Moving in Indiana: Regulations, Rights & Costs
Everything you need before hiring a mover in Indiana — the regulator, how to verify a license, where to complain, your protections, and typical local move costs.
Who regulates movers in Indiana?
Indiana Department of Revenue – Motor Carrier Services (IN DOR)
https://www.in.gov/dor/motor-carrier-services
- License required (intrastate): Yes
- License lookup: verify a mover
- Deposit cap: No specific state deposit cap identified; verify with IN DOR.
How to file a complaint in Indiana
Online: https://www.in.gov/dor/motor-carrier-services
Phone: 1-317-615-7200
Mail: Indiana DOR, Motor Carrier Services, 7811 Milhouse Rd, Suite M, Indianapolis, IN 46241
For interstate moves, also use FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071). Full guide.
Your consumer protections in Indiana
- Household goods carriers must obtain a CPCN (Intrastate Operating Authority) from DOR
- Movers must file a public tariff and may not charge outside it
- Civil penalties up to $1,000/day for unlicensed operation
Key statutes & rules
- Indiana Code § 8-2.1-22 (Intrastate Operating Authority: Passengers & Household Goods)
- Requires Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN)
Indiana issues the IHGC (Intrastate Household Goods Certificate) under IC 8-2.1-22. (Some aggregators incorrectly state Indiana has no permit.)
Example estimates in Indiana: low, average, high
Studio (low) through 4-bedroom (high), computed with the same model as the ReloFig calculators — not hand-written. Your own move will differ.
Local move estimate for Midwest region (2 movers + truck, excludes packing/materials). Figures are model estimates, not quotes.
| Home size | Estimated range |
|---|---|
| Studio | $287 – $918 |
| 1 bed | $372 – $1,317 |
| 2 bed | $543 – $1,916 |
| 3 bed | $714 – $2,514 |
| 4 bed | $885 – $3,113 |
Estimates use the ReloFig model (BLS wages × regional × Midwest factor). Always get three written quotes. Methodology.
Cities in Indiana
Sample city estimates in Indiana
A few of the cities we cover, with model 2-bedroom ranges. Open a city for its full guide.
| City | 2-bedroom estimate |
|---|---|
| Indianapolis → | $543 – $1,916 |
| Fort Wayne → | $466 – $1,646 |
| Evansville → | $466 – $1,646 |
Formula & data sources
Sources: BLS OES mover wages; published mover rate surveys. Compiled August 2025.
When to use this estimate
- Use this for a local or in-town move within Indiana that a mover bills by the hour.
- Crossing state lines? Use the Long-Distance Move calculator — interstate work is priced by linehaul miles, not hours.
- Need a written budget? Print our Local Budget Worksheet and Scam Card for walkthroughs.
Frequently asked questions
Who regulates intrastate movers in Indiana?
Indiana Department of Revenue – Motor Carrier Services (IN DOR) oversees household-goods movers operating entirely within Indiana. Verify a mover at https://www.in.gov/dor/motor-carrier-services. Interstate movers fall under FMCSA (safer.fmcsa.gov).
How do I file a moving complaint in Indiana?
File online via the state portal (https://www.in.gov/dor/motor-carrier-services), or by phone at 1-317-615-7200. For interstate moves also contact FMCSA (1-888-368-7238) and the DOT OIG (1-800-424-9071).
What are my consumer protections in Indiana?
Household goods carriers must obtain a CPCN (Intrastate Operating Authority) from DOR Always get three written estimates and keep your Bill of Lading.
How much does a local move cost in Indiana?
Model estimates for a 2-bedroom home run roughly $543–$1,916, scaled by home size and local cost of living. These are model figures, not quotes — confirm with licensed movers' written estimates.
Do I need a permit for a local move in Indiana?
A moving permit is usually not required for the move itself, but parking/loading permits for the truck may be required by the city or building. Check with your city and building management before move day.
Sources: www.in.gov www.mx.iamtrusted.org . ReloFig does not sell your information.