Quick answer: For a 162-mile move from Detroit to Fort Wayne, expect to spend around $236–$4,536 and one to two 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 Fort Wayne to Detroit guide.

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

  • Founded in 2015
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Detroit to Fort Wayne

Picking a long-distance moving company for your journey from Detroit to Fort Wayne 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 MI to IN movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 45 Michigan 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 Detroit to Fort Wayne journey

Organizing a move from Detroit to Fort Wayne 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 Detroit 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 Detroit to Fort Wayne.

  1. Palmer Moving Services: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  3. White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.58 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/palmermoving/, https://x.com/PalmerMoving
81% of all reviews were positive
15% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Standout service and attention define customer feedback for Palmer Moving Services. With 250 reviews analyzed, 81% report positive experiences highlighted by professional staff, careful handling of items, efficient processes, strong communication, and timely moves. Customers often mention courteous crews going out of their way to accommodate needs, as well as accurate quotes and seamless execution—attributes that place Palmer ahead of many competitors.
Feedback often credits Palmer for reducing moving day stress and protecting property. On the downside, a smaller portion of customers report major concerns such as items damaged during moves, difficulties in reaching staff, and final invoices higher than expected. Lost or mishandled belongings and slow claims resolution also receive criticism, matching common complaints faced by most moving companies. Most customers cite friendly, skilled crews as a strong reason for recommending Palmer, but those experiencing issues see communication gaps and claims processes as areas for improvement.
Show more
Get a Quote (586) 834-3400

Company Info

Years in Business: 114

DOT #: 511993


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/GrossePointeMovingStorage,
91% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage stands out for delivering fast, careful, and respectful service. Out of 152 feedback entries analyzed, nearly 91% were positive. Customers routinely describe crews as professional, efficient, and polite.
Movers excel at handling belongings with caution and working quickly while keeping clients informed, making the process smooth and easy. Many clients also highlight the staff’s helpfulness and the accuracy of estimates—qualities that set this company ahead of typical industry standards. On the downside, some input identified concerns such as damaged items, bills running higher than quoted, and complaints not always being resolved satisfactorily. Still, such occurrences are much less frequent than the many glowing reports. Compared to other movers, Grosse Pointe earns notably stronger praise for speed, professionalism, and quality care, with negative incidents reported far less often.
Show more
Get a Quote (313) 822-4400

Company Info

Years in Business: 41

DOT #: 279708


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/whitestarmovers/, https://x.com/whitestarusa
89% of all reviews were positive
10% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers repeatedly describe White Star Movers as fast, professional, and genuinely careful with belongings, giving them a much higher satisfaction rate than most moving companies. Out of 290 reviews analyzed, 89% gave positive feedback. Movers are frequently praised for efficiency, careful handling, courteous behavior, prompt arrivals, and effective communication, making moves less stressful.
Many clients found the booking process and pricing straightforward, with teams flexibly accommodating last-minute changes and treating homes and possessions respectfully. In contrast, a small number of negative experiences mention breakage, missing items, and issues around pricing or item estimates. Complaints often center on goods being lost or damaged, with a handful citing unexpected fees or miscalculated estimates. Compared to typical industry standards, White Star attracts more consistent praise for professionalism and reliability but, like any moving service, occasional claims about item damage surface. The company’s strong points—speed, care, and politeness—set it apart, though customers moving valuable or irreplaceable objects should review best practices for inventory and insurance. Most feedback confirms White Star provides a dependable, customer-focused move.
Show more
Get a Quote (586) 977-0400

Company Info

Years in Business: 39

DOT #: 624288

Alternate Names: Whitestar Movers, Inc.


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
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/Royal-Movers-1658269400878748/,
74% of all reviews were positive
26% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC receives standout marks for professionalism, careful handling, speed, and value according to 280 pieces of customer feedback. About three-quarters of the input is positive, highlighting the staff’s courteous approach, affordable pricing, and consistent attention to protecting belongings and property during quick moves. Customers frequently mention thorough furniture wrapping, clear communication, and efficiency—traits that set Royal Movers apart from larger competitors, who customers sometimes cite as less careful or more expensive.
Yet, a quarter of reviewers describe troubling experiences, with multiple reports of rude or unprofessional behavior, pricing disputes, and lack of clear updates or responsiveness. Unprofessional conduct, surprise cost increases, and breakdowns in communication form the backbone of these complaints. Royal Movers stands out for affordable, careful, and efficient service, but potential clients should be aware that some have encountered significant issues with customer service and billing transparency.
Show more
Get a Quote (313) 483-2250

Company Info

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1673815

Alternate Names: Royal Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/TwoMenandaTruckMacomb, https://x.com/TwoMenAndATruck
92% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving stress relieved—that's the story from Two Men and a Truck feedback. Analyzing 247 reviews, 91.5% praised professional, efficient, and helpful teams. Customers repeatedly mention the staff's professionalism, careful handling of belongings, quick moving process, and friendly attitude.
Moves are characterized by clear communication and efficient service, often finishing ahead of schedule, which sets this company apart from many competitors. Negative input, making up 8.5%, highlights concerns over damaged items, unexpectedly high costs, and occasional delays. The most frequent complaints involve property damage and dissatisfaction with pricing or response to claims. While most moves go smoothly, customers seeking extra assurance about item safety or cost transparency should review their options. Compared to typical moving services, Two Men and a Truck consistently delivers on professionalism and speed, with far fewer complaints about lateness or mishandling. The overwhelmingly positive response suggests the company is a reliable choice for most moving needs.
Show more
Get a Quote (586) 359-0167

Company Info

DOT #: 2527384


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Detroit to Fort Wayne?

Detroit movers charge $100 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 $872 - $3,419 $654 - $1,575 $227 - $400
2 - 3 bedrooms $1,564 - $4,536 $1,195 - $2,075 $236 - $471
4+ bedrooms $2,165 - $5,875 $1,620 - $2,646 $298 - $545
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 162 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 Michigan to Indiana

Planning a move from Michigan to Indiana? For a studio or one-bedroom, you'll likely pay between $872 and $3,419. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $1,564 and $4,536 for the same journey (MI to IN). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $2,165 to $5,875.

Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Indiana

If you're relocating from Michigan to Indiana, you'll typically spend between $654 and $1,575 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,195 up to $2,075. If you're moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $1,620 and $2,646. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Indiana

Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you'll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $227 and $400. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $236 and $471. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You're likely looking at anywhere from $298 up to $545 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Detroit to Fort Waynetoggle

The cost of Detroit 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 Detroit to Fort Wayne can be as low as $872 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $5,316.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Detroit 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 $227 to $494. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Detroit to Fort Wayne

Moving from Detroit to Fort Wayne comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Fort Wayne is generally more expensive than Detroit, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Detroit Fort Wayne
Average rent cost $1,250 $1,163
Average home value $73,156 $227,803
Average income (per capita) $37,761 $53,978
Cost of living (single person) $2,500 $2,600
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,687 $3,150
Unemployment rate 9.06% 5.1%
Sales tax 6.0% 7.0%
State income tax 4.25% 3.15%
  • Rent prices in Fort Wayne are 7% lower than in Detroit, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • The home prices in Fort Wayne are 211.4% higher than in Detroit, 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 Fort Wayne, where incomes are, on average, 42.9% higher than in Detroit. Major employers in Fort Wayne include Steel Dynamics, Franklin Electric, and Fort Wayne Community Schools.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Fort Wayne, since the cost of living for a single person in Fort Wayne is 4.0% higher than in Detroit. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • A move to Fort Wayne 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 52.9% less than what it costs in Detroit.
  • The unemployment rate in Fort Wayne is 43.71% lower than in Detroit.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Fort Wayne, since its sales taxes are 16.67% higher than what you are paying in Detroit.
  • One perk of moving to Fort Wayne is paying less in state income taxes, which are 25.88% lower than in Detroit.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,120.00 in Fort Wayne to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Detroit.

How life is different in Detroit vs. Fort Wayne

Fort Wayne Detroit
Population 265,974 639,111
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 3 7
Walkability score 32 51
Bike friendliness score 41 52
Crime Index 40.9 72.92
Safety Index 59.1 27.08
Air Quality Good Good
  • Fort Wayne's population is about 58% less than Detroit.
  • Fort Wayne's public transportation has a score of 3 out of 10 versus Detroit's higher score of 7.
  • Fort Wayne is less walkable than Detroit with a score of 32 out of 100 vs Detroit's 51 out of 100.
  • Fort Wayne has a bike-friendliness score 41 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Detroit, which has a score of 52 out of 100.
  • Fort Wayne's crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 40.9 compared to Detroit's 72.92. This means that Fort Wayne neighborhoods are safer than 40.9% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
  • Fort Wayne is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 59.1 vs Detroit's 27.08.
  • Air quality in Fort Wayne is good, and in Detroit it's good.

Other things to consider for your Detroit vs. Fort Wayne move

  • Weather: Fort Wayne summers are hot, humid, and wet. Winters are generally cold with moderate snowfall. Severe weather is not uncommon, particularly in the spring and summer months; the city experiences an average of 39 thunderstorm days and about 10 severe weather days annually.
  • 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 Fort Wayne 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 Fort Wayne

Now that you've chosen City of Churches as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Fort Wayne to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • West Central
  • North Anthony
  • Downtown
  • Northside
  • Historic Northeast

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Pine Valley
  • Aboite Township
  • Cherry Hill
  • Arlington Park
  • Georgetown

Things to do in Fort Wayne

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

  • Arts and culture: Fort Wayne is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Science Central, Fort Wayne Museum of Art, Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum, History Center, and Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Lakeside Park & Rose Garden, Kreager Park, Buckner Park, and Promenade 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 Fort Wayne Komets (ECHL) and Fort Wayne Ants (NBA G League) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Detroit to Fort Wayne?

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

When is the cheapest time to move from Detroit to Fort Wayne?

Because spring and fall moves from Detroit to Fort Wayne 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 Detroit to Fort Wayne take?

The 162-mile journey from Detroit, MI to Fort Wayne, IN, typically takes one to two days. Some movers in Detroit offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Fort Wayne.

Helpful moving resources