Local moving companies in Connecticut
When you are heading from Connecticut to Des Moines, IA, you deserve movers who make your transition simple and stress-free.
Out of 46 Connecticut movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Des Moines, IA.
- RT Relocation: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Hands On Moving: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Barnes Moving & Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Kaster Moving Co. Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Fallon Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 1802
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 3285714
RT Relocation has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Cheshire, CT, since 2012. With an impressive average rating of 4.3 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google My Business, as well as an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, RT Relocation outshines many of its local competitors. Alongside general moving services, they offer specialized options including packing, unpacking, and crating services, making them versatile for any move. Additionally, they accept credit cards and provide full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring peace of mind for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 1785
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 76628
Hands On Moving, a reputable local moving company based in New Haven, CT, has been providing residential moving services since 2015. Known for their reliability and exceptional customer service, they hold an impressive average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and 4.5 on Google My Business, complemented by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and office moving, with the added convenience of accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit. Hands On Moving stands out in the local market for their professionalism and customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 233
Years in Business: 66
DOT #: 739847
Alternate Names: Barnes Moving & Storage
Barnes Moving & Storage, serving Mystic, CT, and surrounding areas since 1959, has solidified its reputation as a reliable local moving company. With a stellar average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.8 on Google, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, Barnes Moving & Storage stands out for its exceptional customer satisfaction. Unlike many competitors, they offer comprehensive packing, unpacking, and crating services, and they are equipped to handle delicate items such as pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. Conveniently, they accept credit cards and do not require a deposit, making them a stress-free choice for your local move.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 238
Years in Business: 48
DOT #: 331037
Alternate Names: Atlas Van Lines Agent
Kaster Moving Co. Inc., established in 1978, offers exceptional local residential moving services in and around Stamford, CT. This reputable company also provides comprehensive packing, unpacking, and crating services, ensuring a seamless moving experience. Compared to other nearby movers, Kaster has maintained strong consumer ratings, boasting a 4.4 average on Google and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, despite a slightly lower Yelp average of 3.3. Additionally, they accept both cash and credit cards, though a deposit is required, and they offer full valuation insurance coverage for peace of mind.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 849
Years in Business: 32
DOT #: 1397550
Fallon Moving & Storage, a trusted name in the Windsor, CT area since 1993, specializes in local residential moves. Offering comprehensive services that include packing, unpacking, and moving fragile items, they stand out for their ability to handle pianos and hot tubs. While their Yelp reviews average at 2.2 stars, they hold a more favorable 4.0 rating on Google and an A+ from the Better Business Bureau, suggesting a dependable reputation. Unlike many local competitors, Fallon Moving & Storage also accepts both cash and credit cards without requiring a deposit and provides full valuation insurance coverage for peace of mind.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Connecticut to Des Moines, IA
See the table below for average move cost ranges from Connecticut to Des Moines, IA, organized by service type and the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,109 – $4,515 | $855 – $2,133 | $747 – $1,480 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,562 – $5,789 | $1,499 – $3,258 | $767 – $1,710 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,957 – $8,113 | $2,178 – $4,397 | $975 – $2,084 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,183-mile move from Connecticut to Des Moines, IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. Every month, moveBuddha refreshes thousands of verified pricing entries from moving companies around the country to mirror seasonal changes and market trends. Final costs may shift with the scale of your move, selected add-ons, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and schedule. Get multiple quotes to ensure you’re seeing accurate pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Connecticut to Des Moines, IA
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Connecticut to Des Moines, IA, will cost between $1,109 and $4,515. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $2,562 to $5,789, and a large move will cost from $3,957 to $8,113.
Cost of moving containers from Connecticut to Des Moines, IA
If you’re moving from Connecticut to Des Moines, IA, expect to pay between $855 and $2,133 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,499 up to $3,258. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,178 and $4,397. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Connecticut.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Connecticut to Des Moines, IA
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Connecticut to Des Moines, IA, with a rental truck, expect to spend between $747 and $1,480. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $767 and $1,710. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $975 up to $2,084 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Compare local moving companies from Connecticut 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RT Relocation | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Hands On Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Barnes Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | × |
| Kaster Moving Co. Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Fallon Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
From our review of 3,175 movers, see how Connecticut movers match up to the nationwide percentage of movers offering these services and discounts:
| Connecticut | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 100% | 96% |
| Antiques | 62% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 1% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Connecticut to Des Moines, IA
Before you break out the moving boxes, let’s compare life in Des Moines, IA to what you’re used to in Connecticut. We’ll dive into things like cost of living, local culture, everyday routines, and the area’s most popular spots.
Cost of living: Connecticut vs. Des Moines, IA
| Connecticut | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,374 | $1,150 |
| Average home cost | $405,595 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $90,213 | $58,492 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100 | 87 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 5.9% |
| State Income Tax | 3.0% | 4.4% |
Des Moines sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Des Moines is approximately 16% lower than in Connecticut, freeing up money for other expenses.
- Home prices are about 53% lower in Des Moines than in Connecticut, which could make buying a home more affordable.
- Salaries in Des Moines are usually about 35% lower than in Connecticut. Make sure to review your finances and adjust your budget before you relocate.
- Unemployment in Des Moines is about 97% higher than in Connecticut, so the job market may be more competitive. Be strategic in your job hunt and consider networking early.
- Income taxes in Iowa come in about 47% higher than in Connecticut, which can reduce how much of your earnings you actually keep.
How life is different in Des Moines from Connecticut
| Des Moines | Connecticut | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 3,617,176 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-41 | Democratic 56-44 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 83ºF |
| Winter low | 13ºF | 18ºF |
| Annual rain | 36″ | 50″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 37″ |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 16.44 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the most recent presidential race, both Connecticut and Iowa leaned Democratic.
- Summers in Des Moines usually hit highs of 86ºF, right in line with the average 83ºF you’re used to in Connecticut. So, you can expect a smooth transition in terms of temperature. Still, don’t forget to factor in the local humidity, typical weather patterns, and changes in energy costs to get a full sense of what summer will really feel like in your new place.
- In the coldest months, Des Moines typically drops to lows of 13ºF. That’s pretty similar to Connecticut, where temperatures reach 18ºF. Thankfully, you’ll experience predictable costs with few winter weather–related interruptions to your day-to-day life.
- In Des Moines, you’ll enjoy just 36 inches of rain each year, significantly less than the 50 inches you’re used to back in Connecticut. With more sunny days ahead, you’ll have plenty of chances to get out, discover your new neighborhood, and make yourself at home. A sunnier climate is a great way to kick off your new adventure.
- In Des Moines, it snows about 33 inches annually while Connecticut gets 37 inches. With snowfall being similar, you’re likely to experience a smooth transition with no major surprises.
- Moving to Des Moines means you’ll be heading somewhere safer, with a crime index of 5.0. That’s lower than Connecticut’s 16.44. A lower crime rate often translates to safer neighborhoods, a tighter community, and less stress in your everyday life. While it’s not the only factor to consider, better safety is definitely a bonus for your peace of mind.
Things to do in Des Moines
Whether you love scenic parks, world-class museums, thrilling sports, or renowned universities, Des Moines truly offers something for everyone.
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: Check into any neighborhood or community rules on moving ahead of time to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: Something you’ll want to sort out early is booking your building’s elevator and checking their rules for moving.
- Parking permits: In some cities, you’ll need a parking permit for your moving truck, so be sure to look up your new area’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. Be sure to confirm your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: Verify your Iowa moving license on the state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: Iowa does not require any moving permits, but it’s helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, so your mail will be forwarded to Iowa right 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: Peace of mind matters. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and makes sure nothing slips through the cracks.
FAQ
How long does a move from Connecticut to Des Moines take?
How long it takes to move from Connecticut to Des Moines, IA depends on your starting point and the type of move you select. Regardless of your choice, packing and loading your belongings usually only takes a day or less, even when you’re doing it yourself.
Planning a move from northern Connecticut to Des Moines? Be prepared for a longer haul. If you’re renting a truck, set aside one to two days for the journey. Your travel time will depend on your route and how many breaks you take.
With professional movers or moving containers, delivery times to Des Moines from Connecticut can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the company’s schedule and transit logistics. You can always ask for a general timeline before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Connecticut to Des Moines?
With a 1,183-mile move from Connecticut to Des Moines, it’s smart to lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. For the best availability and pricing, try to book your move two to three months in advance.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Des Moines, IA?
Summer highs in Des Moines can hit 86°F, while winter lows drop to 13°F. That’s why most people moving from Connecticut to Des Moines choose the milder spring or fall months. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and maybe save some money, try planning your move for the summer or winter instead, even if it means braving a little extra heat or cold. Check out more tips on peak moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
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