Best overall value
Local moving companies in Washington DC
- 495 Movers, Inc: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- Zip Moving And Storage, Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- Artisan Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.76 out of 5 stars
Customer Praise
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Transparent pricing
- Good communication
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
- Misplaced or lost items
Review Analysis
Moving with a well-organized team can transform a stressful day into a smooth experience. Across 410 reviews for 495 Movers, 83.7% of feedback is positive, reflecting results that outpace many competitors. Most customers found efficient service, careful handling, and friendly, professional movers who kept fragile belongings safe and finished jobs on (or ahead of) schedule. Many appreciated clear estimates, honest pricing, and responsive communication before and during the move. Free packing supplies and flexibility made preparation easier, and follow-up calls reassured customers their move details were covered.
A much smaller portion of feedback reports dissatisfaction. Some customers cite damage to their items, unexpected charges not matching estimates, or lost belongings—especially for long-distance or storage moves. A few also mentioned that claims for lost or broken possessions were hard to resolve, and communication could suffer after the move. Negative experiences frequently came with higher costs or struggles reaching resolution, leaving affected customers frustrated.
Most feedback highlights efficiency, a courteous team, attention to detail, and billing transparency. Problems with damage or unexpected fees, though rare, are more common than with industry leaders renowned for flawless claims handling and rigid cost guarantees. On balance, 495 Movers is rated better than most moving companies for local or regional moves, especially for customers seeking cost clarity and respectful crews.
Company Info
State license #: 1893270
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 1893270
Services Offered
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Customer Praise
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
- Higher-than-expected costs
- Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Moving made simple—Zip Moving And Storage, Inc. stands out for efficient, professional service and careful attention to belongings. In an analysis of 372 customer reviews, 91% of the input praised the company's fast moving teams, careful handling of items, professionalism, prompt communication, and swift processes. Most feedback highlights that movers arrive on time, work efficiently, and treat possessions with respect, which is often hard to find among competitors. Many also note transparent pricing and flexibility when scheduling or dealing with last-minute changes. While positive feedback dominates, some customers report problems with damages to items, unexpected cost increases, or delays in delivery, especially for long-distance moves. Compared to other movers, Zip consistently delivers a reliable, courteous experience but could improve by minimizing damages and clarifying pricing for every customer.
Company Info
State license #: 2586700
Pricing: $125/hr
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 3306591
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Customer Praise
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Good communication
- Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
- Inaccurate estimates
- Misplaced or lost items
Review Analysis
Rave reviews dominate Olympia Moving & Storage’s customer feedback, with over 83% of 383 reviews rating the company positively. Customers consistently praise their efficient service, attentive staff, careful handling of possessions, strong communication, and the speed of their moving process. Olympia stands out for delivering a low-stress experience, seamless coordination, and trustworthy teams, which is especially noteworthy compared to many competitors in the moving industry. On the downside, a portion of clients report significant issues: the most common complaints involve damaged or lost items, cost overruns from inaccurate estimates, and missing possessions. Several negative comments highlight struggles with costly and frustrating claims processes, as well as challenges in resolving high-value property damage or loss after storage. Neutral feedback typically mentions minor mishaps, miscommunications, or additional fees, yet still acknowledges courteous service and competence from the moving crews. Olympia typically delivers an efficient, professional moving experience but, like most national movers, may fall short when it comes to high-value item care or providing exact cost certainty for larger, complex moves.
Company Info
State license #: 70719
Years in Business: 32
DOT #: 70719
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Customer Praise
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Good communication
- Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
- Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Customer input points to Artisan Movers as a standout in the moving industry, with 259 reviews analyzed and nearly 94% offering positive input. Most feedback highlights a team respected for professionalism, careful handling, efficiency, effective communication, and quick moving processes—qualities consistently recognized in top-rated movers. Customers frequently note that their belongings arrive undamaged and praise the crew's friendly, accommodating manner. On the downside, a small percentage report concerns like item damage, surprise charges, or slow responses from management. When compared with other companies, Artisan Movers receives higher marks for reliability, staff courtesy, and transparent communication, though there are isolated reports of property damage or issues with the billing process. These trends show a company excelling in service standards, with a few exceptions relating to damage and administrative follow-through.
Company Info
State license #: 2957382
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2957382
Alternate Names: Artisan Movers Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
Customer Complaints
- Higher-than-expected costs
- Lack of communication
- Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Glowing feedback cements Gentle Giant Moving Company as a leader in their field. Out of 311 reviews, 95% of customers offer high praise, citing efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite teams as standout qualities. Many describe the moving process as quick, with thorough communication from booking to delivery, creating a smooth and stress-free experience. Hundreds of customers report their belongings arrived safely—even during challenging or long-distance moves. On the downside, a handful of users express dissatisfaction with final costs exceeding estimates, a few unmet expectations around communication, and occasional scheduling or arrival delays. Compared to many moving companies, reports of damaged goods or loss are remarkably rare. For those weighing reliability, responsiveness, and peace of mind, Gentle Giant is a top-tier choice, though budget-focused clients may encounter higher-than-expected pricing.
Company Info
State license #: 373544
Years in Business: 45
DOT #: 373544
Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving Company
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Factors that influence moving costs from Washington DC to Indianapolis
What to know before moving from Washington DC to Indianapolis
Moving from Washington DC to Indianapolis means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Washington DC than in Indianapolis, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Washington DC compares to Indianapolis so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Washington DC | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $2,400 | $1,399 |
| Average home value | $594,337 | $220,467 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $59,110 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $3,963 | $2,804 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $11,093 | $6,667 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 5.6% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 3.15% |
- Rent prices in Indianapolis are 42% lower than in Washington DC, 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 Indianapolis.
Home prices in Indianapolis are 62.9% lower than in Washington DC. - Income in Indianapolis is 41.9% lower than in Washington DC, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Indianapolis — including Anthem, Eli Lilly and Company, and Steak 'n Shake — may pay more.
- Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Indianapolis. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 29.2% lower than in Washington DC.
- A move to Indianapolis 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 39.9% less than what it costs in Washington DC.
- The unemployment rate in Indianapolis is 20.00% lower than in Washington DC.
- Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Indianapolis, since its sales taxes are 16.67% higher than what you are paying in Washington DC.
- One perk of moving to Indianapolis is paying less in state income taxes, which are 45.22% lower than in Washington DC.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,122.63 in Indianapolis to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Washington DC.
How life is different in Washington DC vs. Indianapolis
| Indianapolis | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 887,642 | 705,749 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 5 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 31 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 43 | 70 |
| Crime Index | 60.71 | 60.37 |
| Safety Index | 39.29 | 39.63 |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
- The population of Indianapolis is about 26% greater than Washington DC, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
- Getting around Indianapolis without a car might be more difficult than in Washington DC. Indianapolis has a public transportation score of 5 out of 10, whereas Washington DC is ranked 9. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
- Indianapolis neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as Washington DC. Based on its score of 31 out of 100, Indianapolis isn't as walkable as Washington DC, which has a score of 77 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
- You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Indianapolis, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than Washington DC. While Washington DC has a bike-friendliness score of 70 out of 100, Indianapolis earned a 43. 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.
- You can anticipate the same crime rate in Indianapolis as Washington DC. With the crime index, lower scores are better because they indicate less crime. Cities with scores of 20 or below, for example, have much fewer instances of crime than those with scores of 80–100.
- Indianapolis is generally as safe as Washington DC, according to their similar safety index ratings. The ratings are based on how comfortable residents feel about walking alone during the daytime and nighttime and the number of small crimes like theft and muggings.
- The air quality in Indianapolis and Washington DC 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 Washington DC vs. Indianapolis move
- Weather: Indianapolis summers are hot, humid, and wet. Winters are generally cold with moderate snowfall. The rainiest months occur in the spring and summer, with slightly higher averages during May, June, and July. May is typically the wettest.
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: You can verify a Indiana moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Indiana, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Indianapolis Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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.
- Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Where to live in Indianapolis
Now that you've chosen Amateur Sports Capital of the World as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Indianapolis to check out.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Broad Ripple Village
- Fountain Square
- Mile Square
- Meridian-Kessler
- Old Northside
Best neighborhoods for families
- Avon
- Brownsburg
- Carmel
- Fishers
- Westfield
Things to do in Indianapolis
Once you're settled into your new home in Indiana, it's time to get out and discover what Indianapolis has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:
- Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Indianapolis, such as the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, Indianapolis Museum of Art, The Eiteljorg Museum, and Indiana War Memorial.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Eagle Creek Park, White River State Park, Broad Ripple Park, and Krannert Park — along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Indianapolis Colts (NFL), Indianapolis Pacers (NBA), or Indianapolis Fever (WNBA) game.
source: AttractionsofAmerica
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Indianapolis?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Washington DC to Indianapolis You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Washington DC.
When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Indianapolis?
Because spring and fall moves from Washington DC to Indianapolis 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 Washington DC to Indianapolis take?
The 573-mile journey from Washington DC, MD to Indianapolis, IN, typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Washington DC offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Indianapolis.
