Quick answer: A typical 478-mile move from Indianapolis to Birmingham runs $547–$6,303 and takes one to four days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Birmingham to Indianapolis guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Indianapolis to Birmingham

Picking a long-distance moving company for your journey from Indianapolis to Birmingham isn't always easy. With so many choices out there, figuring out who you can really rely on can feel overwhelming.

No need to waste hours comparing moving companies — we've done the work for you. Our top picks stand out for their glowing reviews, affordable rates, and wide range of services to fit any move.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your IN to AL movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 37 Indiana movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Local moving companies servicing Indianapolis to Birmingham moves

When planning a move from Indianapolis to Birmingham, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. There are plenty of companies, but which ones are actually worth it?

We've taken care of the research for you — reviewing local movers in Indianapolis who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

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

  1. Planes Moving & Storage Company: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. Bellhop Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. Busy Bee Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. Sherman Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/teamplanes,
89% of all reviews were positive
10% 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.
Show more
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/pages/category/Home-Mover/Leaders-Moving-Storage-Co-Indianapolis-866369596746908/,
89% of all reviews were positive
10% 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.
Show more
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/Bellhops-Moving-106135414112443/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
70% of all reviews were positive
26% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Bellhop Moving’s speed, efficiency, and friendly approach. Out of 115 reviews, nearly 70% share positive input, highlighting fast-moving crews, affordable prices, clear communication, and respectful service. Many describe the process as easy and stress-free.
On the downside, about a quarter of feedback points to problems like late arrivals, damaged belongings, and a lack of follow-through from customer service. Complaints focus on delayed service, unwrapped or mishandled items, and poor responsiveness when issues arise. Compared to traditional movers, Bellhop often wins on price and flexibility but loses ground on reliability during peak times. Most customers praise the courteous staff and quick booking, yet a minority experienced significant disruptions or property damage. While Bellhop is often a cost-effective and efficient choice, those with high-value or complex moves may want to weigh the risk of potential delays or mishandling before booking.
Show more
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 2878240

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BusyBeeMovers/, https://twitter.com/busybeemoversin?lang=en
61% of all reviews were positive
34% 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.
Show more
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/shermanmoving, https://twitter.com/ShermanMoving
72% of all reviews were positive
28% 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.
Show more
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

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

Indianapolis movers charge $75 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,298 - $3,807 $873 - $1,937 $508 - $892
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,372 - $6,303 $1,575 - $2,953 $547 - $1,080
4+ bedrooms $4,315 - $9,681 $1,996 - $3,679 $688 - $1,275
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 478 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Indiana to Alabama

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Indiana to Alabama typically costs between $1,298 and $3,807. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,372 and $6,303 when moving from IN to AL. If you're tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Indiana to Alabama, you're looking at costs ranging from $4,315 up to $9,681.

Cost of moving containers from Indiana to Alabama

If you're moving from Indiana to Alabama, expect to pay between $873 and $1,937 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,575 up to $2,953. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,996 and $3,679. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Indiana.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Indiana to Alabama

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 $508 and $892 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $547 to $1,080. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $688 to $1,275.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Indianapolis to Birmingham movetoggle

The cost of Indianapolis movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Indianapolis to Birmingham can be as low as $1,298 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $7,804.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Indianapolis so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $508 to $1,196. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Indianapolis to Birmingham

Moving from Indianapolis to Birmingham means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Indianapolis than in Birmingham, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Indianapolis compares to Birmingham so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Indianapolis Birmingham
Average rent cost $1,399 $1,250
Average home value $220,467 $125,988
Average income (per capita) $59,110 $39,403
Cost of living (single person) $2,804 $2,697
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,667 $6,727
Unemployment rate 5.6% 5.6%
Sales tax 7.0% 10.0%
State income tax 3.15% 5.0%
  • Rent prices in Birmingham are 11% lower than in Indianapolis, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Birmingham.
    Home prices in Birmingham are 42.9% lower than in Indianapolis.
  • Income in Birmingham is 33.3% lower than in Indianapolis, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Birmingham — including Encompass Health, Regions Bank, and University of Alabama at Birmingham — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Birmingham. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 3.8% lower than in Indianapolis.
  • The cost of living for a family is the same in Birmingham and Indianapolis.
  • The unemployment rate in Birmingham and Indianapolis.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Birmingham, since its sales taxes are 42.86% higher than what you are paying in Indianapolis.
  • State income taxes in Birmingham are 58.73% higher than in Indianapolis.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,885.52 in Birmingham to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Indianapolis.

How life is different in Indianapolis vs. Birmingham

Birmingham Indianapolis
Population 196,644 887,642
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 0 5
Walkability score 33 31
Bike friendliness score 31 43
Crime Index 61.64 60.71
Safety Index 38.36 39.29
Air Quality Good Good
  • Birmingham's population is about 78% less than Indianapolis.
  • Birmingham's public transportation has a score of 0 out of 10 versus Indianapolis's higher score of 5.
  • Birmingham and Indianapolis are similarily walkable.
  • Birmingham has a bike-friendliness score 31 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Indianapolis, which has a score of 43 out of 100.
  • Birmingham and Indianapolis have a similar crime rate.
  • Birmingham and Indianapolis are considered to be equally safe.
  • Air quality in Birmingham is good, and in Indianapolis it's good.

Other things to consider for your Indianapolis vs. Birmingham move

  • Weather: Birmingham has hot summers, mild winters, and abundant rainfall. Birmingham is also located in tornado alley.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • 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: To guarantee the safety and reliability of local moving services in Alabama, it is essential for moving companies to possess a registration number issued by the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC). Trust your move to registered professionals for a secure and dependable experience. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Alabama moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Alabama does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Birmingham. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. Moving companies typically take responsibility for your belongings at a rate of 60 cents per pound (or even less) per item. This means that for a lightweight item weighing five pounds and valued at $500, the reimbursement would be only $3 in the event of loss or damage. To enhance your coverage, certain movers provide additional valuation options, such as declared value or lump sum value protection, which offer better protection compared to the basic released value protection. To better understand and explore these options, consider discussing them with your chosen moving company.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you\'ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Birmingham

Now that you've decided to make the move to B'ham, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Birmingham.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Central City
  • Five Points South
  • Highland Park
  • Fountain Heights
  • Southside

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Oxmoor
  • Crestwood South
  • Redmont Park

Things to do in Birmingham

After getting comfortable in your new Alabama home, it's time to see what Birmingham is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Birmingham is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Vulcan Park and Museum, McWane Science Center, and Birmingham Museum of Art.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Vulcan Park and Museum, Birmingham's Railroad Park, Kelly Ingram Park, and Red Mountain Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.'
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Birmingham Barons, UAB Blazers, Samford University teams, or Birmingham Legion FC game.

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Indianapolis to Birmingham is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Indianapolis.

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

With many people choosing to move from Indianapolis to Birmingham 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 Birmingham take?

The 478-mile move from Indianapolis, IN, to Birmingham, AL, takes one to four days. Some Indianapolis movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Birmingham.

Helpful moving resources