Local moving companies in Indiana

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  3. Planes Moving & Storage Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. Ferree Movers, Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  5. Busy Bee Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
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.


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
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


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
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


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
https://www.facebook.com/ferreemovers/,
85% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Ferree Movers, Inc. stands out for its consistently high ratings, based on 146 pieces of customer feedback. About 85% of reviews praise teams for professionalism, speed, careful handling, and affordable rates. Customers highlight efficient work, staff courtesy, attentiveness, and strong packing practices.
Many value the clear communication, transparent pricing, and approachable office team, which contrast favorably with industry competitors where delays and breakages are more common. A small number of reviews (about 14%) reference challenges like items arriving damaged, missing belongings, or unprofessional interactions, raising caution around larger or long-distance moves. Two neutral reviews noted fast work but some communication or process hiccups. The overwhelmingly positive input reflects a company more reliable and professional than many movers, while a handful of cases point to the need for improved damage tracking and better complaint follow-up.
Show more
Get a Quote (219) 322-2644

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
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


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

Things to know before moving from Indiana to Chicago, IL

Cost of living: Indiana vs Chicago, IL

Indiana Chicago
Average rent cost $844 $2,045
Average home value $228,879 $295,743
Average income (per capita) $67,173 $71,566
Unemployment rate 4% 9%
State income tax 3% 5%
  • Rent is about 142% more expensive in Chicago than in Indiana.
  • Home prices are about 29% higher in Chicago than in Indiana.
  • The average income is about 7% higher in Chicago than in Indiana.
  • Chicago has a higher unemployment rate than Indiana by about 150%.
  • Income taxes are 57% higher in Chicago than in Indiana.

How life is different in Chicago from Indiana

Chicago Indiana
Population 2,746,388 6,833,037
Political leaning Democrat 74-24 Republican 57-41
Summer high 84ºF 85ºF
Winter low 19ºF 19ºF
Annual rain 38" 43"
Annual snow 35" 22"
Crime index 35.19 19.72
  • The population of Chicago is approximately 60% lower than the population of Indiana.
  • In the last presidential election, Chicago voted Democrat and Indiana voted Republican.
  • The average high in the summertime in Chicago is 84ºF and in Indiana, it’s 85ºF.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Chicago reaches the temperature of 19ºF and Indiana gets down to 19ºF.
  • You can expect about 38 inches of annual rainfall in Chicago vs 43 inches of rainfall in Indiana.
  • In Chicago, it snows about 35 inches annually vs 22 inches of snow in Indiana.
  • Chicago has a higher crime rate than Indiana with a crime index of 35.19 vs 19.72.

Things to do in Chicago

Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Chicago.

Museums in Chicagotoggle

  • The Field Museum
  • Shedd Aquarium
  • Art Institute of Chicago
  • Chicago History Museum
  • Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Museum of Contemporary Photography
  • Museum of Science and Industry
  • Smart Museum of Art
  • The Oriental Institute Museum
  • Adler Planetarium
  • DuSable Museum of African American History
  • The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
  • National Museum of Mexican Art

Parks in Chicagotoggle

  • Millennium Park
  • Grant Park
  • The 606
  • Lincoln Park
  • Garfield Park
  • Jackson Park
  • Maggie Daley Park
  • South Shore Cultural Center Park
  • Humboldt Park
  • Douglass Park

Sports Teams in Chicagotoggle

  • Chicago Bears (NFL)
  • Chicago Cubs (MLB)
  • Chicago White Sox (MLB)
  • Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)
  • Chicago Bulls (NBA)
  • Chicago Fire (MLS)
  • Chicago Sky (WNBA)

Universities in Chicagotoggle

  • Chicago State University
  • Governors State University
  • Northeastern Illinois University
  • Northern Illinois University
  • University of Illinois at Chicago
  • Aurora University
  • Benedictine University
  • Concordia University Chicago
  • DePaul University
  • Dominican University
  • East–West University
  • Elmhurst University
  • Illinois Institute of Technology
  • Judson University
  • Kendall College
  • Lewis University
  • Loyola University Chicago
  • Midwestern University
  • National Louis University
  • National University of Health Sciences
  • North Park University
  • Northwestern University
  • Resurrection University
  • Roosevelt University
  • Saint Xavier University
  • Trinity International University
  • University of Chicago
  • University of St. Francis
  • University of Saint Mary of the Lake

Other considerations when moving to Chicago, IL

  • Weather: Although Chicago gets less snowfall than surrounding areas in the Midwest and the Great Lakes region, heavy snowfall could still affect your move in the wintertime.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: One common and important example of something that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles, find out ahead of time with your new local rules.
  • State licensing: In Illinois, regulations on in-state moves and local movers are set forth by the Illinois Commerce Commission. To move household goods locally and intrastate, companies need to have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, so make sure the companies you’re considering have one and that it’s current. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Illinois moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: Illinois does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Illinois. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items' full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.

Compare the pros and cons of Indiana vs. Chicago, IL

Comparing the pros of Indiana vs. Chicago, IL:

There are always a lot of reasons to get excited about living somewhere new. These are the best parts of living in Indiana vs Chicago side-by-side.

Pros of living in Indiana Pros of living in Chicago, IL
Low cost of living Bountiful arts and recreational activities
Amiable people Delicious food
Excellent universities Abundant entertainment
Diverse economies Intense sports culture
Water recreation Ample economic opportunity

Comparing the cons of living in Indiana vs. Chicago, IL:

Not everything is sunshine and rainbows, these are the things to be aware of when leaving Indiana for Chicago.

Cons of living in Indiana Cons of living in Chicago, IL
Cold and snowy winters High crime rate
Low diversity Temperamental weather
Limited recreational activities Terrible traffic
Limited public transportation High taxes
Air pollution Pollution

FAQ

How long does a move from Indiana to Chicago take?

The time frame for a move from Indiana to Chicago, IL, varies based on your moving method and starting location. The actual loading up of your items should not take more than a day, even with DIY moves.

Obviously, the further upstate you are in Indiana, the longer the drive time to Chicago will be. If you’re driving a rental truck, the move could be completed in one or two days, on average, depending on your route and how often you stop.

With professional movers or moving containers, delivery times to Chicago from Indiana can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the company’s schedule and transit logistics. You can always ask for a general timeline before booking.

How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Indiana to Chicago?

Because of the 176-mile move, it’s best to book your move from Indiana to Chicago as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Chicago, IL?

With the summer highs of 84ºF and the winter lows of 19ºF, most people move to Chicago from Indiana during the spring and fall months. To avoid competing during those busy moving seasons, you could save some money by booking your move to Chicago during summer or winter.

Helpful moving resources