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($1,263) Movers From California to Indianapolis, IN

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Estimated cost & time: A move from California to Indianapolis, IN spans roughly 2,191 miles and averages $1,371 to $7,534. It generally takes six–17 days, with final cost shaped by your moving date, load size, and whether you use movers or handle it yourself.
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Best movers from California to Indianapolis, IN

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from California to Indianapolis, IN

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,191-mile move from California to Indianapolis, IN using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified moving price points from carriers across the U.S., refreshing the data every month to account for seasonality and market shifts. Your actual cost can change with factors like move size, added services, parking or access issues, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest getting quotes from several movers to understand pricing accurately.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,546 – $5,423
  • Moving Container $1,634 – $3,272
  • Rental Truck $1,291 – $2,446
Two Three Bed Icon

2 – 3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,624 – $7,534
  • Moving Container $2,030 – $4,502
  • Rental Truck $1,371 – $2,741
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,284 – $11,526
  • Moving Container $3,020 – $5,734
  • Rental Truck $1,730 – $3,636
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Mayzlin Relocation
Fairfield, CA Franklin, IN
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 15, 2025
Safeway Moving
Lake Forest, CA Shelbyville, IN
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 14, 2025
BLVD Moving
Moreno Valley, CA Pendleton, IN
2 Bedrooms
Oct 10, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Sanger, CA Markleville, IN
2 Bedrooms
Sep 27, 2025
North American Van Lines
Sand City, CA Anderson, IN
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 23, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Burlingame, CA Greencastle, IN
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 10, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Laguna Woods, CA Amo, IN
2 Bedrooms
Sep 07, 2025
PODS
Downey, CA Brownsburg, IN
3 Bedrooms
Aug 27, 2025
Roadway Moving
Challenge-Brownsville, CA Homecroft, IN
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 22, 2025
United Van Lines
Jackson, CA Brooklyn, IN
Studio apartment
Aug 13, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Indianapolis, IN, to California guide .

Local moving companies in California

When making the move from California to Indianapolis, IN, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.

Out of 317 California movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Indianapolis, IN.

  1. Meathead Movers: 4.78 out of 5 stars
  2. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. 680 Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  4. Sterling Van Lines: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  5. Grace Moving Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.6% of all reviews were positive
13.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—Meathead Movers stands out with high marks in professionalism and careful handling. This analysis covers 500 pieces of customer feedback, and more than 84% express satisfaction. Most note that staff are polite, diligent, and truly careful with belongings. Many customers praise efficient service and rapid moving, while raving about clear and helpful communication. A few customers report concerns about damages to furniture or their homes, highlighting the need for better item protection. Several mention higher-than-expected final costs and, less often, late arrivals. Compared to other services, Meathead Movers receives more consistent praise for reliability and courteous movers, but some buyers find their rates steep or worry about occasional lapses in item care. Anyone searching for an efficient, dependable moving company with a professional attitude will find Meathead Movers excels where service and courtesy matter most, though they should pay close attention to pricing and confirm all details before moving day.
Get a Quote (559) 785-0316

Company Info

State license #: 0189849

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 921143

Alternate Names: Meathead Movers, Inc. , Princess Packers

Meathead Movers, a reputable moving company serving Fresno, CA since 1998, specializes in local residential moving services with a proven track record reflected by their stellar consumer reviews. With 243 Yelp reviews averaging 4.1 stars and 204 Google My Business reviews averaging 4.4 stars, they have earned an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, Meathead Movers also offers packing and unpacking services, accepting both cash and credit cards without requiring a deposit. Their dedication to customer satisfaction and comprehensive service offerings make them a top choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
75.4% of all reviews were positive
21.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers say Republic Moving & Storage stands out for speed, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings. Crews consistently arrive punctually, work efficiently, and communicate clearly, making moving days less stressful for families and individuals. Many highlight how staff go above and beyond to protect delicate items and accommodate client needs. Affordable rates and accurate pricing set the company apart from other movers, as does their polite and knowledgeable team. Issues arise mainly with damage to items during transit, late arrivals, and breakdowns in communication, especially during long-distance or complex moves. While most feedback is positive, a sizable portion of input points to frustration with handling claims, delays, and some property loss. Republic’s track record for efficient, courteous service positions them above many competitors, but persistent complaints about item damage and occasional administrative issues indicate room for improvement and more reliable service for every customer. A total of 501 reviews were analyzed, with about 75% giving positive input.
Get a Quote (619) 639-8352

Company Info

State license #: 0190491

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 3369820

Alternate Names: Lovejoy’s Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services

Republic Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around San Diego, CA, since 1995. With a strong reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer a variety of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and art. Their consumer reviews reflect a solid reputation, with an average rating of 3.8 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google My Business. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also provide storage solutions and full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a smooth and secure moving experience.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
87.9% of all reviews were positive
10.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made simple and stress-free—feedback shows 680 Movers stands out for handling belongings with care, working efficiently, and maintaining a professional, courteous crew. Out of 861 reviews, nearly 88% are positive, repeatedly praising the team’s fast service, mindful handling of items, reliability, communication, and organizational skills. Many say quotes are accurate, prices are fair, and they’re kept well-informed from booking to delivery. Repeat customers highlight consistent quality and recommend them over other Bay Area movers. On the downside, about 10% of experiences involve significant issues, including damage to furniture or homes, slow claims handling, and rare events of delayed arrivals or poor follow-up. Customers note that resolution of claims can be frustrating and coverage for damages feels inadequate compared to losses. Neutral input, though rare, usually points to scheduling inconveniences or minor concerns about the cost or pace. 680 Movers eclipses similarly sized moving companies in the area, thanks to an overwhelmingly positive reputation for careful and efficient moves. Still, costly damage and slow complaint responses mean those with high-value items should be vigilant.
Get a Quote (925) 639-9336

Company Info

State license #: 0191566

Pricing: $125/hr

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 2950711

Since 2017, 680 Movers has been a trusted local moving company serving Walnut Creek, CA, and nearby areas. Known for their comprehensive local residential moving services, they stand out from competitors with their top-rated customer satisfaction, boasting an average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Beyond local moves, they offer packing, unpacking, and specialized services such as piano and pool table relocations. At $125 per hour, 680 Movers provides a blend of quality and affordability that makes them a popular choice among Walnut Creek residents.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
13.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Sterling Van Lines earns consistent praise for professionalism, careful handling, strong communication, efficient service, and competitive rates. Most feedback highlights that movers are polite, possessions arrive safely, and jobs are finished promptly. On the other hand, the company receives criticism for missed delivery estimates, delayed arrivals, and occasional lost or missing items. A few customers report lack of communication or difficulty getting updates. Compared to competitors, Sterling stands out for specializing in small moves, responsive support, and reliable pricing, but may miss the mark on punctuality and resolving claims promptly. Out of 362 reviews analyzed, 84.5% were positive, showing Sterling Van Lines is trusted by most clients for careful moves at a fair price, though some experience logistical hiccups or delays.
Get a Quote (866) 266-8751

Company Info

State license #: 0189566

Years in Business: 33

DOT #: 568254

Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.

Sterling Van Lines, established in 1992, offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Bell Gardens, CA. Renowned for their exceptional service, they boast an average Yelp rating of 4.0 from 145 reviews and a Google rating of 4.6 from 231 reviews, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, they provide comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, fragile-only packing, and the specialized handling of items like pianos, safes, and antiques. Sterling Van Lines accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and cash, with no deposit required, making them a convenient choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
7.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Grace Moving Company stands out for its fast, friendly, and highly professional crews, making challenging moves less stressful for hundreds of customers. Among 467 reviews, 91.6% praised the team’s efficiency, careful handling, and clear communication. Movers consistently arrive on time, protect customer belongings, and deliver quick service without hidden fees, with many feedback reports highlighting friendly, polite, and respectful staff. Customers often find costs fair or lower than expected, which is uncommon in this industry. Negative input, representing only 7% of reviews, typically notes property damage, missing items, or final costs above estimates. Some reported unresponsiveness during claims or concerns about lost belongings. Neutral feedback usually involves minor quirks like inconsistency among moving team members or delays in follow-up but still describes a generally satisfactory experience. Compared to typical movers, Grace Moving receives a higher rate of glowing endorsements and personal recommendations, solidifying its reputation for reliability and care. Most customers would choose them again.
Get a Quote (209) 821-1520

Company Info

State license #: 0189642

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 2806730

Grace Moving Company, based in Modesto, CA, has been reliably serving local residents since 1999, earning a stellar reputation for their top-notch residential moving services. Unlike many competitors, Grace Moving Company also offers specialized services like piano and art moving, packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes. Notably, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trusted choice for local relocations.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card

Cost to move from California to Indianapolis, IN

The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from California to Indianapolis, IN, by home size and moving service.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,263 – $5,083 $1,201 – $3,038 $1,229 – $2,470
2-3 bedrooms $3,624 – $7,534 $2,030 – $4,502 $1,371 – $2,741
4+ bedrooms $6,284 – $11,526 $3,020 – $5,734 $1,730 – $3,636

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,191-mile move from California to Indianapolis, IN using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of authenticated price data points from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Your end price can vary by shipment size, added services, parking/access limitations, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing several mover quotes to confirm pricing.

Cost to hire professional movers from California to Indianapolis, IN

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to Indianapolis, IN, you can expect prices to land between $1,263 and $5,083. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,624 to $7,534. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,284 and $11,526.

Cost of moving containers from California to Indianapolis, IN

Moving containers from California to Indianapolis, IN, will cost you $1,201 to $3,038 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,030 to $4,502. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,020 to $5,734. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Indianapolis, IN

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,229 and $2,470 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from California to Indianapolis, IN with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,371 to $2,741. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,730 to $3,636.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Compare local moving companies from California to Indianapolis, IN

Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:

Company Full Service Antiques Military Discount Senior Discount
Meathead Movers × × ×
Republic Moving & Storage × ×
680 Movers × ×
Sterling Van Lines
Grace Moving Company × ×

Considering the 3,175 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how California movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:

California Nationwide
Full Service 98% 96%
Antiques 61% 46%
Military Discount 1% 3%
Senior Discount 1% 4%

Things to know before moving from California to Indianapolis, IN

Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Indianapolis, IN stacks up against California. We’ll cover everything, from cost of living and the social scene to daily life and can’t-miss attractions in your area.

Cost of living: California vs. Indianapolis, IN

California Indianapolis
Average rent cost $1,856 $1,399
Average home cost $771,057 $220,467
Average income (per capita) $91,905 $59,110
Cost of Living Index 134 86
Unemployment rate 5.4% 5.6%
State Income Tax 13.3% 3.15%
  • Rent in Indianapolis is about 25% cheaper than in California, which means extra cash for other priorities.
  • Moving to Indianapolis means you’ll spend about 71% less on housing compared to California, so your budget will go further.
  • Salaries in Indianapolis are typically about 36% lower than in California. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
  • With unemployment nearly the same in Indianapolis and California, your job prospects should be similar.
  • Income taxes are 76% lower in Indiana than in California, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.

How life is different in Indianapolis from California

Indianapolis California
Population 887,642 39,029,342
Political leaning Republican 49-48 Democratic 59-41
Summer high 84ºF 87ºF
Winter low 20ºF 59ºF
Annual rain 42″ 22″
Annual snow 22″ 7″
Crime index 60.71 28.43
  • In the last presidential election, Indianapolis voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
  • Summers in Indianapolis typically reach highs of 84ºF, which is comparable to the average 87ºF in California. The temps in your new home shouldn’t come as a shock. However, be sure to consider the area’s humidity, local weather patterns, and changes in energy expenses for a complete picture of what summer will feel like in your new home.
  • Winter in Indianapolis can be significantly colder, with lows reaching 20ºF, much chillier than the 59ºF winters of California. You’ll want to get ready for those extra-cold months, which may bring higher heating bills and warrant some changes to your day-to-day habits. Still, the crisp air, beautiful winter landscapes, and seasonal activities in Indianapolis have their own special appeal.
  • 42 inches of rain each year in Indianapolis, considerably more than the 22 inches you’re used to in California. With all that extra rainfall, you’ll notice greener scenery and more frequent rainy days. Drive carefully, invest in some reliable rain gear, and get ready to enjoy life in a much rainier climate.
  • In Indianapolis, it snows about 22 inches annually while California gets only about 7 inches. With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
  • Crime rates in Indianapolis are higher than in California, with a crime index of 60.71 versus 28.43. This isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s worth researching local safety and thinking about how it might affect your daily life.

Things to do in Indianapolis

From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Indianapolis can meet a wide variety of interests.

Museums in Indianapolis

  • Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
  • Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
  • Indianapolis Museum of Art
  • The Eiteljorg Museum
  • Indiana War Memorial

Parks in Indianapolis

  • Eagle Creek Park
  • White River State Park
  • Broad Ripple Park
  • Krannert Park
  • Skiles Test Park

Sports teams in Indianapolis

  • Indianapolis Colts (NFL)
  • Indianapolis Pacers (NBA)
  • Indianapolis Fever (WNBA)

Universities in Indianapolis

  • Butler University
  • Chamberlain University – Indianapolis
  • Crossroads Bible College – Indianapolis
  • Indiana Institute of Technology – Indianapolis
  • Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis

Other considerations when moving to Indianapolis, IN

  • HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
  • Elevator reservation: One common issue that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
  • State licensing: The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) regulate movers operating within Indiana and issue moving companies Indiana Households Goods Carriers Numbers. Check to make sure prospective movers have one and that it’s up to date. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before booking.
  • State regulator: You can check your Indiana moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
  • Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to Indiana, but you should check local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Indiana. Get started here.
  • Mover’s insurance: Opt for Released Value Protection – a budget-friendly choice with no extra cost from movers, though coverage is limited to 60 cents per pound. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, reimbursement is just $15. To ensure coverage for your items’ full value, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.

FAQ

How long does a move from California to Indianapolis take?

The time it takes to move from California to Indianapolis, IN varies based on where you’re starting and the type of move you pick. No matter which option you choose, loading up your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it on your own.

If you’re heading to Indianapolis from northern California, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.

Moving your belongings from California to Indianapolis typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.

How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Indianapolis?

Because of the 2,191-mile move, it’s best to book your move from California to Indianapolis as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Indianapolis, IN?

With summer temperatures reaching 84°F and winter nights dipping to 20°F, most people make the move from California to Indianapolis in the spring or fall. If you want to skip the crowds during peak moving seasons and potentially save some cash, consider scheduling your move in the summer or winter instead.

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