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Local moving companies in Wisconsin
When making the move from Wisconsin to Des Moines, IA, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.
Out of 30 Wisconsin movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Des Moines, IA.
- EC Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Above Average Moving LLC: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Eric’s Moving and Delivery Inc.: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Eagle Moving & Storage Co: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Anderson Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 32
DOT #: 125550
Alternate Names: Atlas Van Lines
EC Moving & Storage, Inc. has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Eau Claire, WI since 1993. This reputable company stands out among nearby movers with its comprehensive offerings, including packing and unpacking services, piano and art moving capabilities, and the convenience of accepting credit cards with no deposit required. Customers consistently praise their reliability and professionalism, reflected in their impressive 4.8 average rating on Google from 30 reviews and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. EC Moving & Storage, Inc. ensures a seamless moving experience for all local relocations.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 26753
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2595339
Alternate Names: Above Average Moving LLC
Above Average Moving LLC, a reputable local moving company based in Madison, WI, has been providing top-notch residential moving services since 2017. With high average ratings on Yelp (4.4) and Google My Business (4.8), alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, clients consistently praise their reliability and professionalism. Unlike many nearby competitors, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and office moving, and they stand out by not requiring a deposit and accepting credit cards. If you’re looking for a trusted and efficient mover in Madison, Above Average Moving LLC is a dependable choice.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 3088976
Alternate Names: Eric’s Moving and Delivery , Eric’s Moving and Delivery Service , Kvamers Emergency Moving
Eric’s Moving and Delivery Inc., based in La Crosse, WI, has been serving local residents since 2018 with a reliable focus on residential moving services. With a strong presence in the area, they stand out among nearby moving companies by offering comprehensive packing, unpacking, and crating services, including specialized handling for pianos, art, and antiques. Customers appreciate their flexibility, notably the acceptance of credit cards and the absence of a required deposit. Consumer reviews reflect a generally positive sentiment with a stellar Google rating of 4.5 from 162 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, though their Yelp rating averages at 3.5 from 10 reviews. This positions Eric’s Moving and Delivery as a reputable and customer-friendly choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 94
DOT #: 689374
Eagle Moving & Storage Co, a trusted moving company in Milwaukee, WI, has been providing reliable local residential moving services since 1931. With a solid history and a high BBB rating of A+, they stand out among other nearby movers for their experience and reputation. Consumer feedback reveals a strong presence on Google with an average rating of 4.2 out of 127 reviews, and they offer a variety of services including packing, unpacking, and office moves. Known for their flexibility, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, ensuring a hassle-free moving experience for local customers.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2636517
Anderson Moving, based in Eau Claire, WI, has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services since 2018. Unlike many nearby competitors, Anderson Moving distinguishes itself with an impeccable reputation, boasting an average rating of 4.9 on Yelp and a perfect 5.0 on Google My Business. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+, customers consistently commend their professional services, which include packing and unpacking. Payment flexibility adds to their appeal, as they accept both cash and credit cards with no deposit required.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Grandfather clocks
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Wisconsin to Des Moines, IA
The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from Wisconsin to Des Moines, IA, by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,034 – $3,216 | $592 – $1,504 | $353 – $602 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,784 – $4,757 | $1,084 – $2,068 | $351 – $721 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,857 – $6,768 | $1,449 – $2,578 | $439 – $872 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 356-mile move from Wisconsin to Des Moines, IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of authenticated price data points from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Your end price can vary by shipment size, added services, parking/access limitations, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing several mover quotes to confirm pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Wisconsin to Des Moines, IA
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Wisconsin to Des Moines, IA, you can expect prices to land between $1,034 and $3,216. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,784 to $4,757. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $2,857 and $6,768.
Cost of moving containers from Wisconsin to Des Moines, IA
Moving containers from Wisconsin to Des Moines, IA, will cost you $592 to $1,504 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,084 to $2,068. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,449 to $2,578. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Wisconsin.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Wisconsin to Des Moines, IA
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $353 and $602 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Wisconsin to Des Moines, IA with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $351 to $721. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $439 to $872.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Compare local moving companies from Wisconsin to Des Moines, IA
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC Moving & Storage, Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Above Average Moving LLC | × | × | × | × |
| Eric’s Moving and Delivery Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Eagle Moving & Storage Co | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Anderson Moving | × | × | × | × |
Considering the 3,175 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how Wisconsin movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:
| Wisconsin | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 92% | 96% |
| Antiques | 33% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 0% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Wisconsin to Des Moines, IA
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Des Moines, IA stacks up against Wisconsin. We’ll cover everything, from cost of living and the social scene to daily life and can’t-miss attractions in your area.
Cost of living: Wisconsin vs. Des Moines, IA
| Wisconsin | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,100 | $1,150 |
| Average home cost | $306,566 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $72,458 | $58,492 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99 | 87 |
| Unemployment rate | 2.9% | 5.9% |
| State Income Tax | 7.65% | 4.4% |
Des Moines sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent prices in Des Moines and Wisconsin are about the same, so your budget should still work.
- Moving to Des Moines means you’ll spend about 37% less on housing compared to Wisconsin, so your budget will go further.
- Salaries in Des Moines are typically about 19% lower than in Wisconsin. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
- Unemployment in Des Moines runs 103% above Wisconsin, so be proactive with networking and applications.
- Income taxes are 42% lower in Iowa than in Wisconsin, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.
How life is different in Des Moines from Wisconsin
| Des Moines | Wisconsin | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 5,910,955 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-41 | Republican 51-49 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter low | 13ºF | 7ºF |
| Annual rain | 36″ | 34″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 48″ |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 16.82 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Des Moines voted Democratic and Wisconsin voted Republican.
- Summers in Des Moines typically reach highs of 86ºF, which is comparable to the average 81ºF in Wisconsin. The temps in your new home shouldn’t come as a shock. However, be sure to consider the area’s humidity, local weather patterns, and changes in energy expenses for a complete picture of what summer will feel like in your new home.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in Des Moines generally drop to around 13ºF, while Wisconsin can get as cold as 7ºF. Moving to Des Moines means you’ll enjoy gentler winters, which makes daily life easier, more affordable, and more pleasant.
- You can expect about 36 inches of rain each year in Des Moines, almost the same as the 34 inches you’d encounter in Wisconsin. Even though the annual rainfall is similar, different weather patterns and rainfall timing might still change up your daily routine.
- In Des Moines, you’ll see just 33 inches of snow each year, compared to Wisconsin, which gets 48 inches annually. Moving to Des Moines means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
- Des Moines is safer than Wisconsin, with a crime index of 5.0 compared to 16.82. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and fewer day-to-day worries. While crime isn’t the only thing to think about when moving, a low crime rate is definitely a big plus for your peace of mind.
Things to do in Des Moines
From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Des Moines can meet a wide variety of interests.
Museums in Des Moines
- Des Moines Art Center
- State Historical Museum
- Science Center of Iowa
- Salisbury House
- World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
Parks in Des Moines
- Gray’s Lake Park
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
- Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens
- Clive Greenbelt Trail
Sports teams in Des Moines
- Drake Bulldogs
Universities in Des Moines
- AIB College of Business
- Mercy College of Health Sciences
- Drake University
- Grand View University
- Vatterott College Des Moines
Other considerations when moving to Des Moines, IA
- HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
- State licensing: When moving within Iowa, make sure to hire a company that is licensed by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Each household goods mover in the state should have an Iowa Motor Carrier (IOWAMC) Number, which means they’ve met minimum insurance and highway safety requirements. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can check your Iowa moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to Iowa, but you should check local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Iowa. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Wisconsin to Des Moines take?
The time it takes to move from Wisconsin to Des Moines, IA varies based on where you’re starting and the type of move you pick. No matter which option you choose, loading up your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it on your own.
If you’re heading to Des Moines from northern Wisconsin, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Moving your belongings from Wisconsin to Des Moines typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Wisconsin to Des Moines?
Because of the 356-mile move, it’s best to book your move from Wisconsin to Des Moines as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Des Moines, IA?
With summer temperatures reaching 86°F and winter nights dipping to 13°F, most people make the move from Wisconsin to Des Moines in the spring or fall. If you want to skip the crowds during peak moving seasons and potentially save some cash, consider scheduling your move in the summer or winter instead.
Helpful moving resources
Wisconsin moving services
Popular Wisconsin routes
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