Understanding What You’ll Pay for Your Illinois Long-Distance Move
The long distance movers cost for a typical household move from Illinois can range anywhere from $2,000 to $8,000, and sometimes even more for larger homes or complex relocations. This wide range can feel daunting, but understanding what influences the final price is the first step toward creating an accurate budget. The final price is not arbitrary; it’s a calculation based on four key factors. These are the distance of your move (cross-state vs. cross-country), the total weight or volume of your belongings (the more you move, the more it costs), the level of service you require (from basic transportation to full-service packing and unpacking), and the timing of your move. For instance, moving during the peak season (May through September) or on a weekend can increase your costs by as much as 20–30% due to high demand.
To give you a clearer picture, here’s a sample breakdown of estimated costs for a long-distance move of over 1,000 miles, such as from Chicago to Florida. Keep in mind these are ballpark figures; your actual quote will depend on the specifics of your inventory and chosen services.
| Home Size | Estimated Weight | Distance (1,000+ miles) | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-bedroom | 2,200–3,200 lbs | Chicago to Florida | $2,500–$4,000 |
| 2-bedroom | 5,000–6,000 lbs | Chicago to Florida | $4,000–$6,500 |
| 3-bedroom | 9,000+ lbs | Chicago to Florida | $6,500–$9,500 |
As you can see, the size of your home and the corresponding weight of your belongings are major cost drivers. When planning a move from Chicago, Melrose Park, or anywhere in Illinois, using these estimates helps you budget accurately. The final price will always come down to your unique situation—how much you’re moving, how far you’re going, and what level of service you select.
Many families worry about hidden charges or inflated quotes. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a licensed, experienced moving company that provides transparent estimates.
I’m Mina Georgalas, owner and president of Bernard Movers. Since my family founded this company in 1972, we have been dedicated to helping Illinois families navigate the complexities of interstate relocations from our home base in Chicago. I’ve personally spent nearly 30 years in this business, and I’ve seen it all. My experience has taught me that the most important elements of a stress-free move are meticulous planning and completely transparent pricing. These are the principles we bring to every family we help.
Breaking Down the Long Distance Movers Cost
When planning a move from Illinois, understanding how costs are calculated can provide peace of mind. Let’s break down the main components of your moving quote.
Primary Cost Drivers: Distance and Shipment Size
Your long distance movers cost is primarily determined by two factors: how far you’re going and how much you’re moving.
Distance as a Key Factor
The farther we transport your belongings from Illinois, the more it will cost due to increased fuel, labor hours, and logistics. A move from Chicago to Wisconsin will be less expensive than a cross-country trip to California. The cost per mile may decrease on longer hauls, but the total price will always reflect the distance. For a typical 2-3 bedroom home, you can expect costs to vary by destination:
- Illinois to Texas: $931 to $6,591
- Illinois to the West Coast or Florida: $1,637 to $7,602
If you’re heading south, our Moving From Chicago to Florida guide offers route-specific details.
Weight-Based and Volume-Based Pricing
For interstate moves, your price is typically calculated based on the total weight of your shipment, often between $0.50 to $0.80 per pound. This means heavy items—like solid wood furniture, appliances, or book collections—will increase your cost. Here are some typical household weights:
- 1-bedroom apartment: 1,800 to 3,500 pounds
- 2-bedroom home: 5,000 to 6,000 pounds
- 3-bedroom house: 9,000 to 12,000+ pounds
This is why decluttering before you move is the best way to save money. Every item you donate or sell reduces the total weight and lowers your bill.
Flat-Rate Quotes
To eliminate uncertainty, we provide binding flat-rate quotes for long-distance moves. After a thorough in-person or video assessment of your belongings, we give you a guaranteed price. As long as you don’t add items or services, that price is locked in—no surprises.
Comparing Your Options: Full-Service Moving Solutions
When moving out of state, you can choose the level of service that fits your needs and budget. Our clients in Chicago and Melrose Park often find a balance between DIY and full-service.
Bernard Movers’ Full-Service Moving Packages and Customizable Service Options
| Service Option | Cost Implication | Convenience Level | Labor Involved for You | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Service Move | Higher | Maximum | Minimal | Busy professionals, families, or anyone seeking a hands-off experience. We handle everything. |
| Custom Packing | Moderate Add-on | High | Minimal | Those with fragile items or who dislike packing. We can pack specific rooms or items. |
| Loading & Unloading | Included | High | None | Essential for all moves to ensure items are handled and loaded securely by our trained crews. |
| Transportation | Core Cost | High | None | The fundamental service of driving your belongings safely across state lines. |
| Disassembly/Assembly | Moderate Add-on | High | Minimal | For large furniture like beds, tables, and exercise equipment. |
| Specialty Item Care | Variable Add-on | High | None | Pianos, fine art, and antiques that require specialized equipment and expertise. |
| Storage Solutions | Per-month Add-on | High | None | When move-in and move-out dates don’t align. We offer secure, climate-controlled options. |
Full-Service Movers for a Stress-Free Experience
Choosing full-service moving costs more, but you’re paying for convenience and peace of mind. We pack, load, transport, unload, and place your furniture, allowing you to focus on your transition. For many families, the value of avoiding the stress and physical labor is well worth the investment.
Custom Packing and Unpacking Services
Professional packing services typically add $500 to $2,000 to your total cost. You can customize this service to fit your needs—we can pack just your fragile items, your entire kitchen, or your whole house. Learn more on our Moving Companies That Pack and Move Out of State page.
Flexible Scheduling for Illinois Residents
We work with your schedule. Whether you need temporary storage or delivery on a specific date, we create a plan that fits your timeline. Our An Essential Guide to Out-of-State Moving Options covers all your options in detail.
Hidden Fees, Surcharges, and Seasonal Pricing
A reputable mover will be upfront about all potential charges, but it’s wise to know what to ask about. These are not ‘hidden’ fees if they are in your contract, so read it carefully. Common additional costs include:
- Fuel Surcharges: A standard fee to cover the fluctuating price of fuel for long-distance trips.
- Shuttle Services: If a full-size moving truck cannot access your home due to narrow streets or a long driveway, a smaller shuttle truck will be used to ferry your belongings for an additional fee (often starting around $300).
- Storage in Transit (SIT): If your new home isn’t ready, you may need temporary storage. This service is billed monthly and depends on the size of your shipment.
- Carry and Stair Fees: A long carry fee may apply if the crew must carry items an excessive distance (e.g., more than 75 feet). Similarly, a stair fee may be charged for homes with multiple flights of stairs and no elevator.
- Other Fees: Ask about charges for appliance servicing, handling bulky items, or expedited delivery.
Peak Moving Season (May-September)
Summer is the most popular—and therefore most expensive—time to move. High demand for trucks and crews drives prices up by 20 to 30 percent. Weekends and the first and last few days of the month are also premium times.
Off-Season Savings (October-April)
If your timeline is flexible, moving during the off-season from October to April is a fantastic way to save money. Lower demand means more competitive rates. A mid-week, mid-month move is almost always the most cost-effective option.
How to Secure a Fair Price and Save on Your Move
Now that you understand what drives long distance movers cost, let’s focus on how to keep those costs down. Moving from Illinois doesn’t have to drain your savings if you plan strategically.
Smart Tips to Lower Your Long Distance Movers Cost
The most effective way to reduce your moving bill is to move less stuff. Since cost is tied to weight, every item you leave behind saves you money.
- Declutter Ruthlessly: Since cost is tied to weight, this is your biggest opportunity to save. Go through your home and be honest about what you truly need. If you haven’t used it in a year, consider selling, donating, or discarding it. This not only lowers your shipment weight but can also generate cash to offset moving expenses.
- Pack Strategically: You can save money by packing non-fragile items like clothing, books, and linens yourself. However, we recommend leaving delicate items, such as glassware and electronics, to our professional packers to ensure they arrive safely and prevent costly damage.
- Book in Advance: Schedule your move 4-8 weeks ahead to secure better rates and your preferred dates, especially during peak season. Last-minute bookings often come with a premium.
- Be Flexible with Timing: Mid-week (Tuesday-Thursday) and mid-month moves are consistently cheaper than weekends or moves at the beginning or end of the month. A little flexibility can lead to significant savings.
For more detailed financial planning, see our Moving Out of State Budget guide. To explore all cost-cutting options, check out the Least Expensive Way to Move Out of State.
Getting an Accurate Quote and Avoiding Moving Scams
Protecting yourself from dishonest movers starts with knowing how legitimate companies operate.
- Insist on a Visual Survey: Never accept a quote over the phone without a visual inspection. Reputable movers like Bernard Movers will conduct an in-home or video survey to see exactly what needs to be moved and provide an accurate, binding estimate.
- Get Multiple Binding Estimates: Compare at least three detailed, binding estimates. A binding estimate is a contract that guarantees your price, provided you don’t add items or services. This is your best protection against surprise charges. Be wary of non-binding estimates, which are just a guess and can increase.
- Watch for Red Flags: Be wary of quotes that seem too good to be true, demands for large cash deposits, unbranded trucks, or high-pressure sales tactics. These are common signs of a rogue mover.
- Verify Credentials: Interstate movers must be licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Check their U.S. DOT number on the FMCSA website and look up reviews on sites like the Better Business Bureau.
Understand Your Valuation (Insurance) Options. Federal law requires movers to offer two levels of liability coverage:
- Released Value Protection: This is the basic, no-cost option, but it provides minimal protection at just $0.60 per pound per item. For example, a damaged 10-pound TV would only be covered for $6.00.
- Full Value Protection (FVP): This option costs more but provides comprehensive coverage. Under FVP, the mover must repair, replace, or offer a cash settlement for the current market value of any lost or damaged item. This is the recommended choice for protecting your belongings. Our Professional Movers State to State guide has more on protecting your belongings.
Finalizing Your Illinois Move with Confidence
As moving day nears, a few final steps will ensure a smooth process.
Review the Bill of Lading. This is your contract. Before signing, read it carefully to ensure it accurately lists all services, dates, and the final price. Keep your copy safe throughout the move.
At Bernard Movers, we’ve served Illinois families from Chicago to Melrose Park since 1972. As a family-owned business, our reputation is built on honesty and reliability.
Ready to get started? Our Chicago Long Distance Movers team can provide a transparent quote. Plan your relocation with our Affordable Moving Local and Long Distance Moving Services and let’s start planning your successful move together.