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

## Page Overview
Title: Best Moving Companies in Pittsburgh to Illinois | MoveFinders
Description: Top-rated movers from Pittsburgh, PA to Illinois with costs, reviews & relocation guide. Compare quotes from Don Farr, Gardner Moving, and more.
Category: Moving route guide
Published: 2026-09-06
Last Updated: 2026-09-06

## 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
Pittsburgh to Illinois movers, moving from Pittsburgh PA to Illinois, Pittsburgh moving companies, cost of moving Pittsburgh to Illinois, interstate movers Pennsylvania

## Content

# Moving from Pittsburgh to Illinois: Top Movers & Costs

If you're moving from Pittsburgh to Illinois, you're looking at roughly 562 miles of hauling. It's far enough that you'll want a solid crew, but close enough that you're not paying cross-country rates. I've reviewed the Pittsburgh movers who actually handle [moves to Illinois](/movers/illinois), pulled their ratings and real customer feedback, and broken down what you'll actually spend.

## Best Moving Companies from Pittsburgh to Illinois

Out of 11 Pittsburgh-based movers capable of interstate moves, here are the five that stand out for the Illinois route:

1. **Gardner Moving** — 4.48 / 5 (90% positive reviews)
2. **South Hills Movers** — 4.44 / 5 (74% positive)
3. **Don Farr Moving & Storage** — 4.52 / 5 (51% positive)
4. **TWO MEN AND A TRUCK** — 4.34 / 5 (90% positive)
5. **All My Sons Moving & Storage** — 4.28 / 5 (42% positive)

### Gardner Moving
**Rating:** 4.48 / 5 | **Address:** 757 Millers Run Rd, McDonald, PA 15057

What jumps out with Gardner Moving is consistency. Out of 145 reviews, 90% are positive—and that's not fluff. Customers repeatedly mention fast, organized crews that actually respect your stuff. Transparent pricing, careful handling, even willingness to adapt when plans change. Professional across the board.

The small percentage of complaints center on occasional damage claims and rare communication hiccups during problem resolution. But for a 103-year-old operation, that's solid ground. If speed and reliability matter most, Gardner delivers.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, antiques, crating, storage, fragile-only packing  
**License:** PA #00108945 | **DOT:** 947009 | **Years in business:** 103  
**Get a quote:** (412) 257-4443

### South Hills Movers
**Rating:** 4.44 / 5 | **Address:** 3132 Industrial Blvd, Bethel Park, PA 15102

Three-quarters of South Hills' 180 reviews are glowing. People praise professional teams, reliable communication, and efficient moves without the drama. Fast service and good responsiveness stand out—they don't leave you hanging.

On the flip side: some customers reported property damage and slow claims resolution. It's rare, but when damage happens, the follow-through can lag. Still, compared to most movers, South Hills punches above its weight for staff professionalism and speed.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, crating, storage  
**DOT:** 98045 | **Years in business:** 94  
**Get a quote:** (412) 835-8600

### Don Farr Moving & Storage
**Rating:** 4.52 / 5 | **Address:** 1200 Lebanon Road Unit 520, West Mifflin, PA 15122

Don Farr lands the highest rating, but here's the catch: it's a split verdict. Just over half of 415 reviews praise efficient, polite crews and careful handling. The other half? Damage claims, delays, and frustrating follow-ups on broken belongings.

The pattern is real: their crews are good at the actual move, but post-move support and damage claims fall short. If your priority is a smooth day-of experience and you don't need ironclad insurance protection, Don Farr works. If you're moving valuables and want guaranteed recourse, look closer.

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves; packing; unpacking; offices; pianos; hot tubs; pool tables; art; antiques; grandfather clocks; crating; storage; safes  
**License:** PA #8922932 | **DOT:** 345157 | **Years in business:** 43  
**Get a quote:** (412) 469-9700

### TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
**Rating:** 4.34 / 5 | **Address:** 3555 Valley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15234

Out of 269 reviews, 90% report good moves. Customers consistently mention fast, friendly crews, good communication, and professional handling. They move quickly without cutting corners.

The downside: some people hit damage issues, cost overruns vs. estimates, and inconsistent packing quality. Nothing unusual for the industry, but it's worth getting a detailed written estimate and clarifying damage coverage before you book.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, storage, safes  
**License:** PA #00121505 | **DOT:** 2527384 | **Years in business:** 24  
**Get a quote:** (412) 357-2690

### All My Sons Moving & Storage
**Rating:** 4.28 / 5 | **Address:** 150 54th St., Pittsburgh, PA 15021

Here's where I'd pump the brakes. Of 375 reviews, only 42% are positive. More than half reported problems—usually surprise charges, late arrivals, or damage. The kicker: price increases of double or triple the original estimate are common.

The crews themselves can be hardworking and efficient, but billing surprises and reliability issues are systemic. Unless you get a rock-solid quote in writing and build in contingencies, this one carries risk.

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves; packing; unpacking; offices; pianos; antiques; crating; storage; safes  
**License:** PA #8923758 | **DOT:** 902281 | **Years in business:** 26  
**Get a quote:** (412) 413-9380

---

## What Moving Services Are Available in Pittsburgh?

Most Pittsburgh movers handle the big-ticket services. Here's the breakdown of what's actually offered:

- **Interstate moves:** 81.8% (9 out of 11 movers)
- **Pianos:** 72.7% (8 movers)
- **Antiques:** 54.5% (6 movers)
- **Art:** 45.5% (5 movers)
- **Small moves:** 54.5% (6 movers)
- **Fragile-only packing:** 27.3% (3 movers)

If you need specialty handling—pianos, antiques, fine art—you've got decent options. For small moves, check ahead; not every mover will take them.

---

## Moving Costs: Pittsburgh to Illinois

Here's the real-world pricing for a 562-mile move, based on home size and service type:

| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|-----------|----------------|------------------|--------------|
| Studio / 1 bed | $1,090–$2,983 | $623–$1,597 | $418–$739 |
| 2–3 beds | $1,935–$5,150 | $1,125–$2,296 | $442–$914 |
| 4+ beds | $3,272–$6,929 | $1,547–$3,019 | $574–$1,114 |

*Estimates updated Jan 2026. Your actual cost varies with load size, extra services, building access, fuel prices, and move date. [Get several quotes](/calculator) to see where you really land.*

### Full-Service Moving Company Costs

A studio or one-bedroom typically runs $1,090–$2,983. Two to three bedrooms? Expect $1,935–$5,150. A large move (4–5 bedrooms) lands between $3,272–$6,929.

The range depends on how much you're moving, what services you add (packing, unpacking, storage), and the season. Summer costs more. Get at least three quotes.

### Moving Container Costs

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) give you flexibility—load at your pace, they haul it. For a small move, $623–$1,597. Two to three bedrooms: $1,125–$2,296. Four bedrooms or larger: $1,547–$3,019.

Containers sit between DIY and full-service on cost and effort. You pack; they drive.

### Rental Truck Costs

[Truck rentals](/best/truck-rentals) are the cheapest option—but you're doing the work. Studio/one-bed: $418–$739. Two to three bedrooms: $442–$914. Four bedrooms or larger: $574–$1,114.

Fuel is factored in. You drive, you pack, you unpack. It saves money if you've got time and physical capacity.

---

## What Drives Moving Costs on This Route?

Several factors shift your final bill:

- **Load size:** More stuff = more weight and truck space. A two-bedroom doesn't cost the same as a five-bedroom.
- **Seasonality:** Summer (June–August) is peak season. Movers charge more. Winter is cheaper but weather can delay deliveries.
- **DIY vs. professional:** Hauling yourself saves thousands but costs time and stress. Professionals cost more but take liability off your hands.
- **Extra services:** Packing, unpacking, storage, specialty handling—each adds cost. Ask what's bundled and what's à la carte.
- **Access issues:** Tight parking, narrow hallways, long carries from truck to door—these slow crews down and can add fees.

---

## Before You Move: Cost of Living & Lifestyle Differences

### Cost of Living Comparison

| Factor | Pittsburgh, PA | Illinois |
|--------|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,500 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $222,451 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $54,306 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 92 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.1% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 3.07% | 4.95% |

**Rent** is about 21% cheaper in Illinois—you'll have breathing room in your monthly budget.

**Housing** costs about 12% more in Illinois if you're buying. Plan for a higher mortgage or home price.

**Income** in Illinois averages 44% higher. Good news if you're moving for work—more earning potential.

**Cost of living** is nearly identical. You won't feel a dramatic financial shock either way.

**Unemployment** in Illinois is roughly 25% lower. The job market is tighter; more opportunity.

**Taxes** in Illinois are 61% higher than Pennsylvania. Your paycheck will reflect it.

### Climate & Community

| Factor | Pittsburgh, PA | Illinois |
|--------|---|---|
| Population | 303,255 | 12,549,689 |
| Political lean | Democratic | Democratic |
| Summer high | 84°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 21°F | 17°F |
| Annual rain | 38" | 40" |
| Annual snow | 28" | 22" |
| Crime index | 37.74 | 19.7 |

**Weather** is nearly identical. Summers hover around 84–86°F. Winters average 17–21°F. Rain and humidity are comparable.

**Snow** is slightly less in Illinois (22" vs. 28"). Marginally easier winters, less maintenance.

**Crime** in Illinois is significantly lower (19.7 vs. 37.74). Safer neighborhoods overall.

**Politics** leans Democratic in both places. You won't be moving to a radically different political landscape.

---

## Key Logistics Before Your Move

Don't miss these details—they matter:

- **Moving permits:** Illinois doesn't require moving permits statewide, but check local parking restrictions in your specific neighborhood or building.
- **Truck parking:** Some cities require permits for oversized vehicles. Confirm before move day to avoid citations.
- **Elevator reservation:** If your building has one, reserve it in advance for the moving company's schedule.
- **HOA rules:** Check community bylaws; some have moving restrictions or specific time windows.
- **State licensing:** Illinois movers must have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Illinois Commerce Commission. Verify any mover you hire is current and licensed before you book.
- **Change of address:** File your USPS change of address at least a week before. Set your official move date to ensure mail forwarding works smoothly.
- **Moving insurance:** Standard Released Value Protection is free but covers only 60 cents per pound. For full-value coverage, ask your mover or use a third-party insurer. Costs and rules vary by state.
- **Moving checklist:** Use a [detailed checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to stay organized—less stress, fewer forgotten details.

---

## What to Explore in Illinois

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

### State 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

---

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How long does the move take?

One to six days, depending on whether you hire movers, use containers, or rent a truck. Summer moves take longer due to demand. Ask your mover for an estimated delivery window before you book.

### Do Pittsburgh movers offer custom crating?

Yes—six Pittsburgh movers list crating services. Ask about specifications and whether they can tailor the build to your fragile or oversized items before booking.

### What's the best way to ship my car from Pittsburgh to Illinois?

Work with a professional [auto transport](/best/car-shipping) company that has a solid track record. Get multiple quotes; prices vary based on vehicle size, transport method (open vs. enclosed), and current demand.

### Why are people moving from Pittsburgh to Illinois?

Chicago's job market, lower housing competition outside the city, and better overall employment outlook draw people. The cost of living is similar, but income potential is higher.

### Where can I find [long-distance movers in Pittsburgh](/movers/pennsylvania)?

Start with [our comparison tool](/calculator) to request quotes from multiple movers at once. You'll see pricing, reviews, and availability side by side.

### Can I pay cash?

Three Pittsburgh movers accept cash, but it's rare. Most require a deposit upfront (credit card or bank transfer) and final payment at pickup or delivery. Confirm payment terms before signing.

---

## Related Resources

- [Best Pennsylvania movers](/movers/pennsylvania)
- [Long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers)
- [Moving containers](/best/moving-containers)
- [Truck rentals](/best/truck-rentals)
- [Interstate movers](/best/interstate-movers)
- [Use our moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get personalized quotes

---

**Ready to move?** [Get quotes from Pittsburgh movers](/calculator) who specialize in [moves to Illinois](/movers/illinois). Compare pricing, reviews, and availability—no obligation.

## About MoveFinders
MoveFinders (movefinders.org) is an independent moving company research and comparison site.
We help people find trustworthy movers with unbiased reviews, cost estimates, and expert guidance.
Contact: https://movefinders.org/contact
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