Top-rated movers from Pittsburgh, PA to Illinois with costs, reviews & relocation guide. Compare quotes from Don Farr, Gardner Moving, and more.
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If you're moving from Pittsburgh to Illinois, you're looking at roughly 562 miles of hauling. It's far enough that you'll want a solid crew, but close enough that you're not paying cross-country rates. I've reviewed the Pittsburgh movers who actually handle moves to Illinois, pulled their ratings and real customer feedback, and broken down what you'll actually spend.
Out of 11 Pittsburgh-based movers capable of interstate moves, here are the five that stand out for the Illinois route:
Rating: 4.48 / 5 | Address: 757 Millers Run Rd, McDonald, PA 15057
What jumps out with Gardner Moving is consistency. Out of 145 reviews, 90% are positive—and that's not fluff. Customers repeatedly mention fast, organized crews that actually respect your stuff. Transparent pricing, careful handling, even willingness to adapt when plans change. Professional across the board.
The small percentage of complaints center on occasional damage claims and rare communication hiccups during problem resolution. But for a 103-year-old operation, that's solid ground. If speed and reliability matter most, Gardner delivers.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, antiques, crating, storage, fragile-only packing
License: PA #00108945 | DOT: 947009 | Years in business: 103
Get a quote: (412) 257-4443
Rating: 4.44 / 5 | Address: 3132 Industrial Blvd, Bethel Park, PA 15102
Three-quarters of South Hills' 180 reviews are glowing. People praise professional teams, reliable communication, and efficient moves without the drama. Fast service and good responsiveness stand out—they don't leave you hanging.
On the flip side: some customers reported property damage and slow claims resolution. It's rare, but when damage happens, the follow-through can lag. Still, compared to most movers, South Hills punches above its weight for staff professionalism and speed.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, crating, storage
DOT: 98045 | Years in business: 94
Get a quote: (412) 835-8600
Rating: 4.52 / 5 | Address: 1200 Lebanon Road Unit 520, West Mifflin, PA 15122
Don Farr lands the highest rating, but here's the catch: it's a split verdict. Just over half of 415 reviews praise efficient, polite crews and careful handling. The other half? Damage claims, delays, and frustrating follow-ups on broken belongings.
The pattern is real: their crews are good at the actual move, but post-move support and damage claims fall short. If your priority is a smooth day-of experience and you don't need ironclad insurance protection, Don Farr works. If you're moving valuables and want guaranteed recourse, look closer.
Services: Local, interstate, and international moves; packing; unpacking; offices; pianos; hot tubs; pool tables; art; antiques; grandfather clocks; crating; storage; safes
License: PA #8922932 | DOT: 345157 | Years in business: 43
Get a quote: (412) 469-9700
Rating: 4.34 / 5 | Address: 3555 Valley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15234
Out of 269 reviews, 90% report good moves. Customers consistently mention fast, friendly crews, good communication, and professional handling. They move quickly without cutting corners.
The downside: some people hit damage issues, cost overruns vs. estimates, and inconsistent packing quality. Nothing unusual for the industry, but it's worth getting a detailed written estimate and clarifying damage coverage before you book.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, storage, safes
License: PA #00121505 | DOT: 2527384 | Years in business: 24
Get a quote: (412) 357-2690
Rating: 4.28 / 5 | Address: 150 54th St., Pittsburgh, PA 15021
Here's where I'd pump the brakes. Of 375 reviews, only 42% are positive. More than half reported problems—usually surprise charges, late arrivals, or damage. The kicker: price increases of double or triple the original estimate are common.
The crews themselves can be hardworking and efficient, but billing surprises and reliability issues are systemic. Unless you get a rock-solid quote in writing and build in contingencies, this one carries risk.
Services: Local, interstate, and international moves; packing; unpacking; offices; pianos; antiques; crating; storage; safes
License: PA #8923758 | DOT: 902281 | Years in business: 26
Get a quote: (412) 413-9380
Most Pittsburgh movers handle the big-ticket services. Here's the breakdown of what's actually offered:
If you need specialty handling—pianos, antiques, fine art—you've got decent options. For small moves, check ahead; not every mover will take them.
Here's the real-world pricing for a 562-mile move, based on home size and service type:
| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bed | $1,090–$2,983 | $623–$1,597 | $418–$739 |
| 2–3 beds | $1,935–$5,150 | $1,125–$2,296 | $442–$914 |
| 4+ beds | $3,272–$6,929 | $1,547–$3,019 | $574–$1,114 |
Estimates updated Jan 2026. Your actual cost varies with load size, extra services, building access, fuel prices, and move date. Get several quotes to see where you really land.
A studio or one-bedroom typically runs $1,090–$2,983. Two to three bedrooms? Expect $1,935–$5,150. A large move (4–5 bedrooms) lands between $3,272–$6,929.
The range depends on how much you're moving, what services you add (packing, unpacking, storage), and the season. Summer costs more. Get at least three quotes.
Moving containers give you flexibility—load at your pace, they haul it. For a small move, $623–$1,597. Two to three bedrooms: $1,125–$2,296. Four bedrooms or larger: $1,547–$3,019.
Containers sit between DIY and full-service on cost and effort. You pack; they drive.
Truck rentals are the cheapest option—but you're doing the work. Studio/one-bed: $418–$739. Two to three bedrooms: $442–$914. Four bedrooms or larger: $574–$1,114.
Fuel is factored in. You drive, you pack, you unpack. It saves money if you've got time and physical capacity.
Several factors shift your final bill:
| Factor | Pittsburgh, PA | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,500 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $222,451 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $54,306 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 92 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.1% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 3.07% | 4.95% |
Rent is about 21% cheaper in Illinois—you'll have breathing room in your monthly budget.
Housing costs about 12% more in Illinois if you're buying. Plan for a higher mortgage or home price.
Income in Illinois averages 44% higher. Good news if you're moving for work—more earning potential.
Cost of living is nearly identical. You won't feel a dramatic financial shock either way.
Unemployment in Illinois is roughly 25% lower. The job market is tighter; more opportunity.
Taxes in Illinois are 61% higher than Pennsylvania. Your paycheck will reflect it.
| Factor | Pittsburgh, PA | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 303,255 | 12,549,689 |
| Political lean | Democratic | Democratic |
| Summer high | 84°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 21°F | 17°F |
| Annual rain | 38" | 40" |
| Annual snow | 28" | 22" |
| Crime index | 37.74 | 19.7 |
Weather is nearly identical. Summers hover around 84–86°F. Winters average 17–21°F. Rain and humidity are comparable.
Snow is slightly less in Illinois (22" vs. 28"). Marginally easier winters, less maintenance.
Crime in Illinois is significantly lower (19.7 vs. 37.74). Safer neighborhoods overall.
Politics leans Democratic in both places. You won't be moving to a radically different political landscape.
Don't miss these details—they matter:
One to six days, depending on whether you hire movers, use containers, or rent a truck. Summer moves take longer due to demand. Ask your mover for an estimated delivery window before you book.
Yes—six Pittsburgh movers list crating services. Ask about specifications and whether they can tailor the build to your fragile or oversized items before booking.
Work with a professional auto transport company that has a solid track record. Get multiple quotes; prices vary based on vehicle size, transport method (open vs. enclosed), and current demand.
Chicago's job market, lower housing competition outside the city, and better overall employment outlook draw people. The cost of living is similar, but income potential is higher.
Start with our comparison tool to request quotes from multiple movers at once. You'll see pricing, reviews, and availability side by side.
Three Pittsburgh movers accept cash, but it's rare. Most require a deposit upfront (credit card or bank transfer) and final payment at pickup or delivery. Confirm payment terms before signing.
Ready to move? Get quotes from Pittsburgh movers who specialize in moves to Illinois. Compare pricing, reviews, and availability—no obligation.
