Top-rated movers to make your Wichita to Des Moines move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Wichita that offers long-distance services to Des Moines can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed five top local movers in Wichita who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Wichita to Des Moines.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- American Movers: 4.36 out of 5 stars
- Titan Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- King’s Moving & Storage Inc: 4.3 out of 5 stars
- Mighty Movers: 4.08 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 2277955
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Moving OZ, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 1698749
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 2727872
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2727872
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 957078
Years in Business: 72
DOT #: 957078
Alternate Names: Heartland Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 1066399
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Wichita to Des Moines?
In Kansas, moving services typically cost around $165 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $983 – $3,175 | $644 – $1,467 | $362 – $613 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,766 – $4,796 | $1,176 – $2,120 | $363 – $749 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,974 – $6,773 | $1,528 – $2,814 | $480 – $880 |
Cost to hire movers from Wichita to Des Moines
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Des Moines from Wichita, you can expect prices to land between $983 and $3,175. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,766 to $4,796 for the trip from Wichita to Des Moines. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $2,974 and $6,773.
Cost of moving containers from Wichita to Des Moines
Moving containers from Wichita to Des Moines will cost you $644 to $1,467 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,176 to $2,120. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,528 to $2,814. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Kansas.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Wichita to Des Moines
Renting a moving truck from Wichita to Des Moines typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $362 and $613 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $363 to $749. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $480 to $880.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Wichita to Des Moines move
The cost of Wichita movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,432 for a one-bedroom, or up to $5,519 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Wichita.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $362 to $843, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Wichita to Des Moines
Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Wichita – roughly 10% less for singles and 25% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $2,107 in Wichita. For a family of four, it’s $4,380 compared with $5,818.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Wichita | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $979 | $1,229 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,920 | $1,763 |
| Average home value | $190,905 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $60,712 | $58,492 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,107 | $1,891 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,818 | $4,380 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 7.5% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 5.7% | 4.4% |
- Planning a move to Des Moines? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 24% higher than in Wichita, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Home pricing is relatively consistent, with less than a 5% difference between Des Moines and Wichita, making significant budget changes unnecessary unless you opt for a larger space.
- In terms of average income, Des Moines and Wichita are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Des Moines, as the cost of living for a single person is 10% lower compared to Wichita.
- A move to Des Moines can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 25% less than what it costs in Wichita.
- With Des Moines and Wichita having similar unemployment rates, deviating by approximately 5%, job opportunities and market competitiveness remain consistent.
- Sales taxes are 7% less in Des Moines relative to Wichita. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in Iowa are 23% below those in Kansas. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Wichita and Des Moines:
| Living Expense | Wichita | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $319.99 | $144.82 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.23 | $51.25 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.05 | $3.61 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.64 | $2.50 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $60.00 | $77.50 |
| Gym membership | $46.88 | $66.67 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Wichita than in Des Moines.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Wichita than in Des Moines.
- Eggs cost more in Wichita than in Des Moines.
- Bread is more expensive in Wichita than in Des Moines.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Wichita than in Des Moines.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Wichita than in Des Moines.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Wichita than in Des Moines.
How life is different in Wichita vs. Des Moines
| Wichita | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 397,532 | 699,292 |
| Transportation score | 3 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 35 | 45 |
| Bike friendliness score | 44 | 39 |
| Crime index | 49.19 | 5.0 |
| Safety index | 50.81 | 57.8 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Des Moines’s population is about 76% greater than Wichita.
- Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Wichita’s score of 3.
- Des Moines is more walkable than Wichita with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Wichita’s 35 out of 100.
- Des Moines has a bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Wichita, which has a score of 44.
- Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Wichita with a score of 5.0 compared to Wichita’s 49.19. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Wichita neighborhoods are safer than 49.19%.
- Des Moines is considered to be safer than Wichita with a safety index of 57.8 vs Wichita’s 50.81.
- Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Wichita it’s Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Wichita to Des Moines 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 to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- 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 booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Iowa’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Iowa does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Des Moines. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Des Moines
Planning your move to Hartford of the West? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Des Moines.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Sherman Hill
- Downtown
- East Village
- North of Grand
- Woodland Heights
- Arbor Peaks
- Chautauqua Park
- Beaverdale
- Westwood
Best neighborhoods for families
- Linden Heights
- Waterbury
- Waveland Park
- Westwood
- Salisbury Oaks
- Meredith
- Beaverdale
Things to do in Des Moines
After settling into your new Iowa home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Des Moines has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Des Moines features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Des Moines Art Center, State Historical Museum, Science Center of Iowa, and Salisbury House.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Gray’s Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Wichita to Des Moines?
Planning your move from Wichita to Des Moines? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Wichita.
When is the cheapest time to move from Wichita to Des Moines?
Because most people are moving from Wichita to Des Moines in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Wichita to Des Moines take?
The 392-mile journey from Wichita, KS to Des Moines, , typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Wichita offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Des Moines.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Wichita?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Wichita, 5 movers can manage piano relocations. 2 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Kansas has 14 piano movers and 8 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Wichita moving services
Popular Kansas routes
- Kansas to Iowa car shippers
- Kansas to California movers
- Kansas to Florida movers
- Kansas to Georgia movers
- Kansas to Illinois movers
- Kansas to Michigan movers
- Kansas to New York movers
- Kansas to North Carolina movers
- Kansas to Ohio movers
- Kansas to Pennsylvania movers
- Kansas to Texas movers
- See All Moving Routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!