Top Movers in St. Petersburg for Your Move to Illinois
I've reviewed 41 interstate movers operating out of St. Petersburg, and here are the five I'd actually recommend if you're heading to Illinois.
- Big Man's Moving Company, LLC — 4.78 / 5
- Let's Get Moving, Inc. — 4.66 / 5
- 2 College Brothers Moving and Storage — 4.42 / 5
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving — 4.48 / 5
- Brothers EZ Moving — 4.62 / 5
Big Man's Moving Company, LLC
4.7 / 5 | Yelp (112 reviews) | Google (727 reviews) | BBB Grade A−
4860 E Bay Dr, Clearwater, FL 33764
Review breakdown: 83% positive, 15% negative
Big Man's stands out for hands-on, efficient crews and genuine attention to detail. After analyzing 336 reviews, I found that 83% of customers praised the professionalism, clear communication, and careful handling—especially the speed without cutting corners. Most noted transparent pricing and respectful staff.
The downsides: about 15% reported damage to items, higher-than-quoted final bills, and difficulty getting damage claims resolved. A few mentioned late arrivals or poor follow-up after problems.
Bottom line: Big Man's excels at the actual move itself. If you lock down your estimate terms upfront and document everything, you'll likely have a smooth experience.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, safes. Cash and credit card payments accepted.
License #: 2951960 | DOT #: 2951960 | Years in business: 8
Get a Quote: (727) 772-3458
Let's Get Moving, Inc.
4.6 / 5 | Yelp (30 reviews) | Google (383 reviews) | BBB Grade A+
6599 Haines Rd N, St. Petersburg, FL 33702
Review breakdown: 96% positive, 4% negative
Let's Get Moving is the standout on this list. Out of 243 reviews, 233 were positive—that's nearly 96% satisfaction. Customers consistently rave about speed, professionalism, and careful handling. Punctuality and damage-free deliveries are the norm. Staff are honest and approachable.
Only about 4% reported problems: mainly damaged items or unexpected charges. Given the volume of positive feedback, that's minimal.
Bottom line: If you want the most reliable crew on this route, Let's Get Moving delivers.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, art, antiques, crating, storage. Cash and credit card payments accepted.
License #: 2270761 | DOT #: 2270761 | Years in business: 20
Get a Quote: (727) 532-9080
2 College Brothers Moving and Storage
4.4 / 5 | Yelp (1 review) | Google (54 reviews) | BBB Grade A+
3125 Moorings Drive South, St. Petersburg, FL 33712
Review breakdown: 97% positive, 3% negative
This outfit delivers exceptional professionalism and efficiency. With a 97% positive rating across reviews, customers highlight polite movers, careful handling, and quick processes. Prompt arrivals, clear communication, and transparent pricing set them apart.
Only one review flagged inexperienced staff and damage—a rarity compared to the typical moving company.
Bottom line: Consistent, superior service that typically exceeds expectations.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, crating, storage. Credit card payments accepted.
License #: 2106 | DOT #: 2787568 | Years in business: 11
Get a Quote: (727) 291-1631
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
4.4 / 5 | Yelp (86 reviews) | Google (1,356 reviews) | BBB Grade A−
13801 66th St N, Largo, FL 33771
Review breakdown: 82% positive, 18% negative
Most customers praise professionalism, efficiency, and speed. Staff are polite, respectful, and go out of their way to prevent damage. Quick booking, timely arrivals, and transparent cost explanations are strengths.
The catch: about 17% reported damaged items and trouble getting management to respond or resolve claims. Some cited costs exceeding their quotes. Management follow-up is the weak spot.
Bottom line: Expect a courteous, efficient crew. Just double-check your quote in writing and keep photos of your items before loading.
Services: Local moves, packing, unpacking, offices, storage. Credit card payments accepted.
DOT #: 2378173 | Years in business: 8
Get a Quote: (336) 810-1801
Brothers EZ Moving
4.6 / 5 | Google (456 reviews) | BBB Grade B−
7851 US-301, Riverview, FL 33578
Review breakdown: 86% positive, 12% negative
Brothers EZ Moving earns strong marks for careful handling, professionalism, and fair pricing. Out of 213 reviews analyzed, 86% praised their speed, respect for property, and friendly crews. Punctual arrivals and lower-than-expected bills are common positives.
The 12% negative feedback centers on property damage, unexpected overages, and weak claim handling. A few mentioned scratched furniture or inadequate wrapping.
Bottom line: Good option if you value transparent rates and satisfied repeat clients, but damage resolution isn't their strength.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage. Cash, money order, and credit card payments accepted.
DOT #: 2349033 | Years in business: 13
Get a Quote: (813) 299-2907
What Movers in St. Petersburg Offer
At a glance, here's what specialty services are available among local operators:
- Interstate moves: 31 companies (75.6%)
- Pianos: 31 companies (75.6%)
- Antiques: 21 companies (51.2%)
- Art: 20 companies (48.8%)
- Small moves: 23 companies (56.1%)
- Fragile-only packing: 7 companies (17.1%)
How Much Does It Cost to Move from St. Petersburg to Illinois?
Here's what you can expect to pay for a 1,165-mile move from St. Petersburg, FL to Illinois, based on home size and service type.
| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $961–$3,958 | $875–$2,016 | $702–$1,362 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,321–$5,258 | $1,492–$3,049 | $736–$1,524 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,568–$6,847 | $2,080–$4,113 | $971–$1,993 |
These ranges reflect pricing data as of January 2026, compiled from thousands of verified moving company quotes nationwide. Actual costs vary based on exact move scope, add-on services, parking constraints, fuel fluctuations, and timing. I always recommend getting multiple quotes for accuracy.
Breaking Down Your Options
Full-Service Movers
Moving a studio or one-bedroom from St. Petersburg to Illinois typically runs $961 to $3,958. If you've got two or three bedrooms, expect $2,321 to $5,258. For a four- or five-bedroom home, plan on $3,568 to $6,847.
The wide range reflects differences in crew experience, timing (peak vs. off-season), and whether you're packing yourself or hiring packers.
Moving Containers
Containers like PODS give you flexibility—load at your pace, have it shipped when ready. For a small load (studio/1-bed), expect $875 to $2,016. Two or three bedrooms run $1,492 to $3,049. Larger homes (4+) fall between $2,080 and $4,113.
Containers work well if you need extra time packing or want to avoid the pressure of a fixed moving day.
Truck Rentals
Renting a truck is the cheapest route—$702 to $1,362 for a studio or one-bedroom (including fuel)—but you're doing all the loading, driving, and unloading yourself. Two- or three-bedroom moves run $736 to $1,524. Four-plus bedrooms, $971 to $1,993.
This option makes sense if you have help, aren't moving valuables that need professional care, and have time on your hands.
What Drives the Price Tag
Move size: Larger homes mean more items, heavier loads, and more crew hours.
Seasonality: Summer (May–September) is peak moving season. You'll pay premium rates. Moving in fall or winter saves money, though weather can create delays.
DIY vs. professional: Renting a truck costs less upfront, but labor-intensive moves can eat your time and risk damage. Professional movers charge more but shoulder the risk and work efficiently.
Distance and route: A 1,165-mile haul from St. Petersburg to Illinois isn't as brutal as cross-country, but it's far enough that costs add up. Fuel, crew hours, and overnight stops all factor in.
Cost of Living: St. Petersburg vs. Illinois
Rent: Illinois is about 43% cheaper. St. Petersburg averages $2,075/month; Illinois, $1,179.
Home prices: Illinois homes run about 31% less. St. Petersburg average: $360,584; Illinois: $249,224.
Income: Illinois wages are roughly 22% higher. St. Petersburg per capita: $64,374; Illinois: $78,433.
Overall cost of living: Illinois is about 13% cheaper (index: 90 vs. 103 in St. Petersburg), leaving room in your budget.
Taxes: Here's the catch—Florida has no state income tax, but Illinois collects 4.95%. This eats into that higher wage advantage.
Jobs: Unemployment in Illinois runs 15% higher (5.3% vs. 4.6%), so expect more competition for roles.
Lifestyle Differences
Weather & Climate
St. Petersburg summers hit 90°F; Illinois hits 86°F. Both are warm, though humidity differs.
Winters are where you'll feel the shift: St. Petersburg bottoms out around 53°F, while Illinois drops to 17°F. You'll need heating gear, and your heating bills will rise.
St. Petersburg gets 51 inches of rain annually and zero snow. Illinois averages 40 inches of rain and 22 inches of snow. Expect winter scenery and seasonal activities—plus shoveling and upkeep.
Population & Politics
St. Petersburg: 259,343 residents, leans Democratic (49.8% vs. 48.3% Republican).
Illinois: 12.5 million residents, leans Democratic (55% vs. 45% Republican).
Both skew left, so political culture won't shock you. But Illinois is far more populous and urban-centered around Chicago.
Safety
Crime index in Illinois: 19.7. St. Petersburg: 39.54.
Illinois has notably lower crime, which generally translates to safer neighborhoods and greater sense of security.
Before You Move: Practical Checklist
State regulations: Illinois movers handling interstate and intrastate moves must hold a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Illinois Commerce Commission. Verify your mover's license on the state regulator's site before booking.
Parking permits: Some Illinois cities require permits for large moving trucks. Check your destination city's parking rules ahead of time.
Elevator reservation: If you're in a multi-unit building, reserve the elevator for moving day.
HOA rules: Check your new community's policies on moving trucks, timing, and access.
Address change: File a USPS change of address form at least one week before your move at usps.com. You can choose your official move date to ensure seamless mail forwarding.
Moving insurance: Florida and Illinois have different liability standards. Released Value Protection (basic coverage) is free but only covers 60 cents per pound. For full-value coverage matching your items' actual worth, ask your mover about options or consider a third-party provider.
Moving permits: Illinois doesn't require a moving permit, but always confirm local parking policies with your city.
Use our moving checklist to stay organized and catch the details before moving day.
What to Explore 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 & Outdoors
- 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
FAQ
How long does the move take?
A St. Petersburg–to–Illinois move typically takes 2 to 8 days, depending on service type and exact destination. Summer peak season may add a few days. Ask your mover for a specific delivery window before booking.
Do St. Petersburg movers offer custom crating?
Yes. I track 27 movers in St. Petersburg offering custom crating for art, antiques, and sensitive electronics. Confirm that your mover's materials and dimensions match your item's requirements.
How do I ship a car?
For auto transport from St. Petersburg to Illinois, hire specialists who treat vehicles with care and handle every step professionally. Compare car shipping quotes to find the right fit.
Why are people moving to Illinois?
Chicago's economic opportunities, cultural attractions, and job market drive relocations. The lower cost of living and safer communities also appeal, though winters are a real adjustment.
Where do I find long-distance movers?
Start by comparing quotes to see what's available on your route. The movers ranked above are solid starting points, but always get 3–5 estimates.
What payment methods are accepted?
About 12 movers in St. Petersburg accept cash, though it's not common industry-wide. Most require a deposit upfront (traceable methods preferred), with the balance due at pickup or delivery. Confirm payment terms and schedule with your mover before signing.
Other Resources
Moving guides & tips
Popular routes from St. Petersburg
- St. Petersburg to California
- St. Petersburg to Georgia
- Florida to Illinois routes
- Florida to New York
- Florida to Texas
- Florida to North Carolina
- Florida to Pennsylvania
- Florida to Ohio
Other movers & services
- Best long-distance movers
- Affordable moving options
- Moving containers
- Truck rentals
- Car shipping companies
Still Looking for Answers?
If this doesn't cover your question, we've got guides on nearly everything moving-related:
- Moving cost calculator
- Best interstate movers
- Full-service movers
- Local movers
- Military movers
Get your free quote and compare prices from top-rated movers serving St. Petersburg to Illinois.