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($1,169) Cost to Move From Durham, NC to Des Moines, IA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Moving 1,087 miles from Durham to Des Moines has an average cost ranging from $717 to $5,955. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly two–eight days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Durham to Des Moines

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
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
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

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Durham to Des Moines

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Durham to Des Moines. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 26 interstate moving companies in Durham. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey 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 Durham to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,087-mile move from Durham to Des Moines using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,878 – $4,539
  • Moving Container $1,170 – $2,140
  • Rental Truck $671 – $1,247
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,384 – $5,955
  • Moving Container $1,583 – $3,099
  • Rental Truck $717 – $1,625
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,962 – $7,597
  • Moving Container $2,035 – $4,008
  • Rental Truck $985 – $1,901
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.
American Van Lines
Ossipee, NC Ackworth, IA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 18, 2025
Safeway Moving
Chapel Hill, NC Kelley, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 11, 2025
United Van Lines
Butner, NC Stuart, IA
3 Bedrooms
Oct 07, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Archer Lodge, NC Elkhart, IA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 01, 2025
North American Van Lines
Hillsborough, NC Patterson, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 24, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Morrisville, NC Perry, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
Roadway Moving
Youngsville, NC Mingo, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 13, 2025
BLVD Moving
Lake Royale, NC St. Marys, IA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 23, 2025
PODS
Stem, NC Baxter, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 16, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Broadway, NC Ogden, IA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 02, 2025

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

Highly rated local moving companies for Durham to Des Moines moves

Organizing a move from Durham to Des Moines can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 27 local movers in Durham known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Durham to Des Moines.

  1. TROSA Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. Truckin’ Movers Corporation: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Miracle Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. Bellhop Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
14.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving doesn’t get easier, but customers say TROSA Moving delivers some of the best service in the region. In this analysis of 323 reviews, 84.5% reflect positive feedback, showing that most customers value TROSA’s efficient service, professional staff, and careful handling of belongings. Many highlight affordable rates and quick, smooth moving processes—even for complex moves or specialty items. A few reviews describe honest, responsive follow-up for minor hiccups, with frequent praise for thoroughness and reliability. Negative feedback, although much less frequent, centers on damage to items, communication lapses, and dissatisfaction with some staff interaction. Some customers reported careless packing, unresponsive customer service, or rude behavior during quotes or scheduling. Compared to other movers, TROSA stands out for going above and beyond to resolve complaints and for competitive pricing. The small portion of neutral feedback acknowledges both the care and quick response from TROSA, even if some minor issues required follow-up. Across the board, most reviewers recommend TROSA with confidence, especially appreciating their consistent professionalism and value.
Get a Quote (919) 419-1059

Company Info

State license #: C-726

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 675014

Alternate Names: TROSA Inc., TROSA Moving & Storage, TROSA Lawn Care, TROSA Thrift , TROSA Moving , Triangle Residential Options for Substance Abusers , Trosa Furniture & Frameshop , TROSA Lawncare

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78.0% of all reviews were positive
22.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving doesn’t have to be a headache—TWO MEN AND A TRUCK receives high marks from most customers, with 78% of the 273 reviews expressing satisfaction. Many people praise the team’s efficient service and fast-moving process, highlighting how careful staff routinely handle items with respect. Professionalism, excellent communication, and punctuality set this mover apart from typical competitors. Customers often note their moves finish quickly and without damage, boosting trust in the experience. On the flip side, 22% rendered negative feedback, mostly about items arriving damaged, poor complaint resolution, and unexpected final costs. Some report difficulty reaching support when resolving claims, and a handful describe costly surprises on invoices. Compared to other moving companies, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK delivers top-tier efficiency and professionalism, but falls short if something goes wrong and a customer needs follow-up. Most who need a reliable, careful move praise their work. Those focused on complaint handling or seeking guaranteed no-damage results should consider these risk points before booking.
Get a Quote (919) 261-7509

Company Info

State license #: 2443

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Oliver & Finley, LLC , Two Men And A Truck

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.8% of all reviews were positive
6.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Thousands of Triangle-area customers agree—Truckin’ Movers Corporation delivers a moving experience that’s a cut above most competitors. Out of 263 customer feedback entries examined, a remarkable 93% described positive results. Repeated praise centers on professional and polite staff, careful handling of possessions, efficient service, clear communication, and fast moving processes. Customers consistently note moves happening on time, accurate price estimates, and items delivered undamaged—even during complex interstate or international relocations. Negative input represents less than 7% of all feedback, and most issues involve items damaged in transit, inaccurate estimates leading to higher final bills, or delayed arrivals and deliveries. Some negative experiences also raise concerns about problem resolution and claims processes. Despite a few challenging moves, Truckin’ Movers sets a high standard for reliability and care, with service quality that stands out among area moving companies.
Get a Quote (919) 682-2300

Company Info

State license #: 2262

Years in Business: 48

DOT #: 0233952

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.4% of all reviews were positive
16.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and satisfied customers paint Miracle Movers as a standout among moving companies—of 255 reviews, 82.4% shine with positive feedback. Customers consistently praise the efficient service, careful handling, professional crews, speedy moves, and clear communication. Many note the company excels at protecting belongings and making stressful transitions feel easy. On the other hand, the most consistent complaints are about damage to household items, slow or lacking responses to claims, and occasional unexpected or higher charges at billing. Despite these issues, negative comments account for less than one-fifth of feedback, considerably lower than industry averages. For most clients, Miracle Movers reliably delivers a prompt, safe move with friendly staff, putting it well ahead of many competitors who struggle with service consistency and trust.
Get a Quote (919) 656-4043

Company Info

State license #: 2894

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 2461529

Alternate Names: Miracle Movers of Raleigh, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
53.1% of all reviews were positive
46.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving stands out for movers who work quickly, handle items with care, and maintain a friendly, professional attitude. Over half the feedback highlights a smooth, efficient moving process. Customers appreciate reliable scheduling, approachable staff, and fast service—traits that compare well to industry standards. Some clients, though, face problems like damaged belongings, unexpected charges, or late arrivals. Main complaints point to carelessness with items, delays, and surprise fees. A number of customers also had trouble with customer service responsiveness during issues. While many would recommend Bellhop for efficient, courteous movers, those with damaged goods or billing issues experienced significant frustration. Out of 32 customer inputs, 53% were positive, suggesting the company often delivers strong results but still has areas needing improvement.
Get a Quote (919) 246-4318

Company Info

State license #: 2934

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhop Moving Services

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

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

On average, moving companies in North Carolina charge about $145 per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,169 – $4,511 $892 – $2,114 $712 – $1,287
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,384 – $5,955 $1,583 – $3,099 $717 – $1,625
4+ bedrooms $3,962 – $7,597 $2,035 – $4,008 $985 – $1,901
*Estimated cost ranges for a 1,087-mile move from Durham to Des Moines are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Durham to Des Moines

When planning a move to Des Moines from Durham, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,169 and $4,511. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,384 and $5,955 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,962 to $7,597.

Cost of moving containers from Durham to Des Moines

When you’re heading from Durham to Des Moines, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $892 and $2,114. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,583 and $3,099. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,035 to $4,008. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from North Carolina easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Durham to Des Moines

A moving rental truck from Durham to Des Moines is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $712 to $1,287. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $717 to $1,625, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Durham to Des Moines costs around $985 to $1,901.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Durham to Des Moines

The cost of Durham movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Durham to Des Moines may only cost $2,119, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $6,549.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Durham.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($712–$1,689), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Durham to Des Moines

Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Durham – roughly 33% less for singles and 26% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $2,803 in Durham. For a family of four, it’s $4,380 compared with $5,945.

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

Durham Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $1,875 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $2,573 $1,763
Average home value $391,719 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $69,117 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $2,803 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $5,945 $4,380
Unemployment rate 4.1% 5.9%
Sales tax 7.5% 7.0%
State income tax 4.5% 4.4%
  • Rent is about 32% less expensive in Des Moines than in Durham, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 51% cheaper in Des Moines than in Durham.
  • You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 15% less in Des Moines than in Durham.
  • Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Des Moines. The cost of living for a single person there is 33% below that of Durham.
  • A move to Des Moines can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 26% lower compared to Durham.
  • Des Moines has a higher unemployment rate than Durham by about 44%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
  • Sales taxes are 7% cheaper in Des Moines compared to Durham. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
  • Income taxes are nearly the same between Iowa and North Carolina, within a 5% range. This consistency assures you of predictable financial planning during your state move.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Durham versus Des Moines:

Living Expense Durham Des Moines
Basic utilities $148.21 $144.82
Cell phone plan $51.67 $51.25
Dozen eggs $4.53 $3.61
Loaf of bread $3.66 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $70.00 $77.50
Gym membership $40.00 $66.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Durham than in Des Moines.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Durham than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs cost more in Durham than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in Durham than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Durham than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Durham than in Des Moines.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Durham than in Des Moines.

How life is different in Durham vs. Des Moines

Durham Des Moines
Population 283,506 699,292
Transportation score 4 5
Walkability score 30 45
Bike friendliness score 38 39
Crime index 54.72 5.0
Safety index 45.28 57.8
Air quality Good Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 147% greater than Durham.
  • Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Durham’s score of 4.
  • Des Moines is more walkable than Durham with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Durham’s 30 out of 100.
  • Both Des Moines and Durham have similar bike-friendliness scores (38 vs 39), meaning Des Moines is about as safe for cyclists as Durham. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
  • Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Durham with a score of 5.0 compared to Durham’s 54.72. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Durham neighborhoods are safer than 54.72%.
  • Des Moines is considered to be safer than Durham with a safety index of 57.8 vs Durham’s 45.28.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Durham it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Durham to Des Moines move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Durham and Des Moines are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Iowa, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Iowa, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Des Moines. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Des Moines

With your sights set on Hartford of the West, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider 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

With your move to Iowa complete, you can dive right into experiencing Des Moines. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Des Moines is home to museums and cultural arts centers like 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 — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Durham to Des Moines?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Durham to Des Moines. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Durham.

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

Want to save on your move from Durham to Des Moines? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

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

The 1,087-mile move from Durham, NC, to Des Moines, , takes two to eight days. Some Durham movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Des Moines.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Durham?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 19 movers in Durham provide piano moving services. 8 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 78 piano movers and 38 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

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