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Your Washington DC to Chicago Moving Company
Washington DC, MD to Chicago, IL Movers | Trusted Pros
- City-to-city long-distance moving. AVL manages your route from Washington DC through delivery in Chicago.
- One coordinator for the full route. The same contact guides you from quote through final delivery.
- Upfront flat-rate pricing. Your binding quote is set before moving day so you can plan ahead.
America's Trusted Moving Company Since 1995
What Our Customers Have To Say
Megan O'Keefe
"Alex Chaffolrd and his crew were very helpful, great communication and very thorough in protectin..."Read More
Gary Fanning
"Our move though short in distance went smoothly!"Read More
Thomas Bello Sr.
"Great people and very professional. Anthony and Hector rellocated my office furniture without a s..."Read More
Eve Beringer-Klein
"American Van lines did an excellent job on our move from North Carolina to Southwest Florida this..."Read More
Kaileigh Byrne
"I was impressed with American Van Lines from start to finish. They were affordable, had great c..."Read More
How Much Will It Cost To Move From Washington DC to Chicago?
Planning your 699-mile move from Washington DC, to Chicago, IL? Costs vary depending on how much you're moving, how large your space is, and whether you'd like packing help. This route typically takes 1 to 6 days from pickup to delivery.
Every move is different, so use the breakdown below as a starting point. We can give you a quote based on your home size, moving needs, and timeline.
| Home Size | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $2,174 - $4,239 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,274 - $4,807 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,461 - $5,418 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,972 - $6,676 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,162 - $7,791 |
Factors That Affect the Cost of Moving From Washington DC to Chicago
Moving costs aren't one-size-fits-all. Your route, home size, moving date, and the type of service you choose can all affect the final price. Here are some of the biggest factors to consider.
- Timing of your move: Summer is peak season for long-distance moving, with the highest usually falling between May and September. If your dates are flexible, moving outside the busiest times can give you more options when scheduling your move.
- Professional vs. DIY: A DIY move may cost less upfront, but you'll take on the driving, loading, equipment, and planning yourself. With a full-service mover like American Van Lines, a trained crew handles the heavy lifting and transportation for you.
- Exact distance: At 699 miles, this is on the shorter end of a long-distance move, but mileage still affects the cost through drive time, fuel, and transportation.
- Size of move: A 1-bedroom move on this route starts around $2,174, while a 5-bedroom move can cost up to $7,791. Larger homes generally require more labor, time, and truck space, which increases the overall cost.
Let AVL Handle Your Washington DC to Chicago Move
A USA Today Customer Service Champion
USA Today named American Van Lines one of America's Customer Service Champions in 2024, recognizing companies for their customer service.
Clear Costs, No Moving-Day Surprises
Moving is stressful enough. That's why AVL uses flat-rate pricing to lock in your cost upfront. What you're quoted is what you'll pay, with no last-minute charges.
Safe Storage, Ready When You Are
Delivery on this route typically takes 1 to 6 days. If your new home in Chicago isn't ready when your belongings arrive, our secure, climate-controlled storage can keep them protected until you're ready for delivery.
Expert Guidance From First Call to Final Box
Your dedicated move coordinator manages the details from start to finish. From scheduling and paperwork to day-of logistics and post-move check-ins, they're your single point of contact.
You Choose How Much Help You Want
Every mover has different needs. We offer full-service packing, partial packing, or just the loading and transport. You pick the level of support that works for your move and budget.
National Network, Personal Service
At 699 miles, this route takes careful planning from pickup through delivery. Our experienced crews and coordinators handle the timing, transportation, and details that come with a long-distance move of this distance.
American Van Lines is more than just a moving company. We're a team dedicated to making your life easier.
We're here to take the stress out of moving. From the moment you get in touch to the final delivery, our team stays focused on making the entire process as smooth and straightforward as possible.
Why Choose American Van Lines
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A trusted carrier with a proven track record. We’re a licensed interstate carrier, not a broker, and have been family-owned since 1995. Take a look at our credentials.
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Upfront pricing you can plan around. Our flat-rate pricing and binding estimates protect your budget from unexpected charges on moving day.
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One dedicated team from start to finish. Work directly with American Van Lines from planning through delivery, and let your coordinator and experienced moving crew handle every detail.
American Van Lines is a 2026 Newsweek Readers' Choice Best National Moving Company and a 2024 Customer Service Champion, with five consecutive years of America's Best Customer Service recognition from 2019–2023.
Living in Chicago vs. Washington DC
Your move from Washington DC, to Chicago, IL could come with a welcome financial bonus. With a lower cost of living in Chicago, everything from housing to everyday expenses could be more manageable, giving you more room to save or spend.
Take a look at how home costs and earnings line up in both cities before you go.
Home Values
Buying a home in Chicago might hurt your budget less. The average home value there is $317,509, noticeably lower than the $594,337 average in Washington DC.
Rent
Rent prices in Chicago average $2,045, compared to $2,400 in Washington DC, so you'll have more monthly breathing room.
Employment
The job market in Chicago is more competitive, with an unemployment rate of 9.0%, compared to 7.0% in Washington DC. Major employers in Chicago include U.S. Government, Chicago Public Schools, and City of Chicago.
Income
Earning potential in Chicago is typically less than what you'd find in Washington DC. The average salary in Chicago is $75,134, compared to $101,027 in Washington DC.
Cost Of Living
| Monthly Expense | Washington DC | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Inexpensive Meal | $25 | $25 |
| 3-Course Meal for 2 | $120 | $100 |
| One Dozen Eggs | $5 | $5 |
| Milk (One Gallon) | $4.20 | $3.82 |
| Loaf of White Bread | $4 | $4 |
| Utilities | $192 | $191 |
| Internet | $69 | $64 |
| Gym Membership | $104 | $78 |
| Preschool | $2,650 | $2,181 |
Moving Services From Washington DC to Chicago
Long-Distance Moving Specialists
Moving from Washington DC to Chicago takes careful planning and coordination. We have the nationwide reach and long-distance experience to keep your move organized from pickup through delivery.
Learn MoreSeamless Packing and Unpacking
We use high-quality packing materials and label every box by room. At your new home, we place boxes where they belong and unpack everything to get you settled faster.
Learn MoreFurniture Disassembly and Reassembly
Our team disassembles large furniture for transport and reassembles it upon arrival. No tools or heavy lifting are required on your end.
Learn MoreBusiness and Office Moves
Whether you're relocating one employee or an entire office from Washington DC to Chicago, our commercial moving team can coordinate the move around your business needs and help minimize disruption.
Learn MoreStorage on Your Schedule
Not every move goes straight from one home to the next. When you need extra time in between, our secure, climate-controlled storage keeps your belongings protected until you're ready for delivery.
Learn MoreMoving on Orders
PCS moves often come with firm timelines and specific requirements. We're experienced at working with those demands, and we're one of 7 movers out of 83 in Washington DC that offer a discount to service members.
Learn MoreLife in Chicago Compared to Washington DC
If you're coming to Chicago from Washington DC, here's how the two cities stack up in a few key areas.
Weather
If you're heading to Chicago, you can look forward to gentler summers. Highs usually average around 84°F, compared to the warmer 89°F in Washington DC.
Safety & Crime Ratings
Chicago appears to be safer than Washington DC, with a higher crime index of 35.19 versus 60.37. Top neighborhoods like Beverly, Edison Park, and Lincoln Park offer a particularly secure environment.
Pedestrian Friendliness
Washington DC and Chicago are comparable for walkability, both scoring around 77 out of 100. Your pedestrian habits won't need much adjustment.
Biking Safety & Access
Bike lanes, signage, and cycling access are stronger in Chicago, which earns a higher score of 72 compared to Washington DC at 70.
Things To Do
Chicago has something for everyone, from top attractions like Millennium Park, Crown Fountain, and The Cloud Gate, Navy Pier, and Art Institute of Chicago to great parks like Millennium Park, Grant Park, and The 606 and museum gems including The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Art Institute of Chicago.
Love sports? Check out Chicago's teams like Chicago Bears (NFL), Chicago Cubs (MLB), and Chicago White Sox (MLB).
Moving From Washington DC to Chicago: What To Expect
Here's a quick look at how we handle your move from start to finish:
Start With a Free Quote
Getting started is easy. Request a free quote, and we'll ask a few quick questions about your inventory, your schedule, and your Chicago address to create a detailed flat-rate estimate for the 699-mile trip.
Get Guidance From Your Coordinator
Once you book, your move coordinator becomes your go-to contact. They'll schedule your pickup against the 1 to 6 day delivery window, handle paperwork, and help with any changes or questions along the way.
Add Services as Needed
Need packing support, storage, or help with specialty items? We'll tailor your services to match your move to Chicago, so you get the right level of help without paying for extras you don't want.
Know What to Expect on Move Day
Before the truck arrives in Washington DC, we'll send clear guidance and reminders to prepare you for moving day. You'll understand the timeline, what to set aside, and what our crew will take care of when they arrive.
Professional Loading & On-the-Road Updates
On moving day, our crew handles the heavy lifting and loads everything securely for transit. Then your belongings make the 699-mile trip to Chicago, and you'll receive tracking and progress updates along the way.
Delivery With Care & Final Check-In
When we arrive, we'll unload and place your items where you want them, treating your home with care. After delivery, your coordinator will follow up to make sure you're happy with the move.
Tips for Moving From Washington DC to Chicago
- Do a quick logistics check a week out. Confirm your timeline, addresses, and contact numbers so everyone is on the same page.
- Separate what you're not moving. Set aside donation piles, trash, and items you're keeping with you so they don't accidentally end up on the truck.
- Label boxes with priority levels. Mark boxes as "open first," "open later," or "storage" so unpacking in Chicago feels more manageable.
- Give yourself a buffer. Build in extra time for delays, weather, or traffic so your move doesn't feel like a race.
Moving From Washington DC to Chicago FAQs
Can American Van Lines move specialty items from Washington DC to Chicago?
Yes. We can move specialty items including pianos, antiques, artwork, pool tables, and other large or valuable pieces. Let your coordinator know what you're bringing so we can plan for any special handling or equipment it may require. American Van Lines is one of 58 movers out of 83 in Washington DC that handle piano moves.
What does a move from Washington DC to Chicago typically cost?
Moving from Washington DC to Chicago typically costs between $2,174 and $7,791. Your exact cost will depend on how much you're moving and any additional services you need, and we'll confirm it with a flat-rate quote.
How long does it take to move from Washington DC to Chicago?
Moves from Washington DC to Chicago typically take 1 to 6 days for delivery. Your move coordinator will confirm your delivery window once your pickup is scheduled.
Do I need to be home when the movers arrive?
You don't necessarily have to be there yourself, but an authorized adult should be present for both pickup and delivery. They should be able to answer questions and make decisions about the shipment if needed.
Is American Van Lines an established moving company?
Yes. American Van Lines has been in business since 1995, with decades of experience handling long-distance moves across the country.