When moving from Indiana to Iowa, you’ll likely pay between $1,913–$4,983 with professional movers, roughly
$1,801 for a moving container, and about
$665
for a rental truck.
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The best local moving companies in Indiana
In Indiana, there are 52 interstate moving companies available to accommodate your move to Iowa. To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best local movers in Indiana, all known for their solid reputations, clear pricing, and impressive customer satisfaction.
- MVM Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- A Better Way Moving and Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Planes Moving & Storage Company: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Sherman Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1444491
MVM Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving in and around Fort Wayne, IN, since 2007. Renowned for their outstanding customer service, they boast an impressive average rating of 5.0 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, MVM stands out with their comprehensive offerings, including packing, unpacking, and specialty moving services such as pianos, pool tables, and antiques. With no deposit required and the convenience of credit card payments, they offer unmatched reliability and flexibility in the area.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 1237577
Alternate Names: L.E.A.D.E.R.S Moving & Storage Co. , Leaders Moving and Storage Company , Hilling Moving & Storage
Leaders Moving & Storage Co., based in Indianapolis, IN, has been a trusted local residential mover since 1995. Known for their comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, they stand out by accepting credit cards and not requiring deposits. Their reputation shines with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and a stellar 4.7 average rating from over 550 reviews on Google, although their Yelp reviews are more modest at 3.3 from 24 reviews. Compared to other nearby moving companies, Leaders Moving & Storage Co. offers a reliable and customer-focused experience for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 22
DOT #: 1886253
Alternate Names: A Better Way Moving and Storage, Inc.
A Better Way Moving and Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Bloomington, IN since 2003. Their impressive track record is backed by stellar consumer reviews, boasting a 4.0 average rating on Yelp and a 4.7 on Google, along with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Unlike many nearby movers, they offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and crating, and are capable of handling delicate items such as pianos, art, and antiques. Although a deposit is required, they ensure peace of mind with full valuation insurance coverage, solidifying their reputation as a reliable and customer-centric moving company.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 105
DOT #: 1458935
Alternate Names: Planes Companies , Planes Specialized Logistics , Planes Commercial Services
Planes Moving & Storage Company has been serving the Indianapolis, IN area with local residential moving services since 1921, making them one of the most experienced moving companies in the region. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialty moving for items like pianos, pool tables, and antiques. While their Yelp profile shows mixed feedback with an average rating of 2.1 from 18 reviews, their Google My Business profile boasts an impressive 4.9 average rating from 829 reviews, and they hold an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Comparatively, Planes Moving & Storage stands out among other nearby movers for its longevity and breadth of services, ideal for those seeking reliable and diverse local moving solutions.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 92
DOT #: 719392
Alternate Names: Ed Sherman Moving & Storage
Sherman Moving & Storage has been providing exceptional local residential moving services in and around Indianapolis, IN since 1933, making them one of the most experienced movers in the area. Known for their comprehensive packing and unpacking services, they are even equipped to move delicate items such as pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. Unlike many other nearby moving companies, they require no deposit and accept credit cards for added convenience. Consumer reviews highlight their reliability, boasting an impressive average rating of 4.9 on Google and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, though Yelp feedback is more mixed. Sherman Moving & Storage stands out as a reputable choice for local movers seeking trusted, full-service assistance.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
The best Indiana to Iowa moving container companies
Moving containers help you save money without having to do all the heavy lifting. You load and unload your stuff, while the company handles all the driving, picking up your container in Indiana and dropping it off at your new home in Iowa.
Check out our top picks for the best moving container companies:
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The best Indiana to Iowa moving truck rentals
Want to save money on your move from Indiana to Iowa? Consider renting a moving truck. With this option, you’ll do all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
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The best Indiana to Iowa labor-only movers
Need an extra set of hands for loading your belongings into a rental truck or storage unit? Labor-only movers have you covered. You pick the team size that works for you, and you’re only charged for the hours they’re on the job.
When you’re getting ready to move from Indiana to Iowa, make your move a breeze with these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your IN to IA move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 59 Indiana movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
- Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Indiana to Iowa?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Indiana to Iowa, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,047 – $3,069 | $631 – $1,516 | $398 – $720 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,913 – $4,983 | $1,245 – $2,357 | $433 – $898 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,546 – $7,507 | $1,578 – $3,025 | $522 – $1,039 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 478-mile relocation from IN to IA, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 04, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues, fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Indiana to Iowa
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Indiana to Iowa, you’ll likely pay between $1,047 and $3,069. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $1,913 and $4,983 for the same journey (IN to IA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,546 to $7,507.
Cost of moving containers from Indiana to Iowa
When you’re heading from Indiana to Iowa, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $631 and $1,516. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,245 and $2,357. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,578 to $3,025. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Indiana easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Indiana to Iowa
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $398 to $720. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $433 to $898, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Indiana to Iowa costs around $522 to $1,039.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IN to IA
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Indiana to Iowa. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
- How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
- The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Indiana when demand for movers is highest.
- DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from IN to IA
If you’re moving to Iowa from Indiana, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Indiana vs. Iowa
Understanding how costs compare between Indiana and Iowa can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
| Indiana | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $844 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $228,879 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $67,173 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 91 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.6% | 3.0% |
| Average sales tax | 7.0% | 6.94% |
| State income tax | 3.15% | 4.4% |
- Rent is about 8% higher in Iowa than in Indiana. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
- Home prices in Iowa and Indiana are pretty similar, so you probably won’t need to adjust your mortgage budget much, unless you’re planning to move into a bigger or nicer place.
- The average income is about the same in both Indiana and Iowa, so you won’t need to worry about a big change to your budget.
- With the cost of living being about the same in Iowa and Indiana, you can shift your focus from finances to quality of life and lifestyle fit.
- Iowa boasts an unemployment rate about 17% lower than Indiana. That means you’ll find a stronger job market and a more robust local economy, a great sign if you’re planning a move.
- No need to stress about sales tax. Rates are similar in Indiana and Iowa, making your move a bit less expensive.
- Income taxes in Iowa are 40% higher than in Indiana, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.
How life is different in Iowa vs. Indiana
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Iowa and Indiana line up on these lifestyle indicators.
| Iowa | Indiana | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,207,004 | 6,833,037 |
| Political leaning | Republican 53-45 | Republican 57-41 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 85ºF |
| Winter low | 10ºF | 19ºF |
| Annual rain | 35″ | 43″ |
| Annual snow | 30″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 16.18 | 19.72 |
- The population of Iowa is approximately 53% lower than the population of Indiana. Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
- In the most recent presidential race, both Indiana and Iowa leaned Republican.
- In Iowa, summer highs are around 84°F, close to 85°F in Indiana. With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
- In the coldest months, Iowa sees lows of 10°F compared to 19°F in Indiana. That colder climate means higher heating costs and tougher winters — but also snowy scenery and seasonal activities.
- In Iowa, you’ll get about 35 inches of rain each year — less than the 43 inches you’re used to in Indiana. That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
- Each year, Iowa sees about 30 inches of snowfall, while Indiana averages just 22 inches. With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation and warm gear.
- Iowa is a safer choice than Indiana, boasting a lower crime index of 16.18 compared to 19.72. You can look forward to safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and greater peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of Indiana vs. Iowa
New beginnings can be really exciting. Here’s a quick comparison between life in Iowa and Indiana:
| Pros of living in Indiana | Pros of living in Iowa |
|---|---|
| Low cost of living | Low cost of living |
| Amiable people | Ample economic opportunity |
| Excellent universities | High quality of education |
| Diverse economies | No traffic |
| Water recreation | Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in Indiana vs. Iowa
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live. Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Indiana for Iowa:
| Cons of living in Indiana | Cons of living in Iowa |
|---|---|
| Cold and snowy winters | Severe weather conditions |
| Low diversity | Limited recreational opportunities |
| Limited recreational activities | High taxes |
| Limited public transportation | High emphasis on politics |
| Air pollution | Rustic food |
Other things to consider for your Indiana to Iowa move
- HOA rules: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
- Parking permits: Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
- State licensing: When moving within Iowa, make sure to hire a company that is licensed by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Each household goods mover in the state should have an Iowa Motor Carrier (IOWAMC) Number, which means they’ve met minimum insurance and highway safety requirements. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Iowa, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Iowa right on schedule. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Iowa
While you’re in Iowa, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Iowa
- National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
- Figge Art Museum
- National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
- The Putnam Museum & Science Center
- Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
Parks in Iowa
- Vander Veer Botanical Park
- Gray’s Lake Park
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Eagle Point Park
- Terry Trueblood Recreational Area
Sports teams in Iowa
- Iowa Wolves (NBA G League)
- Iowa Hawkeyes (NCAA)
- Northern Iowa Panthers (NCAA)
- Iowa State Cyclones (NCAA)
- Drake Bulldogs (NCAA)
Universities in Iowa
- Iowa State University
- University of Iowa
- University of Northern Iowa
- Maharishi International University
- Grinnell College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Indiana to Iowa?
Going with a full-service Indiana moving company is a bigger financial investment, but it saves you a ton of hassle. If you’re looking to cut costs, renting a moving truck or using a moving container will keep your budget in check, but you’ll have to do more of the heavy lifting. Want more options for saving money? Check out our tips on the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Indiana to Iowa?
A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or, if you prefer, you can arrange vehicle transport from Indiana to Iowa on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from Indiana to Iowa?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Indiana to Iowa to enjoy all the great benefits Iowa provides, such as low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in Indiana or Iowa?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Indiana. While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing is much more affordable in Iowa, with average rent about 8% less and home prices 4% lower than in Indiana. However, taxes are lower in Indiana, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Iowa residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Iowa?
Thinking of moving to Iowa on your own? You’ll want to earn around $63,616 to cover your expenses comfortably. If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,436 per month, or around $5,230 if you have a family of four. Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Indiana?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. In Indiana, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts. Military members can find special pricing from 2 companies. Seniors are eligible for savings with 8 movers. Law enforcement personnel qualify for special rates with 1 companies.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
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