Local moving companies in Iowa
When relocating from Iowa to Portland, ME, let our favorite local movers take the stress out of your journey.
Out of 32 Iowa movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Portland, ME.
- Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Action Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- White Glove Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 70
DOT #: 70719
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 42
DOT #: 299154
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 2991947
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Iowa to Portland, ME
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Iowa to Portland, ME with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,117 – $4,777 | $911 – $2,123 | $767 – $1,591 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,853 – $6,244 | $1,596 – $3,323 | $864 – $1,746 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,735 – $8,660 | $2,101 – $4,599 | $1,099 – $2,266 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,385-mile move from Iowa to Portland, ME using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 17, 2026. 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 Iowa to Portland, ME
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Iowa to Portland, ME, you can expect to spend between $1,117 and $4,777. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,853 to $6,244 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home will typically run between $4,735 and $8,660.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Portland, ME
When moving from Iowa to Portland, ME, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $911 and $2,123. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,596 to $3,323. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,101 up to $4,599. 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 Iowa.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Iowa to Portland, ME
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 Iowa to Portland, ME, and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $767 and $1,591. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $864 and $1,746. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,099 and $2,266.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Compare local moving companies from Iowa to Portland, ME
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Action Moving & Storage, Inc. | × | ✓ | × | × |
| White Glove Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
Out of the 3,179 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how Iowa movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:
| Iowa | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 91% | 96% |
| Antiques | 40% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 2% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Iowa to Portland, ME
Before you start packing, take a moment to get a feel for what life in Portland, ME is really like compared to Iowa. 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: Iowa vs. Portland, ME
| Iowa | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $914 | $1,991 |
| Average home cost | $220,277 | $542,001 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,571 | $64,171 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 112 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 5.2% |
| State Income Tax | 4.4% | 5.8% |
Portland sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Portland is roughly 118% higher than in Iowa. You’ll need to plan for higher monthly rent.
- Home prices in Portland are approximately 146% higher than in Iowa. Be sure to budget for a larger down payment, higher property taxes, and increased overall homeownership costs.
- The average income is about 9% lower in Portland than in Iowa. It’s important to review your budget and plan accordingly.
- With unemployment 73% higher in Portland than Iowa, expect more competition for jobs. A focused job search will help you get ahead.
- Expect income taxes in Maine to run about 32% higher than in Iowa, which could cut into your paycheck.
How life is different in Portland from Iowa
| Portland | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 68,408 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Republican 50-48 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 79ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 11ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 49″ | 35″ |
| Annual snow | 61″ | 30″ |
| Crime index | 32.16 | 16.18 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- During the last presidential election, both Iowa and Portland supported the Republican candidate.
- Summer in Portland usually hits around 79ºF, pretty similar to the 84ºF you’re used to in Iowa. 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, Portland gets down to 11ºF while Iowa is similar at 10ºF. When winter temperatures are about the same, you can expect an easier seasonal transition with predictable expenses and a routine that feels familiar.
- Expect about 49 inches of rain each year in Portland—compared to just 35 inches in Iowa. With more rain comes greener scenery and wetter days, so get ready to adjust your routine and invest in some quality waterproof gear.
- Every year, Portland gets around 61 inches of snow, much more than the 30 inches that Iowa 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.
- Portland has a higher crime rate than Iowa with a crime index of 32.16 vs 16.18. A higher crime rate isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s your cue to research local safety measures and think about how it might affect your day-to-day life.
Things to do in Portland
From parks and museums to sports and top universities, Portland has a little bit of everything waiting for you.
Museums in Portland
- Portland Museum of Art
- Victoria Mansion
- 5th Maine Museum
- The Wadsworth-Longfellow House
- Richard Boyd Art Gallery
Parks in Portland
- Eastern Promenade Trail
- Back Cove Trail
- Deering Oaks Park
- Quarry Run Dog Park
- Western Promenade Park
Sports teams in Portland
- Maine Celtics (G League)
- Maine Mariners (ECHL)
Universities in Portland
- University of Southern Maine
- Maine College of Art
Other considerations when moving to Portland, ME
- 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: Although a local license is not required in Maine, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Maine moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to Maine, 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 Maine without any delays. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Consider cost-free Released Value Protection from movers in Maine, offering basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. If you seek full-value protection, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- 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 Iowa to Portland take?
The time frame for a move from Iowa to Portland, ME, 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 Iowa, the longer it’ll take to reach Portland. 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 Iowa to Portland 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 Iowa to Portland?
If you’re gearing up for a 1,385-mile move from Iowa to Portland, 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 Portland, ME?
Summer in Portland can reach highs of 79°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 11°F. That’s why most people moving from Iowa to Portland 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
Iowa moving services
Popular Iowa routes
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