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($1,206) Movers from Detroit, MI to Des Moines, IA

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Image of a moving truck going from Detroit to Des Moines
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 600 miles from Detroit to Des Moines typically costs between $496 and $5,273. The trip is expected to last from one–six days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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ryan carrigan moving expert
Hi, I’m Ryan.
Let’s get moving.
I’ve helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that’s right for you.
I’ve helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that’s right for you.

Best movers by type

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Professional
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Local
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Best professional movers from Detroit to Des Moines

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Detroit to Des Moines much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In Detroit, there are 28 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Des Moines.

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 Detroit to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 600-mile move from Detroit to Des Moines using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 22, 2026. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,350 – $3,853
  • Moving Container $907 – $1,771
  • Rental Truck $446 – $792
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,141 – $5,273
  • Moving Container $1,211 – $2,427
  • Rental Truck $496 – $960
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,691 – $7,734
  • Moving Container $1,681 – $2,893
  • Rental Truck $619 – $1,147
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
Algonac, MI Earlham, IA
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 27, 2025
American Van Lines
Melvindale, MI Granger, IA
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 15, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Hamtramck, MI Prairie City, IA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Dec 03, 2025
North American Van Lines
Barton Hills, MI Bouton, IA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Nov 24, 2025
United Van Lines
Grosse Pointe, MI Valeria, IA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Nov 21, 2025
BLVD Moving
Auburn Hills, MI Nevada, IA
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 20, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Lathrup Village, MI Bondurant, IA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 07, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Farmington, MI Linden, IA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Oct 25, 2025
Joyce Van Lines
South Lyon, MI Macksburg, IA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Oct 21, 2025
PODS
Gibraltar, MI Colo, IA
Icon of a house Studio apartment
Icon of a calendar Oct 18, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Des Moines, IA to Detroit, MI guide.

Top-rated movers to make your Detroit to Des Moines move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Detroit that offers long-distance services to Des Moines can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 37 top local movers in Detroit 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 Detroit to Des Moines.

  1. Palmer Moving Services: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  3. Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  4. O’Sullivan Moving & Storage CO.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  5. Handy Relocations: 4.28 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
81% of all reviews were positive
15% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Standout service and attention define customer feedback for Palmer Moving Services. With 250 reviews analyzed, 81% report positive experiences highlighted by professional staff, careful handling of items, efficient processes, strong communication, and timely moves. Customers often mention courteous crews going out of their way to accommodate needs, as well as accurate quotes and seamless execution—attributes that place Palmer ahead of many competitors. Feedback often credits Palmer for reducing moving day stress and protecting property. On the downside, a smaller portion of customers report major concerns such as items damaged during moves, difficulties in reaching staff, and final invoices higher than expected. Lost or mishandled belongings and slow claims resolution also receive criticism, matching common complaints faced by most moving companies. Most customers cite friendly, skilled crews as a strong reason for recommending Palmer, but those experiencing issues see communication gaps and claims processes as areas for improvement.
Get a Quote (586) 834-3400

Company Info

Years in Business: 114

DOT #: 511993

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving for their efficient service, polite and professional staff, and speedy moving process. Movers consistently handle belongings with care while maintaining clear communication, making the experience smooth and stress-free. Most clients say workers are reliable, prompt, and attentive. People also mention transparent pricing and easy scheduling as standout features. On the flip side, a small number of clients report damages to furniture or property and say that the company is slow to address such issues. A few mention challenges reaching customer service or experiencing rude behavior. With 298 customer reviews analyzed—93% positive—College Hunks stands out as a top performer compared to many moving services, excelling in speed, professionalism, and efficiency, but occasional mishandling and follow-up hassles mean attention to claims can be improved.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
74% of all reviews were positive
26% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC receives standout marks for professionalism, careful handling, speed, and value according to 280 pieces of customer feedback. About three-quarters of the input is positive, highlighting the staff’s courteous approach, affordable pricing, and consistent attention to protecting belongings and property during quick moves. Customers frequently mention thorough furniture wrapping, clear communication, and efficiency—traits that set Royal Movers apart from larger competitors, who customers sometimes cite as less careful or more expensive. Yet, a quarter of reviewers describe troubling experiences, with multiple reports of rude or unprofessional behavior, pricing disputes, and lack of clear updates or responsiveness. Unprofessional conduct, surprise cost increases, and breakdowns in communication form the backbone of these complaints. Royal Movers stands out for affordable, careful, and efficient service, but potential clients should be aware that some have encountered significant issues with customer service and billing transparency.
Get a Quote (313) 483-2250

Company Info

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1673815

Alternate Names: Royal Movers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
73% of all reviews were positive
24% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with O’Sullivan means fast work and respectful treatment of your belongings. Out of 320 pieces of feedback, 73% rated the company positively, reflecting efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, speed, and reasonable rates as standout features. Customers frequently compliment the team’s ability to move quickly while keeping items safe, and many say the pricing is budget-friendly compared to other movers in the area. The booking process is usually described as easy, with frequent recommendations citing trustworthy, hardworking crews. Some negative input highlights recurring problems: several clients reported damage to their items or property and faced slow responses or unreturned calls when seeking compensation. Unexpected or higher-than-expected charges also appear regularly in the negative feedback. In contrast to other movers, O’Sullivan receives high levels of repeat and referral business, pointing to a generally higher satisfaction rate but is also flagged for inconsistent resolution of claims. If customer communication and claims response matched their crews’ care and speed, customer satisfaction would likely be among the best in the region.
Get a Quote (800) 430-7881

Company Info

State license #: 20587

Years in Business: 42

DOT #: 1660642

Alternate Names: O’Sullivan Moving & Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86% of all reviews were positive
11% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Handy Relocations receives strong praise from most customers, with 85.9% providing positive feedback from 71 reviews analyzed. Shoppers appreciate professional staff, helpful movers, and clear communication throughout the process. Efficient service and upfront, transparent pricing stand out when compared to other companies, along with a reputation for going the extra mile to help customers find what they need. Negative feedback, though limited, points to issues like unexpected charges, challenges with the store’s availability, and marketing that some felt was misleading. Handy Relocations sets a high standard for customer service in the moving industry, though attention to billing accuracy and schedule consistency can further enhance the customer experience.
Get a Quote (313) 649-4917

Company Info

State license #: 39343

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3345697

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Detroit to Des Moines?

In Michigan, moving services typically cost around 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 $1,206 – $3,321 $685 – $1,556 $446 – $866
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,141 – $5,273 $1,211 – $2,427 $496 – $960
4+ bedrooms $3,691 – $7,734 $1,681 – $2,893 $619 – $1,147
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 600-mile move from Detroit to Des Moines, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Jan 22, 2026. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Detroit to Des Moines

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Des Moines from Detroit, you can expect prices to land between $1,206 and $3,321. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,141 to $5,273 for the trip from Detroit to Des Moines. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,691 and $7,734.

Cost of moving containers from Detroit to Des Moines

Moving containers from Detroit to Des Moines will cost you $685 to $1,556 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,211 to $2,427. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,681 to $2,893. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Michigan.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit to Des Moines

Renting a moving truck from Detroit 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 $446 and $866 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $496 to $960. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $619 to $1,147.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Detroit to Des Moines move

The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,618 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,618 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Detroit.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $446 to $1,107, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Detroit to Des Moines

Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Detroit – roughly 24% less for singles and 34% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $2,500 in Detroit. For a family of four, it’s $4,380 compared with $6,687.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Detroit Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $1,325 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $2,542 $1,763
Average home value $73,156 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $37,761 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $2,500 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $6,687 $4,380
Unemployment rate 9.06% 5.9%
Sales tax 6.0% 7.0%
State income tax 4.25% 4.4%
  • When relocating from Detroit to Des Moines, expect to find rent about 8% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
  • Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Des Moines are about 163% higher than those in Detroit.
  • Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 55% higher in Des Moines compared to Detroit, which might allow for more savings or investments.
  • You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Des Moines, as the cost of living for a single person is 24% lower compared to Detroit.
  • 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 34% less than what it costs in Detroit.
  • The unemployment rate in Des Moines is about 35% lower than in Detroit. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
  • Sales taxes in Des Moines are 17% more than in Detroit, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
  • Income taxes have a close resemblance in Iowa and Michigan, staying within a 5% variance. Your financial deductions should remain stable, facilitating a straightforward adjustment to your new setting.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Detroit and Des Moines:

Living Expense Detroit Des Moines
Basic utilities $251.12 $144.82
Cell phone plan $55.77 $51.25
Dozen eggs $3.52 $3.61
Loaf of bread $2.94 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $68.50 $77.50
Gym membership $43.00 $66.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Detroit than in Des Moines.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Detroit than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Detroit than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in Detroit than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Detroit than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Detroit than in Des Moines.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Detroit than in Des Moines.

How life is different in Detroit vs. Des Moines

Detroit Des Moines
Population 639,111 699,292
Transportation score 7 5
Walkability score 51 45
Bike friendliness score 52 39
Crime index 72.92 5.0
Safety index 27.08 57.8
Air quality Good Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 9% greater than Detroit.
  • Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Detroit’s score of 7.
  • Des Moines is less walkable than Detroit with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Detroit’s 51 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 Detroit, which has a score of 52.
  • Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 5.0 compared to Detroit’s 72.92. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
  • Des Moines is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 57.8 vs Detroit’s 27.08.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Detroit it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Detroit 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 Detroit to Des Moines?

Planning your move from Detroit to Des Moines? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Detroit.

When is the cheapest time to move from Detroit to Des Moines?

Because most people are moving from Detroit 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 Detroit to Des Moines take?

The 600-mile journey from Detroit, MI to Des Moines, , typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Detroit 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 there special savings available from movers in Detroit?

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 3 have discounts for military personnel. 3 extend reduced rates to seniors.

These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Detroit?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Detroit, 22 movers can manage piano relocations. 8 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Michigan has 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,299 and 1,464 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

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