Looking to save money on your Chicago move? The cheapest time to move is during the off-season—late fall through early spring—when rates drop and schedules are flexible. Weekday moves also cost less than weekends, and getting multiple quotes from trusted Chicago movers helps you compare prices. You can save even more by packing yourself, decluttering, and avoiding last-minute bookings. Use these expert-backed tips to plan a smooth, affordable move across Chicago.
Moving in Chicago can be expensive, especially during peak season or when booking movers last minute. But with the right planning, you can significantly lower your moving costs while still working with reputable Chicago moving companies.
This guide breaks down expert-backed ways to save money—whether you’re hiring movers or handling part of the process yourself.
1. What’s the Cheapest Time of Year to Move in Chicago?
The cheapest time of year to move in Chicago is during the off-season—November through March.
Chicago movers often lower rates in winter due to reduced demand.
If you can handle colder weather, you’ll save hundreds.
Why winter moves cost less:
- Fewer people move during winter
- Movers offer seasonal discounts
- More flexible appointment availability
- Lower demand = lower hourly rates
Pro Tip: Book early morning winter slots for the biggest savings and fastest movers.
2. Are Weekday Moves Cheaper Than Weekend Moves?
Yes — weekday moves typically cost less than weekend moves.
Most Chicago moving companies charge premium rates for Saturdays and Sundays because they fill up first.
Choose these days for cheaper rates:
- Tuesday
- Wednesday
- Thursday
Even choosing a Friday morning instead of Saturday can lower your final bill.
3. How Do I Get Moving Quotes in Chicago?
You should get 3–5 written quotes from licensed movers in Chicago for an accurate comparison.
Avoid companies that only give estimates over the phone with no inspection.
What a proper quote includes:
- Full inventory list
- Labor + truck + fuel charges
- Packing costs (if requested)
- Insurance options
- Any extra fees
- Total approximate cost
Where to get trusted quotes:
Reebie Storage & Moving offers free, no-obligation quotes for local and long-distance moves.
4. Do Movers Offer Discounts for Repeat Customers?
Yes — some movers in Chicago offer loyalty discounts, seasonal deals, or referral discounts.
Ask directly when getting quotes. Even if they don’t advertise it, many companies offer custom pricing to earn your business again.
5. Should I Rent a Moving Truck or Hire Movers?
Hiring movers may be cheaper than renting a truck once you factor in all costs.
Truck rental fees add up quickly:
- Base rental cost
- Mileage
- Fuel
- Insurance
- Equipment rental
- Labor (your time + helpers)
If your move involves heavy furniture, stairs, or long distances, hiring movers in Chicago is usually the better value.
6. How Do I Cut Down on Moving Supplies Costs?
Use free or low-cost packing materials whenever possible.
Where to get FREE boxes:
- Grocery stores
- Starbucks or Target back rooms
- Liquor stores (strong boxes!)
- Facebook Marketplace
- Nextdoor groups
- Office supply stores
Save on supplies by:
- Reusing old boxes
- Using towels and blankets instead of bubble wrap
- Borrowing dollies or carts
- Only buying specialty boxes for fragile items
7. Can Packing Myself Save Money on Moving?
Yes — packing yourself is one of the biggest ways to cut moving costs.
Full packing services can add 25–40% to your total move cost.
Best ways to save when packing yourself:
- Start 2–3 weeks early
- Label every box clearly
- Use original TV and appliance boxes
- Pack heavier items in smaller boxes
- Keep an essentials bag for moving day
If you pack everything correctly before movers arrive, the job goes faster — reducing total hourly charges.
8. Do Movers Offer Bundled Moving and Storage Deals?
Yes — many Chicago moving companies offer bundle discounts for combined moving and storage services.
If you’re downsizing or renovating, bundled plans can significantly reduce your costs.
Movers may bundle:
- Moving + short-term storage
- Moving + long-term storage
- Packing + storage
- Corporate relocation + storage
Bundled services = simpler logistics + lower pricing.
9. Are Last-Minute Moves More Expensive?
Yes — last-minute moves cost more because availability is limited.
Peak pricing is triggered when:
- You need movers within 48–72 hours
- It’s the end or beginning of the month
- It’s a weekend
- It’s summer (May–September)
To save money, book at least 2–4 weeks early.
10. How Do I Avoid Hidden Moving Fees?
You can avoid hidden fees by choosing movers with transparent pricing and asking about extra charges upfront.
Common hidden fees:
- Long-carry charges
- Stairs fees
- Heavy item fees
- Shuttle truck fees
- Fuel surcharges
- Assembly/disassembly fees
- Extra stop charges
How to avoid them:
- Ask for an all-inclusive or flat-rate quote
- Give movers an accurate inventory
- Clarify parking arrangements
- Check if furniture disassembly is included
Reputable movers list everything clearly and explain costs before the job starts.
Expert Tip: How Chicago Movers Recommend Cutting Costs
Professional movers suggest prioritizing decluttering before the move. Removing items you no longer use can significantly lower your bill by reducing the volume and weight of your shipment.
Even getting rid of 10–20% of your belongings can cut costs by 15–25%.
Affordable Moving Solutions with Reebie Storage & Moving
Reebie Storage & Moving, one of the most trusted Chicago moving companies, delivers dependable, budget-friendly relocation services designed to help residents save money without sacrificing quality. From efficient packing support to smart scheduling guidance, our experienced team ensures every move is planned with cost savings and convenience in mind.
Whether you’re moving locally within Chicago or preparing for a long-distance relocation, our professional movers help you avoid hidden fees, reduce unnecessary expenses, and streamline every step of the process. Chicago movers like Reebie focus on transparent pricing, careful handling, and flexible solutions so you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free move at a price that fits your budget.
Make Your Chicago Move More Affordable!
Get the best value for your Chicago move without the stress. Whether you need affordable local moving, packing services, or short-term storage, Reebie Storage & Moving offers reliable and budget-friendly solutions tailored to your needs.
Request a free quote or contact us today to start planning a cost-efficient, smooth move anywhere in Chicago.
FAQs
1. What is the cheapest month to move in Chicago?
November through March are the cheapest months because demand drops and Chicago movers lower rates for winter relocations.
2. How far in advance should I book a move?
Book 3–4 weeks early for the lowest rates. For summer moves, secure your spot 5–7 weeks in advance.
3. Is it cheaper to hire movers or do it myself?
DIY moves often appear cheaper, but truck rental, fuel, equipment, and time add up. For larger moves, hiring movers is often more cost-effective.
4. Do movers charge extra for stairs?
Some moving companies in Chicago charge stair fees—always ask in advance so the cost doesn’t surprise you. If your chosen company does charge for stairs, this should be included in your initial quote.
5. How can I reduce packing costs?
Use free boxes, pack early, and reuse household items like towels and blankets instead of buying bubble wrap.