How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Indianapolis
Some factors you should consider when looking for a moving company include licensing, services offered, cost, and customer reviews.
Determine Your Budget
Local movers in Indianapolis charge an average hourly rate of $72. A two-bedroom move in the area costs around $4,341 in total. Your actual cost will depend on the season, your home size, any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, and move distance.
We advise obtaining quotes from a minimum of three reputable movers in your area. Get written estimates, which should detail your total cost and the flat fee or hourly rate. Comparing the estimate provided by your mover to the final cost after the move helps ensure fair pricing is maintained.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are valuable when looking for a mover. Read customer reviews on sites such as Yelp, Trustpilot, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau, and social media to identify moving companies that prioritize positive customer experiences.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Indianapolis must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are moving from one Indiana city to another, choose a mover with Operating Authority from the Indiana Department of Revenue.
The requirements are different if you're moving to or from another state. In this case, choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The team should also carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can check a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Asking whether the mover provides the services you need is essential during the quote process. Make a list of any basic or add-on services you might need and take inventory of your home before seeking quotes. Tell the moving company if you have any specific needs to assess if the company is a good fit.
Types of Moving Services
A full-service mover includes these services for standard moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Tell your moving company about any special services you need as you go through the quote process. Services that can contribute to higher pricing include the following:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Indianapolis, IN
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind for your Indianapolis move.
Schedule an Early Move
Indianapolis usually gets congested during rush hour. Maneuvering through it can be more challenging in a moving truck compared to a standard personal-use car. Movers caught in traffic may result in delays and a higher cost since local movers charge by the hour. You can prevent this by booking movers several hours before or after morning rush hour.
Avoid Busy Season
May to September marks the peak moving season and Indianapolis' hottest time of the year. Moving at this time can slow or worsen your moving process, particularly if you start searching for a moving company too close to your move. The high demand could make it harder to secure your desired mover. By planning and booking at least eight weeks before your move, you should be able to lock in the moving company you want. However, keep in mind the possibility that the hot weather could pose difficulties for your movers.
Pack in Advance
We suggest you begin packing around six weeks before your move to avoid rushing to pack when moving day comes. Packing a couple boxes each day can get it done without overwhelming you. Most moving companies only carry items that have been properly packed by the scheduled moving time, so you should finish your packing before they arrive.
How Much do Movers Cost in Indianapolis, IN
Movers in Indianapolis cost $2,675 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,619 to move a larger 4 bedroom house the same distance. See the chart below for more moving estimates, and contact a moving company for a more accurate quote specific to your situation.
Distance | Studio-1 Bedroom | 2-3 Bedroom | 4+ Bedroom |
---|---|---|---|
Less than 250 miles | $2,675 | $3,304 | $7,619 |
250-999 miles | $3,290 | $3,952 | $11,050 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,334 | $4,514 | $11,608 |
2,500+ miles | $3,282 | $5,590 | $13,769 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Moving Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Indianapolis
What is the job market like in Indianapolis?
What is the housing market like in Indianapolis?
How much would a Indianapolis move cost for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom house?
When should I begin contacting moving companies?
What items should I move myself?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.