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($1,160) Movers From Harrisburg, PA to Iowa

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Estimated cost & time: The cost to move 958 miles from Harrisburg, PA to Iowa averages $701 to $5,562. The process can take anywhere from two to seven days, depending on factors like the size, timing, and distance of your move, as well as whether you DIY your move or hire professionals.
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Best movers from Harrisburg, PA to Iowa

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental truck
Freight Icon
Labor-only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Harrisburg, PA to Iowa

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 958-mile move from Harrisburg, PA, to Iowa using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha compiles verified rates from moving companies across the U.S. and revises them monthly to reflect seasonal and market fluctuations. Your total may change based on load size, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel prices, and your moving date. Always collect several quotes to get a realistic price range.
Studio Icon

Studio/1 bedroom

  • Full-service mover $1,918 – $4,366
  • Moving container $1,185 – $2,053
  • Rental truck $605 – $1,205
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $2,373 – $5,562
  • Moving container $1,437 – $2,854
  • Rental truck $701 – $1,489
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $3,925 – $7,153
  • Moving container $1,917 – $3,823
  • Rental truck $819 – $1,672
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Roadway Moving
Jefferson, PA Stockton, IA
2 Bedrooms
Nov 02, 2025
Safeway Moving
Steelton, PA Oskaloosa, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 26, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Adams, PA Cedar Rapids, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 19, 2025
United Van Lines
Dillsburg, PA Atalissa, IA
Studio apartment
Oct 15, 2025
BLVD Moving
Messiah College, PA Batavia, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 07, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Millersville, PA Maurice, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 30, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Goldsboro, PA Milo, IA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 18, 2025
PODS
New Schaefferstown, PA Treynor, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 06, 2025
Allied Van Lines
East Lampeter, PA Brandon, IA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 01, 2025
American Van Lines
York Springs, PA Williamson, IA
Studio apartment
Aug 16, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Iowa to Harrisburg, PA guide .

Local moving companies in Harrisburg

Out of 18 Harrisburg movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Iowa.

  1. Geo. W. Weaver & Sons Inc.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. Spirit Moving Company LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  3. The Armstrong Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  4. Keystone Moving and Junk Removal: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  5. Maya’s Movers LLC: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.7% of all reviews were positive
6.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Geo. W. Weaver & Sons Inc. means working with a team known for efficiency, professionalism, and careful service. Out of 259 reviews, 92.7% report positive experiences, making this company a standout in the moving industry. Customers consistently mention the staff’s courtesy, professionalism, and attention to detail. Moves are often completed quickly and without issue, and communication from the office to the moving crew earns praise for keeping customers informed and at ease. On the flip side, a few clients have faced issues like damaged items, inaccurate quotes, and communication breakdowns. Complaints about property damage and unexpected costs are more frequent than with similar services. Despite some negative feedback, the vast majority of input highlights reliability, speed, and a crew that takes extra care with belongings.
Get a Quote (717) 774-7838

Company Info

State license #: 702302

Years in Business: 127

DOT #: 10676

Alternate Names: Harrisburg Storage Co. , M.F. Rockey Moving Company , Penn Hershey Transfer , Harrisburg Transfer Company , George W. Weaver

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.8% of all reviews were positive
8.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Spirit Moving Company stands out for its professionalism, attentive handling, and courteous team, according to 98 customer feedback reports. Approximately 92% of customers delivered glowing input, often praising the movers’ professionalism, careful approach, efficiency, and timely completion of moves. Many also describe the staff as friendly and the booking process as seamless. Repeat customers and strong word-of-mouth recommendations highlight a reputation many local companies do not achieve. On the negative side, about 8% experienced issues such as damage to property or belongings, missed appointments, and unresolved incidents like missing items. These negative experiences mostly relate to claims of careless handling, lack of reliability, and problems reaching or receiving response from management. Compared to the moving industry norm, Spirit Moving Company receives a notably higher share of positive mentions for professionalism and genuine care. While instances of poor outcomes exist, the majority found Spirit Moving Company dependable and highly recommend their service.
Get a Quote (717) 978-3050

Company Info

State license #: 8921736

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3214709

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
90.7% of all reviews were positive
8.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers often call Armstrong Relocation the gold standard of moving. Out of 225 reviews analyzed, more than 90% featured positive feedback. Most praise the team’s professionalism, attention to detail, speed, careful handling, and responsive communication. Crews consistently arrive on time, treat belongings and homes with respect, and finish quickly. Many note estimates are accurate, and several say Armstrong’s pricing beats competitors. On the downside, a handful of customers report property damage and long waits for claim resolution. Some cite trouble reaching staff or unexpected extra costs. Compared with industry standards, Armstrong receives far fewer serious complaints, and its teams are routinely described as the most professional movers customers have hired. The company earns strong trust and repeat business, with negative feedback mostly centered on damage claims, rare billing issues, or isolated incidents of poor communication.
Get a Quote (717) 492-4155

Company Info

State license #: 8917264

Years in Business: 76

DOT #: 1170867

Alternate Names: Jack Treier Moving & Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
98.9% of all reviews were positive
1.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Five-star service shines through in nearly every piece of customer feedback for Keystone Moving and Junk Removal. Out of 190 reviews, 98.9% express satisfaction, with the team earning praise for professionalism, efficiency, careful handling, friendly attitudes, quick moving times, and fair pricing. Customers frequently describe Keystone’s staff as courteous and respectful, with movers arriving promptly and communicating clearly throughout the process. Input emphasizes both speed and careful attention to belongings, with repeated reports of moves completed ahead of schedule and without damage. Many note the affordability compared to competitors. A few isolated complaints highlight issues with deposit refunds and pricing estimates, contrasting sharply with the consistent satisfaction elsewhere. Compared to typical moving companies—which often struggle to maintain reliability and care—Keystone stands out for delivering a pleasant, seamless moving experience nearly every time.
Get a Quote (717) 712-5094

Company Info

State license #: 8920233

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 3011826

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
97.1% of all reviews were positive
2.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Maya’s Movers LLC stands out for its consistently high customer satisfaction, with feedback from 103 reviews showing 97% positivity. Customers frequently mention the professionalism and courtesy of the staff, the speed and efficiency of the moving process, careful handling of items, and a friendly team, all contributing to straightforward and stress-free experiences. Numerous people mention efficient service and a quick moving process that handles even challenging logistics with ease. Negative feedback is minimal, with isolated complaints focused on a lack of communication, particularly during the estimate process, and infrequent issues with responsiveness. Compared to most moving companies, Maya’s Movers is noted for outstanding staff demeanor and consistent, careful work, while retaining room for improvement in initial communication with prospective customers.
Get a Quote (717) 825-4738

Company Info

State license #: 8921045

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3128183

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

Local moving services in Harrisburg, PA

At a glance, the number of Harrisburg movers with specialty add-ons:

Interstate
13 72.22%
Small moves
4 22.22%
Antiques
9 50.0%
Art
10 55.56%
Pianos
14 77.78%
Fragile-only packing
6 33.33%

Cost to move from Harrisburg, PA to Iowa

The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Harrisburg to Iowa with different moving services depending on the size of your home.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,160 – $4,395 $777 – $1,911 $661 – $1,133
2-3 bedrooms $2,373 – $5,562 $1,437 – $2,854 $701 – $1,489
4+ bedrooms $3,925 – $7,153 $1,917 – $3,823 $819 – $1,672

*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 958-mile move from Harrisburg, PA, to Iowa using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha collects and verifies thousands of prices from movers nationwide, then updates the figures monthly to reflect seasonal changes and market dynamics. Your total may vary with load size, extra services, access or parking hurdles, fuel prices, and your move date. Get several mover quotes to better validate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Harrisburg to Iowa

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Harrisburg to Iowa typically costs between $1,160 and $4,395. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,373 and $5,562. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,925 up to $7,153.

Cost of moving containers from Harrisburg to Iowa

If you’re relocating from Harrisburg to Iowa, you’ll typically spend between $777 and $1,911 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,437 up to $2,854. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $1,917 and $3,823. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Harrisburg.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Harrisburg to Iowa

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 Harrisburg to Iowa, expect to pay between $661 and $1,133. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $701 to $1,489. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $819 and $1,672.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors influencing moving costs from Harrisburg to IA

The cost of a move in Harrisburg can change based on:

  • Move size: The amount of items you have, as well as your home size and layout, will impact the total cost of your relocation.
  • Time of year: Peak summer months in Harrisburg often come with higher moving rates.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: Handling the move yourself lowers costs but adds stress; pros cost more but save time and effort.

What you should know before moving from Harrisburg to IA

When you move to Iowa from Harrisburg, PA, expect living costs to be largely equivalent. Your financial planning may not require significant changes, yet it’s advisable to analyze the expenses to pinpoint any minor discrepancies.

Compare cost of living: Harrisburg vs. Iowa

Harrisburg, PA Iowa
Average rent $1,200 $914
Average home cost $230,038 $220,277
Average income (per capita) $73,256 $70,571
Cost of living index 90 89
Unemployment rate 13.4% 3.0%
State income tax 3.07% 4.4%
  • Rent is about 24% lower in Iowa than in Harrisburg, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.
  • The cost of homes in Iowa is similar to Harrisburg, so your monthly mortgage budget should remain steady.
  • The average income is about equal in Iowa and Harrisburg, meaning your budget should hold up just fine.
  • Since cost of living levels are so similar in Iowa and Harrisburg, you won’t see much financial change after relocating.
  • The unemployment rate in Iowa is around 78% lower than in Harrisburg, pointing to a more favorable employment outlook.
  • Taxes in Iowa are roughly 43% higher than in Pennsylvania, so you’ll notice a smaller paycheck.

How life is different in Harrisburg, PA from Iowa

When planning a move from Harrisburg to Iowa, you’ll be in for some changes, including new weather, a different community feel, and a unique political scene. Here’s what awaits when you leave the Harrisburg behind for life in Iowa.

Harrisburg, PA Iowa
Population 50,099 3,207,004
Political leaning Democratic 53-45 Republican 53-45
Summer high 85ºF 84ºF
Winter low 24ºF 10ºF
Annual rain 42″ 35″
Annual snow 26″ 30″
Crime index 64.18 16.18
  • In the last presidential election, Iowa leaned Republican, while Harrisburg supported Democratic.
  • Summer highs typically reach about 84ºF in Iowa and 85ºF in Harrisburg. With similar temperatures, you shouldn’t have much trouble adjusting to the climate. Remember to also consider humidity, general weather patterns, and energy expenses to really understand what summer will feel like in your new home.
  • Colder winters await in Iowa, where lows average 10ºF, compared to Harrisburg at 24ºF. This shift means more heating costs and brisker weather, but also unique seasonal charm and activities.
  • In Iowa, rainfall totals about 35 inches a year, less than the 42 inches you’re used to in Harrisburg. More sunshine and fewer rainy days make it easier to get outside and enjoy your new home.
  • In Iowa, you can expect about 30 inches of snow each year. By comparison, Harrisburg typically gets around 26 inches annually. Since both places see similar snowfall, your move shouldn’t come with unexpected weather challenges.
  • Iowa has a lower crime index of 16.18 versus Harrisburg at 64.18, suggesting safer neighborhoods and fewer safety concerns overall.

Other considerations when moving to Iowa

If you’re relocating from Harrisburg to Iowa, there’s more involved than simply packing up and hiring movers. Don’t forget to look into local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could impact your move.

  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure you find out how to reserve it for your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks or oversized vehicles, so be sure to find out ahead of time if you’ll need one for your move.
  • 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 fully licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can easily verify a Iowa moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory site.
  • Moving permits: Iowa does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can select your official move date to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Iowa without a hitch. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Insurance rules aren’t the same everywhere. They change depending on the state. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Move with confidence using our moving checklist. It keeps you organized and covers all the details, letting you stress less and focus on settling into your new place.

Things to do in Iowa

Whether you love parks, museums, sports, or college-town energy, Iowa has plenty for you to discover and enjoy.

Museums in Iowa

  • National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
  • Figge Art Museum
  • National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
  • The Putnam Museum & Science Center
  • Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

Parks in Iowa

  • Vander Veer Botanical Park
  • Gray’s Lake Park
  • Pappajohn Sculpture Park
  • Eagle Point Park
  • Terry Trueblood Recreational Area

Sports teams in Iowa

  • Iowa Wolves (NBA G League)
  • Iowa Hawkeyes (NCAA)
  • Northern Iowa Panthers (NCAA)
  • Iowa State Cyclones (NCAA)
  • Drake Bulldogs (NCAA)

Universities in Iowa

  • Iowa State University
  • University of Iowa
  • University of Northern Iowa
  • Maharishi International University
  • Grinnell College

FAQ

How long does a move from Harrisburg to Iowa take?

The time it takes to move from Harrisburg, PA, to Iowa ultimately depends on the moving method you choose. But on average it will take two to seven days. Deliveries will likely take longer during the busy summer months.

For the fastest turnaround, ask your moving company for an estimated delivery window before booking.

Do movers in Harrisburg offer custom-built crate services?

11 movers in Harrisburg list custom crating, a useful option for fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped items. Before you book, ask a Harrisburg mover about crate specs and whether they can tailor the build to your needs.

What is the best way to get a car from Harrisburg to Iowa?

Need to ship your car from Harrisburg to Iowa? Go with a team that takes professionalism and car care seriously, with proven experience to match. See our top choices for car shipping from Pennsylvania to Iowa.

Why are people moving from Harrisburg to Iowa?

Many people are moving to Iowa because of its low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.

Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Iowa.

Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Harrisburg?

Is cash an option to pay for a move from Harrisburg, PA?

THere are currently, one movers in Harrisburg that allow customers to pay with cash. Keep in mind that cash remains the exception; most carriers want traceable payments and digital receipts. Standard process is to pay a deposit to secure the date and crew. You’ll pay the remainder at pickup or after delivery—verify the exact timing and acceptable methods before booking.

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