Moving from Plano, TX to Illinois: Top Movers & Costs
If you're moving from Plano to Illinois, you're facing a roughly 775-mile interstate haul. That's far enough to matter—both in terms of cost and logistics. I've looked at 68 movers operating out of Plano that handle state-to-state relocations, and I want to walk you through the five that stand out, along with what you should actually expect to pay.
Best Moving Companies from Plano to Illinois
1. AB Moving
Rating: 4.7 / 5 | Positive reviews: 68% | Years in business: 24
AB Moving has been handling relocations from Plano for over two decades. Across 867 reviews, nearly 70% of customers praise fast service, respectful crews, and meticulous handling of belongings. What works: transparent pricing, professional teams, and consistent communication from quote through delivery.
The flip side: about 29% report frustration with damaged items or costs that balloon beyond the estimate. Delays and slow crews show up in negative feedback, and claims resolution isn't always quick. If you go with AB Moving, get everything in writing and document your inventory carefully.
Contact: (214) 644-6683 | License #: 000571862B | DOT #: 1939700
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, specialty items (pianos, art, antiques), full-valuation coverage, storage.
2. Element Moving and Storage
Rating: 4.8 / 5 | Positive reviews: 92% | Years in business: 14
Element stands out for sheer consistency. Out of 251 reviews analyzed, 92% reflect satisfied customers who consistently praise efficient service, careful handling, and strong communication. Their crews move fast without cutting corners—a rare combination. Customers mention stress-free experiences and organized teams.
The catch: some reports of damage to valuables and unresolved claims, particularly on longer interstate moves. Claims responsiveness is where they stumble occasionally. For high-value items, ask specifically about their claims process before booking.
Contact: (972) 805-0988 | License #: 006519926C | DOT #: 2038052
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, pianos, specialty items, full-valuation coverage, storage.
3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | Positive reviews: 90% | Years in business: 15
This national brand has a solid local presence in Plano. Across 225 reviews, 90% describe efficient service, courteous crews, and quick turnarounds. Customers consistently contrast their professionalism favorably against competitors—movers show up on time, work with urgency, and communicate well.
Occasional damage reports and difficulty reaching customer service after the move are the main complaints. If something goes wrong, follow up immediately in writing.
Contact: (972) 210-2619 | License #: 008446166C | DOT #: 2527384
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, pianos, storage.
4. Evolution Moving Company
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | Positive reviews: 96% | Years in business: 11
Evolution has built trust fast—96% of 271 reviews praise their work. Customers highlight efficient service, polite professionals, and careful handling. What stands out: movers often finish ahead of schedule, pricing is transparent, and the team maintains a positive attitude throughout the move. The booking experience is smooth.
Rare but notable: a few complaints about damaged items and surprise charges. As with any mover, ask for a binding estimate and clarify what's and isn't included.
Contact: (682) 651-5505 | License #: 006779351C | DOT #: 2467590
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, specialty items (pianos, antiques, art), full-valuation coverage, storage.
5. Around the Block Moving
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | Positive reviews: 85% | Years in business: 31
The longest-running operation on this list, Around the Block has three decades of Plano-area experience. Out of 259 reviews, 85% report positive experiences—fast, friendly, organized crews and stress-free moves. Customers praise courteous staff and clear communication. Booking is straightforward.
Issues: some customers report unexpected charges and property damage. A few felt the billing wasn't transparent enough upfront. Read the estimate line-by-line before signing.
Contact: (214) 433-6747 | License #: 2166531 | DOT #: 2166531
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, specialty items, international moves, storage.
What Movers in Plano Offer
Here's a snapshot of specialties available among Plano-based movers:
| Service | # of Movers | % |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 49 | 72% |
| Piano moving | 46 | 68% |
| Small moves | 44 | 65% |
| Antiques | 37 | 54% |
| Art handling | 33 | 49% |
| Fragile-only packing | 17 | 25% |
Cost to Move from Plano, TX to Illinois
Here's what you should budget based on home size. These are average estimates for a 775-mile move:
| Move Size | Full-Service Mover | Moving Containers | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bed | $1,073 – $3,853 | $704 – $1,830 | $534 – $1,017 |
| 2–3 bed | $2,265 – $5,164 | $1,306 – $2,542 | $544 – $1,207 |
| 4+ bed | $3,611 – $7,610 | $1,716 – $3,481 | $716 – $1,351 |
Note: These ranges are based on pricing data as of January 2026 and vary with load size, extra services, parking accessibility, fuel prices, and your move date. Get multiple quotes to lock in actual numbers.
Breaking Down Plano to Illinois Costs by Method
Full-Service Moving Company
Studio or 1-bedroom: $1,073 – $3,853
2–3 bedroom: $2,265 – $5,164
4+ bedroom: $3,611 – $7,610
A full-service mover handles everything—packing, loading, transporting, unloading, and unpacking if you add that service. You pay for convenience and expertise. The price range reflects differences in company reputation, time of year, and how much special handling your items need.
Moving Containers (PODS, U-Pack, etc.)
Studio or 1-bedroom: $704 – $1,830
2–3 bedroom: $1,306 – $2,542
4+ bedroom: $1,716 – $3,481
Moving containers give you flexibility—the container sits at your home, you load it at your own pace, and the company transports it to Illinois. You typically have 2–4 weeks to load and unload. Costs are lower than full-service because labor is yours, but you need physical capability and access to the container.
Rental Truck (DIY)
Studio or 1-bedroom: $534 – $1,017
2–3 bedroom: $544 – $1,207
4+ bedroom: $716 – $1,351
Truck rental is cheapest, but understand what you're signing up for: you pack everything, load the truck, drive it 775 miles, and unload on the other end. Fuel costs are included in these estimates. This works if you have time, a strong back, and friends willing to help. It doesn't work if you have high-value items, limited physical ability, or a tight timeline.
What Affects the Price
Several factors move the needle on your final cost:
- Move size: Obvious, but bears stating—more items mean higher quotes across all methods.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season. Plano movers charge 15–25% premiums June through August. Fall and winter are cheaper.
- DIY vs. professional: Handling it yourself cuts cost but adds stress and risk. Professionals cost more because you're paying for skill, equipment, and liability.
- Distance and logistics: That 775-mile haul is long enough that fuel surcharges and route availability matter. Movers may quote differently depending on whether they have a return load from Illinois to Texas.
Plano vs. Illinois: Cost of Living Breakdown
Before you move, here's how the two places stack up financially:
| Metric | Plano, TX | Illinois | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. rent | $2,100 | $1,179 | 44% lower in IL |
| Avg. home price | $511,000 | $249,224 | 51% lower in IL |
| Per capita income | $67,874 | $78,433 | 16% higher in IL |
| Cost of living index | 112 | 90 | 20% lower in IL |
| Unemployment rate | 5.5% | 5.3% | Similar |
| State income tax | 0% | 4.95% | IL has tax; TX doesn't |
The takeaway: Illinois is significantly cheaper to live in—lower rent, cheaper homes, and a lower overall cost of living. However, Illinois has state income tax (roughly 5%), while Texas doesn't. That tax bite reduces your take-home pay, though it's likely offset by lower housing costs. Per capita income is actually higher in Illinois, suggesting more earning potential.
If you're moving for financial reasons, Illinois looks attractive—until you factor in the tax. Do the math for your specific situation.
Plano vs. Illinois: Lifestyle Differences
Weather & Climate
| Factor | Plano, TX | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Summer high | 94°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 33°F | 17°F |
| Annual rain | 41" | 40" |
| Annual snow | 2" | 22" |
Plano is hot and dry. Illinois is cooler in summer, much colder in winter, and gets 10x the snow. If you're moving for climate relief, Plano winters are gentler. If you love snow and don't mind heating bills, Illinois delivers.
Population & Character
Plano: ~285,000 (suburban, affluent, growing tech hub)
Illinois (statewide): ~12.5 million (includes Chicago metro, diverse urban/rural mix)
Plano is a planned suburb with strong schools and rising prosperity. Moving to Illinois means either settling in Chicago's urban energy or choosing a smaller town elsewhere in the state.
Politics
Plano leans Republican (56–42). Illinois statewide leans Democratic (55–45). Local politics vary by community.
Safety
Crime index: Plano 23.02 | Illinois 19.7
Illinois has a slightly lower statewide crime rate, though this varies significantly by neighborhood. Don't rely on statewide numbers alone—check the specific Illinois city you're moving to.
What You Need to Know About Moving to Illinois
Regulations & Licensing
Illinois moving companies must hold a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity issued by the Illinois Commerce Commission. Before you book, confirm your mover's license is current. You can verify it on the state's regulatory website.
Moving Permits
Illinois doesn't require a state moving permit, but check local parking restrictions in your destination city. Some municipalities require parking permits for moving trucks.
Elevator Reservation
If your destination building has an elevator, reserve it well in advance on your move date.
HOA & Community Rules
Some neighborhoods have restrictions on moving day hours or truck access. Check with your HOA or building management before the move.
Change of Address
File a USPS change of address at least one week before you move—do this online or at your local post office. Choose your official move date so mail forwarding starts when you need it.
Insurance & Valuation
Movers typically offer Released Value Protection (basic coverage at 60¢ per pound) free. For full-value coverage matching your belongings' actual value, ask your mover about upgrading or consider third-party moving insurance.
Moving Checklist
Use our moving checklist to stay organized and ensure you don't miss critical details.
Things to Do in Illinois
Museums
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Caterpillar Visitors Center
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
Parks & Outdoors
- Starved Rock State Park
- Matthiessen State Park
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Pere Marquette State Park
Sports
- Chicago Cubs & White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
- Chicago Sky (WNBA)
Education
- University of Chicago
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Northwestern University
FAQs
How long does the move take?
Expect 2–7 days depending on the method (DIY truck rental is fastest; container delivery is slower). Summer moves take longer due to volume. Ask your mover for an estimated delivery window before booking.
Do Plano movers offer custom crating?
Yes. 41 movers in Plano list custom crating as an option—useful for fragile, oversized, or unusual items. Ask about crate specs and whether they can customize the build to your needs.
Can I pay in cash?
17 Plano movers accept cash, but it's the exception. Most carriers require traceable payments and digital receipts. Standard practice: you pay a deposit to secure your date and crew, then the balance at pickup or after delivery. Confirm payment methods and timing before booking.
What about shipping a car?
If you need to ship your vehicle from Plano to Illinois, work with a company that prioritizes professionalism and car care. Check our auto transport guide for top options.
Why are people leaving Plano for Illinois?
Main draws: Chicago, economic opportunity, and lower cost of living. Main reasons they leave Plano: traffic, extreme summer heat, and high housing costs.
Ready to Move?
You've got five solid options above, a clear sense of costs, and the logistics laid out. Your next step: get quotes from multiple movers to compare pricing for your specific load. Don't settle for the first estimate—compare at least three. And check that your final choice is licensed and carries appropriate insurance.
Illinois is waiting. Let's get you there without the headache.