Best Movers from Indiana to California (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: Moving from Indiana to California typically costs between $1,770 and $9,114 and usually takes seven–18 days. Your final price depends on the size and timing of your move, and whether you choose professional movers or handle it on your own.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to Indiana guide.
Our track record
The best Indiana to California full-service movers
Moving from Indiana to California? With thousands of moving companies in the U.S., hiring the right interstate moving company can be a challenge. To simplify your search, we've narrowed down the most reliable movers based on our detailed analysis of customer reviews, pricing, and service offerings.
Start with these top long-distance moving companies serving Indiana for your relocation to California:
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
- Hands-on customer service
- 24/7 support
- Price-matching policy
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in Indiana
Finding a trustworthy local moving company can feel overwhelming with so many options available. To help you choose with confidence, we’ve curated a list of top-rated local movers in Indiana based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.
- Bellhop Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Ferree Movers, Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Planes Moving & Storage Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Busy Bee Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
- Professional and polite staff
- Affordable rates
- Good communication
- Delayed arrival or delivery
- Damage to items
- Lack of communication
Company Info
State license #: 2878240
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.
Bellhop Moving, founded in 2012, offers top-notch local residential moving services in and around Indianapolis, IN. While their Yelp and Google My Business profiles boast impressive average ratings of 4.0 and 4.4 respectively, their BBB rating of F may give potential clients pause. In comparison to other nearby moving companies, Bellhop stands out by providing versatile services including packing, unpacking, and labor only options, but a deposit is unfortunately required. For those seeking reliable and well-reviewed local movers, Bellhop Moving presents a worthy choice.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- Professional and polite staff
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Helpful movers
- Damage to items
- Inexperienced movers
- Lack of communication
Company Info
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 1237577
Alternate Names: L.E.A.D.E.R.S Moving & Storage Co., Leaders Moving and Storage Company, Hilling Moving & Storage
Leaders Moving & Storage Co., based in Indianapolis, IN, has been a trusted local residential mover since 1995. Known for their comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, they stand out by accepting credit cards and not requiring deposits. Their reputation shines with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and a stellar 4.7 average rating from over 550 reviews on Google, although their Yelp reviews are more modest at 3.3 from 24 reviews. Compared to other nearby moving companies, Leaders Moving & Storage Co. offers a reliable and customer-focused experience for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Professional and polite staff
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Affordable rates
- Damage to items
- Misplaced or lost items
- Unprofessional behavior
Company Info
Years in Business: 70
DOT #: 674157
Ferree Movers, Inc., based in Schererville, IN, has been providing reliable local residential moving services since 1956. Known for their experience and dependability, they also offer packing, unpacking, and office moving services, ensuring a comprehensive moving solution. With an average rating of 4.5 on Google and a decent 3.8 on Yelp, as well as a B+ BBB rating, their reputation stands strong compared to other nearby movers. Unique features include no required deposit and the ability to move specialty items such as pianos and antiques, making them a versatile and trustworthy choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Professional and polite staff
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Helpful movers
- Damage to items
- Lack of communication
- Unexpected charges
Company Info
Years in Business: 105
DOT #: 1458935
Alternate Names: Planes Companies, Planes Specialized Logistics, Planes Commercial Services
Planes Moving & Storage Company has been serving the Indianapolis, IN area with local residential moving services since 1921, making them one of the most experienced moving companies in the region. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialty moving for items like pianos, pool tables, and antiques. While their Yelp profile shows mixed feedback with an average rating of 2.1 from 18 reviews, their Google My Business profile boasts an impressive 4.9 average rating from 829 reviews, and they hold an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Comparatively, Planes Moving & Storage stands out among other nearby movers for its longevity and breadth of services, ideal for those seeking reliable and diverse local moving solutions.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Affordable rates
- Unexpected charges
- Damage to items
- Lack of communication
Company Info
Years in Business: 34
DOT #: 573343
Busy Bee Movers, serving Indianapolis since 1992, specializes in local residential moving, setting them apart in a competitive market. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and crating, and even handle piano moves, ensuring a hassle-free experience for their clients. While their Google reviews average a strong 4.2 from 260 reviewers, their Yelp profile indicates mixed feedback with a 2.2 average from 88 reviews. Nonetheless, their Better Business Bureau rating of A+ underscores their reliability and commitment to customer satisfaction. In comparison to other local movers, Busy Bee Movers stands out for their extensive experience and wide array of services, accepting credit cards and not requiring a deposit.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
The best Indiana to California moving container companies
Moving containers help you save money without having to do all the heavy lifting. You load and unload your stuff, while the company handles all the driving, picking up your container in Indiana and dropping it off at your new home in California.
Check out our top picks for the best moving container companies:
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The best Indiana to California moving truck rentals
Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from Indiana to California, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best Indiana to California labor-only movers
If you just need a hand loading your stuff into a container or rental truck, labor-only movers are a great option. They'll send a crew sized to fit your move, and you only pay for the time you use.
Check out these highly rated moving labor companies for an easy move from Indiana to California.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your IN to CA move
How much does it cost to move from Indiana to California?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Indiana to California with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,490 - $6,151 | $1,535 - $3,810 | $1,507 - $2,912 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,203 - $9,114 | $2,839 - $5,366 | $1,770 - $3,832 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $7,894 - $14,366 | $3,938 - $7,574 | $2,256 - $4,428 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,273 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.
Cost to hire movers from Indiana to California
Planning a move from Indiana to California? For a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,490 and $6,151. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $4,203 and $9,114 for the same journey (IN to CA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $7,894 to $14,366.
Cost of moving containers from Indiana to California
When you’re heading from Indiana to California, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,535 and $3,810. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,839 and $5,366. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,938 to $7,574. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Indiana easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Indiana to California
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, 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 $1,507 and $2,912. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,770 to $3,832. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,256 and $4,428.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IN to CA
There are many factors that influence Indiana moving costs. The cost to move from Indiana to California will depend on these factors:
- Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
- Time of year: The peak moving season in Indiana is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from IN to CA
If you’re moving from Indiana to California, take a moment to see how your new state compares to your current one.
Cost of living: Indiana vs. California
Before moving, make sure to compare the cost of living in Indiana and California. This easy side-by-side breakdown covers important factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a clear picture of how your budget could be affected. Check out how these two states stack up on the essentials that shape your living expenses:
| Indiana | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $844 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $228,879 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $67,173 | $91,905 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.6% | 5.4% |
| Average Sales Tax | 7.0% | 8.68% |
| State Income Tax | 3.15% | 13.3% |
- Rent in California is about 120% higher than in Indiana. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
- Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in California are typically about 237% higher than in Indiana.
- Great news—you’re likely to make about 37% more in California compared to Indiana. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
- Moving to California means you’ll be spending 47% more than you did in Indiana. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
- Unemployment in California is about 50% higher than in Indiana. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
- Sales taxes are 24% higher in California than in Indiana, meaning you'll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
- Income taxes in California are 322% higher than in Indiana, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.
How life is different in California vs. Indiana
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live. It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture, and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look at how life in California stacks up against Indiana across important lifestyle factors:
| California | Indiana | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,029,342 | 6,833,037 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 59-41 | Republican 57-41 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 85ºF |
| Winter low | 59ºF | 19ºF |
| Annual rain | 22" | 43" |
| Annual snow | 7" | 22" |
| Crime index | 28.43 | 19.72 |
- The population of California is approximately 471% greater than the population of Indiana. With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
- In the last presidential election, California voted Democratic and Indiana voted Republican.
- The average high in the summertime in California is 87ºF and in Indiana, it’s 85ºF. When summer temperatures are comparable, you can expect a smooth seasonal transition, but still consider the humidity, local weather patterns, and energy costs to get a full picture of what summer will really feel like in your new state.
- During the coldest part of the year, California reaches the temperature of 59ºF while Indiana gets down to 19ºF. A move to California with milder winters offers greater day-to-day convenience, lower costs, and more freedom to explore outdoors. It’s a great fit for those who prefer sun over snow and fewer weather-related interruptions.
- You can expect only about 22 inches of annual rainfall in California versus 43 inches of rainfall in Indiana. Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
- In California, it only snows about 7 inches annually while Indiana gets 22 inches of snow. Moving to California, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles, making it a great fit for those seeking a milder winter climate.
- California has a higher crime rate than Indiana with a crime index of 28.43 vs. 19.72. A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of Indiana vs. California
There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in California stacks up against Indiana.
| Pros of living in Indiana | Pros of living in California |
|---|---|
| Low cost of living | Ample economic opportunity |
| Amiable people | Pleasant weather |
| Excellent universities | Abundant recreational options |
| Diverse economies | High quality of life |
| Water recreation | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Indiana vs. California
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live. Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Indiana for California.
| Cons of living in Indiana | Cons of living in California |
|---|---|
| Cold and snowy winters | High cost of living |
| Low diversity | Heavy tax burdens |
| Limited recreational activities | Natural disasters |
| Limited public transportation | Terrible traffic |
| Air pollution | Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Indiana to California move
- Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days.
- HOA rules: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
- Elevator reservation: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
- 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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
- State regulator: You can quickly check a California moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in California, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to California right on time. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as "released value protection," at no extra cost. 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: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in California
Get ready to discover all that California has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in California
- The Getty Center
- USS Midway Museum
- Hess Persson Estates
- California State Railroad Museum
- The Getty Villa
Parks in California
- La Jolla Cove
- Heisler Park
- Sonoma Plaza
- Mount Rubidoux Park
- Redwood Regional Park
Sports Teams in California
- Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
- San Jose Sharks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
- Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
Universities in California
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, Los Angeles
- University of Southern California
- University of California, San Diego
