Step 1: Your lease or sale
Renters. Read your lease for notice periods and renewal terms before you pick a date, since many ask for 30 to 60 days or more. Chicago's Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance covers security deposits and many other issues. See the City of Chicago for the current text, and document your apartment's condition with dated photos when you leave.
Owners. Your closing date often decides your moving date. Condos may need paperwork from the association, and that can take time.
Step 2: Choose your date
- Avoid May 1 and October 1 where you can. Many Chicago leases turn over on those dates, and elevators and streets fill up.
- Think about winter. Moves can happen in snow, but overnight parking bans and storms add friction from December through March.
- Mid-month and midweek are usually easier to schedule.
Step 3: Tell your building and your mover
Ask your building for its move-out rules in writing: elevator times, deposit and certificate of insurance. Tell your mover about alleys, stairs and any parking problems. Our Chicago moving logistics page explains what to expect.
Step 4: Reduce what you're moving
Weight drives long-distance cost. Sell or give away what you won't need, especially if your new home has no basement or a different climate. Chicago has plenty of resale options, and many charities offer pickups.
Step 5: Change your paperwork
- Forward your mail with USPS.
- Update your driver's license and registration in your new state.
- Return any city or building permits and parking passes.
- Cancel ComEd, Peoples Gas and internet service, or transfer them.
- Tell your insurers, employer and banks.
Step 6: Illinois taxes
Illinois generally taxes part-year residents on income earned while resident. Keep records of the date you moved and when you established your new home. Your tax professional can help. See establishing residency.
Where people go next
Popular destinations from Chicago include Florida, California, Texas, Arizona and New York. Each page covers cost and delivery details.