs
• Pricing structure and total cost estimates for your move
• Proper licensing and regulatory compliance
• Customer reviews and satisfaction ratings
• Insurance and protection options
• Flexibility in scheduling and timing

Licensing Requirements

Proper licensing is essential when selecting a moving company. Interstate moving companies must possess a valid USDOT number, which demonstrates compliance with federal transportation regulations. Local Illinois moving companies should maintain a Household Goods License from the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC). Verifying these credentials before signing a contract protects you as a consumer.

Service Area Verification

Confirm that your chosen moving company actively serves your specific area within Illinois. Some companies offer limited local service despite national reach, so geographic availability should be verified during the quote process.

Understanding Moving Company Services

Modern moving services extend well beyond simply transporting boxes from one location to another. Professional movers offer tailored solutions for different types of belongings and relocation scenarios.

Fragile Item Handling

Many Illinois moving companies offer specialized fragile-only packing services. This expertise is particularly valuable for customers with valuable items, artwork, antiques, or delicate collections requiring professional care and protective materials.

Furniture Services

Professional furniture disassembly and reassembly services are common among reputable movers. This allows bulky furniture to be transported safely and efficiently while protecting your walls and doorways from damage.

Office and Corporate Moving

Commercial moves present unique challenges requiring specialized expertise. Illinois moving companies typically offer office moving solutions that minimize business disruption and ensure efficient relocation of equipment, furniture, and records.

Planning Your Illinois Move

Successful relocations require advance planning and clear communication with your moving company. Starting early with research and obtaining multiple quotes helps ensure the best outcome.

Obtaining Quotes

Request detailed quotes from multiple moving companies. Comprehensive quotes should itemize services, specify pricing structures, and clarify any potential additional charges. Comparing quotes helps you understand market rates and identify the best value for your specific needs.

Timing Considerations

Moving costs can vary seasonally, with summer months typically commanding higher rates. Planning your move during off-peak seasons or providing advance notice can result in better pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the average cost of a move in Illinois?

A: The average cost of a move in Illinois is $2,908, which is slightly below the national average of $3,020. Costs vary based on distance, volume of belongings, and services required.

Q: Do most Illinois residents move locally or long-distance?

A: Approximately 73% of Illinois residents move locally within state lines. Local moves typically complete within one day and generally cost less than long-distance relocations.

Q: What is a USDOT number and why does it matter?

A: A USDOT number is a federal transportation registration issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Interstate moving companies must have this number to legally operate, demonstrating compliance with federal regulations and providing consumer protection.

Q: What should I verify before hiring a local Illinois moving company?

A: Verify that local Illinois moving companies maintain a Household Goods License from the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC). Additionally, check customer reviews, insurance coverage, and request references from previous clients.

Q: Do moving companies offer storage services?

A: Yes, many professional moving companies offer short-term and long-term storage solutions. This service is particularly useful if your new residence is not ready for occupancy or if you need temporary space for excess belongings.

Q: Can moving companies handle vehicle shipping?

A: Many full-service moving companies offer vehicle shipping services. This is particularly convenient when relocating long distances or if you prefer not to drive multiple vehicles yourself.

Q: What is the difference between a moving carrier and a broker?

A: A carrier operates its own trucks and moving teams to complete relocations directly. A broker acts as an agent, connecting customers with local movers in their area. Some companies operate as both, providing flexibility in service delivery.

Q: Are piano moving services really necessary?

A: Yes, pianos are extremely valuable and delicate instruments requiring specialized moving expertise. Professional piano movers use specialized equipment and techniques to prevent damage and ensure safe transportation.

Conclusion

Selecting the right moving company in Illinois requires careful evaluation of pricing, services, experience, and credentials. American Van Lines, Allied Van Lines, International Van Lines, and North American Van Lines each offer distinct advantages depending on your specific relocation needs. By understanding the services available, comparing costs, and verifying proper licensing, you can ensure a smooth and successful move to or from Illinois.