Moving is an exciting yet challenging experience. It comes with plenty of planning, paperwork and, of course, expenses. One of the main costs to consider is hiring professional movers.

This article will explain the typical costs of hiring movers in Chicago, the factors that influence these prices and tips to save money on your move.

How Much Do Movers Cost in Chicago?

The cost of movers in Chicago varies primarily based on your moving distance and the volume of your belongings. For local moves (within 50 miles), expect to pay between $500 and $2000.

Here’s a simple table to break down the costs by home size:

Home Size

 Average Total Cost Cost Per Hour Number of Movers
Studio $400 – $600 $100 – $150

2

1 Bedroom

 $400 – $800 $150 – $180 2 – 3
2 Bedrooms $600 – $1,000 $150 – $220

3 – 4

3 Bedrooms

 $800 – $1,500 $190 – $230 4 – 5

4 Bedrooms

 $1,000 – $2,000 $230 – $300

5 – 6
5 Bedrooms $1,500 – $3,000 $300 – $400

6 – 7

How Much Does It Cost to Move from Chicago?

Moving from Chicago can be expensive, especially if you’re relocating to a distant city. Costs depend on the distance and the amount of labor involved. Here’s a simple table with estimated costs for moving from Chicago to various cities:

To City

 Estimated Cost
New York City, New York

$2,000 – $5,000

Austin, Texas

 $1,500 – $3,500
Boston, Massachusetts

$2,200 – $4,500

Denver, Colorado

 $2,000 – $4,000
Los Angeles, California

$2,500 – $6,000

Seattle, Washington

$3,000 – $7,000

Since moving can be costly, it’s a good idea to look for ways to save money. You can compare moving company prices, check reviews and estimate costs to find the best deal for your move from Chicago.

Factors That Affect Moving Costs in Chicago

The cost of moving in Chicago depends on several things. Here are the main factors to consider:

  • Home Size: Larger homes usually mean more items to move which increases the cost.
  • Moving Distance: Moving within Chicago is cheaper than relocating to another state.
  • Moving Supplies: Costs can go up if you need to buy boxes, bubble wrap, tape and other packing materials. Some moving companies include these in their quotes, while others charge extra.
  • Packing Services: If the movers handle packing for you, it will add to the total cost.
  • Travel Time: Movers usually charge for the time it takes to travel from their office to your home and then to your new place. This is included in your final bill.
  • Time of Year: Moving during busy seasons, like summer, can cost more because demand is higher.
  • Specialty Items: If you have items like pianos, pool tables, artwork or safes, you may pay extra. These require special handling or equipment.
  • Storage Fees: If you need to store your belongings temporarily with the moving company, storage fees will apply.
  • Stair Fees: If your move involves stairs (especially in older Chicago buildings), there might be extra charges. This is a common hidden cost for moves involving multiple flights of stairs.
  • Insurance: Basic insurance is usually included in your moving quote but full-coverage insurance will cost extra.
  • Long-Carry Fee: If the movers need to carry your belongings a long distance between the truck and your home because the truck can’t park close, you might be charged an extra fee.
  • City Regulations: Chicago has specific rules for moving trucks, like parking permits or restricted parking times. Any costs related to these rules will be added to your moving bill.
  • Gratuity: Tipping is optional but appreciated. Most people tip movers 10-20% of the total cost or $10-20 per mover for a full day’s work.

Knowing these potential expenses can help you better plan your move and find ways to cut costs.

Need movers? Chicago Movers STI ensures a smooth experience—your move, your choice.

How to Save Money on Your Move

Moving can be expensive but there are simple ways to reduce costs:

  • Downsize: Moving fewer items saves money. Sell, donate or get rid of things you don’t need. This reduces packing materials, storage needs, labor costs and the size of the moving truck required.
  • Pack Yourself: Packing on your own can significantly lower expenses. Start early to avoid rushing and stress. This saves on labor and packing materials and ensures you control how your items are packed. Plus, you won’t risk movers packing things you wanted to donate or give away by mistake.
  • Compare Quotes: Get estimates from several moving companies and choose the one that fits your budget and needs. Comparing quotes helps you avoid overpriced services and negotiate better deals. It also gives you a clear picture of potential extra charges like stair fees or long-carry fees and lets you see what each company offers.
  • Move During Off-Peak Times: Plan your move for weekdays or outside the busy summer months. Weekends and summers are popular moving times because they align with school schedules. Moving during the off-season can save you money, give you more flexibility and make it easier to secure your preferred moving date.

These strategies can help you reduce costs and make your move more budget-friendly.

Questions to Ask Movers Before Moving to or from Chicago

Before hiring movers for your Chicago move, it’s important to ask the right questions. Here are some key ones:

Are You Licensed & Insured?

Ask for their U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number and verify it online. Also, check what insurance they offer to protect your belongings during the move.

What’s Included in the Quote?

Find out if the quote covers everything or if there are extra charges for things like packing, moving supplies or furniture assembly. Make sure you know exactly what you’re paying for.

Do You Have Experience with City Moves?

Moving in a busy city like Chicago can be tricky due to limited parking and crowded streets. Ask if the movers have experience handling city moves and how they plan to manage these challenges.

Are There Any Extra Fees?

Ask if there might be additional charges, like long-carry fees for moving items over a long distance to the truck or stair fees for navigating multiple flights of stairs.

What Happens If There Are Delays?

Find out how the company handles unexpected delays. Ask if they offer compensation for late deliveries or charge extra for rescheduling.

What Kind of Insurance Do You Offer?

Movers must provide basic liability coverage but it might not cover the full value of your belongings. Ask about their insurance options and whether you might need extra coverage for better protection.

How Do You Handle Specialty Items?

If you have items like pianos, antiques, artwork or large electronics, ask how they plan to move these. Some companies charge extra for handling such items, so it’s good to know upfront.

Can You Provide References?

A trustworthy moving company should be able to give references from past customers. You can also look up online reviews and ratings to get a better idea of their service quality.

By asking these questions, you can choose a reliable and experienced moving company that will handle your belongings with care and make your move from Chicago as smooth as possible.

FAQs

How much do movers cost in Chicago?

The cost of movers in Chicago usually ranges between $500 and $2,000. Factors like the size of your home and how much you’re moving can affect the price. For instance, moving a one-bedroom apartment will typically cost less than moving a three-bedroom house.

What is the cost of moving from Chicago to another city?

Moving from Chicago to another city can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $7,000. The total cost depends on the distance and how much you’re moving.

How much does it cost to move a one-bedroom apartment in Chicago?

The average cost to move a one-bedroom apartment within Chicago is between $500 and $800.

Does the time of year affect moving costs in Chicago?

Yes, moving costs can change depending on the season. Summer is the busiest time for moving companies, so rates are usually higher. Moving during off-peak times, like in the winter or on weekdays, can help you save money.

Final Thoughts

The cost of hiring movers in Chicago can vary based on several factors. However, by understanding what affects these costs and using smart ways to save, you can make your move more affordable and stress-free.

While moving expenses are important, the ultimate goal is a smooth transition to your new home. Professional movers can help make the process easier and more efficient, ensuring a successful move.