Why Apartment Moves in Chicago Are Unique
Moving an apartment in Chicago comes with its own set of challenges. From navigating traffic-heavy streets like Wabash Ave and N Halsted St to dealing with buildings without elevators or loading docks, apartment relocations require strategic planning. Many buildings in neighborhoods like River North or South Loop have strict move-in/move-out policies, limited elevator access, and tight stairwells.
How Much Does It Cost to Move an Apartment in Chicago in 2025?
Apartment Size | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Studio | $350–$600 | Depends on floor/stairs/parking |
1-Bedroom | $500–$850 | Includes basic furniture + boxes |
2-Bedroom | $750–$1,300 | More movers, often 2-truck loads |
Prices vary based on:
- Elevator availability
- Floor level
- Packing services requested
- Travel time, stairs, heavy items
Popular Neighborhoods for Apartment Moves
Many of our clients relocate in and out of:
- Lincoln Park (3rd-floor walk-ups)
- River North (luxury high-rises)
- West Loop (loft-style apartments)
- Uptown (historic buildings with narrow staircases)
Buildings like Marina City or OneEleven often require elevator reservations and Certificates of Insurance (COI).
What’s Included in Our Apartment Moving Service
Full protection of furniture and fragile items
(available on request)
Coordination with building managers
(available on request)
Optional insurance and inventory tracking
(available on request)
Tips to Make Your Apartment Move Stress-Free
- Book your move 1–2 weeks in advance
- Reserve building elevator and notify building staff
- Label your boxes clearly by room
- Make a checklist and an inventory
- Choose early morning slots to avoid traffic delays
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
No parking permit for the moving truck
Forgetting to reserve the elevator
Overestimating what fits in the elevator
Choosing budget movers without experience or insurance
Why Choose ACM Movers?
We’ve helped thousands of renters and homeowners across Chicago move their apartments with care. From small studio apartments in Uptown to two-bedroom lofts in West Loop, our trained staff ensures your items are packed and moved safely — even in tight spaces.
Clients appreciate:
- Clear communication
- Transparent pricing
- On-time arrival
- Friendly, experienced movers
- Photo documentation (on request)
FAQ: Apartment Moving in Chicago
How much does it cost to move an apartment in Chicago?
The average cost to move a one-bedroom apartment in Chicago ranges from $400 to $800. Factors that affect pricing include:
- What floor you live on (stairs or elevator)
- Distance between addresses
- Packing service needs
- Weekend vs. weekday moves
Do movers help with packing for studio apartments?
Yes! Most apartment movers in Chicago offer full or partial packing services. This usually includes:
- Wrapping furniture in blankets or shrink wrap
- Boxing dishes and kitchenware
- Protecting TVs and electronics
- Labeling boxes by room
What are the best neighborhoods in Chicago for young renters?
Top picks among young renters include:
- Logan Square
- Wicker Park
- Lakeview
- Ukrainian Village
These areas are known for their walkability, nightlife, and easy access to the L-train and buses.
Are there extra charges for moving in or out of high-rise buildings?
Yes, some buildings—especially in Streeterville, Gold Coast, or along Michigan Avenue—require elevator reservations and charge for:
- Long carry distances
- Delays due to loading docks
- Limited time windows
Make sure to check with your building management in advance.
What should I prepare before my apartment move in Chicago?
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Reserve elevators if needed
- Inform your building of moving date
- Label your boxes
- Disassemble large furniture in advance (if possible)
- Let movers know about tricky hallways or stairs
Our team brings all needed supplies: wardrobe boxes, blankets, stretch wrap, packing tape, and tools for furniture disassembly.
