Best Moving Companies from Mobile, AL to Illinois
Moving from Mobile to Illinois is a substantial jump — about 800 miles inland, different weather, different cost of living, and a fundamentally different pace of life. If you're planning this move, you'll want movers who understand what it takes to handle a long-haul relocation properly.
I've reviewed the top operators in Mobile who handle interstate moves, and here's what stands out.
Top 5 Movers from Mobile to Illinois
1. Coleman Worldwide Moving — 4.48 / 5 stars
Address: 5235 Kooiman Rd Bldg 6-A, Theodore, AL 36582
License: C457 | DOT #: 2897746 | Years in business: 11
75% of Coleman's reviews are positive, with customers consistently praising professional crews, careful handling, and fast execution. The company offers full packing, unpacking, crating, and storage — everything you'd need for an interstate move. Around 22% of reviews flag item damage or communication gaps after issues arise, which is worth noting if you're moving valuables.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, crating, storage, safes, credit card payment.
Get a quote or call (877) 693-7060
2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 4.38 / 5 stars
Address: 3759 Government Blvd, Mobile, AL 36693
License: 4053 | DOT #: 2527384 | Years in business: 40
76% positive reviews highlight on-time crews, quick service, and respectful handling. This is a national franchise with consistent standards, so if you've heard good things about them elsewhere, the Mobile location delivers similar quality. The downside: about 22% report damaged items or surprise charges, and some customers complained about slow claims follow-up.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, storage, safes, credit card payment.
Get a quote or call (251) 202-7531
3. Motivated Movers, Inc. — 4.42 / 5 stars
Address: 28225 N Main St, Suite H, Daphne, AL 36526
DOT #: Not listed | Years in business: 18
This is the standout performer: 96% positive reviews with minimal complaints. Customers praise clear communication, careful packing, and timely moves. They handle specialized items (pianos, hot tubs, antiques, pool tables) that most movers won't touch. Only one damage complaint across 25 reviews, which is exceptional.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, antiques, crating, storage, safes, credit card payment.
Get a quote or call (251) 621-0063
4. Griner Moving Services — 4.36 / 5 stars
Address: 2785 Macmae Dr, Mobile, AL 36606
DOT #: 3558541 | Years in business: 7
100% positive across all 55 reviews — no damage complaints, no communication issues. Customers describe stress-free experiences and careful handling. That said, with only 55 reviews total, the sample size is smaller than the larger operators, but the consistency is impressive.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, crating, storage.
Get a quote or call (251) 451-9446
5. RS Moving & Warehousing — 4.34 / 5 stars
Address: 3704 Moffett Rd, Mobile, AL 36618
DOT #: 3000204 | Years in business: 13
Another perfect record: all 67 reviews are positive. Customers highlight professional staff, efficient service, and careful handling. International moves, specialty crating, and cash payment options available — one of few movers locally that accepts cash.
Services: Local, interstate, and international moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, storage, cash or credit card payment.
Get a quote or call (251) 895-2675
What Services Are Available in Mobile
Of the top movers in Mobile, here's what specialty services are most common:
| Service | % Available |
|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 90% |
| Pianos | 60% |
| Antiques | 30% |
| Small moves | 30% |
| Art handling | 20% |
| Fragile-only packing | 10% |
If you're moving something fragile or unusual, ask your mover directly — not all list every specialty on their website.
Cost to Move from Mobile to Illinois
Here's what you can expect to pay. These are ballpark figures for an 807-mile move, based on market data as of early 2024:
| Move Size | Full-Service Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bed | $1,222 – $3,921 | $719 – $1,868 | $536 – $1,000 |
| 2–3 bed | $2,401 – $5,517 | $1,359 – $2,468 | $578 – $1,237 |
| 4+ bed | $3,772 – $7,990 | $1,753 – $3,323 | $739 – $1,529 |
Note: These are estimates. Final costs depend on exact belongings, time of year, fuel rates, and any add-ons (extra packing, storage, etc.). Always get quotes from multiple movers to compare apples-to-apples.
Full-Service Moving Company Costs
A one-bedroom apartment from Mobile to Illinois typically runs $1,222–$3,921. For a 2–3 bedroom home, expect $2,401–$5,517. A 4+ bedroom move lands in the $3,772–$7,990 range.
The variation depends on how much packing you need, whether you're paying for storage, and peak vs. off-season rates. Summer moves cost more.
Moving Container Costs
If you want flexibility — you pack at your own pace and the container sits until you're ready to unload — expect $719–$1,868 for a studio/one-bedroom, $1,359–$2,468 for 2–3 bedrooms, and $1,753–$3,323 for larger homes.
Containers let you avoid the pressure of same-day loading, but storage fees add up if you hold it longer than the initial transport window.
Rental Truck Costs
The cheapest option if you're willing to do the driving and unloading yourself. Budget $536–$1,000 for a studio, $578–$1,237 for 2–3 bedrooms, and $739–$1,529 for 4+ bedrooms. These figures include fuel.
The catch: you're responsible for loading, driving 800 miles, and unloading. It's labor-intensive and physically demanding.
Factors That Affect Your Moving Cost
Several variables shift the final price:
- Move size: A one-bedroom is significantly cheaper than a five-bedroom house.
- Time of year: Summer peak season (May–September) pushes rates up. Winter moves are cheaper but more complicated.
- DIY vs. professional: Renting a truck is budget-friendly but labor-heavy. Hiring movers costs more but saves your back and time.
- Additional services: Packing, unpacking, crating, and storage all add cost.
- Distance and fuel: At ~800 miles, this is solidly interstate territory, so rates reflect that.
What to Know Before Moving from Mobile to Illinois
Moving 800 miles isn't just a logistics puzzle — it's a lifestyle shift. Illinois has a higher cost of living, colder winters, more snow, and a different job market.
Cost of Living: Mobile vs. Illinois
| Metric | Mobile, AL | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,300 | $1,179 |
| Average home price | $186,159 | $249,224 |
| Per capita income | $61,962 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 84 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.2% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 5.0% | 4.95% |
Key takeaways:
- Rent in Illinois is ~9% cheaper, a small win for renters.
- Home prices are 34% higher in Illinois — budget accordingly if buying.
- Illinois salaries run 27% higher, which helps offset the higher cost of living.
- Overall cost of living is 7% higher. Not shocking, but plan for it.
- Illinois has a 15% lower unemployment rate — more job options, generally speaking.
- Income taxes are nearly identical, so your paycheck deductions won't surprise you.
Climate & Daily Life: Mobile vs. Illinois
| Factor | Mobile, AL | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Summer high | 91°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 38°F | 17°F |
| Annual rainfall | 66″ | 40″ |
| Annual snowfall | 0″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 64.95 | 19.7 |
| Population | 187,041 | 12,549,689 |
| Political lean | Republican (55–43) | Democratic (55–45) |
What this means:
- Winters are genuinely harsh. 17°F lows vs. 38°F in Mobile. You'll need winter tires, heated garage access, snow removal tools, and higher heating bills. But you also get four actual seasons and winter recreation if you're into that.
- Less rain, more snow. Illinois gets less annual precipitation overall, but it falls as 22 inches of snow instead of rain. That's beautiful until you have to shovel it.
- Significantly safer. Illinois has a crime index of 19.7 vs. Mobile's 64.95 — a major advantage, especially if safety is a priority.
- Much bigger state. Illinois (especially the Chicago metro) is urban and densely populated. If you're moving for urban lifestyle, great. If you prefer small-town feel, adjust expectations.
Before You Hire Movers: Illinois-Specific Rules & Logistics
State Regulations
Illinois regulates household good movers through the Illinois Commerce Commission. Any company moving household goods locally or intrastate must hold a current Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN). Verify your mover's license on the ICC website before booking.
Permits & Parking
- Moving truck parking: Some Chicago neighborhoods require advance parking permits for moving trucks. Check with your building or city ahead of time.
- Elevator reservations: Many apartments and condo buildings require you to book elevators 48–72 hours in advance. Call your building's management immediately.
- HOA rules: If you're moving into a community with an HOA, confirm their move-in day policies — some restrict timing or require advance notice.
Address Change & Mail
File your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Go to USPS.com and set your official move date so mail forwarding starts smoothly.
Moving Insurance
Standard "Released Value Protection" (60 cents per pound) is free but only covers major damage. If you have high-value items, ask your mover about "Full Value Protection" or consider a third-party insurance rider. Requirements vary by state, so confirm with your mover.
Moving Checklist
Don't wing it. Use a detailed moving checklist to track utilities setup, address changes, mail forwarding, and everything else that can slip your mind in the chaos.
Things to Do in Illinois
If you're moving for opportunity or lifestyle, Illinois delivers. Here's what's worth exploring:
Museums
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
- Caterpillar Visitors Center
State Parks
- Starved Rock State Park
- Matthiessen State Park
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Pere Marquette State Park
Sports
- Chicago Cubs, White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
- Chicago Sky (WNBA)
Universities
- University of Chicago
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Northwestern University
- Illinois Institute of Technology
FAQ
How long does a move from Mobile to Illinois take?
Typically 2–7 days for a full-service move, depending on exact distance and mover availability. Summer moves may take longer due to high demand. Always confirm the delivery window when you book.
Can I find movers in Mobile that build custom crates?
Yes — several of the top movers here (Coleman, Motivated Movers, Griner, RS Moving) offer custom crating for antiques, artwork, and fragile pieces. When requesting a quote, ask about lead times and padding options.
What's the best way to ship a car from Mobile to Illinois?
If you need car shipping, hire a dedicated auto transport company rather than bundling it with your household move. They specialize in vehicle logistics and insurance. Many have better rates than movers offering the service as an add-on.
Why are people moving from Mobile to Illinois?
Chicago and the Illinois job market are the big draws — tech, finance, healthcare, and manufacturing offer more opportunities than Mobile. Cost of living is higher, but salaries tend to scale up enough to offset it. Some people also move for family, education, or lifestyle change.
Where do I find long-distance movers in Mobile?
You're looking at them. The five companies above are the strongest options for interstate moves from Mobile. If none of them fit your needs, use our moving cost calculator to get instant quotes from other carriers.
Can I pay my mover in cash?
Two of the movers listed here accept cash (RS Moving & Warehousing and others). However, cash is uncommon in the industry — most require credit card, ACH transfer, or cashier's check for liability and record-keeping. You'll typically pay a deposit to secure your move date, with the balance due at pickup or delivery. Confirm payment methods and timing before booking.
Additional Resources
Moving from Alabama:
Popular routes from Alabama:
Other moving guides:
- Best long-distance movers nationwide
- Moving container companies
- Truck rental options
- Car shipping services
Ready to move? Get instant quotes from multiple movers using our moving cost calculator. Compare prices, timelines, and services side-by-side, then book with confidence.