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($1,213) Movers From Des Moines, IA to Tennessee

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Estimated cost & time: The cost to move 708 miles from Des Moines, IA to Tennessee averages $552 to $5,413. Your move could take anywhere from one to six days. It all depends on the size of your move, the distance, your moving date, and whether you hire pros or go DIY.
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Best movers from Des Moines, IA to Tennessee

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 Des Moines, IA to Tennessee

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 708-mile move from Des Moines, IA, to Tennessee using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. Every month, moveBuddha updates thousands of vetted moving price points sourced nationwide to account for seasonality and market trends. Final pricing can vary with the size of your move, extra services, access or parking constraints, fuel rates, and schedule. Comparing multiple mover quotes is the best way to nail down an accurate estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio/1 bedroom

  • Full-service mover $1,600 – $4,338
  • Moving container $1,042 – $1,911
  • Rental truck $497 – $904
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $2,321 – $5,413
  • Moving container $1,247 – $2,596
  • Rental truck $552 – $1,153
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $3,724 – $7,570
  • Moving container $1,810 – $3,372
  • Rental truck $657 – $1,411
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.
Safeway Moving
Bevington, IA Saulsbury, TN
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 30, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Johnston, IA Parsons, TN
2 Bedrooms
Oct 11, 2025
Roadway Moving
Earlham, IA Tellico Village, TN
Studio apartment
Oct 07, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Mitchellville, IA Alamo, TN
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 27, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Perry, IA Collierville, TN
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 24, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Ankeny, IA Lakesite, TN
4 Bedrooms
Sep 14, 2025
North American Van Lines
Runnells, IA Saltillo, TN
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 04, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Stuart, IA Woodbury, TN
3 Bedrooms
Aug 27, 2025
United Van Lines
Berkley, IA Sunbright, TN
3 Bedrooms
Aug 25, 2025
American Van Lines
Swan, IA Thompson’s Station, TN
2 Bedrooms
Aug 23, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Tennessee to Des Moines, IA guide .

Local moving companies in Des Moines

Out of 13 Des Moines movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Tennessee.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. All Mighty Movers LLC: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  4. Black Belt Movers: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  5. Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
8.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Two Men and a Truck earns its reputation for being fast, careful, and professional, with 92% of customer feedback praising efficient service, attention to detail, and courteous movers. Most people said the crews worked quickly, handled belongings with care, communicated well, and made moving less stressful. Many customers noted the movers were polite, helpful, and followed directions accurately, setting them apart from less organized competitors. Some even reported coming in under budget due to team efficiency, and highlighted transparent pricing and great office support. Negative feedback primarily cited issues with item damage, inexperienced movers, and unexpected costs. A small number of reviewers mentioned poor packing, lack of effort to resolve damages, and occasional rude remarks, especially in more complex moves. While damage to belongings arose more often than other negatives, the vast majority of feedback still positions this company as one of the most reliably consistent options for moving services in the region.
Get a Quote (515) 216-3654

Company Info

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
64.0% of all reviews were positive
36.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast, affordable, and careful—most customer feedback praises All Mighty Movers LLC for their quick moving process, professional crews, and attentive handling of belongings. Out of 25 reviews analyzed, 64% are positive, often highlighting low rates, polite staff, and efficient service. Clients commonly appreciate how speedily and safely items were moved, noting that furniture and fragile goods arrived undamaged. Many mention the company beats local competitors in both price and quality, thanks to thoughtful movers who keep an upbeat attitude even with challenging jobs. On the downside, 36% of feedback centers on inaccurate estimates, unexpected charges, and unclear communication, especially regarding additional fees and scheduling. Some customers feel misled when final costs exceeded quoted amounts. Compared to many moving companies, All Mighty Movers earns high marks for efficiency and pricing but leaves room to improve transparency and customer relations, especially for billing and communication during more complex moves.
Get a Quote (515) 313-1395

Company Info

Pricing: $130/hr

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2468266

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.7% of all reviews were positive
7.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving has never looked so easy. From 260 customer feedback entries, College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving earned praise for efficient service, professionalism, and careful handling, with 92.7% of responses reflecting positive experiences. The staff often receives high marks for friendliness and effective communication, outperforming many competitors on reliability. Customers commonly mention the quick moving process and how carefully items are treated. On the downside, some reported damage to belongings, unexpected charges, and unprofessional conduct—chiefly in the few negative submissions, which account for 7.3% of the total. Compared to others, College Hunks stands out for speed, courteous crews, and strong problem-solving skills, but attention to quality control and transparent billing could prevent negative encounters. The company sets a high standard for service and staff demeanor, making it a leading choice in the moving industry.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 2378173

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
% of all reviews were positive
% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Get a Quote (515) 393-4253

Company Info

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 3527158

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
99.6% of all reviews were positive
0.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews consistently place Adamantine Spine Moving at the top of moving services in Iowa and beyond. Analyzing 223 customer reviews, 99.6% of feedback highlights professionalism, efficient service, excellent communication, careful handling, and quick moving crews. Customers repeatedly mention that staff are polite, approachable, and make stressful moves easy with precise organization and prompt responses. Quotes tend to be accurate, crews are well-trained, and moves large or small are handled with care. Compared to larger moving firms, Adamantine stands out for its hard-working teams and reliable pricing, with many clients calling the experience the best they’ve had. The only significant complaint noted involves a billing discrepancy where the final charge was much higher than the initial estimate, and the situation wasn’t resolved effectively. This single negative input strongly contrasts the otherwise outstanding reputation. Adamantine’s client input sets it apart from typical moving companies and makes it a top recommendation for anyone looking for trusted moving professionals.
Get a Quote (319) 519-0154

Company Info

Pricing: $100/hr

Years in Business: 25

DOT #: 1471037

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

Local moving services in Des Moines, IA

Quick breakdown of Des Moines movers that offer specialty add-on services:

Interstate
9 69.23%
Small moves
9 69.23%
Antiques
6 46.15%
Art
7 53.85%
Pianos
10 76.92%
Fragile-only packing
4 30.77%

Cost to move from Des Moines, IA to Tennessee

The table below breaks down average costs for moves from Des Moines to Tennessee, varying by home size and service option.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,213 – $3,709 $729 – $1,729 $482 – $904
2-3 bedrooms $2,321 – $5,413 $1,247 – $2,596 $552 – $1,153
4+ bedrooms $3,724 – $7,570 $1,810 – $3,372 $657 – $1,411

*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 708-mile move from Des Moines, IA, to Tennessee using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from movers nationwide, updating the data monthly to track seasonal patterns and market trends. Your final quote may differ due to move size, optional services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Always compare estimates from several movers for an accurate picture.

Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Tennessee

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Des Moines to Tennessee will cost between $1,213 and $3,709. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $2,321 to $5,413, and a large move will cost from $3,724 to $7,570.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Tennessee

If you’re moving from Des Moines to Tennessee, expect to pay between $729 and $1,729 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,247 up to $2,596. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,810 and $3,372. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Des Moines.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Tennessee

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 with a rental truck from Des Moines to Tennessee, expect to spend between $482 and $904. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $552 and $1,153. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $657 up to $1,411 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors influencing moving costs from Des Moines to TN

When calculating the price of Des Moines movers, consider:

  • Move size: The bigger your home and the more stuff you have, the more expensive your move will be.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Des Moines, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: Going the DIY route can be less expensive but demands more effort compared to hiring experts.

What you should know before moving from Des Moines to TN

Moving to Tennessee from Des Moines, IA, you’ll notice that the cost of living remains fairly consistent. Your budget might remain steady, but it’s wise to examine the details to spot any subtle shifts.

Compare cost of living: Des Moines vs. Tennessee

Des Moines, IA Tennessee
Average rent $1,150 $1,047
Average home cost $192,347 $319,208
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $64,035
Cost of living index 87 90
Unemployment rate 5.9% 3.3%
State income tax 4.4% 0.0%
  • Rent is about 9% less expensive in Tennessee compared to Des Moines, leaving you more flexibility with your income.
  • Homes in Tennessee cost about 66% more than in Des Moines, so expect a higher mortgage payment.
  • Expect incomes in Tennessee to be about 9% higher than in Des Moines, offering more opportunities to save or spend.
  • The cost of living in Tennessee is nearly identical to Des Moines, so budget impacts should be minimal.
  • In Tennessee, the unemployment rate is about 44% below Des Moines’s, a positive sign of healthier job opportunities.
  • Tennessee has no income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Iowa.

How life is different in Des Moines, IA from Tennessee

When relocating from Des Moines to Tennessee, get ready for some changes. From weather and population to politics, here’s how living in Tennessee stacks up against life in the Des Moines.

Des Moines, IA Tennessee
Population 699,292 7,126,489
Political leaning Democratic 57-41 Republican 64-36
Summer high 86ºF 88ºF
Winter low 13ºF 27ºF
Annual rain 36″ 53″
Annual snow 33″ 5″
Crime index 5.0 29.24
  • In the last presidential election, Tennessee leaned Republican, while Des Moines supported Democratic.
  • Comparable summer highs of about 88ºF in Tennessee match those of 86ºF in Des Moines. With similarly warm temperatures, adjusting to your new climate might prove easy. Consider examining humidity, climate patterns, and energy demands for a full representation of how summers will unfold in your new home.
  • Winter lows in Tennessee are milder, around 27ºF, compared to the colder 13ºF in Des Moines. This means easier winters, fewer icy days, and potentially lower heating bills.
  • Expect about 53 inches of rain per year in Tennessee, a clear jump from 36 inches in Des Moines. Be ready for more frequent wet days and plan accordingly with waterproof gear.
  • In Tennessee, you can expect about 5 inches of snow each year, much less than the 33 inches you’d deal with in Des Moines. So, if you’re moving to Tennessee, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
  • Tennessee has a higher crime rate than Des Moines, with indexes at 29.24 vs 5.0. While this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods and consider how it might affect your daily routine.

Other considerations when moving to Tennessee

If you’re moving from Des Moines to Tennessee, there’s more to do than just booking a moving crew and transporting your stuff. Be sure you’re on top of local regulations, permits, and any logistics that might affect your move.

  • HOA rules: Confirm whether your HOA has any moving restrictions or requirements before scheduling your movers.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Certain cities ask you to get parking permits for moving trucks or large vehicles. Check in advance to see if you’ll need one for your move.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, 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 your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check a Tennessee moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory website.
  • Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Tennessee, but make sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Tennessee. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Insurance requirements vary from state to state. When it comes to movers’ insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
  • Moving checklist: Use a checklist to move with confidence. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and ensures everything’s covered, so you can relax and focus on the move.

Things to do in Tennessee

No matter what you’re into, from parks and museums to sports or college-town vibes—Tennessee is packed with things for you to explore and enjoy.

Museums in Tennessee

  • Titanic Museum Attraction
  • Graceland
  • Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
  • Lotz House Museum
  • National Civil Rights Museum – Lorraine Motel

Parks in Tennessee

  • Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium
  • Bicentennial Greenbelt Park
  • Chimneys Picnic Area
  • Winged Deer Park
  • Steele Creek Park

Sports teams in Tennessee

  • Memphis Grizzlies Basketball (NBA)
  • Nashville Predators Hockey (NHL)
  • Nashville SC (MLS)
  • Tennessee TItans (NFL)

Universities in Tennessee

  • Vanderbilt University
  • The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
  • The University of Tennessee at Martin
  • The University of Memphis
  • Middle Tennessee State University

FAQ

How long does a move from Des Moines to Tennessee take?

Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Des Moines, IA to Tennessee? Typically, the process takes about one to six days, but the service you choose can affect the timeline. Keep in mind that if you’re planning a summer move, things might take a bit longer due to higher demand.

Keep your move on track by confirming delivery timelines with your movers ahead of time. That way, you won’t get stuck with any surprise delays.

How many Des Moines movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?

There are eight movers in Des Moines that offer custom-built crates for delicate or unusual items like artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you need special crating, confirm with a Des Moines moving company that they can accommodate your specific items.

What is the best way to get a car from Des Moines to Tennessee?

Looking to move your car from Des Moines to Tennessee? Choose a service that puts professionalism and vehicle care first, backed by real experience. Check out our top picks for car shippers from Iowa to Tennessee.

Why are people moving from Des Moines to Tennessee?

Many people are moving to Tennessee because of its abundant recreational opportunities and no income taxes.

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

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

Do movers in Des Moines, IA, accept cash?

Yes, four movers in Des Moines accept cash. However, cash is uncommon in the moving space, where traceable payment types are standard. You’ll typically pay a deposit to secure your booking before moving day. The rest of the total is due at pickup or post-delivery—confirm the schedule and permitted payment methods with your mover.

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