Navigating Your Illinois Move: A Comprehensive Guide

Moving companies Illinois provide a full suite of services for any relocation need. Here’s a quick overview of what you should know before you move:

Top Illinois Moving Services:

• Local Moves: Average cost is $2,141 for a 1-bedroom home.
• Long-Distance Moves: Nearly 60% of Illinois moves are out-of-state.
• Corporate Relocation: Specialized services for business and office moves.
• Packing Services: A popular add-on for 32% of customers.
• Storage Solutions: Short-term and long-term options are available.

Key Licensing Requirements:

• Local movers need an Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) Household Goods License.
• Interstate movers must have a USDOT number from the FMCSA.

Moving in Illinois has unique challenges. While 73% of moves stay local, the state sees significant outbound migration. Northern Illinois gets about 36 inches of snow annually, impacting winter logistics, and Chicago often requires parking permits for moving trucks.

The average cost of moving in Illinois is $2,908, 4% cheaper than the national average. Most local moves are billed at hourly rates, and 91% of customers report their final cost matched their quote.

When hiring movers, Illinois residents should verify licenses, read reviews, get multiple estimates, and confirm insurance. Local moves usually take one day, while long-distance relocations can take several days or weeks.

I’m Mina Georgalas, owner and president of Bernard Movers, a family-owned company serving Chicagoland since 1972. With nearly 30 years of experience, I’ve guided our expansion across 45 states. Bernard Movers is now a trusted partner for families and businesses needing local, interstate, or corporate relocation services.

Key Considerations for Hiring Moving Companies Illinois

Moving can be a monumental task, but with the right planning, it can be a smooth transition. For residents and businesses throughout the Chicagoland area, from Chicago and Melrose Park to Northbrook and Evanston, understanding the landscape of moving companies Illinois offers is crucial for a stress-free experience.

Decoding Moving Costs and Services in Illinois

Understanding moving costs is the first step in planning. When you’re looking for moving companies Illinois, it helps to know what to expect.

The average cost of a move in Illinois is $2,908, about 4% cheaper than the national average. Your specific cost will depend on several factors, especially the size of your home:

• 1-bedroom move: $2,141
• 2-bedroom move: $1,872
• 3-bedroom move: $3,151
• 4-bedroom home: $6,018

Notably, 63% of Illinois movers pay an hourly rate rather than by weight, a common model for local moves. Other factors influencing your final cost include the time of year, distance, and services chosen.

At Bernard Movers, we offer a full suite of services to fit any need. Our packing services are chosen by 32% of Illinois customers. We also specialize in local moving, which accounts for 73% of moves in the state and typically takes just one day.

For those moving further, our long-distance moving services ensure a seamless cross-state relocation. With nearly 60% of Illinois moves going out-of-state, we have the experience to manage your journey. If you’re considering a move to Georgia or Florida, we’re currently offering a 20% additional discount on moves booked for delivery by March 15, 2026.

We also provide secure storage, specialty services for items like office or fitness equipment movers in Chicago, and complex office relocation projects. We provide all-inclusive packages with no hidden fees—the price we quote is the price you pay.

How to Find Reputable and Licensed Moving Companies Illinois

Choosing a mover is about trust and peace of mind. For moving companies Illinois residents rely on, proper licensing and a solid reputation are non-negotiable.

When vetting movers, always check their licensing. For local moves, companies must have a Household Goods License from the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC). For interstate moves, they must have a USDOT number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which you can verify on the FMCSA website.

To avoid “rogue movers” who may use deceptive practices, be vigilant for red flags. These can include demanding a large cash deposit upfront, providing a vague estimate over the phone without a visual survey, arriving in an unmarked rental truck, or lacking a physical business address. A reputable company will always offer a detailed, written estimate.

Here are key steps to protect yourself:

• Request multiple in-home or video estimates to compare pricing and services accurately.
• Read recent reviews on multiple platforms to look for consistent customer feedback.
• Check for complaints with the ICC for local movers or the FMCSA for interstate movers.
• Understand and confirm insurance. All licensed movers must provide basic liability coverage, known as Released Value Protection, at no extra cost. However, this only covers a small amount per pound (e.g., $0.60 per pound per item). For greater protection, ask about Full Value Protection, where the mover is liable for the replacement value of any lost or damaged items.

Bernard Movers is fully licensed and insured, meeting all state and federal requirements. We provide transparent estimates and clear explanations of your valuation coverage options. We encourage you to review our credentials and testimonials to see why we’re among the most reliable movers in Chicago.

Key Considerations for a Smooth Illinois Move

Illinois has regional challenges that can impact your move. Being prepared is key.

Illinois Weather: Northern Illinois, including Chicago and its suburbs, gets about 36 inches of snow annually, making winter moves challenging. Professional movers will come prepared with floor coverings to protect your home from snow and salt. However, it’s wise to consider the climate when booking, as severe weather can affect timing, costs, and safety. Always have a backup date in mind if possible.

Chicago Logistics: Moving in a dense urban environment like Chicago requires specific planning. Securing a parking permit for your movers from the OEMC is highly recommended to avoid tickets and ensure the truck has a legal, accessible spot. For high-rise moves, you must coordinate with building management well in advance to reserve a service elevator and understand any specific rules for moving hours or protecting common areas like lobbies and hallways. Our teams are experienced with these protocols.

Common Customer Issues and How We Address Them:

• Damaged Items: We take great care, but accidents can happen. If an item is damaged, document it with photos immediately and notify the moving crew before they leave if possible. You must file a formal claim with us in writing within 90 days of delivery. Include your bill of lading number, a description of the item and damage, and photos to ensure a smooth claims process.
• Quote Accuracy: While 91% of Illinois movers report accurate quotes, discrepancies can cost hundreds or thousands. This highlights the need for a binding or not-to-exceed estimate based on a detailed inventory, which is what we provide in our transparent moving estimates.
• Move Delays: We pride ourselves on punctuality, but factors like weather or unexpected traffic can cause delays. Our policy is to communicate proactively, providing you with real-time updates so you are never left wondering about the status of your move.

After your move, remember to change your address with the Illinois Secretary of State’s (ILSOS) office within 10 days. For more tips, check out our holiday moving tips.

Why Choose Professional Movers for Your Illinois Relocation?

Should you hire professional movers or do it yourself? While a DIY move seems cheaper, it’s important to weigh the true costs and benefits.

Benefits of Hiring Professional Movers:

• Efficiency: Our trained teams work efficiently, often completing a local move in just one day.
• Safety: Our movers use proper lifting techniques and equipment to prevent injury and protect your belongings.
• Proper Equipment: We arrive with all necessary supplies, from sturdy boxes to specialized trucks.
• Peace of Mind: With 24/7 customer service, you can focus on settling in, not logistics. It’s why 84% of Illinois customers were happy with their professional mover.

Choosing professional movers in Chicago like us means investing in a smoother, safer relocation. We handle the heavy lifting so you don’t have to.

What Defines the Best Moving Companies in Illinois?

When searching for the best moving companies Illinois has to offer, you’re looking for reliability, transparency, and a true partner. Here’s what sets the best apart:

• Licensing and Insurance: Top movers are fully licensed (ICC for local, USDOT for interstate) and insured to protect your belongings.
• Transparent Pricing: The best companies provide clear, detailed moving estimates with no hidden fees. The fact that 91% of Illinois customers’ final bills matched their quotes shows this is an industry standard.
• Comprehensive Services: Top movers offer a full spectrum of services, including residential moves, office relocation, packing, storage, and specialty item transport.
• Excellent Customer Support: From the first call to the final box, great movers provide responsive and clear communication.
• Positive Track Record: A long history of satisfied customers and positive reviews speaks volumes about a company’s quality.

Bernard Movers embodies these qualities. We are licensed, insured, and offer transparent pricing for all moves, big or small. Our decades of experience make us a leading choice for moving companies Illinois residents trust.

Finalizing Your Move and Choosing the Right Partner

Choosing the right moving partner is critical for a successful relocation. As you vet the various moving companies Illinois has to offer, keep these key points in mind to make an informed decision.

Here are our key takeaways:

• Understand Costs: Illinois moves average $2,908, but costs vary. Hourly rates are common for local moves.
• Verify Licensing: Always check for an ICC Household Goods License (local) and a USDOT number (interstate).
• Plan for Illinois Specifics: Prepare for winter weather and secure Chicago parking permits if needed.
• Professional vs. DIY: Professional movers provide efficiency, safety, and peace of mind that often outweigh the perceived savings of a DIY move.
• Look for Quality: Seek transparent pricing, comprehensive services, and a proven track record.

Vetting movers is paramount. Ask questions, compare quotes, and verify credentials. A reliable company will be transparent and welcome your scrutiny.

For decades, Bernard Movers has helped families and businesses throughout the Chicagoland area relocate successfully. We are committed to turning your move into a smooth, stress-free experience.

Don’t forget, if you’re heading south, we’re offering a 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2026. It’s one way we provide exceptional value.

Choose a partner who values your time and belongings. We’re confident Bernard Movers is that partner for you.

Ready to plan your move with a team you can trust? Explore your Chicago moving options with Bernard Movers today.