Local moving companies in Kentucky
Moving from Kentucky to Des Moines, IA calls for the support of experienced and reliable movers who can handle relocations with ease.
Out of 25 Kentucky movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Des Moines, IA.
- Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Wildcat Moving LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Vincent Fister Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- A Local Van Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 3561
Years in Business: 18
DOT #: 1834511
Alternate Names: N & R Properties, LLC
Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving has been a dependable choice for local residential moves in and around Louisville, KY since 2007. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they boast extensive experience and a stellar reputation, with an impressive 4.7 average rating from 268 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their services include packing, unpacking, and crating, and they are adept at handling specialty items like pianos. The company’s no-deposit policy and credit card acceptance add to their customer-friendly approach, making them a standout choice for reliable and efficient moving services.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 3952
Pricing: $140/hr
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2207083
Alternate Names: Wildcat Furniture Repair , Wildcat Pressure Washing , The Wildcat Group
Wildcat Moving LLC, based in Lexington, KY, has been a reliable choice for local residential moves since 2013. Compared to other nearby moving companies, Wildcat Moving stands out with its comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, crating, and even moving specialty items like pianos and safes—all at a competitive rate of $140 per hour without requiring a deposit. Consumer reviews reflect a balanced perspective, with a stellar 4.8-star average from 1893 Google reviews and an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, underpinning their strong reputation despite mixed feedback on Yelp. For those seeking trustworthy and versatile moving services, Wildcat Moving LLC offers a robust and well-regarded solution.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 3885
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Beautiful World, LLC. , Two Men And A Truck – Lexington
Two Men and a Truck has been serving the Lexington, KY area with reliable local residential moving services since 2005. Unlike some of its competitors, the company also offers long-distance moving, packing and unpacking services, and labor-only assistance, making it a versatile choice for many moving needs. While Yelp reviews suggest some dissatisfaction with an average rating of 1.7 from 16 reviews, its Google profile tells a different story with a strong 4.5 rating from 574 reviews, and it has an A rating from the Better Business Bureau. Additionally, customers can enjoy the convenience of paying by credit card and no deposit is required.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0065
Years in Business: 71
Alternate Names: Fister, Inc. , Vincent Fister Company, Inc. , United Van Lines
Vincent Fister Inc., serving Lexington, KY since 1954, has established itself as a reputable local mover with a strong presence in the community. Unlike many competitors, they offer comprehensive services including office moving, packing, and unpacking, making them a versatile choice for various relocation needs. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, and while their Yelp reviews average at 1.9, their Google My Business profile boasts an impressive 4.6 rating from 187 reviews, showcasing a generally high level of customer satisfaction. Vincent Fister Inc. also excels in handling delicate items such as pianos, art, and antiques, ensuring a careful and professional move.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0806
Years in Business: 24
DOT #: 899195
A Local Van Moving & Storage has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in and around Louisville, KY since 2001. Boasting an impressive Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and an average rating of 4.6 on Google My Business, this company stands out among nearby movers for its reliability and customer satisfaction. In addition to local moves, they offer packing and unpacking services and can handle specialty items like pianos. Unlike some competitors, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making the moving process more convenient for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Kentucky to Des Moines, IA
Check out the table below for average cost ranges to move from Kentucky to Des Moines, IA, across different service types and home sizes.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,162 – $3,889 | $700 – $1,830 | $500 – $936 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,365 – $5,648 | $1,259 – $2,514 | $556 – $1,101 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,052 – $7,715 | $1,685 – $3,130 | $667 – $1,360 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 682-mile move from Kentucky to Des Moines, IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of confirmed prices from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to account for seasonal patterns and market movement. Actual charges can change depending on load size, optional services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and your dates. Always compare several quotes to get a realistic price range.
Cost to hire professional movers from Kentucky to Des Moines, IA
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Kentucky to Des Moines, IA, you’ll likely pay between $1,162 and $3,889. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,365 and $5,648 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,052 to $7,715.
Cost of moving containers from Kentucky to Des Moines, IA
When you’re heading from Kentucky to Des Moines, IA, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $700 and $1,830. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,259 and $2,514. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,685 to $3,130. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Kentucky easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Kentucky to Des Moines, IA
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck from Kentucky to Des Moines, IA will cost around $500 to $936. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $556 to $1,101, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms costs around $667 to $1,360.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Compare local moving companies from Kentucky 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Wildcat Moving LLC | ✓ | × | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Vincent Fister Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| A Local Van Moving & Storage | ✓ | × | × | × |
Among the 3,175 movers we’ve evaluated, here’s where Kentucky movers stand in terms of national service and discount offerings:
| Kentucky | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 96% | 96% |
| Antiques | 48% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 3% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Kentucky to Des Moines, IA
Before you start packing, let’s explore what life in Des Moines, IA has in store compared to Kentucky. We’ll break down everything from the cost of living and local culture to spots you don’t want to miss.
Cost of living: Kentucky vs. Des Moines, IA
| Kentucky | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $902 | $1,150 |
| Average home cost | $212,088 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $60,183 | $58,492 |
| Cost of Living Index | 93 | 87 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.0% | 5.9% |
| State Income Tax | 4.0% | 4.4% |
Des Moines sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Des Moines is about 27% higher than in Kentucky. Be sure to factor this into your budget.
- On average, homes in Des Moines are 9% cheaper than in Kentucky, making your move easier on your wallet.
- You won’t notice much of a difference in your bank account when you move, since income levels in Des Moines are about the same as in Kentucky.
- The unemployment rate in Des Moines is 18% higher than in Kentucky. It’s a good idea to plan carefully and prepare for a more competitive job market.
- With income tax rates 10% higher in Iowa than in Kentucky, you may notice less flexibility in your monthly budget.
How life is different in Des Moines from Kentucky
| Des Moines | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 4,526,154 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-41 | Republican 64.6-33.9 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 13ºF | 24ºF |
| Annual rain | 36″ | 48″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 11″ |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 16.63 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Des Moines voted Democratic, while Kentucky leaned Republican.
- The average high in the summertime in Des Moines is 86ºF and in Kentucky, it’s 87ºF. With summer temperatures being similar, you’ll likely enjoy an easy transition, but don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather trends, and energy costs to truly understand what summer will be like in your new state.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in Des Moines drop to 13ºF, compared to 24ºF in Kentucky. Moving to Des Moines means you’ll need to adapt to chillier winters, which might mean higher heating costs and some adjustments to your daily routine. On the bright side, you’ll also get to experience unique winter scenery and plenty of seasonal fun.
- In Des Moines, you can expect just 36 inches of rain each year—far less than the 48 inches back in Kentucky. With more sunny days ahead, you’ll have plenty of chances to get outside and enjoy your new surroundings. This brighter weather is sure to boost your mood and help you feel right at home.
- Each year, Des Moines gets about 33 inches of snow, far more than the 11 inches you might be accustomed to in Kentucky. That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
- Des Moines boasts a lower crime rate compared to Kentucky, with a crime index of 5.0 versus 16.63. Lower crime rates typically mean safer neighborhoods, closer communities, and less to worry about. It’s not the only factor to consider when moving, but it definitely adds an extra layer of peace of mind.
Things to do in Des Moines
From beautiful parks and fascinating museums to exciting sports and stellar universities, Des Moines really has 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: Before moving day, check your neighborhood or community rules so you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
- Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve your building’s elevator in advance and double-check any moving policies they have.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- 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. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
- State regulator: You can verify your Iowa moving license status right on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to Iowa, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules before moving day.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. This way, you can select your moving date and ensure your mail is 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 is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
FAQ
How long does a move from Kentucky to Des Moines take?
How long it takes to move from Kentucky to Des Moines, IA depends on your starting point and the type of move you choose. No matter the method, loading your belongings usually takes a day or less, even if you’re doing it yourself.
If you’re starting from northern Kentucky, it’ll take longer to get to Des Moines. When renting a truck, plan for a one- to two-day drive, depending on your route and how often you stop.
Getting your stuff from Kentucky to Des Moines can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you choose movers or a moving container. Be sure to request a delivery estimate before you book.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Kentucky to Des Moines?
Planning a 682-mile move from Kentucky to Des Moines? Once you know your moving date, book your movers right away. Reserving two to three months ahead means better prices and a better shot at your preferred date.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Des Moines, IA?
With the summer highs of 86°F and the winter lows of 13°F, most people move to Des Moines from Kentucky during the spring and fall months. To avoid competing during those busy moving seasons, you could save some money by booking your move to Des Moines during summer or winter.
Helpful moving resources
Kentucky moving services
Popular Kentucky routes
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