Top Moving Companies from Norfolk to Illinois
Out of 20 movers in the Norfolk area that handle interstate relocations, here are the five worth a closer look if you're heading to Illinois.
- A Friendly & Affordable Mover — 4.52 / 5
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 4.5 / 5
- Coleman Worldwide Moving — 4.56 / 5
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving — 4.48 / 5
- Apple Moving — 4.48 / 5
Coleman Worldwide Moving
3325 Croft St, Norfolk, VA 23513
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | Yelp | Google | BBB Profile
Review Summary: 37% positive | 61% negative
The reviews for Coleman tell a split story. The positives focus on careful handling, professional staff, and efficient packing. But the negatives—which dominate at 61% of feedback—center on late arrivals, communication breakdowns, and damage to belongings. Delays have cost customers missed flights and real stress. Compared to leading competitors, Coleman shows a higher frequency of timing and damage complaints, with slower response on problem resolution.
Services:
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing & unpacking
- Office relocations
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
License #: 076235 | DOT #: 2897746 | Years in Business: 110
Contact: (757) 857-0101
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
2618 Arkansas Avenue, Norfolk, VA 23513
Rating: 4.48 / 5 | Yelp | Google
Review Summary: 81% positive | 18% negative
With 81% of reviews landing in positive territory, College Hunks outperforms many local competitors. Customers consistently praise efficient service, professional and polite staff, fast turnarounds, and careful handling. Good communication and easy scheduling stand out. The downside? Damage to belongings—especially high-value items—unexpected charges, and occasional delays. Some customers felt let down by claims handling. If speed and a friendly crew matter most to you, they're solid; if you're moving valuables, review insurance closely and confirm estimates in writing.
Services:
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing & unpacking
- Office relocations
- Storage
License #: 5223 | DOT #: 2378173
Contact: (336) 810-1801
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
4007 Seaboard Ct #7, Portsmouth, VA 23701
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | Yelp | Google
Review Summary: 80% positive | 19% negative
Out of 258 reviews analyzed, 80% praised efficient service, polite and professional movers, and careful handling. Customers note speedy moves, excellent communication, and a hassle-free booking process. Nearly 1 in 5 reviews, however, mention damage to items, unexpected extra charges, or cost estimates that didn't hold up. Those surprises cost some customers money and the willingness to use them again. Still, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK ranks well for professionalism and efficiency within the local market—just watch out for estimate accuracy.
Services:
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing & unpacking
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Safes
License #: 3064442 | DOT #: 2527384 | Years in Business: 9
Contact: (757) 250-7167
Apple Moving
1010 Cavalier Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23323
Rating: 4.48 / 5 | Yelp | Google | BBB Profile
Review Summary: 56% positive | 43% negative
Apple Moving earns majority positive feedback—56% of 275 reviews—which puts them ahead of many regional competitors. Customers regularly highlight professional, polite staff, careful handling, prompt work, and movers who genuinely help. What holds them back? Nearly 43% of feedback centers on damage, missing belongings, and slow or dismissive responses to claims. While the crews themselves are often described as hardworking and personable, the company needs to tighten accountability and communication, especially when issues arise. If you hire them, document everything and confirm claim procedures upfront.
Services:
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing & unpacking
- Office relocations
- Piano moving
- Hot tubs
- Pool tables
- Crating
- Storage
License #: 163678 | DOT #: 1934458 | Years in Business: 69
Contact: (757) 397-1248
A Friendly & Affordable Mover
516 Central Dr Suite 104, Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Rating: 4.52 / 5 | Yelp | Google | BBB Profile
Review Summary: 87% positive | 12% negative
This is the strongest performer in the top five. Out of 259 reviews, 87% were glowing—customers highlight professional, polite staff, careful handling, efficiency, fair pricing, and thorough communication. Repeat customers note consistent high standards and stress-free booking and moving processes. A small fraction (12%) report damage or dissatisfaction with claims handling or time estimates, but these are the exception, not the rule. Rates are transparent and competitive, and their customer service commitment shows across feedback. If reliability and value matter to you, this one stands out locally.
Services:
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing & unpacking
- Office relocations
- Piano moving
- Art & antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
License #: 3239170 | DOT #: 3239170 | Years in Business: 26
Contact: (757) 689-0935
Specialty Services Available in Norfolk
Here's a snapshot of how many Norfolk movers offer add-on services:
| Service | # Offering | % |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 18 | 90% |
| Small moves | 12 | 60% |
| Antiques | 9 | 45% |
| Art | 9 | 45% |
| Pianos | 17 | 85% |
| Fragile-only packing | 8 | 40% |
Cost to Move from Norfolk, VA to Illinois
Here's what you can expect to pay for a move from Norfolk to Illinois, broken down by home size and moving method.
| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,030 – $4,199 | $787 – $1,935 | $619 – $1,081 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,264 – $5,591 | $1,386 – $2,638 | $668 – $1,406 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,688 – $6,964 | $1,941 – $3,749 | $831 – $1,660 |
Note: These are approximate estimates for a 936-mile move from Norfolk to Illinois. Your actual cost will depend on move size, added services, parking or access obstacles, fuel rates, and timing. Get a personalized quote to see what your move actually costs.
Breaking Down Your Moving Costs
Professional Moving Company
A studio or one-bedroom move to Illinois typically runs $1,030–$4,199. For a two- or three-bedroom home, budget $2,264–$5,591. Larger households with four or five bedrooms should plan for $3,688–$6,964. These prices include labor, equipment, and transportation.
Moving Containers
If you're only moving a few pieces, moving containers offer flexibility. Expect $787–$1,935 for a small space, $1,386–$2,638 for a two- to three-bedroom, and $1,941–$3,749 for a larger home. You load and unload at your own pace while the container is stored.
Rental Trucks (DIY)
Budget-conscious? A rental truck is the cheapest option but requires you to drive and do all the work. Studio moves run $619–$1,081 (fuel included), two- to three-bedroom moves cost $668–$1,406, and four-plus bedrooms run $831–$1,660.
What Drives Your Moving Cost
Several factors will affect your final bill:
- Move size: A studio costs far less than a four-bedroom home.
- Time of year: Summer demand pushes rates higher; winter and early spring are typically cheaper.
- Service level: DIY options are budget-friendly but labor-intensive; hiring movers saves your back but costs more.
- Distance & accessibility: Parking hassles, narrow stairwells, and elevator access affect pricing.
- Packing & extras: Custom crating, specialty item handling, and storage add to the total.
What You Should Know Before Moving to Illinois
If you're relocating from Norfolk, you'll find moving to Illinois means a similar cost of living overall—but there are some specific differences worth considering.
Cost of Living: Norfolk vs. Illinois
| Factor | Norfolk, VA | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,500 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $283,890 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,484 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 91 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.3% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 4.95% |
The bottom line:
- Rent runs roughly 21% lower in Illinois, meaning real monthly savings.
- Mortgage costs drop about 12%—homes are cheaper in Illinois than Norfolk.
- Salaries are typically 24% higher in Illinois, which helps offset expenses or boost savings.
- Overall cost of living is nearly identical, so no major financial shock.
- Unemployment is 27% lower in Illinois, a plus if you're job hunting.
- Income taxes are 14% lower in Illinois—more money stays in your pocket each month.
How Life Differs: Norfolk vs. Illinois
Life in the two places has distinct flavors. Here's what changes:
| Factor | Norfolk, VA | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 238,005 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 72–26 | Democratic 55–45 |
| Summer high | 88°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 33°F | 17°F |
| Annual rain | 47″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 5″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 58.1 | 19.7 |
What to expect:
- Politics: Both lean Democratic, but Illinois is more mixed statewide than Norfolk's stronger lean.
- Summer temps are nearly identical (88°F vs. 86°F), so you'll adapt easily to warm weather.
- Winters are significantly colder in Illinois—lows drop to 17°F compared to Norfolk's 33°F. Plan for higher heating bills, winter gear, and snow management.
- Less rain, more snow: Illinois gets 40″ of rain annually (vs. 47″ in Norfolk) but 22″ of snow (vs. 5″). Expect snowy landscapes and seasonal activities, but also the need for snow removal.
- Safer overall: Illinois posts a crime index of 19.7 versus Norfolk's 58.1, indicating lower crime rates.
Important Logistics Before Your Move
Moving is more than just hiring a truck. Handle these details before you go:
- HOA rules: Some neighborhoods have specific move-in day restrictions. Verify with your HOA in advance.
- Elevator reservations: Many buildings require advance booking of elevators for moves—don't assume access.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require a permit for moving trucks. Check local regulations in both Norfolk and your Illinois destination.
- State licensing: In Illinois, the Illinois Commerce Commission oversees moving regulations. Companies must have a current Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity. Verify your mover's license before hiring.
- Moving permits: You won't need a moving permit in Illinois, but always check local parking rules ahead of time.
- Change of address: File your USPS change of address at least a week before moving—this ensures mail forwarding without delays.
- Moving insurance: Coverage differs by state. Most movers offer Released Value Protection (60 cents per pound) at no extra cost, but for full-value coverage, discuss options with your mover or consider third-party insurance.
- Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
What to Do in Illinois
Illinois has plenty to offer, whether you're into culture, nature, sports, or education.
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
FAQs
How long does a Norfolk to Illinois move take?
Most moves take two to seven days, depending on your service choice. Full-service movers typically take 3–5 days for this distance. Expect delays during peak summer season.
Do Norfolk movers offer custom crating?
Yes. Sixteen movers in the Norfolk area provide custom crating for artwork, antiques, and fragile items. Ask about crate construction, padding, and lead times when requesting a quote.
What's the best way to ship my car from Norfolk to Illinois?
Hire a professional car shipper. They'll handle all logistics and protect your vehicle. Compare quotes from multiple carriers to find the best rate and timeline.
Why are people moving from Norfolk to Illinois?
Chicago's economic opportunities and job market are major draws. The lower cost of living and safer neighborhoods also appeal to many.
Where do I find long-distance movers in Norfolk?
You've already found them here. Compare the five top-rated companies listed above, or get quotes from multiple movers to find the best fit.
Can I pay with cash?
Two Norfolk movers accept cash, but it's uncommon in the industry. Most prefer card, ACH, or cashier's check for traceability. Expect to pay a deposit upfront to secure your booking, with the balance due at pickup or delivery. Confirm payment methods before you book.
Next Steps
Ready to move? Compare quotes from Norfolk movers to get a real price for your specific situation. Get at least three estimates in writing before committing, and always verify licenses and insurance.