History

Federal Companies was established in 1913 by Clarence Ullman in the bustling city of Peoria, Illinois, during a time when whiskey and beer production reigned supreme. Initially a single warehousing and distribution facility at 800 South Adams Street, our company was formed when river and rail transportation were dominant.

In 1928, we became a charter member of Allied Van Lines. Federal Companies is one of the original seven companies that formed the van line, marking a significant milestone in our expansion. We remain an Allied Van Lines agent today. Over the decades, Federal Companies has grown and evolved, expanding into new markets across the Midwest while adapting rapidly to new technology and transport systems.

In 1979, we entered St. Louis, Missouri, with the creation of Federal/Gateway Moving & Storage. Our reach extended further in 1986 with the acquisition of Chester & O’Byrne Transfer in Champaign, Illinois, and continued with acquisitions in Bloomington-Normal and Decatur, Illinois, by 1989. Between 1991 and 1994, we expanded into the Chicago area after acquiring Whalen Moving & Storage and Safety Moving & Storage. Federal Companies continues to thrive, staying true to our founding principles while adapting to an ever-changing industry landscape.