Why College Students Need Professional Movers
Moving to or from college is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with logistical challenges. Whether you’re relocating to a dorm, off-campus apartment, or student housing, moving all your belongings—without damaging anything or exhausting yourself—is easier said than done.
For students in Chicago, moving can be even more difficult. With tight dorm hallways, high-rise apartments, limited parking, and strict move-in policies, getting your furniture, clothes, and essentials to your new home requires careful planning.
If you’re searching for “Chicago college movers near me,” you’re in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about hiring student movers, how to prepare for move-in day, and how to make the process stress-free.
Why Hire Professional Chicago College Movers?
College students often try to handle moving on their own with the help of family and friends, but hiring professional movers has many advantages.
1. Avoid Heavy Lifting & Exhaustion
Moving boxes, small furniture, and suitcases up multiple flights of stairs is physically exhausting—especially in older dorm buildings that lack elevators. Professional movers do the heavy lifting so you don’t have to.
2. Faster & More Efficient Move-In
Most college move-in days have strict time slots for unloading. Movers help speed up the process by unloading everything quickly and efficiently, so you don’t have to worry about missing your window.
3. No Need to Rent a Truck or U-Haul
If you’re moving out of state or across the city, you might not have a car big enough for all your belongings. Hiring a moving service eliminates the hassle of renting a truck and navigating city traffic.
4. Prevent Damage to Belongings
Movers use protective padding, straps, and careful handling techniques to ensure your furniture, electronics, and other valuables arrive in perfect condition.
5. Reduce Stress for Parents
For parents helping their kids move into college, professional movers take the stress out of the process by handling all the logistics.
Moving to or from one of Chicago’s illustrious colleges? Consider Joey’s Movers for the job while you and your family focus on other exciting activities higher education offers. We help students move to and from top Chicagoland schools like DePaul University, University of Chicago, Loyola University, Northwestern, Columbia College Chicago, UIC, Roosevelt University, and more. Call us today at (847) 674-7779, or get a free online quote.
How to Prepare for College Movers in Chicago
1. Make a Packing List
To avoid forgetting essentials, create a checklist before you start packing.
- Clothing & Shoes – Bring enough for Chicago’s hot summers and freezing winters.
- Bedding & Towels – Many dorms have extra-long twin beds, so check dimensions before buying.
- Kitchen Essentials – If you’re moving into an apartment, pack basic kitchenware.
- Electronics – Laptop, chargers, surge protectors, and power strips.
- Furniture & Storage – Check dorm/apartment layouts before bringing large furniture items.
2. Label Boxes Clearly
Marking your boxes by category (e.g., clothing, school supplies, kitchenware) makes unpacking easier and helps movers place items in the right areas.
- Use color-coded labels by room (dorm, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom).
- Mark fragile items so movers handle them with extra care.
- Label essentials separately for quick access.
3. Secure Parking & Building Access
Many Chicago colleges have strict move-in day policies. Before the movers arrive, check with your school about:
- Where the moving truck can park.
- Elevator reservations for high-rise dorms.
- Permits required for unloading in restricted areas.
4. Pack a First-Night Essentials Bag
Once your movers drop everything off, you don’t want to dig through boxes for your toothbrush or charger. Pack a bag with:
- Toiletries & medications
- A few changes of clothes
- Important documents (ID, financial aid info, lease papers)
- Chargers & electronics
What to Expect from Professional College Movers
Once you’ve prepared for move-in day, here’s what you can expect from a professional moving company.
1. Trained Movers for Student-Sized Moves
Professional movers are trained to navigate tight hallways, dorm staircases, and high-rise buildings without damaging your belongings or the property.
2. Safe Loading & Transport
Movers use:
- Protective moving blankets to prevent scratches.
- Dollies & straps for easy transport.
- Organized truck loading to prevent shifting in transit.
3. Fast Unloading & Setup
Once you arrive, movers will:
- Unload your items quickly to stay within move-in time slots.
- Bring everything directly to your dorm or apartment.
- Place furniture in the correct spots based on your preferences.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire College Movers in Chicago?
1. Factors That Affect College Moving Costs
The cost of hiring professional movers depends on:
- Distance – Local moves within Chicago are more affordable than long-distance moves.
- Number of items – Moving just a few boxes costs less than moving large furniture.
- Apartment or dorm access – Buildings with elevators may cost less than walk-ups with multiple flights of stairs.
2. Average Costs for College Moving Services
- Dorm move-in (small load, 5-10 boxes): $200 – $400
- Apartment move-in (studio or 1-bedroom): $400 – $800
- Long-distance college moves: $1,000+
For an accurate estimate, contact Joey’s Movers at (847) 674-7779 for an estimate or request an online quote.
How to Choose the Best Chicago College Movers
1. Look for Licensed & Insured Movers
A reliable moving company should be licensed, insured, and experienced with student moves.
2. Read Customer Reviews
Check Google and Yelp for reviews from other students and parents to find movers with a proven track record.
3. Ask the Right Questions
- Do you have experience moving students into dorms and apartments?
- Can you accommodate tight move-in schedules?
- Do you provide packing services or supplies if needed?
4. Get a Transparent Quote
A professional moving company should offer upfront pricing with no hidden fees.
DIY vs. Hiring Professional College Movers: Which is Better?
| Feature | Professional Movers | DIY Move |
| Time Efficiency | Quick and organized | Takes longer, more effort |
| Convenience | Movers handle everything | Requires renting a truck, lifting boxes |
| Physical Effort | No heavy lifting | Risk of injury, exhaustion |
| Cost | Varies by service | Lower cost, but more work |
If you’re moving alone or have heavy furniture, professional movers are worth the investment.
Why Choose Joey’s Movers for College Moving in Chicago?
At Joey’s Movers, we specialize in student moving services for dorms, apartments, and off-campus housing.
- Affordable moving options for students on a budget.
- Fast, professional service to fit tight move-in schedules.
- Trained movers for dorms, walk-ups, and high-rise apartments.
- Packing & storage solutions available if needed.
Whether you’re a freshman moving into your first dorm or a graduate student relocating to a new apartment, we make your move stress-free and efficient.
Schedule Your College Move Today
Need fast, reliable movers for your college move in Chicago? Contact Joey’s Movers for fast, affordable student moving services in Chicago. Call us today at (847) 674-7779, or get a free online quote.
