Moving FAQ’s

Our in-home estimates are non-binding, but they are based on what we physically see in your home. If the items shown during the walkthrough are the items we move, the final cost typically aligns closely with the estimate. Prices change only when the scope of the move changes, such as adding furniture, requesting packing that wasn't included, or encountering access issues that weren't disclosed. We do not inflate pricing on moving day.

Payment options typically include credit cards, certified checks, or other approved methods. Payment details are confirmed before moving day.

Ideally, you should schedule four to six weeks ahead, especially during peak months. That said, we handle short notice and even same-day moves when availability allows. The earlier you call, the more flexibility you'll have with dates, crew size, and pricing.

We understand plans change. If we're notified as early as possible, we can usually adjust your schedule. Availability determines whether the same pricing and crew can be maintained, but we work with you to minimize disruption.

Yes. We move seven days a week, including weekends and holidays. These dates tend to book quickly, so advance scheduling is recommended.

Owner-packed boxes are not covered unless the box itself is damaged. This is because we cannot verify how items were packed internally. Professionally packed items receive the highest level of protection and accountability.

The most accurate way is a written in-home estimate. This allows us to see exactly what is being moved, identify access challenges, and account for any special items. Phone or online estimates can be helpful for planning, but an in-home estimate provides the clearest expectations for pricing and timing.

Most in-home estimates take 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the home and the number of items being moved. During the walkthrough, we also answer questions and explain how moving day will work.

If you need to move today, we can probably do that. If you require a written in-home estimate, you should call about 4 to 6 weeks before your move. We generally just ask you to give us as much notice as you can.

In brief:

• Be present during the packing of your belongings.
• Take personal responsibility for jewelry and other high value items.
• Check and sign the inventory of your belongings.
• Ensure that no prohibited items are packed.

Dispose of all flammable items, liquids, foods and other items that should not be shipped. Anything that can deteriorate should not be shipped. If you have a question about something, just call and ask.

Well, mainly those things you might expect – drugs, alcohol, weapons, ammunition. Shipping certain high value items or collections may require you to purchase extra coverage.

Most of the time we can move your car(s), truck or SUV with the rest of your belongings in the trailer or container. If this is not possible, we can arrange for an alternate method. We do not transport cars as part of a regular local move, however.

Why not? But be aware of the potential problems. For instance, valuation coverage will not pay out on goods packed by their owner, unless the exterior of the box is damaged.

Every home is different but we can normally pack a home in 1-2 days.

Yes, you can. Just be sure not to leave anything solid that can damage the piece.

You should change your address as soon as your move date is confirmed. The fastest and most reliable way is through the U.S. Postal Service, which forwards your mail to your new address and notifies many organizations automatically.

You can change your address online here: USPS Change of Address

If you are moving within Chicago or the Illinois suburbs, you should also update your address directly with the Illinois Secretary of State for your driver's license, vehicle registration, and voter records. Illinois requires address updates within a limited time after your move.

Illinois Secretary of State – Address Change

In addition, contact your utilities, banks, insurance providers, healthcare offices, and subscription services directly, as mail forwarding does not update their records.

Tipping is not required, but it is appreciated when our crew provides professional, careful service. A common guideline is $5–$10 per mover per hour for a standard local move, or $20–$40 per mover for a half-day move and $40–$80 per mover for a full-day move.

If your move involves stairs, long carries, heavy items, bad weather, or extra care, tipping on the higher end is appropriate. Tips are best given directly to each crew member at the end of the move. Cash is most common, but you can ask the office ahead of time if other options are available.

1. Start by confirming the company is licensed and insured. Ask how long they have been in business and whether they carry proper coverage. A legitimate company will answer clearly and without hesitation.
2. Next, get a written estimate based on an in-home walkthrough. Avoid companies that only provide prices over the phone or online without seeing what you are moving. An in-person estimate helps prevent pricing surprises on moving day.
3. Ask exactly how pricing works. You should understand whether the move is billed hourly or by weight, what services are included, and what situations could increase the final cost. If the explanation is unclear, that is a warning sign.
4. Find out who will actually be doing the work. Ask if the company uses its own trained crews or outside labor. Knowing who will be in your home matters.
5. Ask how your belongings are protected during the move. A reliable company explains what coverage is included, what is not, and whether additional protection is available.
6. Finally, pay attention to communication. If the company returns calls, answers questions directly, and does not pressure you to book, that is usually how they will operate on moving day.

If something is damaged during your move, the first step is to note it at delivery before signing the paperwork. This helps document the issue immediately and avoids confusion later.

After delivery, you will receive instructions on how to submit a written claim. Claims must be filed within the time frame outlined in your moving paperwork. When submitting a claim, you should include a description of the item, the type of damage, and clear photos if available.

Once your claim is received, it is reviewed based on the valuation coverage selected for your move. Standard valuation coverage is weight-based and does not reflect full replacement value. If you purchased additional valuation coverage, the claim is reviewed according to that level of protection.

We communicate with you throughout the review process and explain what is covered and what resolution applies. Claims are handled professionally and fairly, and questions are answered directly so you understand the outcome.

If you have questions about coverage or the claims process, we encourage you to ask before moving day so expectations are clear from the start.

The cost of your move is based on the actual work required, not a flat rate. The biggest factor is how much is being moved, including furniture, boxes, and large or heavy items. More items mean more time, labor, and truck space.

Access conditions also play a major role. Stairs, elevators, long walking distances from the truck, narrow hallways, or limited parking increase the time it takes to load and unload, which affects pricing.

Distance matters as well. Local moves are billed by time, while long-distance moves are priced based on shipment weight and mileage. The farther the move, the more transportation time is involved.

Additional services affect the price. Packing, unpacking, storage, specialty items such as pianos or safes, and extra crew requirements all add to the overall cost.

Timing can also impact pricing. Moves during peak season, weekends, and end-of-month dates are in higher demand and may cost more due to scheduling constraints.

We are an actual moving company, not a broker. When you book with us, Mid-West Moving & Storage handles your move directly using our own trucks, equipment, and trained crews. We do not sell your move to another company or outsource the work to unknown third parties.

This means the same company that gives you the estimate is responsible for your belongings from pickup through delivery. You know who is showing up on moving day, who is handling your items, and who to contact if you have questions before, during, or after the move.

We plan every move carefully to avoid delays, but some situations are outside anyone's control. Traffic, weather, building access issues, elevator availability, or delays caused by another party can affect timing.

If a delay occurs, we communicate with you as soon as possible and keep you informed throughout the day. Our goal is always to complete your move as scheduled, not to rush or cut corners.

Delays caused by factors outside our control may extend the time required to complete the move. In those cases, billing reflects the actual time worked. Delays caused by our crew are addressed directly and handled responsibly.

We encourage customers to discuss any potential access or scheduling concerns during the estimate so we can plan properly and reduce the risk of delays on moving day.

Utility locations vary by home, but there are a few common places to check. The main electrical panel is usually found in the basement, garage, utility room, or a hallway closet. In apartments or condos, it may be inside a closet or behind a panel near the entry.

The water shut-off valve is often located near where the water line enters the home. This is commonly in the basement, crawl space, utility room, or near the water heater. In condos or multi-unit buildings, it may be in a shared mechanical room.

The gas shut-off valve is typically near the gas meter, which is usually outside the home or in a basement utility area. If you are unsure, do not attempt to force any valve. Contact the gas provider for guidance.

Before moving day, we recommend locating these utilities in advance, especially if appliances are being disconnected. Knowing where they are helps avoid delays and makes move-out and move-in day go more smoothly.

If you cannot locate a utility, your landlord, building management, or utility provider can usually point you in the right direction.

• Is my estimate based on an in-home walkthrough or a phone quote?
• What factors could change the final cost of my relocation?
• When will my belongings be picked up and delivered?
• How are delivery dates scheduled for relocations?
• Who will be handling my move, your own crew or another company?
• What protection or valuation coverage is included?
• Do you offer additional coverage for high value items?
• How do claims work if something is damaged or missing?
• What packing services are available, and what do you recommend?
• Are owner-packed items covered?
• Do you offer short-term or long-term storage if dates do not line up?
• Are there any items that cannot be moved or require special handling?
• What access issues should I plan for, such as stairs, elevators, or parking?
• How are delays handled if something unexpected happens?
• What should I do to prepare before pickup day?
• What paperwork will I need to review or sign?
• Who should I contact if I have questions before or during the move?