Chicago Long-Distance Moving Services

The cost to hire movers in Chicago will depend on multiple factors, including the distance of your move and how much stuff you’re taking with you. If you hire professional long-distance movers, here’s a general idea of what you can expect to pay to move an average-sized two-bedroom home:

• Moving from Chicago to San Francisco: $5,500–$6,500
• Moving from Chicago to Dallas: $4,500–$5,500
• Moving from Chicago to San Diego: $5,500–$6,500

You can certainly move during a Chicago winter — you’ll just want to be adequately prepared and flexible on moving day.

Chicago winters are notoriously harsh, and with the possibility of snow, sleet, and heavy winds, taking some extra precautions can ensure both you and your belongings stay safe.

Here’s what to expect and how to prepare:

• Verify any seasonal winter parking bans or street-specific restrictions that could affect your moving truck.
• Check forecasts for snow, ice, or rain, and plan accordingly. Be ready to shovel out your parking spot or clear pathways if needed.
• Stock up on items like rock salt to melt snow, towels to keep floors dry, and protective padding for furniture.
• Movers may need to work more slowly due to slippery conditions, stiff straps, or heavy snow, so plan for a longer move than usual.
• Dress in layers and wear appropriate footwear, like boots with good traction.

In downtown Chicago, many high-rise buildings require both elevator reservations and a Certificate of Insurance (COI) from movers before moving day.

Not every building will have the same rules about this, though — some may require an elevator reservation weeks in advance, some may restrict weekend use, and some may not allow you to make a reservation until your COI is filed. Once you know you’re moving, talk to your property manager or your HOA about their requirements as soon as you can. 

There are a few places in downtown Chicago where trucks could legally park, but you’ll want to ensure you follow the rules carefully. Here are a few ways you could get a moving truck to your home in downtown Chicago:

• Apply for a temporary moving/no-parking permit via CDOT.
• Consider using a commercial loading zone (you will pay a small fee for 15-minute increments).
• Research private or building-affiliated parking garages.

Moving into a Chicago two-flat or three-flat can be more complicated than moving into a standard house or a larger, modern apartment building. These buildings are often nestled in densely packed neighborhoods on narrow streets. Inside, two-flats and three-flats typically lack elevators, and their doorways, hallways, and stairways can be narrow, making it challenging to maneuver furniture.

To make the move easier, consider measuring your furniture as well as the doorways, hallways, and stairways in advance, disassembling large pieces ahead of time, and hiring professional movers for some extra help.