Local moving companies in Indiana
When making the move from Indiana to Chicago, IL, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.
Out of 53 Indiana movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Chicago, IL.
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- MVM Moving & Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Kentuckiana Moving, LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Ferree Movers, Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Planes Moving & Storage Company: 4.58 out of 5 stars
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: 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: 8
DOT #: 2933318
Alternate Names: Kentuckiana Moving, LLC , Kentuckiana Moving Company, LLC
Kentuckiana Moving, LLC has been providing local residential moving services in and around Albany, IN since 2017. While their Yelp profile garners an average rating of 1.6 from 16 reviews, their Google My Business profile showcases a much stronger reputation with an impressive 4.9 average rating from 1,393 reviews, and they proudly hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many other nearby moving companies, Kentuckiana Moving, LLC offers a comprehensive array of services, including packing, unpacking, fragile-only packing, office moving, and piano moving. Additionally, they stand out by not requiring a deposit and accepting both cash and credit card payments.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 70
DOT #: 674157
Ferree Movers, Inc., based in Schererville, IN, has been providing reliable local residential moving services since 1956. Known for their experience and dependability, they also offer packing, unpacking, and office moving services, ensuring a comprehensive moving solution. With an average rating of 4.5 on Google and a decent 3.8 on Yelp, as well as a B+ BBB rating, their reputation stands strong compared to other nearby movers. Unique features include no required deposit and the ability to move specialty items such as pianos and antiques, making them a versatile and trustworthy choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
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
Cost to move from Indiana to Chicago, IL
The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from Indiana to Chicago, IL, by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $652 – $2,546 | $536 – $1,192 | $184 – $338 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,269 – $3,498 | $921 – $1,669 | $213 – $364 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,617 – $4,498 | $1,276 – $2,244 | $256 – $450 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 177-mile move from Indiana to Chicago, IL 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 Indiana to Chicago, IL
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Indiana to Chicago, IL, you can expect prices to land between $652 and $2,546. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,269 to $3,498. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $1,617 and $4,498.
Cost of moving containers from Indiana to Chicago, IL
Moving containers from Indiana to Chicago, IL, will cost you $536 to $1,192 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $921 to $1,669. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,276 to $2,244. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Indiana.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Indiana to Chicago, IL
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 $184 and $338 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Indiana to Chicago, IL with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $213 to $364. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $256 to $450.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Compare local moving companies from Indiana to Chicago, IL
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaders Moving & Storage Co. | ✓ | × | × | × |
| MVM Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Kentuckiana Moving, LLC | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Ferree Movers, Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | ✓ |
| Planes Moving & Storage Company | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
Considering the 3,175 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how Indiana movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:
| Indiana | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 88% | 96% |
| Antiques | 35% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 3% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 13% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Indiana to Chicago, IL
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Chicago, IL stacks up against Indiana. 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: Indiana vs. Chicago, IL
| Indiana | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $844 | $2,045 |
| Average home cost | $228,879 | $295,743 |
| Average income (per capita) | $67,173 | $71,566 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91 | 106 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.6% | 9.0% |
| State Income Tax | 3.15% | 4.95% |
Chicago sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 142% more expensive in Chicago than in Indiana, so be sure to plan ahead and allocate additional funds.
- In Chicago, home prices run about 29% higher than in Indiana. Be prepared for a larger down payment, steeper property taxes, and higher overall homeownership costs.
- On average, incomes in Chicago are about 7% higher than in Indiana. This could help you stay on top of living expenses or grow your savings over time.
- Unemployment in Chicago runs 150% above Indiana, so be proactive with networking and applications.
- Income taxes in Illinois are 57% higher than in Indiana, leaving you with less take-home pay to cover expenses or save.
How life is different in Chicago from Indiana
| Chicago | Indiana | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 6,833,037 |
| Political leaning | Democrat 74-24 | Republican 57-41 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 85ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 19ºF |
| Annual rain | 38″ | 43″ |
| Annual snow | 35″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 19.72 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Chicago voted Democrat and Indiana voted Republican.
- Summers in Chicago typically reach highs of 84ºF, which is comparable to the average 85ºF in Indiana. 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.
- During the coldest months, Chicago sees lows of 19ºF, about the same as Indiana, which hits 19ºF. With similar winter temperatures, your move should go smoothly.
- You can expect about 38 inches of rain each year in Chicago, almost the same as the 43 inches you’d encounter in Indiana. Even though the annual rainfall is similar, different weather patterns and rainfall timing might still change up your daily routine.
- In Chicago, it snows about 35 inches annually while Indiana gets only about 22 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 Chicago are higher than in Indiana, with a crime index of 35.19 versus 19.72. 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 Chicago
From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Chicago can meet a wide variety of interests.
Museums in Chicago
- The Field Museum
- Shedd Aquarium
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Chicago History Museum
- Museum of Contemporary Art
Parks in Chicago
- Millennium Park
- Grant Park
- The 606
- Lincoln Park
- Garfield Park
Sports teams in Chicago
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
Universities in Chicago
- Chicago State University
- Governors State University
- Northeastern Illinois University
- Northern Illinois University
- University of Illinois at Chicago
Other considerations when moving to Chicago, IL
- 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: In Illinois, regulations on in-state moves and local movers are set forth by the Illinois Commerce Commission. To move household goods locally and intrastate, companies need to have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, so make sure the companies you’re considering have one and that it’s current. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can check your Illinois moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to Illinois, 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 Illinois. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- 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 Indiana to Chicago take?
The time it takes to move from Indiana to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago from northern Indiana, 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 Indiana to Chicago 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 Indiana to Chicago?
Because of the 177-mile move, it’s best to book your move from Indiana to Chicago 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 Chicago, IL?
With summer temperatures reaching 84°F and winter nights dipping to 19°F, most people make the move from Indiana to Chicago 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.
Helpful moving resources
Indiana moving services
Popular Indiana routes
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