Local moving companies in Kansas
When relocating from Kansas to Des Moines, IA, let our favorite local movers take the stress out of your journey.
Out of 21 Kansas movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Des Moines, IA.
- Mike Hammer Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Professional Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Titan Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- Johnson Storage & Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.42 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 38
DOT #: 2929832
Alternate Names: Mike Hammer Moving LLC
Mike Hammer Moving, a trusted local moving company based in Lenexa, KS, has been serving the community since 1988. This experienced team excels in local residential moves and offers a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialty moving for items like pianos, safes, and antiques. They boast stellar consumer reviews with an impressive 4.8 rating on Google from 389 reviews, outshining many nearby competitors, and hold an A rating from the Better Business Bureau. While a deposit is required, their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction makes them a dependable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 28
DOT #: 917983
Alternate Names: Professional Moving & Storage, Inc.
Professional Moving & Storage, established in 1997, offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Lawrence, KS. The company stands out with an impressive Google My Business rating of 4.8 from 323 reviews and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, indicating high customer satisfaction and trust. Unlike some nearby movers, they also provide office moving, fragile-only packing, and can handle delicate items like pianos and antiques, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. While a deposit is required, they accept credit cards and offer full valuation insurance coverage, making them a dependable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 2727872
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2727872
Titan Moving, a reputable local residential moving company servicing Wichita, KS, has been in business since 2015. Unlike other nearby movers, Titan Moving stands out with a stellar Google review average of 4.8 from 347 reviews, a contrast to its more mixed Yelp profile. The company boasts an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, underscoring its commitment to customer satisfaction. Titan Moving offers comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized handling for pianos and art, ensuring a stress-free moving experience. With no deposit required and various payment options accepted, Titan Moving is a reliable choice for local relocations.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 124
DOT #: 286130
Alternate Names: Johnson Logistics Kansas, LLC
Johnson Storage & Moving has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Topeka, KS, since 1901. Unlike many nearby moving companies, Johnson Storage & Moving also offers specialized services such as packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. While the company boasts an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, consumer reviews are mixed, with an average Yelp rating of 1.3 based on 13 reviews and a more favorable Google My Business rating of 3.6 from 109 reviews. They accept both cash and credit cards, and no deposit is required, making the process straightforward and hassle-free.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 3099844
Years in Business: 29
DOT #: 2527384
Two Men and a Truck has been a staple in the Overland Park, KS moving scene since 1995, renowned for their local residential moving services. Unlike some competitors, they offer comprehensive packing and unpacking services and can handle specialty items like pianos and safes. Consumer reviews present a mixed picture: they boast a high 4.3 average rating on Google My Business and an impressive A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, but their Yelp profile tells a different story with a 1.5 average rating. For those seeking a trustworthy local mover that accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, Two Men and a Truck remains a strong contender.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Kansas to Des Moines, IA
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Kansas to Des Moines, IA with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,041 – $3,134 | $601 – $1,486 | $372 – $643 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,817 – $4,831 | $1,180 – $2,151 | $385 – $786 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,960 – $7,117 | $1,442 – $2,663 | $468 – $896 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 410-mile move from Kansas to Des Moines, IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. Each month, moveBuddha updates thousands of vetted price points from nationwide moving companies to reflect seasonality and market trends. Your final total may vary with move size, add-on services, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and scheduling. Comparing estimates from multiple movers is the best way to nail down accurate pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Kansas to Des Moines, IA
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Kansas to Des Moines, IA, you can expect to spend between $1,041 and $3,134. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $1,817 to $4,831 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home will typically run between $2,960 and $7,117.
Cost of moving containers from Kansas to Des Moines, IA
When moving from Kansas to Des Moines, IA, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $601 and $1,486. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,180 to $2,151. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,442 up to $2,663. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Kansas.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Kansas to Des Moines, IA
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom from Kansas to Des Moines, IA, and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $372 and $643. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $385 and $786. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $468 and $896.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Compare local moving companies from Kansas 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mike Hammer Moving | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Professional Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Titan Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Johnson Storage & Moving | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
Out of the 3,175 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how Kansas movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:
| Kansas | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 100% | 96% |
| Antiques | 36% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 9% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 4% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Kansas to Des Moines, IA
Before you start packing, take a moment to get a feel for what life in Des Moines, IA is really like compared to Kansas. From the cost of living and local culture to daily routines, we’ll guide you through the biggest lifestyle changes and must-see attractions to be aware of.
Cost of living: Kansas vs. Des Moines, IA
| Kansas | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $986 | $1,150 |
| Average home cost | $229,012 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $69,747 | $58,492 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87 | 87 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.4% | 5.9% |
| State Income Tax | 5.7% | 4.4% |
Des Moines sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Des Moines is roughly 17% higher than in Kansas. You’ll need to plan for higher monthly rent.
- On average, homes in Des Moines cost 16% less than in Kansas, making your move budget-friendly.
- The average income is about 16% lower in Des Moines than in Kansas. It’s important to review your budget and plan accordingly.
- With unemployment 74% higher in Des Moines than Kansas, expect more competition for jobs. A focused job search will help you get ahead.
- You’ll pay roughly 23% less in state income taxes in Iowa compared to Kansas, so you keep more of what you earn.
How life is different in Des Moines from Kansas
| Des Moines | Kansas | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 2,940,546 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-41 | Republican 57.1%-41.1 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 13ºF | 19ºF |
| Annual rain | 36″ | 33″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 15″ |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 24.07 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- Des Moines voted Democratic, while Kansas was Republican.
- Summer in Des Moines usually hits around 86ºF, pretty similar to the 91ºF you’re used to in Kansas. While you won’t face a dramatic change in temperature, you should still keep factors like local humidity, weather trends, and changes to energy costs in mind as you prepare for summer at your new home.
- During the coldest part of the year, Des Moines gets down to 13ºF while Kansas only dips to 19ºF. Relocating to Des Moines means adjusting to colder winters, which could raise your heating bill and bring some changes to your routine. Still, you’ll get to enjoy the area’s one-of-a-kind winter scenery and seasonal activities.
- You’ll get about 36 inches of rain each year in Des Moines, pretty similar to the 33 inches you’re used to in Kansas. The overall rainfall might not change much, but the timing and patterns could still impact your day-to-day life.
- Every year, Des Moines gets around 33 inches of snow, much more than the 15 inches that Kansas typically sees. With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
- Des Moines has a lower crime rate than Kansas with a crime index of 5.0 vs 24.07. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods, tighter communities, and fewer hassles. While it’s not the only thing to look for when moving, it definitely gives you some extra peace of mind.
Things to do in Des Moines
From parks and museums to sports and top universities, Des Moines has a little bit of everything waiting for you.
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: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community rules before moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to book your building’s elevator ahead of time and check on any moving rules they might have.
- Parking permits: Some cities make you get a parking permit for your moving truck, so remember to look up your new neighborhood’s rules before moving day.
- 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 the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Iowa moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to Iowa, but it’s wise to check local parking regulations ahead of time.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your moving date so your mail will be forwarded to Iowa without any delays. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Staying organized keeps your move stress-free. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Kansas to Des Moines take?
The time frame for a move from Kansas to Des Moines, IA, varies based on your moving method and starting location. The actual loading up of your items should not take more than a day, even with DIY moves.
The farther north you are in Kansas, the longer it’ll take to reach Des Moines. If you’re renting a truck, expect the trip to take one or two days on average, depending on your route and how many stops you make.
Delivery from Kansas to Des Moines can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Always ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Kansas to Des Moines?
If you’re gearing up for a 410-mile move from Kansas to Des Moines, lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. Booking your movers two to three months in advance helps you snag the best rates and ensures you get the date you want.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Des Moines, IA?
Summer in Des Moines can reach highs of 86°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 13°F. That’s why most people moving from Kansas to Des Moines opt for the milder spring or fall weather. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds—and possibly score a better price—think about moving in the off-season, even if you have to endure crazier temperatures. Need more help planning? Check out our tips on peak moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
Kansas moving services
Popular Kansas routes
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