Local moving companies in Ontario
Out of 86 Ontario movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Iowa.
- Big Deahl’s Movers: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Golden Eagle Moving, LLC: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- VIP Transport, Inc.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Sterling Van Lines: 4.64 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0191969
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 3295324
Alternate Names: People Trusted Company Group
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0191570
Years in Business: 44
DOT #: 77949
Alternate Names: Golden Eagle Moving Services
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0137029
Years in Business: 43
DOT #: 125563
Alternate Names: Mayflower Transit , VIP Transport East, Inc , VIP Transport – United Van Lines , VIP Transport – Mayflower Transit , United Van Lines
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meat Head Movers Inc , Meathead Movers Inc
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189566
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 568254
Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in Ontario, CA
Here’s how many movers in Ontario include specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Ontario, CA to Iowa
Check the table below for expected cost ranges to move from Ontario to Iowa with various services, based on your home’s size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,185 – $4,784 | $1,031 – $2,439 | $975 – $1,930 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,140 – $6,876 | $1,913 – $3,713 | $1,054 – $2,161 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,744 – $9,804 | $2,433 – $4,978 | $1,370 – $2,863 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,689-mile move from Ontario, CA, to Iowa using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes them monthly to account for seasonal shifts and market trends. Your actual cost can change based on move size, added services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Ontario to Iowa
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Ontario to Iowa, you can expect prices to land between $1,185 and $4,784. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,140 to $6,876 for the trip from Ontario to IA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,744 and $9,804.
Cost of moving containers from Ontario to Iowa
Moving containers from Ontario to Iowa will cost you $1,031 to $2,439 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,913 to $3,713. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,433 to $4,978. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Ontario.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Ontario to Iowa
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $975 and $1,930 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Ontario to Iowa with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,054 to $2,161. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,370 to $2,863.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors influencing moving costs from Ontario to IA
Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Ontario:
- Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
- Time of year: Summer moves in Ontario fall during peak season, which usually means higher prices.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.
What you should know before moving from Ontario to IA
Making the switch from Ontario to Iowa might mean adjusting to a new lifestyle while possibly saving money. Since Ontario is known for its higher expenses, this switch could lead to a more affordable living situation.
Take a look at the cost of living breakdown below to see exactly how Ontario and Iowa stack up so you’ll be ready for what’s ahead.
Compare cost of living: Ontario vs. Iowa
| Ontario, CA | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,619 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $668,089 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,908 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 119 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.9% | 3.0% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 4.4% |
Iowa sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- In Iowa, rent is about 65% lower than in Ontario, making housing easier on your budget.
- Homes in Iowa are about 67% less expensive than in Ontario, leaving you with a lighter mortgage.
- With income levels nearly the same in Iowa and Ontario, your financial outlook should remain steady.
- Expect the cost of living in Iowa to be about 25% below Ontario, giving you more financial flexibility.
- Iowa has a lower unemployment rate than Ontario by about 57%, suggesting a stronger job market.
- Income tax rates are around 67% lower in Iowa, so your take-home pay will be higher than in California.
How life is different in Ontario, CA from Iowa
From the weather and population to local politics, here’s how life in Iowa stacks up against what you’re used to in Ontario.
| Ontario, CA | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 175,265 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 49.8-48.3 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 92ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 43ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 16″ | 35″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 30″ |
| Crime index | 50.25 | 16.18 |
Iowa Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Iowa leaned Republican, while Ontario supported Democratic.
- Refreshing summers in Iowa average around 84ºF, while Ontario experiences higher averages at about 92ºF. Choosing a destination with cooler temperatures promises less heat, reduced energy expenses, and abundant outdoor fun, perfect for those who prefer a more comfortable and active lifestyle.
- Colder winters set in at 10ºF in Iowa, compared to 43ºF in Ontario. With this change, expect brisker winters and higher costs, but also the unique appeal of a colder climate.
- Get ready for about 35 inches of rain annually in Iowa, compared to just 16 inches in Ontario. More rainfall means greener scenery and wetter days, so plan ahead with good rain gear and a flexible routine.
- Iowa gets about 30 inches of snow each year, while Ontario sees none. Moving to Iowa means preparing for snowy winters — beautiful scenery and seasonal activities, but also shoveling, upkeep, and winter gear.
- Iowa records a lower crime rate (16.18) than Ontario (50.25), meaning you may enjoy more security and peace of mind after your move.
Other considerations when moving to Iowa
When you’re moving from Ontario to Iowa, you’ll want to do more than just pack your boxes and hire movers. Make sure you’re up to speed on local rules, permits, and other logistics that could affect your move.
- HOA rules: Always check community regulations beforehand so your move-in goes smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve the elevator if your building requires it for move-ins.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits 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 a Iowa moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s site.
- Moving permits: There’s no need for a moving permit in Iowa, but be sure to look up local parking rules before moving day.
- Change of address: Make sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You can choose your official move date and have your mail forwarded to Iowa. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay organized and be sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Iowa
Whether you’re into sports, parks, museums, or universities, Iowa has tons 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 Ontario to Iowa take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Ontario, CA, to Iowa? Most moves on this route usually take four to 15 days, depending on your service. Just a heads up. Moving during the hectic summer season might leave you open to delays.
To keep your move on track and steer clear of delays, be sure to ask about the delivery timeline before you book your movers.
How many movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?
There are 64 movers in Ontario that offer customized crates for a variety of fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped pieces, including artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you will need special crating for any of your items, be sure to confirm with a Ontario moving company that they will be able to accommodate your specific needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Ontario to Iowa?
Need to get your car from Ontario to Iowa? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Ontario to Iowa car shippers.
Why are people moving from Ontario 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 Ontario?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Ontario.
Can I pay for my move from Ontario, CA, with cash?
There are 36 movers in Ontario that accept cash payments. Even so, cash is not the norm in the moving industry, where traceable payment types are preferred. Plan to pay a deposit to lock in your booking and move date. The rest of the balance is usually due at pickup or after delivery—verify timing and accepted methods with your mover.
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