## MoveFinders — AI Information Page
URL: https://movefinders.org/movers/montgomery-to-il
AI Information URL: https://movefinders.org/movers/montgomery-to-il/ai-information

## Page Overview
Title: Moving from Montgomery, AL to Illinois – Costs & Best Movers
Description: Compare moving costs and top-rated movers for your Montgomery to Illinois move. Get quotes and see what to expect before you relocate.
Category: Moving route guide
Published: 2026-08-26
Last Updated: 2026-08-26

## Author
Name: Sean Sullivan
Role: Senior Research Analyst
Bio: Sean has spent over a decade analyzing the moving industry, helping thousands of families find reliable movers. His research has been featured in Forbes, TIME, and Consumer Reports.

## SEO Keywords
moving from Montgomery to Illinois, Montgomery movers, moving costs Alabama to Illinois, interstate movers Montgomery AL, long-distance moving companies

## Content

If you're moving from Montgomery to [Illinois](/movers/illinois), you're probably looking at a roughly 700-mile haul and wondering which movers won't disappear with your furniture or charge you surprise fees at delivery. I've compiled what the best local movers in Montgomery actually deliver, what the real costs look like, and what changes when you cross into Illinois.

## Top Movers in Montgomery for Your Move to Illinois

Out of five movers in Montgomery with verified interstate experience, here's the breakdown:

1. **Coleman Worldwide Moving** — 4.52 / 5
2. **McCorquodale Transfer** — 4.38 / 5
3. **Motivated Movers, Inc.** — 4.42 / 5
4. **Admiral Movers** — 4.36 / 5
5. **C & R Movers, LLC** — 4.34 / 5

---

### Coleman Worldwide Moving
**1285 Parker St, Montgomery, AL 36108**  
**4.5 / 5** | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/coleman-worldwide-moving-montgomery) | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=coleman+worldwide+moving+montgomery+al) | [BBB A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/al/midland-city/profile/moving-companies/coleman-worldwide-moving-llc-0463-4001673)

**The verdict:** Coleman lands a lot of praise for smooth operations and careful handling. 63% of their reviews hit the top marks, with customers consistently mentioning professional staff and clear communication. The flip side: about 25% report damage or delays—and those complaints sting because they often involve high-value or irreplaceable items. If you're moving antiques or art, dig into their damage resolution process before signing.

**What they offer:** Local and interstate moves, packing, international relocation, storage, crating, and specialty items like safes.

**Contact:** (877) 693-7060

---

### McCorquodale Transfer
**520 Air Base Blvd, Montgomery, AL 36108**  
**4.3 / 5** | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/mccorquodale-transfer-birmingham) | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=McCorquodale+Transfer+montgomery+al) | [BBB A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/al/birmingham/profile/moving-companies/mccorquodale-transfer-0463-49000326)

**The verdict:** McCorquodale stands out for handling high-end items without breaking them. 91% positive reviews—that's well above the norm. Customers rave about their care with antiques and valuable pieces, and pricing is fair. A small number report damage and slow claims handling, so if something goes wrong, follow up hard on the insurance side.

**What they offer:** Interstate moves, packing, pianos, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, and storage.

**Contact:** (334) 202-9059

---

### Motivated Movers, Inc.
**2450 Wall St, Millbrook, AL 36054**  
**4.4 / 5** | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/motivated-movers-birmingham-pelham-2) | [BBB A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/al/pelham/profile/moving-companies/motivated-movers-inc-0463-90020543)

**The verdict:** Motivated Movers wins on speed and professionalism. Nearly 90% of 406 reviews praise their efficiency and courteous crews. They handle big, complex moves without breaking stride. About 10% hit damage or communication snags—pretty standard for the industry, but worth clarifying expectations upfront on fragile items.

**What they offer:** Local and interstate moves, packing, pianos, pool tables, antiques, crating, and storage.

**Contact:** (334) 221-1222

---

### Admiral Movers
**1200 Newell Pkwy, Montgomery, AL 36110**  
**4.3 / 5** | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/admiral-movers-montgomery-8) | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=admiral+movers+montgomery+al) | [BBB A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/al/montgomery/profile/moving-companies/admiral-movers-0463-22000121)

**The verdict:** 95% positive feedback—Admiral is quick, organized, and respectful. Crews protect your home and belongings carefully. A few complaints about price surprises or delays, but repeat customers and referrals are common. This is a solid, dependable choice.

**What they offer:** Full-service moves (local, interstate, international), packing, art, antiques, pianos, crating, and full-valuation coverage.

**Contact:** (334) 262-6666

---

### C & R Movers, LLC
**2255 South Forbes Dr., Montgomery, AL 36110**  
**4.3 / 5** | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/c-and-r-movers-montgomery-4) | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=c+%26+r+movers+llc+montgomery+al) | [BBB A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/al/montgomery/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/c-r-movers-llc-0463-90118667)

**The verdict:** 71% strong reviews. C & R is known for speed, fair pricing, and professional handling. Communication gaps and last-minute cancellations show up in about 25% of feedback—so lock in details in writing before move day.

**What they offer:** Local and interstate moves, packing, pianos, hot tubs, art, crating, and full-valuation coverage.

**Contact:** (334) 233-6766

---

## Specialty Services Available in Montgomery

If your move includes specialty items, here's what's available locally:

| Service | Movers Offering |
|---------|-----------------|
| Interstate moves | 100% (5 of 5) |
| Pianos | 80% (4 of 5) |
| Antiques | 60% (3 of 5) |
| Art | 60% (3 of 5) |
| Fragile-only packing | 40% (2 of 5) |
| Small moves | 40% (2 of 5) |

---

## What Moving from Montgomery to Illinois Will Cost

Here's the real pricing for the 719-mile move. Numbers vary based on your home size and what you're paying for.

### Professional Moving Company Costs

| Household Size | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,191 – $3,945 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,170 – $5,258 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,041 – $7,666 |

For a one-bedroom apartment, expect $1,191 to $3,945. A three-bedroom home typically runs $2,170 to $5,258. Larger homes (four to five bedrooms) land in the $4,041 to $7,666 range. Final costs depend on the scope of services, fuel, timing, and whether you need add-ons like packing or storage.

### Moving Container Costs

Containers like PODS offer flexibility if you're not ready to unload immediately.

| Household Size | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $709 – $1,633 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $1,252 – $2,552 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,761 – $3,315 |

### Truck Rental Costs (DIY Option)

If you want to cut costs and do the heavy lifting yourself, truck rentals are cheaper—but you're responsible for everything.

| Household Size | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $469 – $899 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $548 – $1,100 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $686 – $1,386 |

These figures include estimated fuel. You handle the packing, loading, driving, and unloading. Doable for a smaller move or if you have friends willing to help. For anything bigger or more complex, a professional mover usually saves your back and your sanity.

**Need a quick estimate?** Use our [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to compare all three options for your specific move.

---

## What Drives Your Moving Costs

A few key factors will shift these numbers:

- **Move size:** More stuff = higher price. A five-bedroom house costs more than a studio.
- **Season:** Summer months are peak moving season in Montgomery. Expect higher rates and longer booking windows.
- **DIY vs. professional:** Renting a truck and doing it yourself is cheap but exhausting. Professional movers cost more but handle everything.
- **Timing:** Last-minute moves or specific delivery windows can bump the price up.
- **Add-ons:** Packing, unpacking, storage, and specialty item handling all add to the bill.

---

## Cost of Living: Montgomery vs. Illinois

Before you move, understand what you're walking into financially.

| Metric | Montgomery, AL | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,200 | $1,179 |
| Average home price | $140,563 | $249,224 |
| Per capita income | $49,989 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 79 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.8% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 5.0% | 4.95% |

**Key takeaways:**

- **Rent is roughly equal**, so housing costs won't shock you month-to-month.
- **Home prices in Illinois are 77% higher**. If you're buying, prepare for a bigger mortgage.
- **Income is 57% higher in Illinois**, which gives you more breathing room financially.
- **Cost of living is 14% higher**, so budget for the bump in daily expenses.
- **Jobs are easier to land**—unemployment is about 9% lower in Illinois.
- **Taxes are nearly identical**, so no major tax surprise when you file.

---

## How Life Differs: Montgomery vs. Illinois

### Climate & Weather

| Factor | Montgomery, AL | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Summer high | 91°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 35°F | 17°F |
| Annual rainfall | 51″ | 40″ |
| Annual snowfall | 0″ | 22″ |

**What to expect:** Illinois winters are cold—18 degrees colder than Montgomery. You'll need heating bills, a good coat, and snow removal equipment. On the flip side, you get distinct seasons and genuine winter scenery. Rainfall is lighter in Illinois, so more sunny days and less humidity.

### Population & Politics

| Factor | Montgomery, AL | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 200,603 | 12.5 million |
| Political lean | Democratic (49.8–48.3) | Democratic (55–45) |
| Crime index | 65.25 | 19.7 |

**Translation:** Both lean Democratic. Illinois has vastly more people—you're moving from a mid-sized city to a state with sprawling urban and suburban areas. Crime is significantly lower in Illinois, which tends to correlate with safer neighborhoods and stronger community policing.

---

## Before You Move: Illinois Logistics & Regulations

A few practical details will smooth your move:

### State Regulations & Licensing

Illinois regulates household goods moves through the **Illinois Commerce Commission**. Moving companies need a **Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity** to operate legally. Verify your mover's license and status on the [Illinois Commerce Commission website](https://www2.illinois.gov/icc/) before you book.

### Permits & Parking

- **Moving permits:** You won't need a state moving permit for Illinois, but check local parking rules in your specific city or neighborhood. Some areas require advance parking permits for large moving vehicles.
- **HOA or building rules:** If you're moving into a community with HOA rules or a multi-unit building, confirm moving-day access and elevator reservations ahead of time.

### Address & Mail Change

Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You can do this online at [USPS.com](https://www.usps.com/) and choose your official move date so mail forwarding starts smoothly.

### Moving Insurance

Released Value Protection (basic coverage) is included with most movers at 60 cents per pound. For full-value protection, discuss additional insurance options with your mover or consider a third-party provider. Review what's covered—fragile items and high-value goods may need separate coverage.

### Moving Checklist

Use our [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to stay organized through each phase. It keeps all the details straight so you don't forget utilities, address changes, or critical notifications.

---

## Things to Do in Illinois

Once you arrive, you've got plenty to explore.

### Museums

- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Caterpillar Visitors Center
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site

### Parks & Outdoor

- Starved Rock State Park
- Matthiessen State Park
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Pere Marquette State Park

### Sports

- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
- Chicago Sky (WNBA)

### Universities

- University of Chicago
- Northwestern University
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- University of Illinois Chicago

---

## FAQ

### How long does the move take?

One to six days, depending on your service type and whether it's peak moving season. Summer months take longer because demand is high. Ask your mover for a specific delivery window before you book.

### Can movers handle custom crating in Montgomery?

Five movers in Montgomery offer custom crating for art, antiques, and sensitive electronics. Confirm with your mover that their materials and dimensions match your items.

### How do I ship my car from Montgomery to Illinois?

Check out our guide on [car shipping](/best/car-shipping) for options and ratings. You'll want specialists who treat your vehicle carefully.

### Do movers accept cash in Montgomery?

One mover in Montgomery takes cash, but the industry strongly favors credit cards, checks, or electronic payment for clear records. Expect to pay a deposit upfront to secure your date, with the balance due at pickup or delivery. Confirm payment terms with your mover beforehand.

### Where do I find long-distance movers in Montgomery?

Compare quotes on MoveFinders from the five top-rated interstate movers listed above. Each has verified experience on the Montgomery-to-Illinois route.

---

## Next Steps

**Ready to move?** [Get moving quotes](/calculator) from Montgomery movers and compare costs for professional services, containers, and truck rentals. Enter your details and see real estimates tailored to your move size and timeline.

## About MoveFinders
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We help people find trustworthy movers with unbiased reviews, cost estimates, and expert guidance.
Contact: https://movefinders.org/contact
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