Best Tulsa to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Tulsa to Chicago Movers

Moving from Tulsa, OK, to Chicago, IL, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. Leaving behind Tulsa's quiet charm for Chicago's bustling streets, iconic architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods is a significant change. Recognizing the importance of this transition, we emphasize choosing trusted and reliable professional movers for your journey, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience from start to finish.

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Best Tulsa to Chicago Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
Serenity Moving Services9.12A+Authorized For HHGContact
Bigger Better Movers8.56A-Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Emrick's Van & Storage8.19A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Tulsa guide.

5 Best Tulsa to Chicago Moving Companies

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

606 Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.36/10
based on 1,152+ data points

About 606 Movers, Inc.

606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly movi...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Movers
  • Commercial Movers
  • Packing & Unpacking Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
1
Move-tastic! Logo
Exceptional9.35/10
based on 10,649+ data points

About Move-tastic!

What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving c...Read More >>

Services

  • Full Moves
  • Truck Loading and Unloading
  • Interstate Moving Assistance

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers26
Total Annual Miles Moved86,474 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Serenity Moving Services Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.12/10
based on 907+ data points

About Serenity Moving Services

Locally owned and operated since 2014, Serenity Moving Services provides local residential relocation services to the Oklahoma City, Oklahom...Read More >>

Services

  • Full Service Moving
  • Packing & Unpacking
  • Piano Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2439364 / 988784

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Bigger Better Movers Logo
Fabulous8.56/10
based on 2,883+ data points

About Bigger Better Movers

Founded in 2017, Bigger Better Movers is a local Oklahoma moving company that offers residential and commercial relocation services to Oklah...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Local Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3910852 / 1443568

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Emrick's Van & Storage Logo
Very Good8.19/10
based on 255+ data points

About Emrick's Van & Storage

Since 1904, Emrick's Van and Storage has provided relocation services to much of Oklahoma, including Oklahoma City and Tulsa. The company's ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Commercial moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

34233 / 135250

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans20
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2024)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven โ€” movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Tulsa vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison

When moving to a new city, it can be comforting to find familiar sights and sounds in your new neighborhood. This guide will help you do just that, by comparing Tulsa, OK & Chicago, IL neighborhoods. By using your current community as a baseline, we'll aid in your transition, highlighting comparable districts to ease your relocation process.

TulsaChicagoHow They're Similar
BrooksideWicker ParkVibrant nightlife, indie shops
Cherry StreetLincoln ParkBustling urban area, parks
Maple RidgeGold CoastHistoric homes, upscale living
MidtownLoopCentral business district, high-rises
Riverside DriveLakeviewScenic lakeshore, active community
Utica SquareMagnificent MilePremier shopping, dining
South TulsaHyde ParkDiverse cultural scene, historic
GreenwoodBronzevilleRich history, cultural significance
OwassoEdison ParkFamily-friendly, close-knit community
JenksAndersonvilleQuaint, diverse, local businesses

If you relish the vibrant nightlife and indie shopping scenes of Brookside, you'll find a spirited similarity in Wicker Park, a place teeming with cafes, bars, and boutiques. For those who admire the historic homes and upscale environment of Maple Ridge, the elegance and luxury of Gold Coast with its renowned architectural gems like the historic Mansions of Astor Street will captivate you. Meanwhile, Tulsa's Riverside Drive, with its scenic walks and active outdoors lifestyle, finds its match in Lakeview, where Lake Michigan's shore offers a similar melding of city life and nature. Those moving from South Tulsa will appreciate Hyde Park for its diverse and inclusive atmosphere, boosted by the presence of cultural institutions such as the Museum of Science and Industry. Such detailed comparisons ensure you'll find not just a new place to live, but a new place to call home.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Tulsa to Chicago

Moving from one city to another can be an emotional rollercoaster, and knowing what to expect is crucial. This comparison aims to shine a light on the pros and cons of relocating from Tulsa, OK to Chicago, IL , highlighting the unique attributes each city offers. It's about giving you a clear picture, so your decision is as informed as it can be.

CONs
PROs
Tulsa, OK iconTulsa, OK
  • Smaller job market
  • Fewer cultural venues
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Lower walkability
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Larger job market
  • More cultural venues
  • More diverse cuisine
  • Higher walkability
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less space
  • More traffic
  • Faster pace of life
Tulsa, OK iconTulsa, OK
  • Lower cost of living
  • More space
  • Less traffic
  • Friendly communities

Moving from Tulsa to Chicago means exchanging the spacious, laid-back lifestyle for a bustling urban environment with a vast array of opportunities. In Chicago, the Art Institute of Chicago and Magnificent Mile offer cultural and shopping experiences unmatched in Tulsa. Foodies will revel in Chicago's diverse cuisine, from deep-dish pizza at Pequod's Pizza to gourmet dining at Alinea. However, this comes with the price of a higher cost of living and potentially less living space. Community parks like Grant Park provide urban green spaces, but they're a different experience from the more expansive landscapes back in Tulsa. Embrace the change, and Chicago's vibrant lifestyle might just win you over.

Tulsa vs. Chicago Food Guide

Food plays a pivotal role in defining the local culture and living experience of an area. To help you get acquainted with your new home, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Tulsa & Chicago to give you a taste of what culinary delights await you in these cities.

TulsaChicago
Most iconic local food itemBarbecueDeep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishSmoked BrisketItalian Beef
Most popular street food itemIndian TacosChicago-Style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladVegan Deep Dish Pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Joe's BBQ
  • Andolini's Pizzeria
  • Caz's Chowhouse
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’ช
Abundance of Food Trucks๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš๐Ÿšš
Foodie Scene๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด๐Ÿด
Vegan Friendly๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ

In Chicago, the food scene is vibrant and diverse, offering something for every palate. You'll find the city's iconic deep dish pizza at spots like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, located in various neighborhoods across the city. For a taste of true Chicago street food, the Chicago-style hot dog is a must-try, with establishments like Portillo's serving up this classic with all the traditional toppings. The health and vegan scene is also well represented in Chicago, with options like vegan deep dish pizza catering to those with dietary preferences. The foodie scene in Chicago is robust, punctuated by an array of food trucks and high-end restaurants like Alinea, showcasing the city's culinary innovation and diversity.

Tulsa vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

As you prepare for your move from Tulsa to Chicago, finding your new go-to eateries is crucial for making the Windy City feel like home. With this restaurant comparison between Tulsa and Chicago, we aim to help you discover places where you can enjoy familiar tastes or perhaps explore new ones. Let these curated selections guide you to your next favorite dining spot.

TulsaChicagoWhat You'll Love
Burn Co BarbecueSmoque BBQAuthentic smoked meats mirroring Burn Co's dedication.
JuniperAvecSeasonal, farm-to-table dishes that emphasize flavor and innovation.
Elote Cafe & CateringCarnitas UruapanFamous for pork dishes, offering a comparable vibrant Mexican palate.
White River Fish MarketThe Angry CrabNotable for seafood boils that reflect White River's fresh seafood offerings.
Tally's Good Food CafรฉLou Mitchell'sAn iconic diner experience, echoing Tallyโ€™s classic American comfort food.
Sisserou's Caribbean Restaurant5 RabanitosProviding a tasteful blend of Latin American cuisines, hinting at Caribbean flavors.
Andolini's PizzeriaPequod's PizzaBoth spots are famed for their unique take on traditional pizza.
ValkyrieThe Violet HourHigh-end cocktail bars with a focus on craftsmanship and ambiance.
Mother Road MarketTime Out MarketA food hall that offers a wide range of culinary experiences, similar to Mother Road Marketโ€™s diverse eateries.
Palace CafรฉCafรฉ Ba-Ba-Reeba!Spanish cuisine with a flair for tapas, resembling Palace Cafรฉ's European menu inspirations.

Exploring Chicagoโ€™s dining scene through the lens of your Tulsa favorites can be an exciting journey. For instance, Smoque BBQโ€™s passion for authentic smoked meats provides a taste reminiscent of Burn Co Barbecue, allowing for a seamless transition in your BBQ expectations. At Avec, the commitment to farm-to-table goodness draws parallels with Juniper, offering you a blend of innovative and flavorful dishes. Meanwhile, Pequod's Pizza and Andolini's Pizzeria share a unique approach to crafting pizzas that stand out in their respective cities, perfect for those evenings when only a slice of exceptional pizza will do. This exploration not only satisfies your appetite but also intertwines familiar comforts with new discoveries, enriching your culinary experience as you settle into Chicago.

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Ready to start your move?

Tulsa vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape of your new city is crucial. Comparing Tulsa, OK to Chicago, IL will help illustrate the differences and similarities in housing options, costs, and lifestyles. This can inform your decisions on where and how you'll live in your new home.

ComparisonTulsaChicago
Typical Architecture StyleArt Deco, RanchModern, Greystone
Walkability ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ
Bikeability ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ๐Ÿšฒ
Urban Lifestyle ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge yards, Quiet neighborhoodsLake views, Proximity to public transit

In more detail, the architecture in Tulsa often includes Art Deco and ranch-style homes, reflecting its historical growth periods, while Chicago boasts a wider variety of designs, including modern high-rises and classic Greystone buildings. This architectural diversity in Chicago contributes to its higher urban lifestyle score, offering residents vibrant city life with ample entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences. Additionally, Chicago's high walkability and bikeability scores reflect its dense, accessible urban environment, which contrasts with Tulsa's more car-dependent layout. Chicago's emphasis on lake views and proximity to public transit in real estate listings highlights the city's attractive waterfront areas and extensive transit network, features that significantly enrich urban living.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL

1. Lincoln Park: With its sprawling namesake park, you'll find plenty of green spaces for walks and the Lincoln Park Dog Park where your furry friend can run off-leash.

2. Lakeview: Home to the popular Wiggly Field Dog Park, Lakeview offers an urban setting with a pet-friendly attitude, hosting numerous pet supply shops and pet-friendly patios.

3. Andersonville: This community-oriented neighborhood not only features pet-friendly dining and shopping but also events like the annual Andersonville Pet Parade, making it a delightful place for pet owners.

Tulsa vs. Chicago Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Tulsa, OK to Chicago, IL, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This comparison will help you anticipate and adjust to the differences in climate, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Summer icon
93/73

Tulsa, OK

85/65

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (ยฐF)

Winter icon
48/28

Tulsa, OK

36/22

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (ยฐF)

Rainfall icon
42

Tulsa, OK

39

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6

Tulsa, OK

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonTulsaChicago
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersTornadoes, HailBlizzards, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Yearโ˜€๏ธโ˜€๏ธโ˜€๏ธโ˜€๏ธโ˜€๏ธโ˜€๏ธโ˜€๏ธโ˜€๏ธโ˜€๏ธโ˜€๏ธ
Avg. UV Index๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ•ถ๏ธ
Avg. Annual Humidity๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ๐Ÿ’ฆ

Moving from Tulsa to Chicago, you'll notice a significant change in winter temperatures and snowfall. Chicago experiences much colder winters with a higher volume of snow, averaging 36 inches annually compared to Tulsa's 6 inches. This difference requires readiness for more substantial winter gear and potentially adjusting to snowy commutes. Additionally, while Tulsa has more sunny days, Chicago's summers offer milder temperatures, possibly creating a more comfortable outdoor experience during the warmer months. Despite these variances, both cities share concerns over seasonal allergies and have similar average annual rainfall.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tulsa to Chicago

When planning a move from Tulsa, OK to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to grasp the financial shifts you'll encounter. This comparison aims to highlight the variations in cost of living, taxation, and overall economic conditions between Tulsa and Chicago, offering a foundational understanding of what to expect. Familiarize yourself with these changes to ensure a smoother transition to your new home.

ComparisonTulsaChicago
Avg. Household Income$51,008$66,576
Cost of Living Index88.4116.9
State Income Tax5.04.95
Avg. Property Tax0.882.10
Avg. Sales Tax8.9710.25
Top 3 IndustriesEnergy, Aerospace, FinanceFinance, Manufacturing, Information Technology
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateHigh
HomelessnessLowHigh

The move from Tulsa to Chicago will introduce you to a more affluent but also a more expensive living environment. The average household income is slightly higher in Chicago, but this is counterbalanced by a significantly higher cost of living index, meaning your dollar might not stretch as far as it did in Tulsa. The state income tax rates are fairly comparable, though property taxes in Chicago are substantially higher, which could be a major consideration if you're planning to buy a home. Chicago's top industries offer a diverse array of employment opportunities, especially in finance and tech, providing a dynamic economic landscape. Understanding these financial and economic contrasts will be key in planning your move and setting realistic expectations for your new life in Chicago.

Tulsa vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from Tulsa, OK, to Chicago, IL, itโ€™s essential to consider more than just the logistics; understanding the communities you're transitioning between can ease the process significantly. This guide provides a comparison of the politics between Tulsa & Chicago to give you a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the two cities.

TulsaChicago
Political Make-upLean ConservativeLean Liberal
Local PoliticsModerate, with a stable Republican influence in local governmentLiberal, predominantly Democratic leadership
ReligionChristianity is predominant, with a strong presence of evangelical Protestant churchesDiverse, with a significant Catholic population alongside a variety of other faiths

While Tulsa tends to lean conservative with a significant influence of evangelical Protestantism shaping its local culture, Chicago presents a more liberal stance politically, with a diverse religious landscape. This difference reflects in the cities' governance and public policies, affecting everything from business climates to social services. As you prepare for your move, consider how these fundamental differences might impact your daily life in Chicago compared to Tulsa. This understanding can help you navigate local discussions, community involvement, and even your weekend plans more smoothly.

Tulsa vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This comparison between Tulsa & Chicago is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like as you consider moving. From the time youโ€™ll spend in traffic to the availability of public transport, knowing what to expect can significantly ease your transition.

ComparisonTulsaChicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2035
Traffic Congestion ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ๐Ÿšฆ
Availability of Public Transit ๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡๐Ÿš‡
Can you get by without a car?NoYes

In Tulsa, the average commute time is notably shorter, and you'll face considerably less traffic congestion compared to Chicago. However, Tulsa's public transport system is less developed, making it challenging to rely on it solely for your daily commute. Conversely, Chicago offers a robust public transit system, characterized by the CTA buses, the "L" train system, and Metra railways, making it entirely feasible to navigate the city without owning a car. This difference significantly impacts lifestyle choices and daily routines, especially for those used to driving everywhere in Tulsa.

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