Quick answer: For a 603-mile move from Indianapolis to Durham, expect to spend around $657–$6,203 and one to six days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you're going DIY or using a moving company.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Durham 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 Durham

Choosing a long-distance mover for your move from Indianapolis to Durham can be tough. With so many options, it's hard to know which companies you can actually trust.

Skip the hassle of endless research — we've narrowed down the top choices for you. We picked these movers based on real reviews, competitive pricing, and the variety of services they offer.

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 NC 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.

Find trusted moving companies for your Indianapolis to Durham journey

Organizing a move from Indianapolis to Durham can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. The choices are vast, but which ones stand out?

We've done the groundwork for you, evaluating local movers in Indianapolis known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Indianapolis to Durham.

  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 Durham?

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 $1,366 - $4,239 $890 - $2,021 $551 - $1,093
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,495 - $6,203 $1,542 - $3,030 $657 - $1,272
4+ bedrooms $4,662 - $9,764 $2,122 - $3,997 $789 - $1,552
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 603 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 North Carolina

Planning a move from Indiana to North Carolina? For a studio or one-bedroom, you'll likely pay between $1,366 and $4,239. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,495 and $6,203 for the same journey (IN to NC). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,662 to $9,764.

Cost of moving containers from Indiana to North Carolina

If you're relocating from Indiana to North Carolina, you'll typically spend between $890 and $2,021 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,542 up to $3,030. If you're moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,122 and $3,997. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Indiana to North Carolina

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 $551 and $1,093 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $657 to $1,272. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $789 to $1,552.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

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

The cost of Indianapolis movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Indianapolis to Durham might cost just $1,366 for a one-bedroom, but up to $8,432 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Indianapolis, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $551 and $1,425, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Indianapolis to Durham

Moving from Indianapolis to Durham 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 Durham, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

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

Indianapolis Durham
Average rent cost $1,399 $1,699
Average home value $220,467 $391,719
Average income (per capita) $59,110 $396,291
Cost of living (single person) $2,804 $2,803
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,667 $5,945
Unemployment rate 5.6% 4.1%
Sales tax 7.0% 7.5%
State income tax 3.15% 4.5%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Durham, since prices are typically 21% higher than in Indianapolis.
  • The home prices in Durham are 77.7% higher than in Indianapolis, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Durham, where incomes are, on average, 570.4% higher than in Indianapolis. Major employers in Durham include Duke University & Duke Univ. Health System, IBM, and Durham Public Schools.
  • The cost of living for a single person is the same in Durham and Indianapolis.
  • A move to Durham can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 10.8% less than what it costs in Indianapolis.
  • The unemployment rate in Durham is 26.79% lower than in Indianapolis.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Durham, since its sales taxes are 7.14% higher than what you are paying in Indianapolis.
  • State income taxes in Durham are 42.86% higher than in Indianapolis.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,998.93 in Durham to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Indianapolis.

How life is different in Indianapolis vs. Durham

Durham Indianapolis
Population 283,506 887,642
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 5
Walkability score 30 31
Bike friendliness score 38 43
Crime Index 54.72 60.71
Safety Index 45.28 39.29
Air Quality Good Good
  • Durham might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 68% less than Indianapolis.
  • Getting around Durham without a car might be more difficult than in Indianapolis. Durham has a public transportation score of 4 out of 10, whereas Indianapolis is ranked 5. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
  • You'll find Durham to be about as walkable as Indianapolis. The two cities have similar walkability scores of 30 and 31 respectively out of 100 in terms of how close housing is to businesses, recreational facilities, and jobs.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Durham, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than Indianapolis. While Indianapolis has a bike-friendliness score of 43 out of 100, Durham earned a 38. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • Durham has a lower crime rate than Indianapolis based on scores of 54.72 and Indianapolis's 60.71, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Durham than in Indianapolis, based on Durham's safety index of 45.28 versus 39.29 for Indianapolis. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
  • The air quality in Durham and Indianapolis is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your Indianapolis vs. Durham move

  • Weather: The climate in Durham is unlikely to affect your move. However, some days in the winter, the roads may become icy which causes traffic issues.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a North Carolina moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: North Carolina doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Durham. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Durham

Now that you've decided to make the move to City of The Viper, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Durham.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Golden Belt
  • Warehouse District
  • Central Park
  • Chapel Hill
  • Northgate Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Treyburn
  • American Village/Arrowhead
  • Willowhaven
  • Fieldstone by the Eno
  • Hope Valley Farms

Things to do in Durham

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

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Durham include museums and art centers like the Museum of Life + Science, Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University, Museum of Durham History, V & E Simonetti Historic Tuba Collection, and Golden Belt.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's West Point on the Eno, RollingView Falls Lake State Park, Durham Central Park, and Historic Durham Athletic Park — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Duke University (ACC) and Durham Bulls (Triple-A East baseball) game.

FAQ

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

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

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

Because spring and fall moves from Indianapolis to Durham are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Indianapolis to Durham take?

The 603-mile journey from Indianapolis, IN to Durham, NC, typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Indianapolis offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Durham.

Helpful moving resources