va to chicago

---
title: "Moving from Virginia to Chicago, IL: Costs, Top Movers & What to Expect"
description: "Planning a move from Virginia to Chicago? Real cost estimates, top-rated movers, and honest advice for your 738-mile Virginia to Illinois relocation."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Virginia to Chicago", "Virginia to Chicago movers", "cost to move Virginia to Chicago", "Virginia to Illinois moving", "Chicago moving companies", "long distance movers Virginia", "Virginia to Chicago moving cost"]
---

If you're moving from [Virginia](/movers/virginia) to Chicago, you're covering roughly 738 miles. That's a real interstate move — long enough that picking the wrong mover or misjudging costs can turn an already stressful situation into a genuinely bad one.

Below I've laid out the top-rated Virginia movers for this route, real cost ranges across service types, and an honest look at what changes when you trade Virginia for [Illinois](/movers/illinois). No fluff — just what you actually need to know before moving day.

---

## Top Virginia movers for the Chicago route

Out of 88 Virginia-based moving companies that handle interstate moves, these five earn the best marks for relocations to Chicago.

### BoxStar Movers

**4.52 / 5** | Arlington, VA (4075 Wilson Blvd, Suite 800)
[Yelp (118 reviews)](https://www.yelp.com/biz/boxstar-movers-arlington-3) · [Google (651 reviews)](https://www.google.com/search?q=BoxStar+Movers+%28Arlington%2C+VA%29&sca_esv=57d8511846311b1a&ei=B4x5aL2MO9S64-EPsbfxIQ&ved=0ahUKEwj9q9LHisWOAxVU3TgGHbFbPAQQ4dUDCBA) · [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/va/arlington/profile/moving-services/boxstar-movers-0241-236064709)

**99% positive** across 669 reviews analyzed.

**Rate:** $145/hr | **DOT #:** 3455884 | **In business:** 4 years

That 99% positive rate across nearly 700 reviews is genuinely hard to dismiss — at that volume, it reflects something real. The pattern in the reviews: crews show up on time, communicate clearly, move fast, and handle items carefully. Pricing is transparent upfront, which matters more than people realize until they get an unexpected bill from a competitor.

Worth knowing: BoxStar is a newer company. Some negative reviews mention damage during packing or less-experienced crew members on certain jobs. If you're moving fragile or high-value items, have that conversation before the truck shows up.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes. Accepts cash and credit.

---

### Great Job Moving and Storage

**4.5 / 5** | Woodbridge, VA (15005 Farm Creek Dr, Unit 106)
[Yelp (109 reviews)](https://www.yelp.com/biz/great-job-moving-and-storage-woodbridge) · [Google (468 reviews)](https://www.google.com/search?q=great+job+moving+and+storage+woodbridge+va&rlz=1C1VDKB_enPH1029PH1029&oq=Great+Job+Moving+and+Storage+woodridge+&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqCQgBECEYChigATIGCAAQRRg5MgkIARAhGAoYoAEyCQgCECEYChigATIJCAMQIRgKGKAB0gEINjQzOGowajeoAgCwAgA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#lrd=0x89b7ad2151f3be17:0x367f19925f7974b5,1,,,,) · [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/va/woodbridge/profile/moving-companies/great-job-moving-and-storage-0241-235987166)

**71% positive, 27% negative** across 340+ reviews analyzed.

**DOT #:** 2041911 | **In business:** 15 years

Fifteen years in the industry and a 4.5-star average sounds solid — but the 71% positive / 27% negative split is a yellow flag I'd take seriously. That complaint rate is higher than you'll see from the best operators. The recurring issues: final bills that exceed the quoted price, unexpected charges, and slow follow-up when damage occurs.

The positives are real — efficient crews, courteous service, competitive pricing when the estimate actually holds. If you book here, get everything in writing: the itemized quote, your delivery window, and the claims process.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, storage.

---

### Flex Moving & Storage

**3.98 / 5** | Alexandria, VA (211 N Union St, Suite 132)
[BBB: NR](https://www.bbb.org/us/fl/clearwater/profile/portable-storage-units/flex-moving-storage-0653-90449193)

**98% positive** across 125 reviews analyzed.

**DOT #:** 3610638 | **In business:** 3 years

Flex has a thinner track record than the others here — 125 data points is a small sample for an interstate move — but 98% positive is difficult to ignore. Customers consistently highlight professional crews, careful handling, transparent pricing, and moves that finish ahead of schedule. A small number of complaints involve billing discrepancies or estimates that came in lower than the final charge.

The three-year age is the main caution. Less history means less predictability, especially on a complex 738-mile move. Worth getting a quote, but verify the pricing structure carefully before committing.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, storage. Accepts cash and credit.

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### My Pro Movers

**4.66 / 5** | McLean, VA (8370 Greensboro Dr, Apt 817)
[Yelp (99 reviews)](https://www.yelp.com/biz/mypromovers-mclean-2) · [Google (5,359 reviews)](https://www.google.com/search?q=My+Pro+Movers+8370+Greensboro+Dr+%23+817%2C+McLean%2C+VA%2C+22102&oq=My+Pro+Movers+8370+Greensboro+Dr+%23+817%2C+McLean%2C+VA%2C+22102&aqs=chrome..69i57j33i299.1188j0j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8) · [BBB: A−](https://www.bbb.org/us/va/mclean/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/mypromovers-0241-236027598)

**93% positive** across 353 reviews analyzed.

**DOT #:** 3116640 | **In business:** 7 years

Over 5,300 Google reviews at a 4.66 average — at that volume, the rating actually means something. My Pro Movers earns consistent praise for speed, careful handling, and experienced crews. The 5% negative feedback clusters almost entirely around estimate accuracy: customers quoted one number and billed another. When booking, I'd push specifically for a binding estimate rather than a non-binding one and get it confirmed in writing.

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes. Accepts cash and credit. Deposit required.

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### Around Town Movers

**4.64 / 5** | Sterling, VA (101 International Dr, Suite 120)
[Yelp (75 reviews)](https://www.yelp.com/biz/around-town-movers-sterling) · [Google (1,035 reviews)](https://www.google.com/search?q=Around+Town+Movers+Sterling,+VA&source=lmns&bih=809&biw=1707&rlz=1C1VDKB_enPH1057PH1057&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiv-8fL-Pb-AhVzEVkFHXbiCQIQ0pQJKAB6BAgBEAI#lrd=0x89b638611481b20d:0x337868be7377a16b,1,,,,) · [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/va/dulles/profile/moving-companies/around-town-movers-0241-235993765)

**93% positive** across 303 reviews analyzed.

**DOT #:** 2294507 | **State license #:** 2294507 | **In business:** 18 years

The most experienced operation on this list by a wide margin. Eighteen years in business tends to show in the reviews — 93% positive across 1,000+ Google reviews, with recurring praise for on-time arrival, transparent pricing, and careful handling. Fewer damage and reliability complaints than most competitors in the region. When problems do appear, they center on communication lapses and claim handling, which is typical for the industry and less frequent here than average.

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage. Accepts cash and credit. Deposit required.

---

## What it costs to move from Virginia to Chicago

Use the [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a sharper estimate for your specific situation — the ranges below are based on the 738-mile route as of January 2026, and your actual number moves based on shipment volume, services, access at either address, and timing.

| Move size | Professional movers | Moving container | Rental truck |
|-----------|--------------------|--------------------|--------------|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,018 – $3,652 | $731 – $1,720 | $491 – $960 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,047 – $4,896 | $1,278 – $2,607 | $568 – $1,128 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,574 – $7,228 | $1,730 – $3,163 | $703 – $1,408 |

*Fuel costs are factored into truck rental estimates. Always compare at least three quotes before committing to a mover.*

### Hiring professional movers: Virginia to Chicago costs

For a studio or one-bedroom, expect $1,018 to $3,652 with professional movers. Two- to three-bedroom moves typically run $2,047 to $4,896. Moving a four-bedroom home or larger lands in the $3,574 to $7,228 range. That's a wide spread — the gap between low and high is driven by shipment weight, whether packing is included, and how the mover structures their pricing.

For a route this length, I'd recommend collecting at least three quotes from [long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) before deciding. National carriers like [Safe Ship Moving](/company/safe-ship-moving) are worth including in that comparison alongside local operators — they handle interstate routes like this regularly and can be competitive on price.

### Moving containers from Virginia to Chicago

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) split the difference between DIY and full service — you do the packing, they handle the haul. Small moves (studio or one bedroom) run $731 to $1,720. Two to three bedrooms comes in at $1,278 to $2,607. Larger homes land between $1,730 and $3,163.

The practical advantage: most container companies give you flexible loading time before the truck departs, which takes pressure off moving day. Good option if you want control over packing without driving 738 miles yourself.

### Truck rental from Virginia to Chicago

[Rental trucks](/best/truck-rentals) are the cheapest entry point: $491 to $960 for a small move, $568 to $1,128 for two to three bedrooms, $703 to $1,408 for larger homes. But "cheapest" assumes your time and energy cost nothing. At 738 miles, you're looking at a solid two-day drive. Add your own labor, fuel, lodging, and physical wear — for many people, the cost gap between a rental and a container closes faster than expected.

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## How these Virginia movers compare side by side

| Company | Full service | Antiques | Military discount | Senior discount |
|---------|-------------|----------|------------------|----------------|
| BoxStar Movers | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Great Job Moving and Storage | ✓ | — | — | — |
| Flex Moving & Storage | ✓ | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| My Pro Movers | ✓ | — | — | — |
| Around Town Movers | ✓ | ✓ | — | — |

For context: among [Virginia movers](/movers/virginia) overall, about 98% offer full-service moves — slightly above the 96% national average. Military and senior discounts, however, lag behind the national average (2% vs. 4% and 1% vs. 4%, respectively). If a discount applies to you, ask about it before getting a quote — it won't always be advertised.

---

## What to know before you move from Virginia to Chicago

Here's how Chicago stacks up against Virginia on the numbers that actually shape daily life.

### Cost of living: Virginia vs. Chicago

|  | Virginia | Chicago |
|--|----------|---------|
| Average rent | $1,440/mo | $2,045/mo |
| Average home price | $392,682 | $295,743 |
| Per capita income | $87,249 | $71,566 |
| Cost of living index | 100 | 106 |
| Unemployment rate | 2.9% | 9.0% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 4.95% |

*Sources: World Population Review, Zillow, Zumper, US Census Bureau, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation*

The headline numbers:

- **Rent is about 42% more expensive in Chicago.** If you're renting, adjust your housing budget before you start searching.
- **Home prices run roughly 25% lower.** If you're buying, your dollar goes further in Chicago than it did in Virginia.
- **Per capita income is about 18% lower.** If you're job-hunting after the move, research Chicago salary ranges for your field before accepting an offer.
- **Unemployment is significantly higher** — 9.0% versus Virginia's 2.9%. Start networking before the boxes are unpacked if your job situation isn't already secured.
- **Illinois income tax is slightly lower** — 4.95% versus Virginia's 5.75%. Small difference, but it's something.

### Life in Chicago vs. Virginia

|  | Chicago | Virginia |
|--|---------|---------|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 8,715,698 |
| Political lean | Democrat (74–24) | Democratic (52–48) |
| Summer high | 84°F | 87°F |
| Winter low | 19°F | 25°F |
| Annual rain | 38" | 44" |
| Annual snow | 35" | 14" |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 19.3 |

*Sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces*

What that data actually means for your move:

- **Summers are comparable.** Chicago peaks around 84°F, Virginia around 87°F. You'll adjust quickly.
- **Winters are legitimately colder.** Chicago's 19°F lows versus Virginia's 25°F might look close on paper, but wind chill turns those numbers into something else entirely. Budget for higher heating bills and gear up accordingly.
- **Less rain, significantly more snow.** Chicago gets about 38 inches of rain annually (below Virginia's 44"), but triples Virginia's snowfall at 35 inches versus 14 inches. Winter driving habits will need a real adjustment.
- **Crime rates are higher.** A crime index of 35.19 versus Virginia's 19.3 is a real gap. That said, Chicago has enormous variation between neighborhoods — research specific areas before committing to a location.

### Things to do in Chicago

Chicago earns its reputation as a world-class city. There's genuine depth here once you're settled.

**Museums**
- The Field Museum
- Shedd Aquarium
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Chicago History Museum
- Museum of Contemporary Art

**Parks**
- Millennium Park
- Grant Park
- The 606 trail
- Lincoln Park
- Garfield Park

**Sports teams**
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)

**Universities**
- University of Illinois at Chicago
- Northeastern Illinois University
- Northern Illinois University
- Chicago State University
- Governors State University

### Practical logistics for your Chicago move

A few things worth handling before moving day:

- **HOA rules:** Review your new building or community guidelines before you show up with a truck. Rules around move-in hours and elevator use vary widely.
- **Elevator reservation:** Chicago high-rises typically require advance booking for the service elevator. Confirm this with building management — don't assume it's available on your schedule.
- **Parking permits:** Some Chicago neighborhoods require a permit for moving trucks. Check local regulations before your move date to avoid a fine on top of everything else.
- **State licensing:** Illinois movers handling in-state and local work need a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Illinois Commerce Commission. Verify your mover's license is current before you sign anything.
- **License check:** You can look up Illinois moving licenses directly on the state regulator's website.
- **Change of address:** File your USPS change of address at least a week before your move date — you can set a specific forwarding start date so mail routes properly.
- **Mover's insurance:** Basic released value protection covers 60 cents per pound, which is essentially worthless if a piece of furniture gets damaged. Ask about full-valuation coverage or consider a third-party insurance policy for anything irreplaceable.
- **Moving checklist:** Use the [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to make sure nothing slips through the cracks in the week before your move.

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## Common questions about moving Virginia to Chicago

### How long does a move from Virginia to Chicago take?

Loading typically takes less than a day regardless of the method. For the drive itself, budget one to two days behind the wheel on a truck rental — the route runs 738 miles, and if you're starting from Northern Virginia, you're looking at nine to ten hours of drive time before stops. Professional movers and container companies generally deliver within a few days to two weeks on an interstate run. Ask specifically for a delivery window when you book.

### How far in advance should I book movers for a Virginia to Chicago move?

Book as soon as your dates are confirmed. Two to three months out is the realistic target. Summer and early fall are peak season — if you're moving during those months, earlier is better. Last-minute availability on an interstate route typically means either limited crew quality or significantly higher prices.

### What's the cheapest time of year to move from Virginia to Chicago?

Peak season runs roughly May through August, when demand drives prices up. Chicago winters (19°F lows, heavy snow) naturally reduce demand in January and February, which creates pricing opportunities. Late fall and winter moves can come in notably cheaper — just factor in weather risk and what that does to your delivery timeline.

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## More Virginia moving resources

A few useful starting points before you finalize your plan:

- [Virginia movers](/movers/virginia) — overview of the Virginia moving market
- [Illinois movers](/movers/illinois) — what to know about the destination state
- [Moving cost guide](/resources/moving-cost-guide) — how interstate pricing actually works
- [How to choose a mover](/resources/how-to-choose-a-mover) — what to look for beyond star ratings
- [Long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) — national carriers worth considering for this route
- [Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) — if you want to pack yourself and skip the truck
- [Truck rentals](/best/truck-rentals) — DIY options compared
- [Cheap movers](/best/cheap-movers) — how to find competitive pricing without cutting corners
- [Car shipping](/best/car-shipping) — if you'd rather not drive your vehicle to Chicago

The cost ranges in this guide give you a useful baseline. For a sharper estimate specific to your home size, services, and moving date, run the numbers through the [moving cost calculator](/calculator).