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I've reviewed nine movers in the Rochester area that handle interstate moves. Here are the five that consistently deliver on the Rochester-to-Illinois route.
2436 Innovation Way, BLDG 10, Rochester, NY 14607
Sheridan Brothers pulls in 71% positive reviews across 291 customer feedback entries—a solid number, though not perfect. What stands out: customers consistently mention faster-than-expected timelines, transparent pricing, and polite crews. The downside is real: about 28% report damaged items, difficulty reaching the company for damage claims, or staff attitude issues.
The pattern I see here is typical for mid-sized regional movers—excellent on the move itself, shakier on the follow-up. If you go with them, document everything on day one and photograph high-value items beforehand.
Contact: (585) 254-9000
State License: 34026
DOT #: 2256609
Years Operating: 22
Services: Local & interstate moves, international moves, packing/unpacking, specialty items (pianos, hot tubs, antiques, art), storage.
157 La Grange Ave, Rochester, NY 14613
This is the outlier in the Rochester market. 94% positive feedback out of 256 reviews is genuinely rare in the moving industry. Customers rave about efficient crews, clear communication, and careful handling. A few mention billing surprises or rare damage, but it's sparse compared to the praise.
Interior has 32 years in business—there's institutional knowledge here. If availability works with your timeline, this is your best bet for peace of mind.
Contact: (585) 288-8000
State License: 32014
DOT #: 1498819
Years Operating: 32
Services: Local & interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, specialty items (pianos, antiques, grandfather clocks), storage.
150 Jarley Rd, Rochester, NY 14623
91% positive across 183 reviews. Corrigan emphasizes professional service and stress-free coordination—and the data backs it. Customers appreciate reliable timing and careful handling. A small group flagged damaged items or slow claims resolution, but these are exceptions.
One detail: Corrigan operates as a United Van Lines agent, which gives them access to a national network if your circumstances change mid-move.
Contact: (585) 647-9030
State License: 779
DOT #: 77949
Years Operating: 100
Services: Local & interstate moves, international moves, packing/unpacking, offices, crating, storage.
3680 Buffalo Rd, Rochester, NY 14624
89% positive from 176 reviews. Clark customers consistently mention on-time arrivals, polite crews, and quick turnarounds. A handful reported delivery delays or communication gaps, but Clark's strength is responsive support and reasonable pricing.
Clark operates as a Mayflower agent, so you're tapping into a national carrier's infrastructure.
Contact: (585) 594-5000
State License: 10965
DOT #: 125563
Years Operating: 40
Services: Local & interstate moves, international moves, packing/unpacking, offices, storage.
434 Elmgrove Rd, Rochester, NY 14606
93% positive from 105 reviews. Bauer stands out for professionalism, speed, and treating moves like operations, not side gigs. Customers note pricing matches quotes and crews are accommodating—especially valuable if you have seniors or special needs. Rare complaints about damaged items or surprise minimum charges.
Small sample size relative to the other companies, but the consistency is notable.
Contact: (585) 637-2013
State License: 10662
DOT #: 348429
Years Operating: 26
Services: Local moves, packing, offices, pianos, storage.
Here's what specialty services are available among Rochester movers:
Here's what you'll spend depending on move size and service type. These estimates are for a 731-mile move from Rochester, NY to Illinois.
| Move Size | Full-Service Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $944 – $3,259 | $681 – $1,772 | $501 – $950 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $1,805 – $4,543 | $1,304 – $2,582 | $530 – $1,161 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,285 – $6,843 | $1,781 – $3,261 | $676 – $1,367 |
A note on estimates: These ranges come from verified moving quotes across the industry. Your actual cost depends on move size, extra services, parking constraints, fuel prices, and timing. Use our moving cost calculator to get personalized estimates.
A studio or one-bedroom move typically costs $944–$3,259. Two to three bedrooms land you at $1,805–$4,543. A large four- or five-bedroom home? Expect $3,285–$6,843.
These quotes include the mover's labor, equipment, and basic transport. Additional services—packing, crating specialty items, expedited delivery—add to the bill.
Container services cost $681–$1,772 for small moves, $1,304–$2,582 for two to three bedrooms, and $1,781–$3,261 for four+ bedrooms. Containers give you flexibility: they drop it off, you load at your own pace, they pick it up and transport.
The tradeoff is time. Container moves usually take 5–14 days, depending on distance and company scheduling. If you want speed, traditional movers are faster. If you want control and flexibility, containers win.
DIY truck rentals are cheapest: $501–$950 for a studio, $530–$1,161 for two to three bedrooms, $676–$1,367 for four+ bedrooms. But you're paying for fuel, driving the entire 731 miles, and doing the physical work yourself.
The hidden costs: truck insurance, fuel surcharges, and a tired crew at the other end. Factor in a rental truck costs less money but more time and stress.
Several factors directly influence what you'll pay:
| Metric | Rochester, NY | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,250 | $1,179 |
| Average home price | $200,576 | $249,224 |
| Per capita income | $64,214 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 89 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.8% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 10.9% | 4.95% |
What this means for your wallet:
| Factor | Rochester, NY | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 211,328 | 12.5M |
| Summer high | 82°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 17°F | 17°F |
| Annual rainfall | 33″ | 40″ |
| Annual snowfall | 77″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 37.54 | 19.7 |
| Political lean | Democratic 59–38 | Democratic 55–45 |
What you'll notice:
Don't just pack and hire movers. Handle these items first:
Most moves on this route complete in one to six days, depending on the service type. Summer moves can face delays due to peak-season scheduling.
Pro tip: Before booking, ask your mover for a specific delivery window. Don't accept vague timelines.
Five movers in the Rochester area provide specialized crating for fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped items. If you're moving valuable artwork or antiques, confirm this capability upfront and ask for photos of their crating process.
You'll need a dedicated auto transport company, not a household goods mover. Look for carriers with strong reviews and proper insurance. Get multiple quotes—car shipping prices vary significantly.
The primary draw is Chicago: jobs, culture, and urban opportunity. Illinois also offers lower taxes and a stronger job market than New York. Some move for lower housing costs in secondary cities like Springfield or Champaign.
We've ranked the best long-distance movers operating from Rochester. Check our site for expanded lists and detailed reviews.
No. The moving industry doesn't accept cash. You'll typically put down a deposit to secure your date, then pay the balance at pickup or delivery via credit card, ACH, or cashier's check. Ask your mover which payment methods they accept.
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