Top 5 Movers in Manchester for Your Move to Illinois
I've reviewed 30 moving companies operating out of Manchester, New Hampshire that handle state-to-state relocations. Below are the five that consistently deliver on the Manchester-to-Illinois route.
- College Bound Movers — 4.58 / 5
- Ray the Mover — 4.56 / 5
- Gentle Giant Moving Company — 4.56 / 5
- Trend Moving & Storage — 4.52 / 5
- All Pro Moving & Storage — 4.36 / 5
College Bound Movers
4.58 / 5 stars | 14 Continental Blvd, Merrimack, NH 03054
When speed and care matter, College Bound Movers stands out. I analyzed 284 customer reviews—nearly 80% were positive. Customers consistently praise how efficiently their crews work: no wasted time, professional demeanor, and careful handling of belongings. Pricing transparency is a recurring theme too. The catch? About 18% of feedback mentions damaged items or inaccurate estimates. Some customers also report slow follow-up on damage claims. That said, their reputation for hustle and affordability keeps them competitive. If you're moving interstate and want crews that work fast without cutting corners on respect and courtesy, this is a solid pick—just clarify coverage details before booking.
Services: Local & interstate moves, packing/unpacking, pianos, hot tubs, antiques, art, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage
License: NH #650086 | DOT: 650086 | In business: 33 years
Get a Quote: (603) 882-6683
Ray the Mover
4.56 / 5 stars | 1 Allard Drive, Manchester, NH 3102
Ray the Mover has earned consistent praise for prompt service and professional crews. I reviewed 257 customer inputs—80% praised the experience. The standout? Attention to detail, careful handling, and follow-through. Many customers highlight efficient service and damage-free delivery. But here's the reality: roughly 20% of reviews flagged damaged items, surprise fees, or delayed delivery. Some also complained about lack of accountability after things went wrong. Despite those negatives, Ray's positive feedback volume outpaces the service industry average. If you prioritize communication and efficiency over perfect cost transparency, this outfit delivers. Just get expectations in writing.
Services: Local & interstate moves, international relocation, packing/unpacking, office moves, crating, storage, safes
License: NH | DOT: 2724757 | In business: 85 years
Get a Quote: (603) 669-7170
Gentle Giant Moving Company
4.56 / 5 stars | 3 Sagamore Park Rd, Hudson, NH 03051
Gentle Giant's numbers speak for themselves: 98% of feedback was positive across 56 reviews I analyzed. Customers rave about prompt, professional crews who treat belongings with genuine care. Many noted fragile and large items arrived without damage, and jobs wrapped up on time or faster. The booking process and customer communication earn consistent praise too. Only one negative review complained of vague estimates and inflated quotes. One customer mentioned minor damage from improper tool use but still called the move "fast and friendly." This is the closest you'll get to a no-nonsense, high-quality experience. Premium pricing matches the premium service.
Services: Local & interstate moves, international relocation, packing/unpacking, office moves, pianos, crane vans, storage
License: NH | DOT: 373544 | In business: 45 years
Get a Quote: (603) 886-3500
Trend Moving & Storage
4.52 / 5 stars | 14 Liberty Dr, Londonderry, NH 03053
Out of 297 reviews analyzed, 97% were positive—that's near-universal. Customers appreciate clear communication, quick service, and respectful movers who protect belongings. Trend shows exceptional consistency compared to regional competitors. Negatives are minimal: a few complaints about higher-than-expected final bills, occasional damage, and rare communication lapses. Most neutral feedback centers on pricing concerns. Trend delivers expert service reliably. If consistency matters more to you than rock-bottom pricing, they're worth the call.
Services: Local & interstate moves, packing/unpacking, office moves, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes
License: NH #3092893 | DOT: 3092893 | In business: 6 years
Get a Quote: (855) 509-6683
All Pro Moving & Storage
4.36 / 5 stars | 836 Candia Road, Manchester, NH 3109
All Pro received favorable marks from 79% of the 153 customers I reviewed. Clients highlight efficient service, professional staff, and careful handling. Most say movers work quickly while staying helpful and respectful. They handle unexpected challenges well. The downside? Nearly 20% reported damaged items, delays, or surprise charges. A few customers noted poor handling of fragile goods and late arrivals. They rank higher for speed and customer care than many area competitors, but concerns about reliability and item protection crop up more often than with top-tier national brands. Pick them if you value friendly, hardworking crews and fast turnaround; skip them if strict property protection is non-negotiable.
Services: Local & interstate moves, packing/unpacking, office moves, pianos, crating, storage
License: NH #1016693 | DOT: 1016693 | In business: 23 years
Get a Quote: (603) 626-8010
What Services Do Manchester Movers Offer?
If you're factoring specialty services into your move, here's what's available among local operators:
- Interstate moves: 26 movers (86.67%)
- Pianos: 26 movers (86.67%)
- Antiques: 14 movers (46.67%)
- Art: 14 movers (46.67%)
- Small moves: 15 movers (50.0%)
- Fragile-only packing: 7 movers (23.33%)
Cost Breakdown: Manchester, NH to Illinois
Here's what you can expect to pay for a 1,145-mile move from Manchester to Illinois. Costs vary based on home size and service type.
| Move Size | Full-Service Mover | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,290 – $5,160 | $792 – $1,936 | $676 – $1,313 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,770 – $6,349 | $1,494 – $3,108 | $775 – $1,592 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,788 – $8,937 | $1,959 – $4,029 | $936 – $1,844 |
Estimates based on pricing data from hundreds of verified quotes, refreshed monthly. Final costs vary with move scope, add-ons, parking/access constraints, fuel, and timing. Always compare multiple quotes.
Understanding the Costs
Full-Service Moving Companies
Moving a small one-bedroom? Budget $1,290–$5,160. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect $2,770–$6,349. Larger households (four-plus bedrooms) typically run $4,788–$8,937.
Moving Containers
If you're considering portable storage (PODS-style), small loads run $792–$1,936. Two- to three-bedroom homes fall in the $1,494–$3,108 range. Bigger households should expect $1,959–$4,029. For detailed breakdowns, see our moving container cost guide.
Truck Rentals
This is your cheapest option—but you're doing all the work. Studio/one-bedroom rentals range from $676–$1,313 (fuel included). Two- to three-bedroom moves hit $775–$1,592. Four-plus-bedroom homes need a larger truck: $936–$1,844.
Ready to compare prices? Use our moving cost calculator to get personalized estimates.
What Drives the Cost?
Move size: Larger homes and more possessions = higher costs.
Season: Summer moves in Manchester are pricier due to peak demand.
DIY vs. professional: Renting a truck saves money upfront but costs you time and physical effort. Professional movers add convenience and liability coverage.
Distance & route: The 1,145-mile haul to Illinois is a long-distance move, which factors differently than local relocation.
Specialty items: Pianos, art, antiques, or heavy machinery drive up labor and materials costs.
Cost of Living: Manchester vs. Illinois
If you're wondering whether this move makes financial sense, here's how the numbers stack up.
| Factor | Manchester, NH | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Average Rent | $2,004 | $1,179 |
| Average Home Price | $410,329 | $249,224 |
| Per Capita Income | $67,132 | $78,433 |
| Cost of Living Index | 111 | 90 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.8% | 5.3% |
| State Income Tax | 4.0% | 4.95% |
The real picture:
Rent in Illinois runs about 41% cheaper than Manchester—that's $825 saved monthly right off the bat.
Home prices are roughly 39% lower in Illinois, giving your budget extra breathing room if you're buying.
Income in Illinois averages 17% higher, offering more financial cushion.
Cost of living overall is about 19% lower in Illinois. Groceries, utilities, and services are gentler on your wallet.
Unemployment is 39% higher in Illinois. Translation: more job competition, but also more employers.
Income tax in Illinois is 24% higher than New Hampshire—that cuts into take-home pay. New Hampshire has no sales tax, which Illinois does, so factor that in.
Lifestyle Changes: Manchester to Illinois
Manchester and Illinois are both Democratic-leaning areas, so the political climate won't shock you. But there are real differences.
| Aspect | Manchester, NH | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 115,644 | 12,549,689 |
| Summer High | 82°F | 86°F |
| Winter Low | 13°F | 17°F |
| Annual Rain | 44" | 40" |
| Annual Snow | 58" | 22" |
| Crime Index | 56.09 | 19.7 |
Summer temps are nearly identical—you won't feel much difference in July or August.
Winter in Illinois is marginally milder (4 degrees warmer lows), but you're still in snow country. The real win: Illinois gets 36 fewer inches of snow annually. Gentler winters mean less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
Rain is roughly the same year-round.
Crime is significantly lower in Illinois (index of 19.7 vs. 56.09 in Manchester). That generally signals safer neighborhoods.
Before You Move: Key Details
Don't get blindsided on moving day. A few practical items deserve your attention.
HOA & building rules: Check your destination neighborhood's moving restrictions early. Some communities have specific requirements.
Elevator reservations: If your building or your destination has an elevator, reserve it well ahead of time.
Truck parking permits: Some Illinois municipalities require permits for moving trucks. Verify before your move date.
State licensing: Illinois regulates household movers through the Illinois Commerce Commission. Companies need a current Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to move goods intrastate. Verify your mover's license on the state regulator's website before booking.
Moving permits: Illinois doesn't require moving permits, but always check local parking ordinances.
USPS change of address: File your change of address at least one week before moving. Visit USPS.com to set your official move date so mail forwards seamlessly.
Moving insurance: Coverage varies by state. Released Value Protection (basic, 60 cents per pound) is free from movers. For full-value coverage matching your items' actual worth, ask your mover about additional insurance or third-party providers.
Moving checklist: Our moving checklist keeps everything organized so you can focus on the transition, not the logistics.
What to Do 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
- Starved Rock State Park
- Matthiessen State Park
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Pere Marquette State Park
- Kankakee River State Park
Sports Teams
- 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?
Most moves from Manchester to Illinois take 2–8 days depending on your service type. Peak summer season can extend timelines. Always ask your mover for a specific delivery window before you book.
What moving companies in Manchester offer custom crating?
I track about 20 movers in Manchester with custom crating capability for art, antiques, and sensitive electronics. Confirm that materials and dimensions match your items before committing.
Can I ship my car from Manchester to Illinois?
Yes. For auto transport, work with specialists who handle vehicles with care and professionalism. See our car shipping guide for top operators.
Why do people move to Illinois?
Chicago's economic opportunities, diverse neighborhoods, and lower cost of living draw most relocators from the Northeast. Job market strength and cultural amenities make it an attractive destination.
What payment methods do Manchester movers accept?
Six movers in Manchester accept cash, but it's not widespread. Most prefer traceable payment (credit card, check). You'll likely need to pay a deposit to secure your date, with the balance due at pickup or delivery. Confirm payment terms with your mover upfront.
More Moving Resources
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