Find Movers in Chicago, Illinois

What Chicago Moves Actually Involve

Chicago is not a straightforward city to move in. High-rise buildings on Lake Shore Drive require elevator reservations weeks in advance. Brownstones in Lincoln Park and Wicker Park have narrow staircases, vintage woodwork that scuffs easily, and parking situations that demand creative logistics. The Loop and River North have loading dock restrictions and security badge protocols that vary building to building.

We’ve navigated every scenario the city throws at movers. We know which buildings require a certificate of insurance (COI) — and which require specific minimum coverage amounts. We carry and provide COIs as standard practice. We coordinate street parking permits in advance so you’re not scrambling the morning of your move.

Local Knowledge That Matters

• COI requirements: Most Chicago high-rises require a COI naming the building as an additional insured. We provide these at no charge, customized to the building’s exact specifications.
• Elevator reservations: Service elevators in Chicago buildings book up fast. We contact building management well in advance and confirm all loading dock logistics before move day.
• Parking permits: Street parking in Bucktown, Lakeview, Pilsen, and Wicker Park requires city permits for large trucks. We handle the coordination and paperwork.
• Seasonal planning: Chicago winters affect how we wrap and protect wood furniture, electronics, and artwork. Peak summer season books quickly — early scheduling is critical.
• Lake Shore Drive routing: Height restrictions and traffic patterns affect truck routing for lakefront moves. We plan accordingly and arrive on schedule.

Moving Services in Chicago

Local moves: From one Chicago neighborhood to another, or from the city to Evanston, Oak Park, Naperville, or anywhere in Chicagoland. Full-service packing, loading, transport, and unpacking. We use floor runners and door jamb protectors as standard — your home stays pristine.

Long-distance moves: Chicago to anywhere in the 48 contiguous states. Nelson Westerberg is a licensed interstate carrier, not a broker. One crew, one truck, one point of accountability — your belongings don’t change hands at a relay stop in Indiana.

Corporate relocation: Office moves, employee relocation packages, and project cargo. We work with HR teams, RMCs, and executives. Our corporate team handles the paperwork and coordination so your employees focus on the transition, not the logistics.

Specialty moves: Art, antiques, pianos, wine collections, and high-value items handled with the care they require. Custom crating and climate-controlled transport available.

What You’ll Pay

Nelson Westerberg uses binding not-to-exceed estimates. The price quoted is the maximum you’ll be charged — and if the move takes less time than estimated, you pay less. Local Chicago moves for a 2-bedroom typically run $900–$1,800. Long-distance moves to the coasts range from $4,000–$8,500+ depending on volume. We provide itemized written estimates — no verbal ballparks, no surprise charges at the end.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Nelson Westerberg serve all Chicago neighborhoods?
Yes — the entire city plus suburbs including Evanston, Oak Park, Naperville, Schaumburg, and greater Chicagoland.

How far in advance should I book?
May through September, book 4–6 weeks out. Off-season, 2 weeks is usually fine. High-rise moves requiring building coordination may need more lead time.

Do you provide certificates of insurance?
Yes. COIs are standard, at no charge, and customized to your building’s specifications — including minimum coverage amounts and additional insured designations.

Are you a broker or a licensed carrier?
Licensed interstate carrier. We do not broker moves. Your belongings are handled by our employees from start to finish.

What if something is damaged?
All moves include released-value coverage. Full-value protection is available and recommended for high-value items. Claims handled directly by Nelson Westerberg.

Chicago Neighborhoods We Know Well

From high-rise condos in Streeterville and River North to three-flats in Logan Square and Pilsen, we’ve moved clients in and out of every Chicago neighborhood. Our warehouse is based in Elk Grove Village — strategically located for O’Hare-area corporate relocations and same-day access across the entire metro.

Planning your move to Chicago from out of state? Our guide covers neighborhoods, timing, costs, and what to expect on arrival. Read our complete Chicago relocation guide →