Moving from Birmingham, AL to Illinois

If you're heading from Birmingham to Illinois, you're looking at a 631-mile haul that'll take you from Alabama's urban core into the Midwest's heartland. I've reviewed dozens of movers in the Birmingham area, and here are the ones worth considering for an interstate move.

Top 5 Birmingham movers for moves to Illinois

Out of the moving companies in the Birmingham area that handle state-to-state relocations, these five consistently deliver solid results:

1. Changing Spaces Moving Inc — 4.56 / 5
2. New Latitude Movers — 4.48 / 5
3. MoveDaddy — 4.42 / 5
4. Road Runner Moving & Storage — 4.22 / 5
5. Motivated Movers, Inc. — 4.36 / 5

Changing Spaces Moving Inc

Address: 130 Inverness Center Place, Birmingham, AL 35242
Phone: (205) 972-0744
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | Yelp | Google | BBB A+

Review snapshot: 95% positive | 5% negative

What stands out about Changing Spaces is consistency. Over 225 customer reviews, 94% describe their experience positively—exceptionally high by moving company standards. Customers repeatedly mention efficient crews, professional handling, and transparent communication from quote to delivery.

The team shows real attention to detail. Many clients note how movers take care with belongings and follow special requests without pushback. If you call back with a question, you get straight answers. Repeat customers trust them with multiple moves, which speaks volumes.

On the downside, a small fraction report unexpected charges or occasional damage claims. A few mention inadequate follow-up after a problem. These complaints are rare, but they're worth knowing about—especially if you're moving something valuable.

Company info:

• State license #: 3822
• Years in business: 21
• DOT #: 1164434

Services: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, pianos, crating, storage, credit card payment

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New Latitude Movers

Address: 130 Industrial Dr, Birmingham, AL 35211
Phone: (205) 988-9000
Rating: 4.4 / 5 | Yelp | Google | BBB A+

Review snapshot: 99% positive | 1% negative

New Latitude Movers runs a tight operation. With 245 customer inputs and 99% positive marks, they're among the highest-rated I've reviewed. The praise centers on speed—crews work quickly without sacrificing care. That's the hardest thing to get right, and they nail it.

Customers consistently highlight professionalism and helpfulness beyond the job description. You'll hear stories about movers assembling furniture or accommodating last-minute changes without complaint. Booking is straightforward, and moves often finish ahead of schedule. Many clients specifically mention that lower efficiency translates to lower costs—you're not paying for wasted time.

The negatives are thin: a handful mention delivery delays or difficulty reaching the office by phone or email. That's roughly it. Trust is clearly built here over time.

Company info:

• Years in business: 26
• DOT #: 2179652
• Alternate names: Move & Store, LLC

Services: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, pianos, crating, storage

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MoveDaddy

Address: 3114 Bellwood Drive, Vestavia, AL 35243
Phone: (205) 977-2222
Rating: 4.4 / 5 | Yelp | BBB A+

Review snapshot: 94% positive | 5% negative

Move Daddy earns rave feedback for speed, professionalism, and careful handling. Of 270 reviews analyzed, 94.4% praise the team's efficiency and friendly attitude. Customers describe movers as motivated, polite, and meticulous with belongings. Communication flows smoothly, and crews make tight timelines and heavy loads look easy.

Fair rates are a consistent theme—many highlight transparent, reliable quotes relative to competitors. You won't get surprised by a final bill that's 30% higher than the estimate.

The 5% that complain cite occasional delays, rare unprofessionalism, or minor item damage. One review flagged promises about supplies or billing that weren't fully met. These are outliers in an otherwise strong track record.

Company info:

• State license #: 4029
• Years in business: 10
• Alternate names: Move daddy

Services: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, grandfather clocks, safes, credit card payment

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Road Runner Moving & Storage

Address: 417 22nd St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
Phone: (205) 945-8339
Rating: 4.2 / 5 | Yelp | Google | BBB F

Review snapshot: 53% positive | 46% negative

Road Runner shows a split personality. About half their reviews praise swift, courteous movers and a smooth moving process. Customers note professionalism, efficiency, and careful handling. But nearly as many complaints highlight property damage, inconsistent communication, and unexpected charges. Some report unresolved damage claims and difficulty reaching staff after a problem surfaces.

The inconsistency is the real issue here. When things go well, they go well. When they don't, accountability seems to disappear. That pattern concerns me. If you go this route, document everything in writing and keep photos of your belongings before pickup.

Company info:

• State license #: C3780
• Years in business: 45
• Alternate names: Road Runner Moving II, LLC, Road Runner Moving, Road Runner Moving Service

Services: Local moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, pianos, crating, storage, credit card payment

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Motivated Movers, Inc.

Address: 1969-A Chandalar Dr, Pelham, AL 35124
Phone: (205) 995-7585
Rating: 4.3 / 5 | Yelp | Google | BBB A+

Review snapshot: 93% positive | 7% negative

Motivated Movers consistently delivers. With 248 customer reviews and 92.7% positive input, they stand out for efficiency, professionalism, and genuine care. Moves happen quickly, communication stays clear throughout, and furniture is handled with real respect. That combination keeps clients coming back.

A small portion flag damaged items, unresolved claims, or unexpected charges—typically when post-move communication broke down. These issues occur infrequently enough that they don't define the company, but they're worth noting if you're shipping anything fragile or high-value.

Company info:

• State license #: C4079
• Years in business: 18

Services: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, antiques, crating, storage, safes, credit card payment

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Moving services available in Birmingham

Here's what the local Birmingham movers bring to the table in specialty areas:

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Cost to move from Birmingham, AL to Illinois

Here's what you can expect to pay for a 631-mile move based on home size. These are ballpark figures—actual costs depend on load size, access, fuel, and your exact move date.

Estimated fuel is included in rental truck quotes. Actual totals vary with moving date, add-on services, parking access, and seasonal demand. Get a quote to see real numbers for your situation.

Cost to hire movers from Birmingham to Illinois

A studio or one-bedroom move typically runs $1,162–$3,366. For a two- or three-bedroom home, budget $2,251–$5,203. If you're moving four or more bedrooms, expect $3,939–$8,049.

These figures assume standard full-service moves: loading, transport, unloading, and basic liability. Packing, unpacking, specialty items, and weekend dates will push costs higher.

Cost of moving containers from Birmingham to Illinois

If you prefer to load at your own pace, moving containers are a solid option. Studio to one-bedroom: $672–$1,607. Two to three bedrooms: $1,225–$2,268. Four or more bedrooms: $1,554–$3,182.

You handle the packing; the company handles logistics and transport. That flexibility often saves money, especially if you're not in a rush.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Birmingham to Illinois

Truck rentals are the cheapest option but require you to drive and do the heavy lifting yourself. Studio or one-bedroom: $454–$806. Two to three bedrooms: $513–$1,037. Four or more bedrooms: $635–$1,156.

Fuel costs are already factored in. The trade-off is real: you save money but gain stress and physical labor.

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Factors that influence moving costs from Birmingham to IL

Move size: The more stuff you have, the more you'll pay. Home size, layout, and the number of rooms matter.

Time of year: Summer peak season (June–August) means higher rates. Winter moves are cheaper but come with weather risks.

DIY vs. professional: Handling it yourself saves cash but costs time and energy. Professionals cost more upfront but spare you days of work and potential damage.

Service level: Packing, unpacking, and specialty item handling all add to the final bill.

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What you should know before moving from Birmingham to Illinois

Compare cost of living: Birmingham vs. Illinois

Rent is about 6% lower in Illinois, so your monthly housing costs drop slightly—real money if you're paying attention.

Home prices are roughly 98% higher in Illinois. If you're buying, plan for a steeper mortgage or a smaller house for the same budget.

Average income is about 99% higher in Illinois. That's the real story: Illinois jobs pay more. Cost of living is almost identical, so the extra income translates to better savings potential.

Taxes are virtually the same in both states (5.0% vs. 4.95%), so don't expect tax relief or surprise increases.

Unemployment is nearly identical, so job competition shouldn't feel dramatically different.

How life is different in Birmingham vs. Illinois

Climate: Summers are similar (90°F vs. 86°F), so no shock there. But winters are genuinely colder in Illinois—17°F lows versus 32°F. That means more heating costs, icy roads, and snow gear you'll actually use.

Precipitation: Illinois gets less rain (40" vs. 56"), which sounds nice, but it gets roughly 22 inches of snow per year compared to Birmingham's 1 inch. Winter means real preparation.

Crime: Illinois has a significantly lower crime index (19.7 vs. 61.64), suggesting safer neighborhoods overall.

Political climate: Both lean Democratic, so no major culture shock on that front.

Size and pace: Illinois is vastly more populated (12.5M vs. 197K), especially if you're landing near Chicago. Expect more urban density, more traffic, and a faster pace.

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Other considerations when moving to Illinois

State licensing: In Illinois, movers handling household goods need a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Illinois Commerce Commission. Verify your mover has one before hiring—don't skip this step.

Moving permits: Illinois doesn't require formal moving permits, but check local parking restrictions before moving day. Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles.

Elevator reservation: If your new place has an elevator, reserve it well in advance. Busy buildings book up fast, especially on weekends.

Truck parking: Some municipalities require permits for oversized vehicles or moving trucks. Call ahead to your new neighborhood and ask.

HOA rules: Check any neighborhood covenants before you move. Some have strict rules about moving windows, truck access, or dumpster placement.

Change of address: File your USPS change of address form at least one week before moving. You can backdate your start date to sync with your official move.

Moving insurance: Movers typically offer Released Value Protection (60 cents per pound) free. For full-value coverage, ask your mover about additional options or consider a third-party policy if you're shipping high-value items.

Moving checklist: Use one to stay organized and avoid missed details. It makes a real difference in stress levels.

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Things to do in Illinois

Museums

• The Art Institute of Chicago
• Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
• Caterpillar Visitors Center
• Lincoln Home National Historic Site
• Museum of Hummels

Parks

• Starved Rock State Park
• Matthiessen State Park
• Illinois Beach State Park
• Pere Marquette State Park
• Kankakee River State Park

Sports

• Chicago Cubs (MLB)
• Chicago White Sox (MLB)
• Chicago Bulls (NBA)
• Chicago Sky (WNBA)
• Chicago Bears (NFL)

Universities

• University of Chicago
• University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
• Northwestern University
• University of Illinois at Chicago
• Northern Illinois University

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FAQ

How long does a move from Birmingham to Illinois take?

Average delivery is one to six days, depending on your mover's schedule and current demand. Summer peak season runs longer. Ask your mover for an estimated delivery window when you book—get it in writing.

Do Birmingham movers offer custom crating?

Yes. Six Birmingham movers offer custom crating for fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped items. Ask about specs and whether they can tailor the build to your needs before committing.

What's the best way to ship a car from Birmingham to Illinois?

You'll want a team with proven car-care expertise and professional standards. We've reviewed the best options for auto transport to help you choose.

Why are people moving from Birmingham to Illinois?

Illinois offers economic opportunity, especially in the Chicago metro area. Job growth, higher incomes, and urban amenities draw people looking for a career boost or lifestyle change.

Where can I find long-distance movers in Birmingham?

Check out our full list of best long-distance movers in Birmingham to compare ratings, services, and quotes.

Can I pay cash for a move?

One Birmingham mover accepts cash, but it's rare. Most carriers require traceable payments (check, card, bank transfer) for documentation and receipts. Typically, you'll pay a deposit to secure your moving date, then settle the balance at pickup or delivery. Confirm payment methods and timing before booking.

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Helpful resources

Need more information? Explore these guides:

• Moving cost calculator
• Best long-distance movers
• Full-service movers guide
• Moving containers
• Truck rental options
• Moving tips & checklist

Ready to get quotes? Use our moving cost calculator to compare real prices from movers serving your route.