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($883) Movers From St. Louis, MO to Iowa

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Estimated cost & time: The cost to move 346 miles from St. Louis, MO to Iowa averages $348 to $4,538. The process can take anywhere from one to four 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 St. Louis, MO 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 St. Louis, MO to Iowa

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 346-mile move from St. Louis, MO, 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 $1,031 – $3,520
  • Moving container $845 – $1,466
  • Rental truck $308 – $614
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $1,567 – $4,538
  • Moving container $1,158 – $2,080
  • Rental truck $348 – $664
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Full-service mover $2,530 – $6,182
  • Moving container $1,458 – $2,670
  • Rental truck $445 – $845
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.
Budget Truck Rental
Dardenne Prairie, MO Barnes City, IA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 13, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Festus, MO Camanche, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 12, 2025
BLVD Moving
Clayton, MO Ogden, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 07, 2025
Roadway Moving
Peaceful Village, MO Nichols, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 07, 2025
PODS
Florissant, MO Randolph, IA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 23, 2025
North American Van Lines
Hillsdale, MO Conrad, IA
Studio apartment
Sep 19, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Bella Villa, MO Mechanicsville, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 10, 2025
American Van Lines
Northwoods, MO Radcliffe, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 27, 2025
United Van Lines
Webster Groves, MO Balltown, IA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 22, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Frontenac, MO Dexter, IA
Studio apartment
Aug 19, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Iowa to St. Louis, MO guide .

Local moving companies in St. Louis

Out of 13 St. Louis movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Iowa.

  1. Arch Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  3. Simple Moves: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. McGuire Moving and Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  5. ABC Quality Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
57.9% of all reviews were positive
32.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input reveals Arch Moving stands out for efficient service, professional and polite staff, and careful handling—traits that rank it higher than many competitors. Out of 76 reviews analyzed, 58% were positive. Customers highlight quick moving, helpful movers, and care for belongings as main strengths. On the other hand, 33% of input cited problems, mainly damage to items, inexperienced movers, and lack of communication. Multiple customers experienced property or item damage, with some reports of lost items and unsatisfactory claims processes. Others found crews lacking experience or communication lacking, particularly from office staff. While many noted friendly, hardworking movers and fast, well-organized moves, negative feedback points to greater risk of damage or mishandling than top-rated moving companies. Those seeking value and efficiency often found the service met or exceeded expectations, yet those who value reliability and item safety should proceed with caution and discuss coverage and experience with the company before booking.
Get a Quote (314) 964-5557

Company Info

State license #: 2969512

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 2969512

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
75.9% of all reviews were positive
21.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day made simple: feedback from 361 reviewers shows two out of three customers raved about Two Men and a Truck’s speed, careful handling, and positive, professional attitude. Three out of four reviews praised efficient service, noting teams that work quickly while respecting belongings and property. Customers repeatedly mention helpful staff making moves less stressful. On the downside, about 22% flagged issues, with damaged items as the top concern. Some reported belongings arrived scratched or broken, while others found their final bills exceeded estimates by hundreds of dollars. Delays or late arrivals also frustrated a portion of customers. Compared to many movers, Two Men and a Truck earns higher marks for courtesy and efficiency, but shoppers sensitive to cost or worried about valuables should stay vigilant and clarify terms before moving day.
Get a Quote (314) 270-5758

Company Info

State license #: 714664

Years in Business: 31

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
82.4% of all reviews were positive
16.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Simple Moves racks up an impressive 82% positive feedback across 450 customer reviews, with just under 17% reporting negative experiences. Clients praise the company’s efficient service, careful handling of belongings, professional and polite staff, quick moving times, and affordable rates. Many remark on how the team completes moves swiftly while maintaining great care and friendliness, often outperforming bigger-name competitors on both price and customer service. On the downside, the majority of criticisms mention damage to furniture or property, delayed arrivals or missed time windows, and a lack of follow-up or response from management when issues arose. While most find the moving crews helpful and reliable, those with more complex moves or high-value items should note the feedback on inconsistent packing quality and rare breakdowns in communication. Compared to other movers, Simple Moves stands out for affordability and efficiency but, like most budget-friendly services, careful attention to special handling details may require clear advance coordination.
Get a Quote (314) 963-3416

Company Info

State license #: 1653733

Pricing: $145/hr

Years in Business: 24

DOT #: 1653733

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.3% of all reviews were positive
16.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input paints McGuire Moving and Storage as a leader for professionalism and skilled handling. Of 130 reviews, 82% were favorable, with clients praising the courteous staff, careful approach, efficiency, and effective communication. The company’s teams consistently earn recommendations, with multiple customers reporting stress-free and damage-free moves. Negative feedback, making up about 17%, centers on item damage, lost belongings, and select instances of unprofessionalism or poor service recovery. Despite a few cases of unresolved issues, customers more often highlight reliability and a hands-on approach not easily found with competitors. McGuire sets itself apart by maintaining a highly praised team and strong follow-up, though, on rare occasions, resolution on damage or loss lags behind client expectations.
Get a Quote (314) 241-0600

Company Info

State license #: 2256609

Years in Business: 45

DOT #: 2256609

Alternate Names: McGuire Moving Co.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
83.7% of all reviews were positive
16.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call ABC Quality Moving & Storage a top pick for efficient moves, friendly crews, and professional handling, with 263 reviews showing 83.7% positive feedback. People highlight how quickly movers work, their politeness, and care with belongings. Many say teams go above and beyond—packing thoroughly and sharing a helpful attitude. Customers also praise how approachable the staff is and report competitive, transparent pricing compared to other movers. On the other hand, negative input makes it clear damage to items happens more often than expected, and reports of unprofessional behavior and missed deadlines appear in several reviews. Some say response to complaints or claims lags, or that movers lacked care when handling furniture and property. Service reliability and professionalism seem above average for the local market, but unresolved damage and communication problems place ABC behind standout companies. Clients looking for fast, careful service will likely enjoy a smooth experience; those who value guarantee against mishaps or perfect support post-move should review terms closely before booking.
Get a Quote (314) 772-1887

Company Info

State license #: 987335

Years in Business: 36

DOT #: 987335

Alternate Names: ABC Quality Moving

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 St. Louis, MO

At a glance, the number of St. Louis movers with specialty add-ons:

Interstate
11 84.62%
Small moves
11 84.62%
Antiques
5 38.46%
Art
6 46.15%
Pianos
9 69.23%
Fragile-only packing
5 38.46%

Cost to move from St. Louis, MO to Iowa

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

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $883 – $2,956 $584 – $1,411 $317 – $572
2-3 bedrooms $1,567 – $4,538 $1,158 – $2,080 $348 – $664
4+ bedrooms $2,530 – $6,182 $1,458 – $2,670 $445 – $845

*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 346-mile move from St. Louis, MO, 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 St. Louis to Iowa

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from St. Louis to Iowa typically costs between $883 and $2,956. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $1,567 and $4,538. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) you’re looking at costs ranging from $2,530 up to $6,182.

Cost of moving containers from St. Louis to Iowa

If you’re relocating from St. Louis to Iowa, you’ll typically spend between $584 and $1,411 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,158 up to $2,080. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $1,458 and $2,670. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from St. Louis 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 St. Louis to Iowa, expect to pay between $317 and $572. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $348 to $664. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $445 and $845.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors influencing moving costs from St. Louis to IA

The cost of a move in St. Louis 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 St. Louis 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 St. Louis to IA

Journeying from St. Louis to Iowa opens up new possibilities, but be prepared for an increase in living expenses. As Iowa tends to be pricier than St. Louis, thorough budget planning is advised.

Take a look at how living in St. Louis stacks up against Iowa so you’re prepared before making the move:

Compare cost of living: St. Louis vs. Iowa

St. Louis, MO Iowa
Average rent $1,250 $914
Average home cost $171,463 $220,277
Average income (per capita) $66,090 $70,571
Cost of living index 84 89
Unemployment rate 6.3% 3.0%
State income tax 4.8% 4.4%
  • Rent is about 27% lower in Iowa than in St. Louis, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.
  • You’ll spend roughly 28% more on housing in Iowa compared to St. Louis, so plan for a larger mortgage.
  • Exciting news: the average income is about 7% higher in Iowa than in St. Louis, so you’ll likely have more room to save or invest.
  • On average, the cost of living in Iowa is 6% above St. Louis, so prepare for higher monthly expenses.
  • The unemployment rate in Iowa is around 52% lower than in St. Louis, pointing to a more favorable employment outlook.
  • Iowa’s income tax rates are about 8% lower than Missouri’s, so you’ll keep more of what you earn.

How life is different in St. Louis, MO from Iowa

When planning a move from St. Louis 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 St. Louis behind for life in Iowa.

St. Louis, MO Iowa
Population 293,310 3,207,004
Political leaning Republican 58-42 Republican 53-45
Summer high 89ºF 84ºF
Winter low 23ºF 10ºF
Annual rain 42″ 35″
Annual snow 16″ 30″
Crime index 69.65 16.18
  • In the last presidential election, both St. Louis and Iowa voted Republican.
  • Summer highs typically reach about 84ºF in Iowa and 89ºF in St. Louis. 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 St. Louis at 23ºF. 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 St. Louis. More sunshine and fewer rainy days make it easier to get outside and enjoy your new home.
  • Each year, Iowa gets about 30 inches of snow, far more than the 16 inches you might be accustomed to in St. Louis. That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
  • Iowa has a lower crime index of 16.18 versus St. Louis at 69.65, suggesting safer neighborhoods and fewer safety concerns overall.

Comparing the pros of St. Louis, MO versus Iowa:

Relocating can open up a world of new experiences. Discover the unique charms of St. Louis when set against Iowa.

Pros of living in St. Louis, MO Pros of living in Iowa
Rich culture Low cost of living
Bountiful arts and recreational activities Ample economic opportunity
Quality public transportation High quality of education
Low cost of living No traffic
Friendly people Beautiful outdoors

Comparing the cons of St. Louis, MO versus Iowa:

While venturing from St. Louis to Iowa, be mindful of the potential hurdles you may encounter.

Cons of living in St. Louis, MO Cons of living in Iowa
Poor education Severe weather conditions
High crime rate Limited recreational opportunities
Urban sprawl High taxes
Lack of economic opportunity High emphasis on politics
Pervasive poverty Rustic food

Other considerations when moving to Iowa

If you’re relocating from St. Louis 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 St. Louis to Iowa take?

The time it takes to move from St. Louis, MO, to Iowa ultimately depends on the moving method you choose. But on average it will take one to four 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 St. Louis offer custom-built crate services?

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

What is the best way to get a car from St. Louis to Iowa?

Need to ship your car from St. Louis 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 Missouri to Iowa.

Why are people moving from St. Louis to Iowa?

Many people are moving to Iowa because of its low cost of living and ample economic opportunity. On the other hand, people are moving away from St. Louis because of the poor education and high crime rate.

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

Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in St. Louis?

Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in St. Louis.

Is cash an option to pay for a move from St. Louis, MO?

THere are currently, five movers in St. Louis 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.

Helpful moving resources

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