LONG STORY SHORT: If you're moving, hire Aaron's!!! This review is extremely overdue, as I moved at the beginning of the year. Please accept my apology, Aaron's!!! Normally I don't write very detailed or lengthy reviews, but Aaron's deserves compliments for a job very well done!!! I move a LOT.....16 times in the past 14 years, so I have some experience with movers. It started like it usually does...I found out that I had to move and had two days to get things organized. Due to a demanding work schedule, I never have time to pack up my belongings. Panicked, I called Aaron's and the phone was immediately answered by an extremely professional woman. I was surprised that the phone was even answered because I called after normal business hours. I was asked a few questions about my needs and, in minutes, a quote was prepared. My pack and move was even scheduled according to my specific requests. I was assured that I had nothing to worry about and that Aaron's would take care of everything. After that conversation, I was already relieved and confident that I'd chosen the right company. Moving day...11 degrees in the middle of a wonderful Chicago winter. I received a call from Edwin about 30 minutes before my pack and move was supposed to begin. Edwin told me that they'd hit some traffic but would be there as quickly as possible. Though we all know that there is absolutely nothing anyone can do about traffic jams, the fact that I was called and informed of the situation was great! Expecting the guys to be late, I was shocked when I received another call 15 minutes later stating that they were at the loading dock of my building....which made them 15 minutes EARLY. Hardly anyone is punctual these days and I was very pleased that things would be going as planned. When I walked out to the loading dock, three gentlemen appeared and Edwin came up and introduced himself, as well as his two colleagues, Brian and Walter. After the handshaking and exchange of names, the work began. Edwin came up to my unit and checked things out and immediately developed a plan of action. He told me exactly what was going to be done and how it was going to be done. At the end of that conversation, he called Brian and Walter up and the fun began. I've got a ton of stuff and I pity anyone that has to pack me up and move me. These guys came in and started working away and it was evident that MY time was valuable to them. They worked quickly and efficiently with amazing attention to detail. I told them that the only items I was truly worried about were my mother's and grandmother's china...other than that, I honestly wasn't too concerned. That said, they still took the utmost care with ALL of my belongings. I just stood there chatting with these guys while a whirlwind of work was happening all around me. Usually I want to help the guys to make things move along faster, but I then realized that I would be of better assistance by letting them do their thing. So, as they packed and loaded, I ran errands and went about my day like nothing was going on. This is the FIRST time I've ever felt comfortable enough to leave my place while movers were packing me up. Upon my return from my errands, Edwin chatted with me a little more and gave me the rest of the game plan for the day, as well as the time that they expected to be ready to actually move my items. I went ahead and left my old place so I could meet them at the new place and have things ready for them since they'd given me an hour of lead time. I got to my new place and started getting things ready for the delivery of my items. However, I noticed that it was taking a little longer than I'd expected. About that time, I received a call that they were almost to my new place, but that there had been a small accident. Fortunately, no one was hurt. They arrived and told me the story about a CTA bus running into them. They were delayed due to police reports and the normal stuff you have to do after an accident. Immediately, Edwin said that an adjustment would be made to my move because of the delay caused by the accident. Really?!? I wasn't even thinking about that! But it just goes to show that these guys are looking at the big picture at all times. Even with the accident, they were still thinking about MY move and MY time and how they were going to correct something that was not even their fault. WOW! The boxes were unloaded and placed exactly where I requested them to be placed. Edwin came in with the paperwork and we took care of the bill. There were absolutely no surprises and everything was plainly written out and easy to read. I paid less than what I anticipated (and still would have paid less even without the adjustment from the accident), so used the rest for tips for the guys. Oh yeah, the following week, I got a thank you card for choosing Aaron's! Icing on the cake, guys!!!! THANK YOU!!! GREAT JOB!!! I will call you, and only you, for my next move!!! read more

If you need a moving company look no further than Aaron's Reliable Movers. This company was by far and away the best movers I have ever used. My last experience with a moving company was so terrible I was very nervous about this move. The team of 4 guys arrived and immediately introduced themselves and shook my hand with warm. welcoming smiles. They asked me to show them the items that I wanted to move. These guys work so incredibly hard and the ENTIRE time they were courteous, friendly and conscientious of my belongings (even when I told them if an item was okay to be a little rough with) and the home that I was moving out of. There was an added level of difficulty since I was moving out of a basement and several items had to be taken out the walk-out door which was full or mud and steeply uphill to get back to the truck. I had to make several last minute additions which they completely took in stride. On the other end they were just as friendly and courteous. They put down plastic on the stairs and leading into the other rooms to protect the carpeting. They asked me where I wanted my items and help me set-up some larger pieces of furniture. I know that they must have been tired after all the moving, but they continued to work at a grueling pace. It was amazing and very comforting to know that they weren't taking their time since they charge by the hour. This consideration just added to my growing impression of their fantastic professionalism. There was one item that they had a bit of difficulty getting into my new place; a recently purchased (and very expensive) couch. Because of it's length it would not fit through the front door and up the stairs. They looked at bringing it over the 2nd floor balcony and through the bedroom into the living room, but also due to it's length it wouldn't fit through the hallway entrance. I was almost to the point of tears thinking that this couch would not be able to be in my new place. There was one other window that they thought it might fit through, so I gave permission to take the panes out and try it that way. At first it seemed like a simple solution, then there was 1 screw that would not come out and, of course, it was the 1 screw that was holding everything together. After 15 minutes of trying to get the screw out without breaking it they asked if it was okay to break it. I gave permission since the couch was kinda important to me. It took another 15 minutes to break the darn screw and they finally got the window panes off. I was absolutely amazed that they would work so hard to help me get the couch into my place. They hoisted it up and through the window it came. There was ZERO complaining or telling me that they couldn't do it. I am so glad that they persevered and helped me get my couch into my home. Seriously, I can not say enough great things about this company. When I move next time this will be my first and only call. read more

I recently used Aaron's Reliable Movers to move my home along with several large canvases and sculptures. I originally thought I could do the job myself along with the help of my brothers and some friends, but shortly before the move, I discovered just how fragile canvasses can be. I accidentally dropped my most expensive canvas when I was trying to lean it against my wall, and a little dent appeared in the bottom corner. I was pissed, but it was my mistake. I promised myself when it came time for the final move, I would hire professionals with a proven track record of moving not only heavy pieces of furniture, but who also specialize in moving artwork and other fragile objects (i.e. several authentic Hummels my Mom gave me...cheesy I know, but they have sentimental value, like most of the things I own). So I searched the internet for a Chicago based moving company that specializes in fragile art, among other things. I spoke with three different moving companies, but when I spoke with the owner of Aaron's, Ronald Montanez, he was far more reassuring, polite, and professional than the other movers. His company was also insured and licensed, which was important. The quote he gave me was reasonable so I decided to go with them and I wasn't disappointed. They did a great job. Ronald's team showed up on time with a team of guys who were very polite and not shady by any means. My stereotype of most movers are guys who are rude and rough around the edges, but when Ronald and his team showed up, I found them polite and respectful and they got right to work. They had all the proper equipment and technical know-how to protect, secure, and reinforce all my furniture and artwork for the trip across the city. When they were securing my canvases and sculptures, they even used white gloves, which was awesome. They worked efficiently, operated with a high degree of respect for my property, were polite, were courteous, reasonably priced, and got the job done in exactly the way I was hoping they would. They even hung my canvases at my new place when the move was finished. Overall, I highly recommend using Aaron's Reliable. I'll be sure to use them the next time I move...but I hope it isn't for a while because moving is still a pain in the butt. read more

My move is today. They call me this morning changing the plan, adding extra fees, probably hoping I'll freak out and put up with it because of the time crunch. I just politely said "no thank you" after Maria gave me wicked attitude... YOU GO GIRL. We're in a recession. There are plenty of hard working, skilled men in Chicago who would do the job in an honest way. Don't let them strong arm you! Found some friends to help me. I recommend Craigslisting it. You can find people at a way better rate who are professional, trust worthy, punctual, honest and super nice. Don't give good money to people who don't deserve it! And don't let them ruffle your feathers. :) Movers are like men. Don't waste your time with the ones that don't treat you right. BOOM. UPDATE: They just called me mad about my post threatening me and my friends who are helping me move. Ron at Aaron's Reliable Movers is threatening to come by apartment, photograph my move and make sure I have licensed and insured movers. If I do not, he says he will report me and my friends helping me move to the Illinois Movers and Warehousemen's Association, which he is on... if I do not remove my post from Yelp. Is this the mafia? Let me get this straight... I can only do business with them and take down my negative post from Yelp "or else" they'll do everything in their power to prevent me from moving today? In the words of Kenny Powers "COME AT ME BRO." Do they not understand the Internet? My video camera is ready guys. This could be YouTube gold. Sounds like an awesome story for the Chicago Tribune. I had a recommendation up for a good mover, but had to cancel with him and take his number down so he wouldn't be harassed. This is SAD. read more

Aaron's Reliable Movers did an excellent job from start to finish. For starters, one of the managers returned my call promptly (on Father's Day! from his cell phone) and said he would do a free in home estimate. I was a little indecisive about choosing a moving company, and ended up calling them a few more times as I went back and forth between Aarons and Golans (very nice too). Each time my calls were returned immediately and during off hours as well. After this, I really didn't feel there was a need for an in-home. I felt pretty confident with how Aaron's handled customer phone calls and follow-ups. They weren't pushy at all and very professional. Anyway, they were one of the few moving services that could schedule my move on short notice and for the exact time I requested. On moving day, three very nice and very professional movers showed up on time, took inventory, had all of the paperwork ready, and they went right to work. Roughly 15 minutes into the move, another group of men showed up (3 total) to double check inventory. I thought it was pretty neat that they wanted to be 100% sure they got it right. The second group of three was professional and precise as well. After this, I truly felt that my move would run smoothly and it did! The move took around 2 hours or so to complete and the price was very reasonable for a 2 bedroom apt. The movers were very respectful and extremely helpful. They genuinely wanted to do a good job and they did everything they could to accommodate me. If you need movers and you don't want to worry about a thing on moving day, call Aaron's. They are awesome! read more

I'm completely shocked at these reviews! I have used Aaron's 3 times and each time the service has been fantastic!! I have recommended them every time I hear a friend or co-worker is moving. The movers are always extremely friendly and professional. You definitely don't get that weirdo vibe from any one. I think that's extremely important since I'm a female and until recently have always lived alone. As another review has mentioned there is a 2 hour minimum but unlike other companies you don't have to pay extra for the truck rental. If you want to keep the costs down then I recommend purchasing your own tape. You'll need A LOT of tape! Overall they move fast. They carry 5-6 boxes at a time. The movers are extremely careful with all your things. They take time to wrap all wood, glass, and mirrors with the padding. I have never had anything broken, scratched or dented. They even follow all landlord rules no matter how crazy (like wrapping all the banisters in padding). If you have some odd shaped items that you can't find a box for then they will make you a box. Walter is like a freakin' MacGyver! I think it's worth mentioning that a lot of these movers have been with the company for a long time. Personally, I think that says something for the quality of service and the company. If you're unsure then ask for specific movers when you call. They can't guarantee them but they will definitely try. A few of the names that have stood out from all my moves are Walter, Manny, and Edwin. I honestly wish I could remember the other guys names because they did great too. read more

Used Aaron's reliable movers again for another recent move. This move was very complex and required special attention to detail. Examples are as follow, in our new place we had some very high end flooring installed. Making sure that flooring was protected as our belongings were moved in was a must. Ron from Aaron's made sure that protective materials were staged and waiting, so when the moving truck came. All the flooring was protected and would get no damage. They even brought in the baby crib 1st and put it together before anything so my mother in law could take the baby into her new room for nap. That was a big help and shows that they were looking out for our best interest. It was a long move 10+ hours, to and from. We bought the guy's lunch and dinner for they were working really hard. At the end of the move. Ron and a few of his guy's even helped with hanging up some of our artwork. They had everything needed to securely mount and hang artwork on hand. This saved us the time to hire another company that would have charged us an arm and a leg. We have used Aaron's once before and were very pleased with their service. They did this move last week for us and long and behold Ron and his guy's proved again why we prefer to use his company for moving. I have referred Aaron's to family members, friends and co-workers of mine and will continue to do so. Thank you Ron for the good job last week. read more

These guys are absolute pros. I work for a recycling company that distributes used building materials from homes and apartments. That means that we often have to move huge, bulky, delicate items.... and fast! Sometimes I can only give 24-48 hours' notice. Ron and his team has always been there for us. First of all, they are kind, enthusiastic, and straightforward. They keep me posted at all times of their ETA, and they show up ready to work. Their expertise in how to move, pack, and store materials is unparalleled. I have also used Ron's Reliable for a personal move, and this is where I really want to sing their praises. I originally hired them to move a kitchen. But shortly before they arrived, the inventory altered. On top of the kitchen cabinetry and counters, I also needed a study, some appliances, and window treatments moved as well. They rolled with the punches without batting an eye. They never took a break, they worked carefully and quickly, and when all was packed up, they braved an hour of rush hour traffic to make the delivery. When they arrived at my doorstep, they had smiles on their faces. The crew was exhausted, but they never faltered in the move and they continuously treated me with consideration, patience, and understanding. I will always use Ron's Reliable. Ron and Maria are delightful to coordinate with, their teams are wonderful, and they get the job done. Hire them! read more

This company, Aaron's Reliable Movers, and the crew they send, is phenomenal. We were ready to have them pack up and move everything out of our apartment and into storage, possibly for months -- in order to have mandatory electrical work done in our apartment. Instead, they advised us that they could save us thousands of dollars by just moving all the bookcases and furniture away from the walls, and packing all contents carefully into boxes. This they did, and they came back a couple of times, as the electrical work proceeded, to help us move furniture, empty bookcases, put back new bookcases, secure them to the walls and reshelve literally thousands of books and LPs and CDs. While we were at it, we decided to do some much needed painting, plastering and recarpeting. Aaron's crew removed old carpeting and hauled it away. They removed wall hangings and when painting was complete, they hung tapestries and artwork. They were founts of good advice, sympathetic, resourceful, efficient, inexpensive for what they accomplished, and absolutely perfect to deal with. They had been recommended by friends who had valuable artwork that they needed moved and well taken care, and they were impressed with Aaron's. So were we. We cannot recommend them more highly. And we plan to turn to them in the future. read more

In the past I have used Aaron's twice, the first time was in June of 2005. I was a bit nervous as it was during peak moving season and almost everyone I know has a horror story regarding their moves. Since this was the first time I have had to hire movers I called often and had many questions, not once did I have a problem with the office staff, they were prompt in returning my calls and never gave me an indication that I was nuisance (which I am sure I was at times). The first move was from Chicago to Woodstock, the crew was about a half hour early and very organized. The second time I used their service was when I had a house fire in December 2009. I have a 6 foot boa that had to be moved in a hurry due to the cold temps that day(the hotel would not allow us to keep it in the room). I called Ron at 9am and by noon his crew was there to dismantle the enclosure, move it and reassemble it at a friends house, if we had to wait the snake would not have survived. I am looking to move to AZ within the next few months and while they are not the least expensive moving company out there I will gladly pay a little extra for the professionalism and piece of mind they have afforded me. I would never consider using anyone else!! read more

This was the easiest and most pain-free move I've ever had. And don't let the name fool you - I don't have any fine art/antiques - just normal stuff - and they do moves for regular people too. The movers who came to my apartment (Ron was the head guy, but they were all really hard-working!) were polite, friendly but not too friendly, and just fantastic all around. I can't say enough good things about them! They wrapped some of my stuff, but really only the stuff that needed to be wrapped (which saved a lot of time and $), and were really diligent about getting finished as quickly as possible. Their prices were fantastic too - the final bill was about 2/3 of the next quote! Normally I only think of going on Yelp when something has gone horribly wrong, but these guys were so great that I felt like I really needed to say something here. The woman who answers the phones and schedules appointments was really great too - I had to reschedule at the last minute because of my building's elevator and she managed to get me in at another time that still made it possible for me to move out of my old apartment on the same day! They were wonderful! read more

Aaron's Reliable moved us from Chicago to Southern California earlier this year. The move went extremely well, all of our possessions arrived undamaged, and the Aaron's team was friendly and professional at every step, from the initial quote to the unloading and placement of our furniture at our new home. When bad weather was forecast for the day of the move, they sent extra guys in to make sure that the packing was done and the trucks were loaded and moving before the worst weather hit. Working quickly and efficiently, they wrapped and labeled everything extremely well, making our unpacking on the other end all the easier. Once on the road, they gave us frequent calls and text messages to keep us informed of their progress. Their quote was more than the other movers we talked to, but they were dedicated to us (not consolidating with other moves) and they got our things to California in just a few days, compared to the large window we got from the other movers we talked to. For us, that was worth every penny. All in all, we could not have been happier, and if we're ever moving in the Chicago area again, we'll probably give Ron a call. read more

Once again, a nightmarish,macabre almost Kafka-esk move .First off, I called and made an appointment for my move two weeks ahead of time. I explained that I must be out on the date and time specified. The woman I spoke with assured me no problem. The day of my move, they showed up four hours late, and I had already called another moving company. So now they show up, I refuse, and wow the fireworks start. The workers started to threaten me with some three hour minimum law crap, then I still refuse and they start to make snide remark as to my sexuality (I'm openly gay) Then some guy who called himself the "operations manager" calls me with the same threats and intimidation tack ticks .Long story short, I found Aaron's Reliable Movers to be exceedingly unprofessional, rude,un- knowledgeable about the concept of customer service and due to the remarks made about my sexuality they bordered on committing. a hate crime . Please all my fellow Yelper's out there Don't USE THIS COMPANY!!!!!! If this guy treats his potential customers in this manner, I can only imagine how he treats his employees and family wow. Really ? read more

I am a little delayed in writing this and I normally don't review places but these guys were great! I was moving from a studio to a studio and many of the moving companies that I called said that they had a minimum time and charge requirement. These minimums ended up being outrageous and way more than I was willing to spend. I called Aaron's and the prices were reasonable (plus they were able to book an appointment on short notice). I had two guys come to help me move and they were amazing. They were super efficient and careful with all my belongings. I had a small time frame to use the elevator in my new building and they were able to move everything in time. I would have been so lost without them and am so happy I hired them. They were friendly, nice, and like I mentioned earlier EFFICIENT. Definitely recommend Aaron's. My only issue is that they gave me a two hour time frame for when they would arrive (which seems to be the norm) but unfortunately they came closer to the end of the time frame which made moving a little more hectic; however, they finished quickly. read more

I work for Aaron's Reliable Movers, and while I didn't go out of my way to leave a review, the prompt popped up on my screen -- so I figured it was a great opportunity to share some honest insight from the inside. That being said, I can confidently say that we go the extra mile for our clients. We are not your average "hurry up and get it done" moving company. Our team maintains a steady, professional pace, with a focus on doing the job right -- every box wrapped properly, every item packed or crated with care. We truly believe your belongings deserve the same respect we'd give our own. Now, if you're a client on a very strict budget looking for the rock-bottom price, we might not be the company for you. But if you're looking for a team that delivers a high-quality, low-stress moving experience at a competitive price, we'd be happy to provide a quote or even a free in-home estimate. We are a family owned and operated company and we take great pride in our work -- and that's what makes the difference. read more

Being a professional artist for over two decades now, and using various companies for delivering my art and installing, I've always found myself completely paranoid and worried about potential damage during the move. I have finally found a moving firm I can trust with Aaron's Reliable. The services are beyond satisfactory from the first time I used them to the last which was two weeks ago. I've always considered myself a physically fit hands-on guy. One of my first jobs was for a moving company. I honestly have a new gained respect for how professional and efficient the men of Aaron's Reliable are. From moving my studio to delivering and installing numerous pieces of art to my best clients to date, I have found a company to handle this aspect of my profession to the point where I can sincerely sit back, relax allow them to get the job done. Bottom line...I am a loyal client and will continue to use Aaron's and refer them whenever I can. read more

This company " Aaron's UNRELIABLE movers "has to be the saddest, worst, most pathetic excuse for a professional moving company I have ever seen in my entire life. I booked a move with Ron, and Maria. During the move my 65" flat screen tv was damaged beyond repair. I immediately notified Ron and Maria of the unfortunate accident. They in turn told me to send them pictures of the damage along with a invoice of purchase, and they would take care of the matter the next day. I agreed and furnished them a picture and invoice. Well to make a long story short tomorrow never came, nor did the compensation for the damage done to my television. I have been forced to file a complaint with the ICC/ Illinois Commerce Commission, the Illinois Attorney General, and the Better Business Bureau. " Aaron's UNRELIABLE Movers" is a very unethical as well as a shady company to do business with. I urge anyone reading this review "BEWARE." read more

I used Aaron's Reliable for the second time last week to move a Piano that was given to from a friend who did not have a place for it in her home. It's a rather large piece and I was unsure if it would be able to maneuver up 2 flights of stairs in my buildings stairways that lean toward the narrow side, but it was a beautiful piece so I decided to take the risk. That day I met the 3 man crew over at the storage facility where the piano was stored and I was delighted to see that 2 of the movers were ones I had for my previous move a few months back and were already familiar with my building. Once the men unloaded the piece and got it to the bottom of the stairs, I watched as the 3 men incredibly lifted the piano up and practically glided it up 2 flights of stairs! I encourage these movers to anyone looking to know their belongings are in good hands while moving. read more

I was looking on yelp today for a good Thai food joint, I usually I only use yelp to find places to go, I never post. But after the experience I had with this company, I'm going to take the plunge. I really hate for my first post to be negative, but it is what it is. My experience was so horrible and down right degrading, I just have to bite thebullet on this one. Anyway called, asked for a quote(big move, lot's of stuff) the quote was a little high, but after all the ad- ins it became crazy high. So I politely declined and this guy becomes absolutely irate, insulting,threatening and generally menacing like some kind of gangbanger want-to-be. It really scared the hell out of me and it was all I could do to get this guy off the phone. Next time I'll use Move tastic. read more