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The best local movers for Norfolk to Des Moines moves
It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Norfolk that also handles long-distance moves to Des Moines. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 20 local movers in Norfolk who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.
Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Norfolk to Des Moines.
- Coleman Worldwide Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Apple Moving : 4.48 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 076235
Years in Business: 110
DOT #: 2897746
Alternate Names: Covan World Wide Moving, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 3786641
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 902281
Alternate Names: All My Sons Of Newport News, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 163678
Years in Business: 69
DOT #: 1934458
Alternate Names: Harrison’s Moving & Storage Co., Inc. , Harrison’s Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
Company Info
State license #: 3064442
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Virginia Beach
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 5223
Years in Business: 0
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Norfolk to Des Moines?
The average hourly rate for movers in Virginia is $161. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,146 – $4,293 | $924 – $2,132 | $767 – $1,406 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,459 – $5,881 | $1,656 – $3,227 | $773 – $1,637 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,091 – $7,876 | $2,069 – $4,189 | $1,032 – $1,975 |
Cost to hire movers from Norfolk to Des Moines
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Norfolk to Des Moines will cost between $1,146 and $4,293. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Norfolk to Norfolk will range from $2,459 to $5,881, and a large move from Norfolk to Des Moines will cost from $4,091 to $7,876.
Cost of moving containers from Norfolk to Des Moines
If you’re moving from Norfolk to Des Moines, expect to pay between $924 and $2,132 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,656 up to $3,227. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,069 and $4,189. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Virginia.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Norfolk to Des Moines
Renting a moving truck from Norfolk to Des Moines 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, expect to spend between $767 and $1,406. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $773 and $1,637. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,032 up to $1,975 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Key factors that influence moving costs from Norfolk to Des Moines
The cost of Norfolk movers will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,158, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,698.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Norfolk, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($767–$1,807) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
What to know before moving from Norfolk to Des Moines
Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Norfolk – roughly 32% less for singles and 21% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $2,769 in Norfolk. For a family of four, it’s $4,380 compared with $5,552.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Norfolk | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,875 | $1,229 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,492 | $1,763 |
| Average home value | $283,890 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,484 | $58,492 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,769 | $1,891 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,552 | $4,380 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.3% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 4.4% |
- If you’re heading to Des Moines from Norfolk, you’ll find that rent is roughly 23% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
- Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 32% less in Des Moines than in Norfolk.
- Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 8% lower in Des Moines compared to Norfolk.
- Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Des Moines. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 32% lower than in Norfolk.
- Choosing to move to Des Moines can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 21% less than in Norfolk.
- Des Moines enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 19% lower compared to Norfolk, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
- Sales taxes rise by 17% in Des Moines over Norfolk, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
- Income taxes are 23% less in Iowa than in Virginia. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.
Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Norfolk and Des Moines:
| Living Expense | Norfolk | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $190.88 | $144.82 |
| Cell phone plan | $49.33 | $51.25 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.71 | $3.61 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.12 | $2.50 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.25 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $75.00 | $77.50 |
| Gym membership | $40.00 | $66.67 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Norfolk than in Des Moines.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Norfolk than in Des Moines.
- Eggs cost more in Norfolk than in Des Moines.
- Bread is more expensive in Norfolk than in Des Moines.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Norfolk than in Des Moines.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Norfolk than in Des Moines.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Norfolk than in Des Moines.
How life is different in Norfolk vs. Des Moines
| Norfolk | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 238,005 | 699,292 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 46 | 45 |
| Bike friendliness score | 47 | 39 |
| Crime index | 58.1 | 5.0 |
| Safety index | 41.9 | 57.8 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Des Moines’s population is about 194% greater than Norfolk.
- Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Norfolk’s score of 6.
- Des Moines and Norfolk are similarly walkable.
- Des Moines has a bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Norfolk, which has a score of 47.
- Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Norfolk with a score of 5.0 compared to Norfolk’s 58.1. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Norfolk neighborhoods are safer than 58.1%.
- Des Moines is considered to be safer than Norfolk with a safety index of 57.8 vs Norfolk’s 41.9.
- Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Norfolk it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Norfolk to Des Moines move
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
- Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
- 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
- State regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: Iowa doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Des Moines. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.
Where to live in Des Moines
Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Hartford of the West, these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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
Once you’re settled into your new home in Iowa, it’s time to get out and discover what Des Moines has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:
- Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Des Moines, such as 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 — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Drake Bulldogs game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Norfolk to Des Moines?
The best time to move from Norfolk to Des Moines is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Norfolk.
When is the cheapest time to move from Norfolk to Des Moines?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Norfolk to Des Moines, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.
How long does a move from Norfolk to Des Moines take?
Moving from Norfolk, VA to Des Moines, covers 1,209 miles and usually takes two to eight days. Need to move faster? Some Norfolk movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Des Moines.
Which movers in Norfolk give price breaks?
Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups.
Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.
Who can move pianos or antiques in Norfolk?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 17 movers in Norfolk advertise piano moving expertise. 9 movers in Norfolk provide antique moving services. State totals show 77 piano movers and 47 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.
Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
Norfolk moving services
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