What to expect when you hire a Chicago apartment mover
A Chicago apartment mover will send someone to your place to measure rooms and count boxes, then give you a price based on the truck size, distance, and how many workers you need. Most companies charge by the hour (usually $80 to $150 per worker per hour in Chicago) or by weight if you're moving across state lines. The mover will show up on your scheduled day, load your belongings, transport them, and unload at your new address. You pay when the job is done, though some companies ask for a deposit upfront.
The process takes planning. You need to book at least two to four weeks ahead during busy seasons (May through September), get quotes from multiple movers, and understand what's included in the price — some companies charge extra for stairs, long carries, or items like pianos. Chicago has both large national chains and smaller local operators; each has different strengths depending on whether you're moving across the city or out of state.
Key Takeaways
- Get written quotes from at least three movers before deciding, because prices vary widely and a quote protects you from surprise charges on moving day.
- Book your mover at least two to four weeks in advance, especially if you're moving between May and September when demand is highest.
- Check whether the mover is licensed by the Illinois Commerce Commission (for intrastate moves) or the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (for interstate moves).
- Ask upfront about extra fees for stairs, long carries, heavy items, and weekend or holiday moves, which can add $200 to $500 to your bill.
- Read recent customer reviews on Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau before booking, and watch for complaints about damage or missing items.
How to get quotes from Chicago movers
Call or use the website of at least three moving companies and request an in-home estimate. The mover will walk through your apartment, count boxes, measure furniture, and note any obstacles like narrow hallways or stairs. This visit usually takes 30 to 45 minutes and is free. Tell them your exact move date, your current address, and your new address — the distance matters for the price.
After the estimate, you'll receive a quote in writing. Read it carefully. It should list the hourly rate or weight-based rate, the estimated number of hours or weight, any extra charges (stairs, long carries, weekend fees), and what's included (boxes, tape, blankets, dollies). If the quote is vague or doesn't list extras, ask for clarification before you book. Never choose based on price alone — a very low quote sometimes means the company will rush through your move or charge surprise fees when they arrive.
For local Chicago moves, companies like Mayflower, United Van Lines, and Two Men and a Truck operate here, as do smaller firms like Chicago Movers and Windy City Movers. National companies often have higher prices but more standardized service; local movers may be cheaper but vary more in quality. Check the Better Business Bureau website for each company's complaint history before you decide.
Licensing and insurance requirements
If you're moving within Illinois, your mover must be licensed by the Illinois Commerce Commission. You can check this on the ICC website by searching the company name. If you're moving to another state, the mover must be licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA); search for their USDOT number on the FMCSA website.
Ask the mover about insurance. Most companies carry basic liability insurance, but it covers only a small amount per pound of damaged goods — often just 60 cents per pound. If you own valuable items, ask whether the mover offers full-value protection or additional insurance. This costs extra but protects you if something breaks. Get the insurance details in writing before you sign the contract.
What to do before moving day
Confirm your move date with the mover at least one week before. Give them your phone number and the best time to arrive. If you live in a building with a loading dock or requires advance notice, tell the mover and your building management now — some Chicago high-rises need elevator reservations or restrict moving hours.
Pack your own boxes if you want to save money, or ask the mover to pack for you (this costs extra, usually $50 to $100 per hour). Label boxes clearly with the room they're going to and what's inside. Take photos of valuable items and electronics before the movers arrive, so you have proof of their condition. Make a list of what's being moved and give a copy to the mover — this helps track items and dispute any claims of damage or loss later.
On moving day, be home when the crew arrives. Walk through your apartment with the mover before they start, point out anything fragile, and confirm the route they'll use to get furniture out. Keep your phone charged and stay in touch with the crew lead if you need to run an errand.
Common extra charges and how to avoid them
Most movers charge extra for stairs (usually $5 to $15 per flight), long carries (more than 50 feet from the truck to your door), heavy items like pianos or safes, weekend or holiday moves, and travel time if your new place is far from their warehouse. Some charge for packing materials if you didn't bring your own boxes. Ask about all of these during your estimate so there are no surprises on moving day.
To keep costs down, pack your own boxes, move on a weekday rather than Saturday, and schedule your move for late spring or early fall rather than peak summer. If you're moving a short distance within Chicago, some movers offer flat rates instead of hourly rates, which can save money if the job finishes faster than expected.
What to do if something goes wrong
If items arrive damaged or missing, document it when ready. Take photos and write down what's damaged or missing while the movers are still there, and ask them to note it on the bill of lading (the receipt they give you). Do not sign the bill of lading if it says "no damage noted" when you know something is broken.
File a damage claim with the moving company within the time frame they specify — usually 30 to 60 days. Send photos, the bill of lading, and a written description of what happened. Keep copies of everything. If the company denies your claim or offers too little money, you can file a complaint with the Illinois Commerce Commission (for intrastate moves) or the FMCSA (for interstate moves), or pursue the claim in small claims court.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to move an apartment in Chicago?
A one-bedroom apartment move within Chicago typically costs $1,200 to $2,500 depending on distance and how much you own. A two-bedroom costs $1,800 to $3,500. These are rough ranges; your actual cost depends on the mover you choose, the time of year, and whether you pack yourself or have the mover pack for you. Always get quotes from multiple companies.
Can I negotiate the price with a mover?
Yes, especially if you're moving on a weekday or during the off-season (October through April). Call back companies that gave you higher quotes and ask if they can match a lower price. Some will; others won't. Never agree to a price that seems too low — it often means the company will charge surprise fees on moving day.
What if I need to move on short notice?
Call movers when ready and ask about availability. You may pay a rush fee or find that only certain companies have trucks available. Local movers are sometimes more flexible than national chains. If no full-service mover is available, you can rent a truck and hire day laborers, or use a portable container service like PODS or U-Pack, which you load at your own pace.
Should I tip the movers?
Tipping is not required, but it's customary to give $5 to $10 per mover if they do good work. If the move is especially difficult or takes longer than expected, a larger tip is appreciated. You can tip in cash at the end of the day or add it to your credit card payment.
What should I do with items the mover won't take?
Most movers won't transport hazardous materials (paint, propane, batteries), plants, or perishable food. Donate items you don't want to Goodwill or the Salvation Army, sell them online, or arrange for bulk trash pickup through the City of Chicago. Ask your mover for a list of what they won't move before moving day so you can plan ahead.