Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($1,140) Movers From Des Moines, IA to Kentucky

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost to move 683 miles from Des Moines, IA to Kentucky averages $551 to $5,430. Your move could take anywhere from one to six days. Overall, it will depend on the size, timing, distance, and whether you’re hiring professional movers or doing a DIY move.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from Des Moines, IA to Kentucky

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 Kentucky

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 683-mile move from Des Moines, IA, to Kentucky using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of verified rates from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to keep up with seasonality and market dynamics. Your final price may shift due to the size of your move, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel, and timing. Get multiple quotes to understand what you should expect to pay.
Studio Icon

Studio/1 bedroom

  • Full-service mover $1,447 – $4,160
  • Moving container $1,042 – $1,924
  • Rental truck $515 – $927
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $2,187 – $5,430
  • Moving container $1,337 – $2,437
  • Rental truck $551 – $1,090
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $4,013 – $8,199
  • Moving container $1,702 – $3,393
  • Rental truck $681 – $1,294
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.
1-800-Pack-Rat
Earlham, IA Fort Campbell North, KY
4 Bedrooms
Oct 28, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Jamaica, IA Broeck Pointe, KY
2 Bedrooms
Oct 26, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Elkhart, IA Jeffersontown, KY
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 22, 2025
American Van Lines
Melcher-Dallas, IA Dawson Springs, KY
Studio apartment
Oct 08, 2025
Safeway Moving
Van Meter, IA Owingsville, KY
3 Bedrooms
Oct 07, 2025
Roadway Moving
Truro, IA Seneca Gardens, KY
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 07, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
State Center, IA Warfield, KY
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 10, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Reasnor, IA Loyall, KY
2 Bedrooms
Sep 07, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Dallas Center, IA St. Charles, KY
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 29, 2025
North American Van Lines
Mingo, IA Falmouth, KY
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 11, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Kentucky 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 Kentucky.

  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

Here is a quick look at how many movers in Des Moines offer add-on specialty 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 Kentucky

The table below shows typical price ranges to move from Des Moines to Kentucky, with service options tailored to your home size.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,140 – $3,852 $743 – $1,708 $500 – $881
2-3 bedrooms $2,187 – $5,430 $1,337 – $2,437 $551 – $1,090
4+ bedrooms $4,013 – $8,199 $1,702 – $3,393 $681 – $1,294

*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 683-mile move from Des Moines, IA, to Kentucky using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified rates from moving companies around the country, refreshed monthly for seasonality and market movement. Final charges can fluctuate based on the scope of your move, add-ons, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing multiple estimates for accuracy.

Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Kentucky

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Des Moines to Kentucky, you can expect to spend between $1,140 and $3,852. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,187 to $5,430 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home typically runs between $4,013 and $8,199.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Kentucky

When moving from Des Moines to Kentucky, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $743 and $1,708. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,337 to $2,437. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,702 up to $3,393. 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 Des Moines.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Kentucky

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 in Des Moines to relocate to Kentucky and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $500 and $881. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $551 and $1,090. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $681 and $1,294.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors influencing moving costs from Des Moines to KY

The cost of Des Moines movers will depend on:

  • Move size: Larger homes and more belongings increase the total moving cost.
  • Time of year: Moving during busy summer months in Des Moines can drive up rates.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: DIY can cut costs, but professional movers provide convenience and peace of mind.

What you should know before moving from Des Moines to KY

Heading from Des Moines to Kentucky comes with new adventures, but also a bump in living expenses. Because Kentucky usually has a higher cost of living than Des Moines, it’s smart to budget and plan ahead.

Discover how life in Des Moines compares with Kentucky to help you make an informed moving decision:

Compare cost of living: Des Moines vs. Kentucky

Des Moines, IA Kentucky
Average rent $1,150 $902
Average home cost $192,347 $212,088
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $60,183
Cost of living index 87 93
Unemployment rate 5.9% 5.0%
State income tax 4.4% 4.0%
  • Expect rent in Kentucky to be about 22% cheaper than in Des Moines, leaving you with more money each month.
  • Home prices in Kentucky are about 10% higher than in Des Moines, so budget for a higher mortgage bill.
  • The average income in Kentucky is about the same as in Des Moines, so your finances should feel stable after the move.
  • Living in Kentucky will cost about 7% more than in Des Moines, so it’s important to budget for the increase.
  • With unemployment about 15% lower in Kentucky than in Des Moines, you may find it easier to secure work.
  • Moving to Kentucky means income taxes about 9% lower than in Iowa, so you’ll enjoy extra take-home pay.

How life is different in Des Moines, IA from Kentucky

If you’re considering a move from Des Moines to Kentucky, there are some notable lifestyle differences to keep in mind. From climate and population size to political leanings, here’s how life in Kentucky compares to life in Des Moines.

Des Moines, IA 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
  • In the last presidential election, Kentucky leaned Republican, while Des Moines supported Democratic.
  • Summer highs generally reach around 87ºF in both Kentucky and Des Moines, meaning the climate will feel quite familiar. Don’t forget to factor in humidity, prevailing weather patterns, and energy costs to gain a full picture of what summer life will be like in your new location.
  • Kentucky enjoys milder winters, with lows around 24ºF compared to Des Moines at 13ºF. That means less bundling up, lower heating bills, and easier seasonal living.
  • Expect 48 inches of rain each year in Kentucky, compared with just 36 inches in Des Moines. That’s more frequent rainfall, so be ready for lush landscapes and the occasional soggy day.
  • In Kentucky, you’ll see just 11 inches of snow each year, compared to Des Moines, which gets 33 inches annually. Moving to Kentucky means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
  • Crime is higher in Kentucky, with an index of 16.63 compared to Des Moines at 5.0. This may call for extra awareness of local safety practices.

Other considerations when moving to Kentucky

When relocating from Des Moines to Kentucky, a few details are worth keeping in mind to avoid last-minute hiccups. Beyond choosing a mover and packing your belongings, it’s helpful to consider local rules, permit requirements, and other practical factors that could impact your move.

  • HOA rules: Make sure to check your neighborhood or community’s moving rules ahead of time to avoid any surprises on moving day.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator ahead of time if one is available for moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities ask for parking permits when you’re using a moving truck or large vehicle. Check in advance to see if you’ll need a permit for your move.
  • State licensing: Movers in Kentucky are licensed and regulated by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) – Division of Motor Carriers. Moving companies that operate within the state must carry adequate cargo insurance and file public tariffs detailing the services they offer and the cost for each. The KYTC can assist consumers with resolving disputes with movers, but only after a customer makes a formal written complaint. Make sure your moving company has all the proper licenses before you book with them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Kentucky moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
  • Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit for Kentucky, but it’s smart to look into local parking rules before your move.
  • Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before you move. You’ll be able to choose your official move date so your mail is forwarded to Kentucky seamlessly. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Insurance requirements vary by state, so be sure to review the regulations where you live. Choose Released Value Protection for free, basic coverage from movers at 60 cents per pound. For comprehensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Simplify your move using our moving checklist. It keeps everything organized and takes care of the details, so you can relax and enjoy making your new place home.

Things to do in Kentucky

Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Kentucky.

Museums in Kentucky

  • Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
  • Kentucky Derby Museum
  • Ark Encounter
  • National Corvette Museum
  • The National Quilt Museum

Parks in Kentucky

  • Smothers Park
  • Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
  • Natural Bridge State Resort Park
  • Red River Gorge Geological Area
  • Freeman Lake Park

Sports teams in Kentucky

  • Bellarmine Knights (NCAA)
  • Eastern Kentucky Colonels (NCAA)
  • Kentucky Wildcats (NCAA)
  • Louisville Cardinals (NCAA)
  • Morehead State Eagles (NCAA)

Universities in Kentucky

  • University of Kentucky
  • University of Louisville
  • Western Kentucky University
  • Eastern Kentucky University
  • Georgetown College

FAQ

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

How long will your move from Des Moines, IA to Kentucky take? It depends on the type of service you pick, but you can usually expect it to take one to six days. Just keep in mind that moves during the busy summer season may take a bit longer.

To get your move done as quickly as possible, ask for a delivery timeframe before you book your moving company.

What’s the availability of custom crating among movers in Des Moines?

We track eight movers in Des Moines that can build custom crates for items such as art, antiques, and sensitive electronics. Be sure to confirm with a Des Moines moving company that the materials and dimensions match your item requirements.

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

Looking to ship your car from Des Moines to Kentucky? Choose experts who know how to treat your vehicle right and handle every detail with professionalism. Check out our top picks for car shipping from Iowa to Kentucky.

Why are people moving from Des Moines to Kentucky?

Many people are moving to Kentucky because of its low cost of living and abundant outdoor adventures.

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

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

Can I use cash to pay a mover in Des Moines, IA?

Currently, four movers in Des Moines accept cash as a payment option. Still, cash isn’t widely used in the moving industry, which favors traceable methods and clear receipts. Expect to pay a deposit first to secure your move date. The rest is due either at pickup or once delivery is complete—check with your mover on the exact payment schedule and accepted types.

Helpful moving resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle