Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
Local moving companies in Indianapolis
Out of 27 Indianapolis movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Iowa.
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Sherman Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Planes Moving & Storage Company: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Busy Bee Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Wheaton Moving & Storage: 4.56 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
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 92
DOT #: 719392
Alternate Names: Ed Sherman Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 105
DOT #: 1458935
Alternate Names: Planes Companies , Planes Specialized Logistics , Planes Commercial Services
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: 34
DOT #: 573343
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 64
DOT #: 70719
Alternate Names: Crown Moving & Storage, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in Indianapolis, IN
Here’s how many movers in Indianapolis include specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Indianapolis, IN to Iowa
Check the table below for expected cost ranges to move from Indianapolis to Iowa with various services, based on your home’s size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,001 – $2,931 | $675 – $1,636 | $370 – $703 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,753 – $4,706 | $1,220 – $2,279 | $402 – $885 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,091 – $6,809 | $1,636 – $2,950 | $516 – $1,004 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 460-mile move from Indianapolis, IN, to Iowa using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes them monthly to account for seasonal shifts and market trends. Your actual cost can change based on move size, added services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Indianapolis to Iowa
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Indianapolis to Iowa, you can expect prices to land between $1,001 and $2,931. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,753 to $4,706 for the trip from Indianapolis to IA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,091 and $6,809.
Cost of moving containers from Indianapolis to Iowa
Moving containers from Indianapolis to Iowa will cost you $675 to $1,636 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,220 to $2,279. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,636 to $2,950. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Indianapolis.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Indianapolis to Iowa
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 $370 and $703 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Indianapolis to Iowa with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $402 to $885. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $516 to $1,004.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors influencing moving costs from Indianapolis to IA
Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Indianapolis:
- Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
- Time of year: Summer moves in Indianapolis fall during peak season, which usually means higher prices.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.
What you should know before moving from Indianapolis to IA
If you’re relocating to Iowa from Indianapolis, IN, you’ll discover that the living expenses are quite similar. This means your financial plan might not need major changes, but it’s prudent to review the costs to identify any minor variations.
Compare cost of living: Indianapolis vs. Iowa
| Indianapolis, IN | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,399 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $220,467 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $59,110 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 86 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.6% | 3.0% |
| State income tax | 3.15% | 4.4% |
Iowa sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- In Iowa, rent is about 35% lower than in Indianapolis, making housing easier on your budget.
- Home prices in Iowa are about the same as in Indianapolis, meaning your budget should still work.
- On average, incomes in Iowa run 19% above Indianapolis, potentially improving your financial flexibility.
- With the cost of living about the same in Iowa and Indianapolis, you can focus less on finances and more on lifestyle fit.
- Iowa has a lower unemployment rate than Indianapolis by about 46%, suggesting a stronger job market.
- Expect to pay about 40% more in income taxes in Iowa compared to Indiana.
How life is different in Indianapolis, IN from Iowa
From the weather and population to local politics, here’s how life in Iowa stacks up against what you’re used to in Indianapolis.
| Indianapolis, IN | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 887,642 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Republican 49-48 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 20ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 42″ | 35″ |
| Annual snow | 22″ | 30″ |
| Crime index | 60.71 | 16.18 |
Iowa Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both Indianapolis and Iowa voted Republican.
- Summertime highs settle at approximately 84ºF in Iowa as well as 84ºF in Indianapolis, ensuring the climate feels quite familiar. Apart from temperatures, it’s important to think about humidity, weather trends, and energy costs to grasp what summertime will be like in your new area.
- Colder winters set in at 10ºF in Iowa, compared to 20ºF in Indianapolis. With this change, expect brisker winters and higher costs, but also the unique appeal of a colder climate.
- In Iowa, you’ll get only about 35 inches of rain per year, versus 42 inches in Indianapolis. Less rain means more sunshine, more time outdoors, and fewer weather-related concerns.
- Each year, Iowa gets about 30 inches of snow, while Indianapolis sees only 22 inches. More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
- Iowa records a lower crime rate (16.18) than Indianapolis (60.71), meaning you may enjoy more security and peace of mind after your move.
Other considerations when moving to Iowa
When you’re moving from Indianapolis to Iowa, you’ll want to do more than just pack your boxes and hire movers. Make sure you’re up to speed on local rules, permits, and other logistics that could affect your move.
- HOA rules: Always check community regulations beforehand so your move-in goes smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve the elevator if your building requires it for move-ins.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
- 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. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
- State regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s site.
- Moving permits: There’s no need for a moving permit in Iowa, but be sure to look up local parking rules before moving day.
- Change of address: Make sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You can choose your official move date and have your mail forwarded to Iowa. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay organized and be sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Iowa
Whether you’re into sports, parks, museums, or universities, Iowa has tons for you to discover and enjoy.
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
FAQ
How long does a move from Indianapolis to Iowa take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Indianapolis, IN, to Iowa? Most moves on this route usually take one to four days, depending on your service. Just a heads up. Moving during the hectic summer season might leave you open to delays.
To keep your move on track and steer clear of delays, be sure to ask about the delivery timeline before you book your movers.
How many movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?
There are 19 movers in Indianapolis that offer customized crates for a variety of fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped pieces, including artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you will need special crating for any of your items, be sure to confirm with a Indianapolis moving company that they will be able to accommodate your specific needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Indianapolis to Iowa?
Need to get your car from Indianapolis to Iowa? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Indianapolis to Iowa car shippers.
Why are people moving from Indianapolis to Iowa?
Many people are moving to Iowa because of its low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Iowa.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Indianapolis?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Indianapolis.
Can I pay for my move from Indianapolis, IN, with cash?
There are two movers in Indianapolis that accept cash payments. Even so, cash is not the norm in the moving industry, where traceable payment types are preferred. Plan to pay a deposit to lock in your booking and move date. The rest of the balance is usually due at pickup or after delivery—verify timing and accepted methods with your mover.
Helpful moving resources
Indiana moving services
Popular Indiana routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
