Top Moreno Valley movers for moves to Illinois
You're looking at roughly 1,932 miles between Moreno Valley and Illinois. Out of 46 movers operating in the Moreno Valley area that handle state-to-state relocations, I've pulled the top 5 that consistently show up in customer feedback for this route.
- VIP Transport, Inc. — 4.62 / 5
- JFK Moving Company — 4.34 / 5
- Inland Empire Movers — 4.36 / 5
- Golden West Moving Systems, Inc. — 4.38 / 5
- Burgess Moving and Storage — 4.42 / 5
VIP Transport, Inc.
Location: 2703 Wardlow Rd, Corona, CA 92882
Rating: 4.6 / 5 (95 Yelp reviews, 80 Google reviews)
BBB Grade: A+
License #: 0137029
Years in Business: 43
VIP Transport shows up consistently for the right reasons. Out of 244 customer reviews analyzed, 89% praised professional staff, reliable communication, and careful handling. People mention crews that move with intention—efficient but not rushed, with the kind of attention to detail you want on a 1,932-mile haul. That said, roughly 9% of feedback centers on damaged items and slow claims resolution, which is a gap worth noting if you're moving valuables.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, crating, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage, storage.
Phone: (951) 272-3700
JFK Moving Company
Location: 12125 Day St k403, Moreno Valley, CA 92557
Rating: 4.3 / 5 (244 Yelp reviews, 326 Google reviews)
BBB Grade: Not Rated
License #: 0191935
DOT #: 3079794
Years in Business: 6
JFK has traction with customers looking for speed paired with care. From 467 reviews, 92% highlight efficient service, meticulous packing, reliable communication, and prompt arrivals. The crew's diligent approach to handling items appeals to people who don't want to babysit the movers. Negative feedback (7%) points to occasional property damage and rare delays, which is typical for the industry but worth keeping in mind.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage.
Phone: (877) 671-3535
Inland Empire Movers
Location: 665 Center St #2, Riverside, CA 92507
Rating: 4.3 / 5 (546 Yelp reviews, 579 Google reviews)
BBB Grade: A+
DOT #: 1778475
Years in Business: 16
With 16 years in the business and consistently high volume of reviews, Inland Empire Movers has built a steady reputation. The volume of feedback alone tells you they're handling moves regularly and getting repeat business.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, storage.
Phone: (909) 922-0000
Golden West Moving Systems, Inc.
Location: 5455 24th St, Riverside, CA 92509
Rating: 4.3 / 5 (12 Yelp reviews, 7 Google reviews)
BBB Grade: A+
License #: 0190351
DOT #: 70719
Years in Business: 61
Golden West has 61 years on the books—that's longevity in an industry where companies come and go. Feedback emphasizes professional conduct, careful handling, and accurate estimates. About 88% of reviews are positive, with customers noting smooth long-distance moves and clear communication. The 13% negative feedback circles back to occasional property damage and limited coverage in some areas.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes.
Phone: (800) 548-2400
Burgess Moving and Storage
Location: 1625 Iowa Ave., Riverside, CA 92507
Rating: 4.4 / 5 (62 Yelp reviews)
BBB Grade: A+
License #: 0056647
DOT #: 070851
Years in Business: 78
Burgess has 78 years in the business. From 100 reviews analyzed, 86% praise professional and polite staff, careful handling, efficiency, and transparent communication. Customers emphasize how respectful the teams are and their ability to manage complex moves. The downside: 11% of feedback points to damage claims, poor communication, or unexpected charges—not uncommon, but something to watch for.
Services: Local, interstate, and international moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, art, crating, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing.
Phone: (951) 682-4300
Specialty services available in Moreno Valley
If you're moving items that need extra care—antiques, art, pianos—here's what's available locally:
| Service | Number of Movers | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 42 | 91.3% |
| Art handling | 28 | 60.87% |
| Piano moving | 34 | 73.91% |
| Antique handling | 27 | 58.7% |
| Fragile-only packing | 16 | 34.78% |
| Small moves | 15 | 32.61% |
What does it cost to move from Moreno Valley to Illinois?
Here's where the rubber meets the road. Moving costs vary dramatically based on home size and service level. These estimates are based on a 1,932-mile move and include typical fuel costs.
| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,198 – $4,673 | $1,069 – $2,645 | $1,014 – $1,974 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $3,239 – $6,599 | $1,983 – $3,992 | $1,097 – $2,472 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,788 – $10,796 | $2,582 – $5,539 | $1,457 – $2,876 |
A note on these numbers: They're built from verified quotes and updated monthly to account for seasonal trends. Your final quote will depend on move complexity, parking challenges, fuel, and timing. Always pull estimates from at least 3 movers to get a real picture.
Hiring professional movers
For a studio or one-bedroom apartment, expect $1,198 to $4,673. A 2–3 bedroom home runs $3,239 to $6,599. A large home (4+ bedrooms) typically costs $5,788 to $10,796. The wide range reflects differences in moving company overhead, packing options, and fuel costs.
Moving containers
If you want to avoid hiring a full-service crew, moving containers are a middle ground. Costs range from $1,069 to $2,645 for a small load, $1,983 to $3,992 for a 2–3 bedroom home, and $2,582 to $5,539 for larger relocations.
DIY truck rental
Rental trucks are the cheapest option—but you're loading, unloading, and driving 1,932 miles yourself. Studio/1-bedroom: $1,014–$1,974. 2–3 bedrooms: $1,097–$2,472. 4+ bedrooms: $1,457–$2,876. These figures include estimated fuel; actual costs depend on current gas prices and your truck's fuel economy.
Factors that shape your moving cost
Move size. More stuff = higher cost. This is the biggest lever you control. Declutter before you call movers.
Time of year. Summer is peak moving season nationwide. If you can move in spring or fall, you'll see lower prices.
Service level. DIY is cheapest but demands physical labor and risk. Full-service is most expensive but transfers the burden to professionals. Containers split the difference.
Distance and route specifics. Longer distances cost more, but moving companies on busy routes (like California to Illinois) often have better pricing due to competition.
What to expect: Moreno Valley vs. Illinois
Before you pack, it helps to understand what you're moving into. Illinois and California are vastly different places.
Cost of living breakdown
| Metric | Moreno Valley, CA | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,550 | $1,179 |
| Average home price | $549,363 | $249,224 |
| Per capita income | $73,635 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 131 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.1% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 4.95% |
The headline: You'll pay roughly 54% less for rent in Illinois. Housing costs are about 55% lower. Illinois income tax is 63% lower than California's. These are real savings that add up fast.
However, Illinois salaries are about 7% higher on average—more opportunity, better job market. Unemployment is 42% lower in Illinois, suggesting healthier economic conditions overall.
Climate and lifestyle differences
| Factor | Moreno Valley, CA | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Summer high | 97°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 38°F | 17°F |
| Annual rainfall | 12" | 40" |
| Annual snowfall | 0" | 22" |
| Crime index | 40.24 | 19.7 |
| Population | 208,634 | 12,549,689 |
What this means in practice:
Illinois summers are cooler—less oppressive heat, lower AC bills. Winters are harsh: 17°F lows, 22 inches of snow annually. If you've never dealt with snow removal and icy roads, prepare for the learning curve.
Illinois gets 40 inches of rain per year vs. Moreno Valley's 12 inches. You'll need waterproof gear and tolerance for gray skies.
Crime is significantly lower in Illinois (index 19.7 vs. 40.24). Illinois is also vastly more populated—12.5 million vs. 208,000 in Moreno Valley. Big state, more urban density, especially around Chicago.
Before you move: regulations and logistics
Moving involves more than just booking a truck. Here's the checklist:
State licensing. Illinois requires moving companies to hold a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Illinois Commerce Commission for household goods moves. Confirm your mover's license is current before signing anything.
Elevator reservation. If your building has an elevator, reserve it now. Don't leave this to move day.
Parking permits. Some Illinois cities require permits for moving trucks. Check local requirements before the move.
Address change. Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This ensures mail forwarding works smoothly.
Moving insurance. Standard coverage (Released Value Protection) is 60 cents per pound—practically nothing for most items. If you own valuables, discuss full-replacement coverage with your mover or get a third-party policy.
Utility transfers. Contact Illinois utilities (electric, gas, water) to set up service. If you're leaving Moreno Valley utilities, schedule disconnection for after move day.
HOA rules. If your current or future residence has HOA restrictions, check the rules around moving day logistics. Some buildings require advance notice or limit truck access.
Use a moving checklist to stay organized and avoid surprises.
What to do in Illinois
You're moving to one of the nation's most vibrant states. Here's what's waiting:
Museums and culture
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Caterpillar Visitors Center
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
State parks
- Starved Rock State Park
- Matthiessen State Park
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Pere Marquette State Park
Professional sports
- Chicago Cubs and White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
- Chicago Sky (WNBA)
Universities
- University of Chicago
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Northwestern University
- University of Illinois at Chicago
FAQ
How long does a move from Moreno Valley to Illinois take?
Expect 5 to 16 days depending on your moving company and service level. Summer moves may take longer due to higher demand. Confirm delivery timelines with your mover in writing to avoid surprises.
How many movers in Moreno Valley offer custom crating?
35 movers in the Moreno Valley area can handle custom crating for art, antiques, and other delicate items. If you need special handling, confirm capability before booking.
What's the best way to ship a car?
For a vehicle move from Moreno Valley to Illinois, use a car shipping service that prioritizes care and has proven experience. Get multiple quotes and verify insurance coverage.
Why are people moving to Illinois?
Cost of living, job market, lower taxes, and access to Chicago's cultural and economic opportunities drive people eastward from California. The trade-off: colder winters and more weather variability.
Can I find movers that accept cash?
16 movers in Moreno Valley accept cash, but it's uncommon in the industry. Most prefer traceable payments (credit card, ACH, check). You'll typically pay a deposit upfront to secure your booking, with the balance due at pickup or delivery.
Get moving
You've got your top movers, cost estimates, and a clearer picture of life in Illinois. Next step: use the calculator to estimate your specific move, then pull quotes from at least 3 companies. Compare not just price but timeline, coverage, and customer feedback—that's how you find the right fit.
Ready to move? Start collecting quotes now.