Moving from Chicago to Indiana: Indianapolis and Beyond
Updated: 2 days ago
Indiana is one of the most popular moves out of Chicago. Some families go just across the state line to Northwest Indiana. Others head to Indianapolis, Fort Wayne or South Bend for work, school or a lower cost of living. Whatever the distance, once your belongings cross into Indiana, your move is an interstate move.
Here is what to know before moving from Chicago to Indiana.
IN THIS GUIDE Moving from Chicago to Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, South Bend or Northwest Indiana? Distances, time zones and why even a short move needs an interstate mover. |
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Distances from Chicago
Approximate driving distances:
Hammond, Gary and Merrillville (Northwest Indiana): about 25 to 45 miles
South Bend: about 95 miles
Fort Wayne: about 160 miles
Lafayette: about 125 miles
Indianapolis: about 180 miles, mostly on I-65
Watch the time zone
This one surprises people. Most of Indiana is on Eastern Time, one hour ahead of Chicago. But several counties in Northwest Indiana, close to Chicago, stay on Central Time. Before moving day, confirm your delivery window and your building's move-in hours in local time so nobody shows up an hour early or an hour late.
Even a 30-minute move is an interstate move
A move from Chicago to Hammond or Gary might take less than an hour, but it still crosses a state line. Federal rules apply, and the company that moves your household goods must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Before you book, look up the mover's USDOT number on the FMCSA website. MLV Transportation is FMCSA licensed and insured for interstate household goods moves: USDOT 4429331, MC 1742575. Interstate movers must also give you the FMCSA booklet "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move."
Planning your Indiana move
Book early for summer and end-of-month dates. These fill up fast. MLV can often book with about one week of notice.
Make a complete inventory. Short moves are still priced on what you move. Include the garage, basement and storage unit.
Check access at both homes. Stairs, elevators, long walks to the door and parking for a large truck all affect the estimate.
Ask your building about rules. Many apartments and condos require elevator reservations and a certificate of insurance from the mover.
Packing tips
Start with the rooms you use least.
Use strong boxes and label them on two sides with the room and contents.
Keep heavy items in small boxes so they are safe to carry.
Keep an essentials bag with you for the first few days.
If time is short, MLV offers full packing service and sells packing supplies.
Moving to Indianapolis for work
Many of our Indianapolis moves are job relocations. If your employer is covering part of the move, ask them early what documents they need, such as a written estimate or an itemized invoice, so you can request them when you book.
If your start date comes before your new home is ready, storage can bridge the gap. See how storage fits into a move on our Home Relocation page.
Why book direct with MLV
With MLV, you book with the company that does the move. Our own crew loads your Chicago home and delivers to your Indiana home. There is no broker, no surprise carrier and one team responsible from start to finish. Learn more on our Long Distance Moving page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a move from Chicago to Northwest Indiana local or interstate?
It is interstate, because it crosses state lines. Federal rules apply even when the distance is short.
How much does a Chicago to Indianapolis move cost?
It depends on the size of your shipment, access at both homes and any extra services. Request a free quote and we will prepare an estimate based on your inventory.
Do you offer storage?
Yes. We offer storage for customers who need time between move out and move in.
Can I talk to someone in Spanish?
Yes. Se habla español.
Ready to Move? Talk to the Real Movers
SAVE 10% WHEN YOU BOOK DIRECT Use code MLVSAML2026 The Real Movers. No broker in the middle. |
Planning a move? Get your instant estimate in 2 minutes and save 10% with code MLVSAML2026.
FMCSA licensed and insured: USDOT 4429331, MC 1742575. Se habla español.
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