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($1,165) Cost to Move From Indianapolis, IN to Oakland, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 2,248 miles from Indianapolis to Oakland is generally between $1,357 and $7,263. The trip duration should be approximately six–17 days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from Indianapolis to Oakland

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
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
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

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Indianapolis to Oakland

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Indianapolis to Oakland, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.

In Indianapolis, you have a choice of 24 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Oakland smoothly and with confidence.

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 Indianapolis to Oakland

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,248-mile move from Indianapolis to Oakland using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset each month to track seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and timing. We suggest gathering estimates from several companies to get the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,275 – $5,112
  • Moving Container $1,621 – $3,094
  • Rental Truck $1,316 – $2,374
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,209 – $7,263
  • Moving Container $2,121 – $4,611
  • Rental Truck $1,357 – $2,999
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,463 – $10,749
  • Moving Container $3,121 – $6,243
  • Rental Truck $1,663 – $3,534
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.
1-800-Pack-Rat
Frankfort, IN San Miguel, CA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 23, 2025
PODS
Spring Lake, IN Oakland, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 17, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Coatesville, IN Belmont, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 15, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Fishers, IN Fairfield, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 31, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Chesterfield, IN Woodside, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 31, 2025
North American Van Lines
Franklin, IN Los Altos Hills, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 26, 2025
Roadway Moving
Wilkinson, IN Newark, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 25, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Greenwood, IN Livermore, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 15, 2025
United Van Lines
Bargersville, IN Shell Ridge, CA
4 Bedrooms
Aug 01, 2025
BLVD Moving
Frankton, IN Hayward, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Jul 31, 2025

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

Top local movers for Indianapolis to Oakland moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Indianapolis that also provides long-distance services to Oakland can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 27 local movers in Indianapolis who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Indianapolis to Oakland.

  1. Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  2. Sherman Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. Planes Moving & Storage Company: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  4. Busy Bee Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. Wheaton Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.1% of all reviews were positive
9.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Leaders Moving & Storage Co. means working with a crew known for professionalism, efficiency, and careful handling. Of the 248 customer responses analyzed, 89% gave positive feedback, consistently highlighting friendly staff, speedy and careful work, and helpful attitudes. Many praised the team’s ability to handle heavy or delicate items and transparency with pricing. Customers valued clear communication, organized crews, and prompt service, noting that many movers went the extra mile to ease their stress. On the other hand, roughly 10% of responses described issues such as items being damaged, inexperienced team members, and breakdowns in communication, with a few citing frustrating claims processes. A small number of customers felt that their movers lacked preparation or that management did not resolve complaints to their satisfaction. Compared to other companies in the moving industry, Leaders stands out for how often its staff receive recognition for both their skill and respectful, helpful approach. Most clients reported moves that finished on time, with their belongings arriving safely and all expectations met or exceeded.
Get a Quote (317) 280-3385

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
71.6% of all reviews were positive
28.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Sherman Moving & Storage earns praise for a professional and courteous team, efficient service, careful handling of belongings, and a moving process many customers find fast and stress-free. Most feedback highlights their reliability, with many saying the movers protect property and provide peace of mind—a notable advantage compared to other moving companies. Users often describe the staff as friendly, knowledgeable, and highly recommended the service. On the downside, some customers report significant issues such as damages to items, especially furniture, higher costs than quoted, and unprofessional behavior from certain staff members. Concerns about billing transparency and complaint handling occasionally surface. Sherman stands out positively for its attentive staff and efficiency, but some past clients report disappointment due to unresolved damages or unexpected charges. Out of 74 reviews, 71.6% were positive.
Get a Quote (317) 784-5462

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.4% of all reviews were positive
9.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Planes Moving & Storage earns praise for its professional, helpful staff and efficient moving process, backed by 236 reviews with nearly 90% positive feedback. Customers often highlight careful handling of items, prompt service, and friendly movers who make the relocation much easier than with other companies. Many clients say the teams take extra steps to protect property and communicate well throughout moves. Affordability and transparent pricing also surface as advantages. In contrast, the most common complaints involve significant damage to belongings, unresolved compensation issues, and lack of communication from coordinators. Some people report surprise charges or poor response to claims. The volume and consistency of positive input position Planes ahead of most moving companies in reliability and customer satisfaction, though a few negative cases stand out for property damage and service gaps.
Get a Quote (317) 895-1444

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
61.4% of all reviews were positive
34.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Buzzing with strong feedback, Busy Bee Movers stands out for efficiency, professionalism, careful handling, speed, and affordable rates, as reflected in 61.4% positive input from 324 reviews. Customers highlight respectful teams and jobs completed on time at competitive prices. Many appreciate transparent quotes and swift, careful moves. While the moving crews earn praise for their hard work, affordable rates, and organization, 34.3% of feedback points to drawbacks such as unexpected charges, inadequate communication, and items occasionally arriving damaged. Some reviewers describe being overcharged compared to estimates, and several mention frustration when issues go unaddressed by management. Compared to other moving companies, Busy Bee Movers is celebrated for dependable staff and cost savings, but concerns about billing accuracy and responsive support set them apart as a company best suited for those willing to double-check pricing and terms in advance.
Get a Quote (317) 695-9927

Company Info

Years in Business: 34

DOT #: 573343

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
31.8% of all reviews were positive
67.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer stories draw a sharp line between satisfaction and frequent problems at Wheaton Moving & Storage. Out of 242 reviews, less than one-third offer positive feedback. Clients typically praise careful handling, professional crews, fast moves, good communication, and efficient service. Yet most feedback details damage to items, missing or lost possessions, and poor communication—issues that outweigh positives for many customers. Compared with similar companies, complaints about lost or broken items and claim resolution are more frequent. Those seeking reliability may want to closely consider these patterns before booking.
Get a Quote (317) 842-8111

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

How much does it cost to move from Indianapolis to Oakland?

Movers in Indiana generally charge an average of $130 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,165 – $5,080 $1,278 – $2,929 $1,278 – $2,543
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,209 – $7,263 $2,121 – $4,611 $1,357 – $2,999
4+ bedrooms $6,463 – $10,749 $3,121 – $6,243 $1,663 – $3,534
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 2,248-mile move from Indianapolis to Oakland, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Indianapolis to Oakland

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Indianapolis to Oakland typically costs between $1,165 and $5,080. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,209 and $7,263 when moving from Indianapolis to Oakland. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Indianapolis to Oakland, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,463 up to $10,749.

Cost of moving containers from Indianapolis to Oakland

If you’re relocating from Indianapolis to Oakland, you’ll typically spend between $1,278 and $2,929 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,121 up to $4,611. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $3,121 and $6,243. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Indiana.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Indianapolis to Oakland

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Indianapolis to Oakland move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,278 and $2,543. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,357 to $2,999. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,663 and $3,534.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Indianapolis to Oakland

The cost of Indianapolis movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Indianapolis to Oakland might be as low as $2,393, while a four-bedroom could reach $9,952.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Indianapolis.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,278 to $3,289 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Indianapolis to Oakland

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Oakland runs about 12% higher for singles and 29% higher for families than Indianapolis.

Singles spend around $3,146 in Indianapolis versus $2,804 in Indianapolis; families pay $8,584 compared with $6,667.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Indianapolis Oakland
Average 1 BR rent $1,688 $1,969
Average 3 BR rent $2,708 $4,450
Average home value $220,467 $736,156
Average income (per capita) $59,110 $94,389
Cost of living (single) $2,804 $3,146
Cost of living (family of four) $6,667 $8,584
Unemployment rate 5.6% 4.5%
Sales tax 7.0% 10.25%
State income tax 3.15% 13.3%
  • Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 57% higher in Oakland than in Indianapolis, which may impact your monthly finances.
  • A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 234% higher in Oakland than in Indianapolis.
  • Exciting news here, the average income is about 60% higher in Oakland than in Indianapolis, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
  • Anticipate increased living expenses in Oakland, as the cost of living for a single person in Oakland is 12% greater than in Indianapolis. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
  • As you plan your move to Oakland, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 29% more than it is in Indianapolis.
  • With an unemployment rate approximately 20% lower than Indianapolis, Oakland boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
  • Sales taxes in Oakland exceed those in Indianapolis by 46%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
  • Income taxes are 322% higher in California than in Indiana. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Indianapolis and Oakland, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Indianapolis Oakland
Basic utilities $231.67 $277.25
Cell phone plan $62.58 $53.00
Dozen eggs $3.33 $6.71
Loaf of bread $3.00 $5.09
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $30.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60.00 $140.00
Gym membership $35.50 $54.28
  • Basic utilities cost less in Indianapolis than in Oakland, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Indianapolis than in Oakland.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Indianapolis than in Oakland.
  • Bread costs less in Indianapolis than in Oakland.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Indianapolis than in Oakland.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Indianapolis than in Oakland.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Indianapolis than in Oakland.

How life is different in Indianapolis vs. Oakland

Indianapolis Oakland
Population 887,642 440,646
Transportation score 5 8
Walkability score 31 75
Bike friendliness score 43 65
Crime index 60.71 68.62
Safety index 39.29 31.38
Air quality Good Good
  • Oakland’s population is about 50% less than Indianapolis.
  • Oakland’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Indianapolis’s score of 5.
  • Oakland is more walkable than Indianapolis with a score of 75 out of 100 vs Indianapolis’s 31 out of 100.
  • With a score of 65 out of 100, Oakland is more bike-friendly than Indianapolis, which has a score of 43 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Oakland’s crime rate is higher than Indianapolis with a score of 68.62 compared to Indianapolis’s 60.71. This means that Oakland neighborhoods are safer than 68.62% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Indianapolis neighborhoods are safer than 60.71%.
  • Oakland is considered to be less safe than Indianapolis with a score of 31.38 vs Indianapolis’s 39.29.
  • Air quality in Oakland is Good, and in Indianapolis it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Indianapolis to Oakland move

  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Oakland without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Oakland

Ready to relocate to The Town? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Oakland.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Grand Lake
  • Piedmont Avenue
  • Rockridge
  • Temescal

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Fairview Park
  • Rockridge
  • Bushrod
  • Upper Rockridge
  • Lakeshore

Things to do in Oakland

Now that you’ve made the move to California, it’s the perfect time to explore Oakland. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Oakland include museums and art centers like the Oakland Museum of California, Chabot Space & Science Center, USS Potomac, and Oakland Aviation Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Redwood Regional Park, Joaquin Miller Park, East Bay Regional Park District, and Lakeside Park and Garden Center, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Oakland Athletics (MLB)Oakland Roots DC (USLC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Indianapolis to Oakland?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Indianapolis to Oakland. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Indianapolis.

When is the cheapest time to move from Indianapolis to Oakland?

With many people choosing to move from Indianapolis to Oakland in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from Indianapolis to Oakland take?

Covering 2,248 miles, the move from Indianapolis, IN to Oakland, typically takes six to 17 days. Some Indianapolis movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Oakland can help bridge the gap.

Do movers in Indianapolis offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers provide military discounts. 3 movers extend senior citizen discounts.

Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.

How many movers in Indianapolis can handle specialty items for my move to Oakland?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Indianapolis, 18 movers can handle pianos. 10 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of IN, there are 43 piano movers and 21 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

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