- Road distance
- about 2,015 miles
- Usual corridor
- I-55, I-44, I-40, then I-15 and I-10
- Driving alone
- at least 5 days for a loaded truck
- Chicago loading
- Parking, elevator and building rules settled before the truck arrives
What it costs to move from Chicago to Los Angeles
| Home | Typical weight | Linehaul planning range |
|---|---|---|
| Few items | about 1,200 lb | $1,100 to $1,750 |
| Studio | about 2,000 lb | $1,400 to $2,250 |
| 1 bedroom | about 3,000 lb | $2,100 to $3,350 |
| 2 bedroom | about 5,500 lb | $3,850 to $6,200 |
| 3 bedroom | about 8,500 lb | $5,950 to $9,550 |
| 4 bedroom | about 12,000 lb | $8,450 to $13,500 |
If you are also weighing other California destinations, Chicago to California compares them.
Why LA delivery needs planning
Hillside neighborhoods
Hollywood Hills, Silver Lake, Echo Park and similar areas have narrow, winding streets where a full-size truck may not fit. A shuttle truck then carries your goods the last stretch. Shuttle charges should be discussed before loading, so please describe your street honestly.
Apartment buildings
Many LA buildings set move-in hours and require an elevator booking and proof of insurance. Check underground garage clearance too, because many moving trucks won't fit.
Permit parking and street cleaning
Many LA streets have preferential parking zones or street-cleaning times that limit truck parking. Check the signs on your block and ask your city about temporary options.
Planning the trip
The drive itself takes a loaded truck at least five days. You will probably get to LA first, so pack an essentials kit for those first nights: bedding, kitchen basics, documents, chargers.
Bear in mind you may be swapping a Chicago basement for a home with less storage. Measure, sort and pack with that in mind. Our moving to California guide covers the short deadlines for your license and registration.