Local moving companies in Arkansas
When you’re moving from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA, make your move easy with one of the best local movers who know the ins and outs of relocating from the Natural State to the vibrant Hartford of the West.
Out of 19 Arkansas movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Des Moines, IA.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Little Guys Movers : 4.52 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Elite Movers Inc: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Admiral Movers Little Rock: 4.42 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: TMT Arkansas
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 1931566
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: College Hunks Moving , SELBON, INC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1345746
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 93
Alternate Names: Admiral Mayflower
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA
This table details typical cost ranges to move from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA, depending on your home size and the moving service selected.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,112 – $3,359 | $643 – $1,518 | $418 – $801 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,135 – $5,309 | $1,231 – $2,388 | $447 – $914 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,765 – $7,659 | $1,499 – $2,960 | $579 – $1,069 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 556-mile move from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 17, 2026. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes the data each month to capture seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers to gauge a fair price.
Cost to hire professional movers from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA, typically costs between $1,112 and $3,359. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,135 and $5,309. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA, you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,765 up to $7,659.
Cost of moving containers from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA
When relocating from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA, you’ll typically spend between $643 and $1,518 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,231 up to $2,388. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $1,499 and $2,960. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Arkansas.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA, expect to pay between $418 and $801. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $447 to $914. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $579 and $1,069.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Compare local moving companies from Arkansas 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Little Guys Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Elite Movers Inc | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Admiral Movers Little Rock | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
After evaluating 3,179 movers, here’s how Arkansas movers measure up to the countrywide competition in terms of offered services and discounts:
| Arkansas | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 91% | 96% |
| Antiques | 33% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 4% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 4% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA
Before packing your bags, it’s important to understand how life in Des Moines, IA differs from what you’re used to in Arkansas. From the cost of living and cultural vibe to everyday experiences. We’ll walk you through key lifestyle differences and the top local attractions you can explore in your new hometown.
Cost of living: Arkansas vs. Des Moines, IA
| Arkansas | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $868 | $1,150 |
| Average home cost | $208,078 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $56,335 | $58,492 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90 | 87 |
| Unemployment rate | 2.3% | 5.9% |
| State Income Tax | 2.0% | 4.4% |
Des Moines sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Des Moines is approximately 32% higher than in Arkansas. Keep this in mind when planning your budget.
- Buying a home in Des Moines could be more affordable, with prices averaging 8% less than in Arkansas.
- Because income levels in Des Moines are comparable to those in Arkansas, you can expect a similar financial situation in your new hometown.
- Even though unemployment in Des Moines is 157% higher than in Arkansas, you’ll still find opportunities if you’re proactive. Start building your network early.
- Income taxes are 120% higher in Iowa than in Arkansas. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in Des Moines from Arkansas
| Des Moines | Arkansas | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 3,067,732 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-41 | Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 13ºF | 28ºF |
| Annual rain | 36″ | 50″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 4″ |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 30.97 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Des Moines leaned Democratic, while Arkansas went Republican.
- Summer temperatures in Des Moines typically reach 86ºF, which is about the same as the average 91ºF you’re used to in Arkansas. That means you won’t have to worry about a major heat increase. However, be sure to consider local humidity, weather patterns, and possible shifts in energy costs for a complete picture of what summer living will be like in your new home.
- Winter in Des Moines brings colder temperatures, often dropping to 13ºF. That’s noticeably chillier than the 28ºF winters back in Arkansas. Get ready for higher heating bills and a few adjustments to your routine. The upside? Des Moines treats you to fresh air, beautiful winter landscapes, and loads of seasonal activities.
- You can expect only about 36 inches of annual rainfall in Des Moines vs the 50 inches you’re used to in Arkansas. With less rain each year, you’ll enjoy more sunshine and freedom to get outside without worrying about the weather. This kind of climate can be a real boost for your energy and outlook when you’re moving.
- Each year, Des Moines gets about 33 inches of snow, while Arkansas sees only 4 inches. More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
- Heading to Des Moines means you’ll be moving to a safer place, with a crime index of 5.0, lower than Arkansas’s 30.97. A drop in crime usually means tighter communities, safer neighborhoods, and less daily stress. While safety isn’t everything, the peace of mind can be well worth the move.
Things to do in Des Moines
Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Des Moines.
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 your move, double-check any neighborhood or community guidelines to help everything go smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: One thing you’ll want to take care of early is reserving your building’s elevator and finding out any moving policies they have.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for your moving truck, so check your new neighborhood’s regulations 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. Double-check that your moving company is properly licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to settle in Iowa, but it’s a smart idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You’ll be able to select your move date so your mail gets forwarded to Iowa on time. 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 is key to a stress-free move. Our moving checklist helps you stay on track, so you don’t miss a single detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Arkansas to Des Moines take?
The time it takes to move from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA depends on where you’re starting and the kind of moving option you choose. No matter which route you go, packing and loading your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it all on your own.
Obviously, the further upstate you are in Arkansas, the longer the drive time to Des Moines will be. If you’re driving a rental truck, the move could be completed in one or two days, on average, depending on your route and how often you stop.
Depending on the company’s schedule and shipping logistics, delivery from Arkansas to Des Moines can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re using professional movers or a moving container. Be sure to ask for an estimated timeline before you book.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Arkansas to Des Moines?
If you’re planning a 556-mile move from Arkansas to Des Moines, it’s a good idea to schedule your moving date as soon as your plans are confirmed. To get the best rates and secure your preferred date, aim to book your movers two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Des Moines, IA?
Summer temperatures in Des Moines can soar to 86°F, while winters can get as chilly as 13°F. That’s why most people making the move from Arkansas to Des Moines prefer the milder weather of spring or fall. But if you’re hoping to dodge the crowds and maybe snag a better deal, consider moving during summer or winter. Sure, you’ll have to handle a bit more heat or cold, but it could be worth it. Want more advice? Check out our tips on peak moving season.
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