Best Movers Near Bloomington, IN (2026 Reviews)
A Better Way Moving and Storage is our preferred moving company in Bloomington. A Better Way Moving and Storage also ranks #10 out of 124 movers statewide in Indiana. Rankings are based on 4,117 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to Bloomington, IN, covering 11 local Bloomington movers.
Local movers in Bloomington are priced hourly. The Indiana average is $140/hour for a 2-person crew. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.
- Years in Business: 23
- Yelp: 3.8 / 5
- BBB: A+
- Years in Business: 19
- Yelp: 1.8 / 5
- BBB: A+
- Years in Business: 0
- Yelp: / 5
- BBB: A+
Why use moveBuddha for your Bloomington, IN move
- moveBuddha users save more than 30% on average by getting multiple Bloomington mover quotes through our moving cost calculator before booking.
- Book a moveBuddha Certified Bloomington mover and get an extra $1,000 in move coverage plus dedicated support throughout your move.
- If something goes wrong, moveBuddha steps in with direct dispute mediation between you and your Certified mover.
Moving in Bloomington, IN right now: November offers some of the lowest prices and best mover availability of the year in Bloomington. The one exception is the Thanksgiving window. The week of and after Thanksgiving sees an end-of-year demand spike. Aim for early to mid-November for the best combination of price and availability.
What are the top-rated moving companies in Bloomington, IN?
A Better Way Moving and Storage is our preferred moving company in Bloomington . A Better Way Moving and Storage also ranks #10 out of 124 movers statewide in Indiana.
moveBuddha scored 11 Bloomington movers drawing on 4,117 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 3.84/5. Rankings include movers based in Bloomington and those serving the area from nearby locations.
- A Better Way Moving and Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Soft Touch Moving & Storage: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Busy Bee Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Sherman Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Planes Moving & Storage Company: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Greenwood Moving & Storage: 4.36 out of 5 stars
- Jones Movers: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Bellhop Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Stuart’s Moving & Storage: 4.38 out of 5 stars
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. A Better Way Moving and Storage has been in business for 23 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. A Better Way Moving and Storage has about 95% positive reviews across roughly 561 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.8.
Quote accuracy 4.4
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from A Better Way Moving and Storage.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. A Better Way Moving and Storage emphasizes clear communication.
Recent reviews
I sent a request for an estimate after 11 pm and received a response at 7 am and was able to schedule a quick move of a refrigerator at 11 am. Very happy with the service.
These folks were fast and professional. Communication before the move, scheduling the move, and on moving day was great. They came in under the quote, fit me in on short notice, and I would use them again.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Soft Touch Moving & Storage has been in business for 19 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Soft Touch Moving & Storage has about 79% positive reviews across roughly 136 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 1.8.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Soft Touch Moving & Storage. Discounts may be available for groups like military.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Soft Touch Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
Management was incredibly flexible and easy to work with. The staff were fast, efficient, polite, and handled my things with care. The price was very reasonable.
Great customer service. I called to schedule a local move on short notice and received an estimate the same day. The crew showed up on time, and the company followed up afterward.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Busy Bee Movers has been in business for 35 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Busy Bee Movers has about 65% positive reviews across roughly 415 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.3.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Busy Bee Movers.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Busy Bee Movers emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
I used Busy Bee because they had the quick availability and the best price. The crew I got was fantastic and handled all of my stuff with care.
Busy Bee Movers were cost effective and timely. They responded quickly and efficiently to our many questions. The service guys were friendly and hard workers.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Sherman Moving & Storage has been in business for 94 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Sherman Moving & Storage has about 75% positive reviews across roughly 100 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.0.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Sherman Moving & Storage.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Sherman Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
They arrived on time and were enthusiastic, upbeat and positive throughout a very long day. They were respectful of our home and protected the furniture, walls and hard wood floors. There wasn’t so much as a nick.
Again, just as before they provided great service with a great team that took care of us and our belongings. All were very professional, personable and easy to work with. They knew what they were doing.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Planes Moving & Storage Company has been in business for 105 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and international moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Planes Moving & Storage Company has about 95% positive reviews across roughly 1017 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.3.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Planes Moving & Storage Company, and Planes Moving & Storage Company makes deposit expectations clear upfront.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Planes Moving & Storage Company emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
Moving can be very stressful, but Planes Moving & Storage managed my move so well. I was kept up to date by phone, email, and text. The packing team did an amazing job with zero issues.
The movers were prompt, courteous and efficient. They were respectful of my property and did an excellent job.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Greenwood Moving & Storage has been in business for 53 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Greenwood Moving & Storage has about 97% positive reviews across roughly 570 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.5.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Greenwood Moving & Storage.
Customer service 4.1
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Greenwood Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
They laid down floor covering and padded corners and door frames to make sure nothing was damaged. The move finished much sooner than estimated, saving significant money.
The crew was professional, respectful, and expedient. They moved, packed, and delivered everything in one day, then stayed until I confirmed everything met my expectations.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Jones Movers has been in business for 60 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Jones Movers has about 72% positive reviews across roughly 65 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.5.
Quote accuracy 4.3
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Jones Movers.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Jones Movers emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
I have used Jones Movers Inc several times and they are super affordable and very fast and professional. My stuff always arrives in one piece.
They did a great job! They were friendly, listened to our directions, and were efficient. I will definitely be telling friends and family about how great and reasonably priced they were.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Leaders Moving & Storage Co. has been in business for 32 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Leaders Moving & Storage Co. has about 93% positive reviews across roughly 1169 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.8.
Quote accuracy 3.7
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Leaders Moving & Storage Co..
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Leaders Moving & Storage Co. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Jai, Darryl, and KeJuan were amazing. They were professional, kind, and helped make our moving experience less stressful despite a scheduling problem.
I had a good experience with my move. Jaidyn and Dehaven were efficient and careful with all my items. I would definitely use this company again.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Bellhop Moving has been in business for 15 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 4.5
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Bellhop Moving has about 82% positive reviews across roughly 615 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.6.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Bellhop Moving, and Bellhop Moving makes deposit expectations clear upfront.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Bellhop Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
The crew I was sent was fast efficient and friendly, even in extreme heat. Would definitely recommend and hope to use them again if the occasion arises.
Robert, Mike, and Ash came on time and started right away. They were careful with all the items and helped with disassembling / wrapping as well. It was a very quick and smooth process, and everyone was very friendly.
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Stuart’s Moving & Storage has been in business for 90 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Stuart’s Moving & Storage has about 90% positive reviews across roughly 57 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.5.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Stuart’s Moving & Storage.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Stuart’s Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Outstanding customer service and owners that truly care. The amazing lady who runs the scheduling saved the day when I needed to change dates. Will use them again and recommend them to anyone needing movers.
Had a very good experience with Stuart's. They gave me two estimates, arrived on time with the proper equipment and personnel, and did a wonderful job. The final cost was under the estimate!
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How do Bloomington, IN moving companies compare?
| Company | Our rating | City rank | Positive reviews | BBB | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
#2 of 11
Top 10 in Indiana |
95% | A+ | |||
| #3 of 11 | 79% | A+ | |||
|
#1 of 11
Top 10 in Indiana |
65% | A+ | |||
|
—
Top 10 in Indiana |
75% | A+ | |||
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—
Top 10 in Indiana |
95% | A+ | |||
| #4 of 11 | 97% | A+ | |||
|
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Top 10 in Indiana |
72% | A+ | |||
|
—
Top 10 in Indiana |
93% | A+ | |||
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Top 10 in Indiana |
82% | F | |||
| — | 90% | A+ |
Proximity to Bloomington is a ranking factor, so a mover appearing higher on the list may have a lower score than one listed below it. A nearby company can outrank a higher-scored mover based further out. Each company's positive review rate and BBB rating are included so you can compare quality and reputation side by side.
Top-rated movers in nearby Indiana cities
- Anderson movers
- Auburn movers
- Avon movers
- Bedford movers
- Beech Grove movers
- Bluffton movers
- Brownsburg movers
- Carmel movers
- Cedar Lake movers
- Chesterton movers
- Clarksville movers
- Columbus movers
- Connersville movers
- Crawfordsville movers
- Crown Point movers
- Danville movers
- Dyer movers
- East Chicago movers
- Elkhart movers
- Evansville movers
- Fishers movers
- Fort Wayne movers
- Frankfort movers
- Franklin movers
- Gary movers
- Goshen movers
- Granger movers
- Greenfield movers
- Greensburg movers
- Greenwood movers
- Griffith movers
- Hammond movers
- Highland movers
- Hobart movers
- Huntington movers
- Indianapolis movers
- Jasper movers
- Jeffersonville movers
- Kokomo movers
- La Porte movers
- Lafayette movers
- Lake Station movers
- Lawrence movers
- Lebanon movers
- Logansport movers
- Lowell movers
- Madison movers
- Marion movers
- Martinsville movers
- Merrillville movers
- Michigan City movers
- Mishawaka movers
- Muncie movers
- Munster movers
- New Albany movers
- New Castle movers
- New Haven movers
- Noblesville movers
- Peru movers
- Plainfield movers
- Plymouth movers
- Portage movers
- Richmond movers
- Schererville movers
- Seymour movers
- Shelbyville movers
- South Bend movers
- Speedway movers
- St. John movers
- Terre Haute movers
- Valparaiso movers
- Vincennes movers
- Wabash movers
- Warsaw movers
- Washington movers
- West Lafayette movers
- Westfield movers
- Yorktown movers
- Zionsville movers
Popular moving routes from Bloomington, IN
Local movers in Bloomington are the right choice for moves under 500 miles, typically along I-65, I-70, and I-74. For longer moves, you need a full-service interstate carrier with USDOT authority, binding estimate practices, and the logistics to handle cross-country delivery. See our guide to the best long-distance movers from Bloomington, IN for route-specific recommendations and pricing.
- Best overall value
- Veteran owned
- Portion to charity
- Certified crews
- Flat-rate pricing
- Family-owned
- 1,800 trucks
- Storage available
- Customized moving plans
How much do movers cost in Bloomington, IN?
Local movers in Bloomington are priced hourly. The Indiana average is $140/hour for a 2-person crew. Total cost depends on home size and hours on the clock.
| Home size | Estimated local move cost in Bloomington |
|---|---|
| Studio | $267 – $445 |
| 1 bedroom | $356 – $623 |
| 2 bedrooms | $534 – $890 |
| 3 bedrooms | $801 – $1,335 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,068 – $1,958 |
Estimates based on national average local move costs, adjusted for Bloomington's cost of living. Actual costs vary by crew size, hours, and services.
Ready to compare Bloomington mover prices? See our full guide on Bloomington, IN mover costs →
Which Bloomington, IN movers offer specialty services?
Availability of specialty services varies significantly across Bloomington's moving market. Of the 11 moving companies moveBuddha reviewed, here is which services are offered, how often, and by whom:
- Piano moving: 5 of 11 Bloomington movers (45.45%) offer it. A Better Way Moving and Storage (4.5/5) also offers piano moving.
- Antique handling: 4 of 11 Bloomington movers (36.36%) offer it. Soft Touch Moving & Storage (4.38/5) also handles antique care.
- Art packing: 2 of 11 Bloomington movers (18.18%) offer it. Soft Touch Moving & Storage (4.38/5) also offers art packing.
- Climate-controlled storage: 3 of 11 Bloomington movers (27.27%) offer it. Soft Touch Moving & Storage (4.38/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.
- Fragile-only packing: 2 of 11 Bloomington movers (18.18%) offer it. Soft Touch Moving & Storage (4.38/5) also offers fragile-only packing.
What movers in Bloomington offer piano moving?
Piano moving is available from 5 of 11 Bloomington movers (45.45%). A Better Way Moving and Storage (4.5/5) also offers piano moving.
| Piano moving in Bloomington | Details |
|---|---|
| Bloomington movers offering this | 5 of 11 (45.45%) |
| Top-rated Bloomington piano movers | A Better Way Moving and Storage, Soft Touch Moving & Storage |
| Upright piano | $712 to $1,335 |
| Baby grand piano | $1,068 to $2,225 |
| Grand piano | $1,602 to $3,115 |
Piano weight (300 to 800 lbs for uprights, 500 to 1,200 lbs for baby grands, over 1,200 lbs for concert grands) is the primary cost driver, as heavier instruments require more crew and specialized equipment. Bundling a piano into a full household move is usually cheaper than booking a piano-only carrier. See moveBuddha's guide to the best piano movers for vetted options and how to pack and move a piano for prep tips.
What movers in Bloomington offer antique handling?
Antique handling is available from 4 of 11 Bloomington movers (36.36%). Soft Touch Moving & Storage (4.38/5) also handles antique care.
| Antique handling in Bloomington | Details |
|---|---|
| Bloomington movers offering this | 4 of 11 (36.36%) |
| Top-rated Bloomington antique movers | Soft Touch Moving & Storage, Busy Bee Movers |
| Added cost to a household move | $890 to $2,225 |
| Per-piece handling fee | $45 to $445 |
| Custom crating per item | $134 to $178 |
Custom crating and per-piece handling fees are the main cost factors. Standard released-value coverage ($0.60/lb) is inadequate for high-value antiques, so full-value protection adds to the total. The more pieces requiring individual crating, the higher the cost. See moveBuddha's guide to best antique moving companies for specialists in this market.
What movers in Bloomington offer art packing?
Art packing is available from 2 of 11 Bloomington movers (18.18%). Soft Touch Moving & Storage (4.38/5) also offers art packing.
| Art packing in Bloomington | Details |
|---|---|
| Bloomington movers offering this | 2 of 11 (18.18%) |
| Top-rated Bloomington art movers | Soft Touch Moving & Storage, Busy Bee Movers |
| Per-piece handling fee | $45 to $445 |
| Custom crating per item | $134 to $178 |
Cost scales with piece count and crating complexity. Framed canvases and sculptures require custom-built crates at $150 to $200 each. Confirm the mover has handled similar media before booking. See how to pack and move art for what to verify before signing.
What movers in Bloomington offer climate-controlled storage?
Climate-controlled storage is available from 3 of 11 Bloomington movers (27.27%). Soft Touch Moving & Storage (4.38/5) also offers climate-controlled storage.
| Climate-controlled storage in Bloomington | Details |
|---|---|
| Bloomington movers offering this | 3 of 11 (27.27%) |
| Top-rated Bloomington providers | Soft Touch Moving & Storage, Sherman Moving & Storage |
| Storage-in-transit rate | About $0.50 per cubic foot per month |
| 1-bedroom monthly estimate (~514 cu ft) | $229 |
Cost is driven by unit size and duration. Longer storage gaps and larger loads raise the monthly total. Climate control is most relevant for wood furniture, electronics, and vinyl; standard units can handle hardier items at lower cost. See moveBuddha's climate-controlled storage guide for a full cost and provider breakdown.
What movers in Bloomington offer fragile-only packing?
Fragile-only packing is available from 2 of 11 Bloomington movers (18.18%). Soft Touch Moving & Storage (4.38/5) also offers fragile-only packing.
| Fragile-only packing in Bloomington | Details |
|---|---|
| Bloomington movers offering this | 2 of 11 (18.18%) |
| Top-rated Bloomington providers | Soft Touch Moving & Storage, Busy Bee Movers |
| Full professional packing rate | $0.15 to $0.21 per pound |
Fragile-only packing costs less than full-service packing because it covers only breakables: dishes, glassware, mirrors, and lamps. It's the most cost-effective way to add professional packing without paying to have the whole home packed. See how to pack breakables for what movers look for and how to prepare.
Apartment and high-rise moving in Bloomington
Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in Bloomington adds logistical steps that ground-floor moves don't require. Before booking, confirm the following with your mover:
- Elevator reservation: most buildings require a reserved service elevator window. Book it as soon as you have your move date. Slots fill quickly, especially on weekends and the first of the month.
- Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Bloomington apartment buildings and high-rises require a COI from your mover before they'll allow access to service elevators or loading docks. Ask your mover for a COI early. This is a standard request and any licensed mover should provide it without charge.
- Long carry and shuttle fees: if the moving truck can't park within a short distance of the building entrance, a shuttle vehicle or long-carry charge ($75–$500+) may apply. Confirm the loading dock situation before signing your estimate.
- Labor-only movers: 45% of Bloomington movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which pairs well with a rented container or truck. Soft Touch Moving & Storage also offers labor-only service.
If your building has strict move-in rules, ask your mover for references from similar Bloomington apartment moves before committing.
DIY moving options in Bloomington, IN
Not every Bloomington move needs a full-service crew. These alternatives cost significantly less:
Rental trucks
The best rental truck options for a DIY move in Bloomington, IN are Budget Truck Rental (4.3/5), U-Haul (4.2/5), and Penske Truck Rental (4.0/5). Budget leads on transparent pricing and discount availability. U-Haul offers 7 truck sizes and one-way rentals for moves that won't bring you back. Penske carries the most consistently maintained fleet, with unlimited mileage on select routes. Use moveBuddha's moving truck size guide to match the right truck to your home size before booking.
- Affordable pricing
- Online pricing
- Several discounts
- Most expensive
- 4 truck sizes
- Unlimited mileage
- Greatest coverage
- 7 truck sizes
- One way rentals
Moving containers
The best moving container companies available in Bloomington, IN are PODS (4.5/5), Units Moving and Portable Storage (4.3/5), and MovingYourself (5.0/5), based on moveBuddha's ratings. Container moves work by dropping a portable unit at your door, giving you several days to load at your own pace, then the company handles pickup and delivery. See our full moving container company guide for cost comparisons by move size, or the moving container sizes guide to find the right unit for your load.
- Unlimited storage
- 3 container sizes
- 10% discount
- Flexible timelines
- Local franchise support
- Fits tight spaces
- Affordable pricing
- Offers car shipping
- No hidden fees
Labor-only movers + rented truck
The best labor-only movers in Bloomington, IN start with Soft Touch Moving & Storage (4.38/5) and Busy Bee Movers (4.52/5), both offering loading, packing, and assembly services. You drive, they lift. Rent a truck, put these crews on the loading and unloading, and keep full control of your timeline and route.
- Years in Business: 19
- 79% positive reviews
- BBB: A+
- Years in Business: 35
- 65% positive reviews
- BBB: A+
- Years in Business: 15
- 82% positive reviews
- BBB: F
Moving in Bloomington, IN: what you need to know
A Bloomington move involves logistics that go beyond booking a crew and loading a truck. The checklist below covers the practical steps specific to moving in this market.
Before move day
- Update your address: file a change of address with the USPS before your move date. Bloomington residents can start at USPS Mover's Guide. Also update your address with Indiana DMV, your bank, employer, and any subscription services.
- Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Bloomington buildings require a COI from your moving company before granting loading dock or elevator access. Request this from your mover as soon as you book. It's a standard document and any licensed mover should provide it free of charge.
- Reserve your elevator: if you're in a building with a service elevator, reserve a time window as early as possible. Weekend and month-end slots fill fast.
- Get a binding estimate: a binding estimate locks your final price. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight or time. Always confirm in writing before signing.
Timing your move
- Peak season (May–September): demand is highest in summer. Book at least 4–6 weeks ahead during this window.
- Off-peak savings: moves booked in October–April, on weekdays, or mid-month typically cost 10%–20% less. If your schedule is flexible, ask movers about off-peak pricing. See moveBuddha's best time to move guide for a month-by-month breakdown.
- Winter conditions: Bloomington's winter lows reach 20°F. Winter moves are cheaper but require planning for ice, snow delays, and longer loading times. Confirm your mover's weather policy before booking.
Indiana moving regulations and your rights
- Verify your mover is licensed: all Indiana movers are required to be licensed with the state. Check your mover's license at Indiana's licensed movers directory. Ask for their USDOT number for interstate moves.
- 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.
- Released-value coverage: movers are required to offer basic protection at $0.60 per pound per item at no extra cost. This covers almost nothing on high-value items. Ask about full valuation coverage before signing.
- 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.
- Your rights as a shipper: for interstate moves, the FMCSA requires movers to provide "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" before your move. Read it. It covers estimates, liability, dispute resolution, and the 110% rule. Download it at fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move.
- Industry oversight: sets professional standards for Indiana movers. Membership is voluntary but signals accountability. Ask your mover if they hold membership.
Frequently asked questions: moving in Bloomington, IN
How much do movers cost in Bloomington, IN?
Local movers in Bloomington, IN charge by the hour. The Indiana average is $140/hour for a 2-person crew. Our preferred Bloomington mover is A Better Way Moving and Storage. It also ranks #10 out of 124 movers statewide in Indiana.
Key cost factors for a Bloomington move, based on moveBuddha's review data:
- Access fees: stairs, elevators, long carries, and shuttle service each add $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly. Get these costs itemized in your estimate before signing.
- Deposit requirement: 9% of Bloomington movers require a deposit to hold your move date. Confirm refund terms before paying.
- Full valuation coverage: 9% of Bloomington movers (1 companies) offer it. The default released-value protection covers only $0.60 per pound. Full valuation coverage costs extra and covers replacement value.
- Hours on-site: local moves bill by the clock. Home size, floor access, elevator waits, and how much packing work the crew handles are the primary time drivers.
- Long-distance pricing: moves leaving Bloomington across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 73% of Bloomington movers (8 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
- Packing services: 73% of Bloomington movers (8 companies) offer full packing, and 64% supply packing materials. Professional packing adds $0.15–$0.21 per pound on average.
DIY options like a rental truck or moving container reduce costs by roughly 30% compared to full-service moving, based on moveBuddha's analysis. Use the moving cost calculator to get a market-specific baseline before collecting quotes.
What do full-service movers in Bloomington include, and what costs extra?
A standard full-service move in Bloomington, IN includes loading, transport, and unloading. Basic furniture padding and simple disassembly/reassembly for bed frames and standard furniture pieces are included in the base rate. Packing, valuation upgrades, storage, crating, and specialty-item handling are add-ons billed separately. The table below shows what Bloomington movers offer and what each add-on typically costs, based on moveBuddha's review data.
| Add-on service | % of Bloomington movers | Typical cost impact |
|---|---|---|
| Full packing | 73% (8 companies) | +$0.15–$0.21 per pound on average |
| Packing materials | 64% | Priced per box or kit; confirm before booking |
| Storage | 73% | ~$0.50 per cubic foot per month; a 1-bedroom (~514 cu ft) runs ~$229/month |
| Full valuation coverage | 9% (1 companies) | 1%–2% of declared shipment value (~$300–$600 on a $30,000 shipment); default released-value protection pays only $0.60/lb |
| Crating (fragile/high-value items) | 36% (4 companies) | $150–$200 per item for antiques and artwork; $150–$400 for oversized pieces (safes, sectionals, appliances) |
| Labor-only (load/unload, no transport) | 45% (5 companies) | Hourly rate only; no truck or transport charge |
| Access fees (stairs, elevator, long carry, shuttle) | Situational | $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly; shuttle service adds $0.08–$0.12 per pound with minimums starting around $200 |
Every add-on above requires written confirmation before booking. A binding estimate locks the final price. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight or time. See the hidden and unexpected moving costs guide for a full breakdown of what to request in writing.
Do movers in Bloomington offer senior, military, or other discounts?
Bloomington movers are tracked across 6 discount categories by moveBuddha, drawing on 39,963 verified customer reviews across Indiana. The table below lists each discount type available from at least 1 Bloomington mover, the percentage and count of companies offering it, and which specific movers to ask. Discount types with 0 confirmed Bloomington movers are excluded. IN state averages appear where city-level data is unavailable.
| Discount type | % of Bloomington movers | # of movers | Bloomington movers offering it | Data source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Military | 18% | 2 | Soft Touch Moving & Storage | Bloomington |
Ask each mover whether the discount applies to your specific move date, what proof of eligibility is required, and whether it stacks with seasonal pricing or off-peak rates. Discounts are not automatically applied. Request them at the quote stage, before signing.
How far in advance should I book movers in Bloomington?
Book Bloomington movers at least 4–6 weeks ahead during peak moving season (May through September) and on month-end dates. For off-peak moves (October through April, mid-month, or on a weekday), 2–3 weeks is usually sufficient. Last-minute bookings (under 1 week) are possible but limit your options to movers with open capacity, which may not include your preferred company or the best-rated crews.
Once you have a date, request a binding written estimate before paying any deposit. Confirm the mover's cancellation and reschedule policy in writing at booking. Some Bloomington movers charge a fee for changes made within 48–72 hours of the move.
What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and do Bloomington movers provide one?
A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is a document from your mover's insurance carrier that names your building as an additional insured and confirms the mover carries active liability coverage. Many Bloomington apartment buildings, condos, and commercial properties require a COI before they'll permit a moving crew to use service elevators or loading docks.
Any licensed, insured Bloomington mover should provide a COI at no charge. Request it as soon as you book. Your building management may need it 5–10 business days before your move. If a mover hesitates or charges for a COI, that is a red flag worth taking seriously.
Are movers in Bloomington licensed and insured?
Indiana requires moving companies operating within the state to hold a valid state license. Verify a mover's license at the Indiana licensed movers directory. For interstate moves (crossing state lines), movers must also hold a USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can verify any USDOT number at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov.
Always ask your Bloomington mover for their license number and USDOT number before signing. moveBuddha verifies licensing and insurance status for all movers in its database as part of the review process.
How long does a local move take in Bloomington?
Local Bloomington moves are billed by the hour, so understanding time estimates helps you budget accurately. Based on moveBuddha's Bloomington-area data:
- Studio/1 bedroom: 2–4 hours with a 2-person crew
- 2 bedrooms: 4–6 hours with a 2-person crew
- 3 bedrooms: 6–8 hours with a 3-person crew
- 4+ bedrooms: 8–12 hours with a 3–4 person crew
These are averages. Actual time increases with stairs, elevator waits, long carries from truck to door, and the amount of packing the crew handles. Pre-packing boxes, reserving an elevator, and ensuring a clear loading path are the most effective ways to keep hourly costs on track.
Do Bloomington movers have experience with apartments and high-rises?
Yes. Most Bloomington movers regularly handle apartment and high-rise moves. When evaluating a mover for this type of move, ask specifically about their experience with:
- Service elevator scheduling and building move-in procedures in Bloomington
- Providing a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for building management
- Shuttle vehicles or alternative loading setups when a truck can't park close to the entrance
- Stair carries if the service elevator is unavailable or too small for large pieces
A mover with genuine Bloomington apartment experience will ask about your building's move-in process during the quoting stage, not after you've signed. If they don't ask, bring it up yourself before committing.
What is the best time of year to move in Bloomington?
The cheapest time to move in Bloomington is October through April, particularly on weekdays and mid-month dates when mover demand drops. Moving during this window can reduce your total cost by 10%–20% compared to peak summer rates.
Peak season runs May through September. Bloomington's summer highs reach 85°F, which makes physically demanding moves harder on crews and can slow load times on the hottest days. Demand is highest on weekends, the first and last days of the month, and during the school-year transition in late August.
Winter moves are the most affordable but require contingency planning. Bloomington's winter lows reach 20°F. Confirm your mover's weather delay policy before booking a winter move.
Regardless of season, booking 4–6 weeks ahead gives you the best pick of Bloomington's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.
How does moveBuddha rank moving companies in Bloomington?
moveBuddha scores 11 moving companies in Bloomington on a weighted five-factor system covering customer satisfaction, dispute resolution, industry reputation, online reputation, and service options. A Better Way Moving and Storage also ranks #10 out of 124 movers statewide in Indiana.
How moveBuddha selects and reviews Bloomington, IN moving companies
moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 124 Indiana moving companies using a five-factor weighted scoring system: customer satisfaction (40%), dispute resolution (20%), industry reputation (15%), online reputation (15%), and service options (10%). Rankings for Bloomington draw on 39,963 verified customer reviews across Indiana: real move experiences submitted by customers, not scraped from third-party platforms.
That scoring system draws on moveBuddha's dataset of 1,000+ live price points and research across 4,500+ movers nationwide, so you're getting recommendations built on real market data, not just review aggregation.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently completes moves on time, communicates proactively, and delivers within the estimated cost. These factors matter most when hiring a mover.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Problems happen in every industry. We reward companies that take clear ownership of issues and make genuine, documented efforts to resolve them.
- Industry reputation (15%): The company holds standing in professional moving organizations and participates in industry oversight, which signals accountability beyond customer reviews alone.
- Online reputation (15%): The company maintains accurate, up-to-date information online and responds promptly and professionally to customer inquiries and complaints.
- Service options (10%): We favor companies that offer full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery. These services matter on a complex move.
Read our complete moving company rating methodology for the full scoring breakdown.
See how Bloomington's top movers stack up. Get free quotes from Bloomington's top movers →
How to move in Bloomington: permits, COI, and city logistics
A step-by-step guide to planning a local move in Bloomington, IN, including permit requirements, certificate of insurance, elevator booking, and mover verification.
- Verify your mover's license and insurance. 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. Verify a license.
- Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If your Bloomington building requires a COI for loading dock or elevator access, request one from your mover immediately after booking. Any licensed mover should provide it free of charge within a few business days.
- Reserve your parking and elevator access. Contact your building manager to reserve a service elevator window and, if needed, a parking permit for the moving truck on your Bloomington street. Book these at least 2 weeks before your move date.
- Get a binding written estimate. Request a binding estimate from at least 3 Bloomington movers. A binding estimate locks your final price. Review all line items (including access fees, packing, and valuation coverage) before signing.
The final verdict: moving in Bloomington, IN
- Best overall: A Better Way Moving and Storage (4.5/5), our preferred Bloomington mover, also ranking in the top 10 movers statewide in Indiana.
- Best runner-up: Soft Touch Moving & Storage (4.38/5).
- Best for specialty items (piano, antiques, art): A Better Way Moving and Storage (4.5/5).
- Best labor-only / DIY assist: Soft Touch Moving & Storage (4.38/5). Hire for loading and unloading while you supply the truck.
- Going rate: hourly; get 3 binding estimates to set your baseline.
Collect at least 3 binding estimates, confirm your mover's license and insurance, and request a COI if your building requires one. Use the moveBuddha cost calculator to set your budget baseline before reaching out to movers.