Top movers for Fort Worth to Illinois moves
If you're moving from Fort Worth to Illinois, you've got options. Out of 62 Fort Worth movers handling out-of-state relocations, here are the ones that consistently deliver solid results for this route.
- Element Moving and Storage — 4.86 / 5
- Olde World Movers — 4.62 / 5
- Firefighting's Finest Moving & Storage — 4.62 / 5
- All My Sons Moving & Storage — 4.56 / 5
- Simple Moving Labor — 4.52 / 5
Olde World Movers
4.6 / 5 stars | 420 Throckmorton St #200, Fort Worth, TX 76102
93% positive reviews | Yelp | Google | BBB A+
Olde World earns genuine praise from customers. Over 290 reviews highlight fast, careful work and consistently professional teams. People consistently mention minimal damage, transparent communication, and efficient booking. The main weakness: when problems do occur (damaged or missing items), their follow-up and claims process sometimes falters.
What they offer: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, specialty items (pianos, art, antiques), crating, storage, credit card payment.
State license: 006273576C | Years in business: 36 | DOT #: 1844729
Get a quote: (817) 406-6518
Firefighting's Finest Moving & Storage
4.6 / 5 stars | 3101 Reagan Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76116
85% positive reviews | Yelp | Google | BBB A+
Firefighting's Finest builds its reputation on speed and care. Across 341 customer reviews, crews consistently earn praise for quick work, attention to detail, and professional demeanor. Communication stays clear from booking through delivery. The downsides are predictable: some customers report unexpected charges or damage, and reaching support after problems can be difficult.
What they offer: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office moves, specialty items (pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, grandfather clocks), crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, money order/cash/credit card payment, DOD certified.
State license: 006279747C | Years in business: 23 | DOT #: 2783472
Get a quote: (817) 737-7800
All My Sons Moving & Storage
4.5 / 5 stars | 600 Railhead Rd., Suite 220, Fort Worth, TX 76106
38% positive reviews | Yelp | Google | BBB A
All My Sons splits opinion sharply. The positive side: crews are efficient, professional, and often go above and beyond. The negative side is harder to ignore. Across 575 reviews, 60% report serious issues—primarily unexpected charges far exceeding initial quotes, damaged belongings, late arrivals, and missed appointments. Hidden fees and billing surprises dominate complaints. Get everything in writing before you commit.
What they offer: Local, interstate, and international moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, antiques, crating, storage, safes, credit card payment.
State license: 006677527C | Years in business: 26 | DOT #: 902281
Get a quote: (817) 813-8611
Element Moving and Storage
4.8 / 5 stars | 12011 Denton Dr., Dallas, TX 75234
92% positive reviews | Yelp | Google | BBB A+
Element stands out for consistency. With 251 reviews analyzed and 92% positive feedback, customers highlight efficient service, strong communication, and careful handling. Teams move fast and stay organized. The trade-off: complex or long-distance moves sometimes see damage or lost items, and claims responsiveness lags behind their initial service quality.
What they offer: Local, interstate, and international moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, safes, multiple payment methods.
State license: 006519926C | Years in business: 14 | DOT #: 2038052
Get a quote: (972) 805-0988
Simple Moving Labor
4.5 / 5 stars | 3700 Rufe Snow Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76180
37% positive reviews | Yelp | Google | BBB A+
Simple Moving Labor receives more negative feedback than most. Of 446 reviews, 61% cite serious problems: frequent damage, crews arriving late or not at all, and poor follow-up. When things go right, teams are professional and organized. When they don't, resolution is unlikely. This is a riskier choice if protecting your belongings is the priority.
What they offer: Local, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, crating, storage, safes, cash and credit card payment, DOD certified.
State license: 009367518C | Years in business: 17
Get a quote: (866) 767-5348
Local moving services in Fort Worth
At a glance, specialty services among Fort Worth movers:
- Interstate moves: 43 movers (69%)
- Small moves: 42 movers (68%)
- Antiques: 34 movers (55%)
- Art: 31 movers (50%)
- Pianos: 40 movers (65%)
- Fragile-only packing: 15 movers (24%)
Cost to move from Fort Worth to Illinois
The 818-mile haul from Fort Worth to Illinois breaks down like this, depending on your home size and service type:
| Move size | Full-service mover | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,153 – $4,051 | $756 – $1,779 | $520 – $1,041 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,332 – $5,418 | $1,253 – $2,676 | $555 – $1,177 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,744 – $7,387 | $1,753 – $3,492 | $725 – $1,500 |
These are approximations based on current pricing data. Your actual cost depends on load size, extra services, parking access, fuel prices, and move date. Get quotes from multiple movers to validate pricing for your specific situation.
Cost to hire movers from Fort Worth to Illinois
Full-service movers are the most convenient option but also the priciest. A studio or one-bedroom move runs $1,153 to $4,051. Two to three bedrooms: $2,332 to $5,418. A large four-plus-bedroom move: $3,744 to $7,387. These prices reflect the crew, truck, fuel, and basic insurance.
Cost of moving containers from Fort Worth to Illinois
Container services like PODS let you load at your own pace. A small move typically costs $756 to $1,779. Two to three bedrooms: $1,253 to $2,676. Larger homes: $1,753 to $3,492. You get flexibility, but you're responsible for loading and unloading. Explore affordable moving container options to compare providers.
Cost of rental truck moves from Fort Worth to Illinois
The budget option—you rent the truck, pack, and drive. Studio or one-bedroom: $520 to $1,041. Two to three bedrooms: $555 to $1,177. Four-plus bedrooms: $725 to $1,500. Fuel costs are included. The catch: you do all the heavy lifting yourself. This works for smaller loads or if you have friends willing to help.
Factors influencing moving costs from Fort Worth to Illinois
Several variables shift your final bill:
- Move size: More items and larger homes cost more. Layout matters too—tight staircases or narrow doorways mean slower work and higher fees.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Fort Worth. Expect higher rates June through August. Winter moves are cheaper but might complicate weather logistics heading north.
- DIY vs. professional: Handling the move yourself saves money but takes time and physical effort. Hiring pros costs more but eliminates stress.
- Extra services: Packing, unpacking, specialty item handling (pianos, art), storage, and insurance all add to the total.
What to expect when moving from Fort Worth to Illinois
Relocating from Fort Worth to Illinois often means a lifestyle shift—and potentially a financial one too. Illinois generally has lower rent and home costs than Fort Worth, which can ease your budget. But there are trade-offs: winters are harsher, taxes work differently, and the job market differs.
Cost of living: Fort Worth vs. Illinois
| Metric | Fort Worth, TX | Illinois | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,773 | $1,179 | 34% lower in IL |
| Average home price | $298,372 | $249,224 | 16% lower in IL |
| Average income (per capita) | $65,237 | $78,433 | 20% higher in IL |
| Cost of living index | 102 | 90 | 12% lower in IL |
| Unemployment rate | 3.6% | 5.3% | 47% higher in IL |
| State income tax | 0% | 4.95% | Illinois taxes income |
What this means:
- Rent drops about 34% in Illinois, freeing up breathing room in your monthly budget.
- Home prices are roughly 16% lower, easing the mortgage burden.
- Income potential is about 20% higher, giving you more room to save or invest.
- Overall cost of living is 12% cheaper, freeing up money for savings or lifestyle upgrades.
- Job market is tougher—unemployment runs 47% higher, so newcomers may face stiffer competition.
- Taxes: Illinois charges 4.95% state income tax, while Texas has none. This cuts into your take-home pay.
How life changes: Fort Worth to Illinois
Moving north involves more than just packing. Weather, culture, politics, and crime all shift. Here's what to prepare for:
| Factor | Fort Worth, TX | Illinois | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | ~919,000 | ~12.5 million | Much larger, urban feel |
| Political lean | Republican (56–42) | Democratic (55–45) | Different political climate |
| Summer high | 96°F | 86°F | 10 degrees cooler—lower AC bills |
| Winter low | 35°F | 17°F | 18 degrees colder—more heating costs |
| Annual rainfall | 37″ | 40″ | Slightly wetter, similar patterns |
| Annual snowfall | 1″ | 22″ | Significantly more snow |
| Crime index | 43.19 | 19.7 | Illinois is safer |
Practical takeaways:
- Summers are noticeably cooler in Illinois (86°F vs. 96°F). Less heat means lower energy bills and more outdoor comfort.
- Winters bite harder (17°F lows vs. 35°F). Budget for increased heating and prepare for regular snow. Winter gear becomes essential.
- Snowfall jumps from 1 inch to 22 inches annually. Beautiful landscapes, but it requires maintenance and driving caution.
- Crime is significantly lower in Illinois (19.7 vs. 43.19 index), suggesting safer neighborhoods overall.
- Rain is comparable year-round, so your umbrella usage shouldn't change dramatically.
Pros and cons of relocating
Pros of living in Fort Worth:
- Quality education system
- Ample economic opportunities
- Abundant recreational activities
- Popular festivals and events
- Friendly, welcoming community
Pros of living in Illinois:
- Home of Chicago—world-class culture and dining
- Ample economic opportunities
- Abundant recreational opportunities
- World-class sports culture
- Delicious food scene
Cons of living in Fort Worth:
- Tornado season
- High heat and allergy-inducing pollen
- Brutal summers
- High cost of living
- Terrible traffic
Cons of living in Illinois:
- Harsh winter weather
- Heavy snow accumulation
- Bad traffic in metro areas
- Higher crime rates (outside major cities)
- Strict local regulations
Key logistics before you move
Moving to Illinois involves more than just hiring movers. Here are the details:
- HOA and community rules: Confirm any neighborhood restrictions on moving days or truck access before scheduling.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, reserve it well in advance for moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require permits for moving trucks. Check local regulations ahead of time.
- State licensing: Illinois requires moving companies to hold a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity for household goods moves. Verify your mover's license on the Illinois Commerce Commission website.
- Moving permits: Illinois doesn't require moving permits statewide, but always check local parking restrictions where you're moving.
- USPS change of address: Submit your form at least one week before moving. Start your change of address here.
- Moving insurance: Most movers offer Released Value Protection (60 cents per pound) at no cost. For full-value coverage, ask your mover about alternatives or consider third-party insurance.
- Use a moving checklist: Our moving checklist keeps you organized and ensures nothing slips through the cracks.
Things to do in Illinois
Illinois offers plenty to explore once you settle in.
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
FAQ
How long does a Fort Worth to Illinois move take?
It typically takes two to seven days, depending on your service type. Deliveries take longer during peak summer months. Ask your mover for an estimated delivery window before booking.
Do Fort Worth movers offer crating services?
Yes. About 37 movers in Fort Worth list custom crating for fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped items. Ask about specifications and whether they can customize the build to your needs.
How do I ship a car from Fort Worth to Illinois?
Choose a car shipping provider with proven experience and solid reviews. Professional service matters when your vehicle is on the line.
Why are people moving from Fort Worth to Illinois?
People move for Chicago's culture, economic opportunity, and lower cost of living. They leave Fort Worth due to tornadoes, pollen, and heat.
Where do I find long-distance movers in Fort Worth?
Start by comparing quotes from multiple carriers. Use our moving cost calculator to estimate prices, then contact movers directly for binding estimates.
Can I pay for a Fort Worth move with cash?
About 16 Fort Worth movers accept cash, but it's the exception. Most prefer traceable payments and digital receipts. You'll typically pay a deposit to secure your date, with the balance due at pickup or delivery. Confirm payment methods and timing before booking.
Helpful resources
Texas moving services:
Popular routes from Texas:
- Texas to California
- Texas to Florida
- Texas to Georgia
- Texas to New York
- Texas to North Carolina
General moving resources:
Ready to move? Compare quotes from multiple movers to get accurate pricing for your Fort Worth to Illinois move. Don't settle for the first offer—shop around, read reviews carefully, and get everything in writing.