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($1,203) Cost to Move From Des Moines, IA to Detroit, MI

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 599 miles from Des Moines to Detroit typically costs between $471 and $5,170. 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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Best movers from Des Moines to Detroit

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 Des Moines to Detroit

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Des Moines to Detroit 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 Des Moines, there are 9 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Detroit.

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 Des Moines to Detroit

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 599-mile move from Des Moines to Detroit using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. 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 $1,359 – $3,755
  • Moving Container $978 – $1,763
  • Rental Truck $455 – $814
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,093 – $5,170
  • Moving Container $1,180 – $2,413
  • Rental Truck $471 – $1,007
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,777 – $7,873
  • Moving Container $1,608 – $3,147
  • Rental Truck $630 – $1,203
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.
1-800-Pack-Rat
Collins, IA Garden City, MI
3 Bedrooms
Oct 23, 2025
North American Van Lines
Lucas, IA Wyandotte, MI
2 Bedrooms
Oct 18, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Reasnor, IA Oxford, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 16, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Lorimor, IA Mount Clemens, MI
Studio apartment
Oct 08, 2025
Safeway Moving
Swan, IA Allen Park, MI
3 Bedrooms
Sep 21, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Milo, IA Keego Harbor, MI
3 Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
BLVD Moving
Prairie City, IA Wolverine Lake, MI
4 Bedrooms
Sep 16, 2025
Roadway Moving
Ames, IA Novi, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 16, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
East Peru, IA Center Line, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 07, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Johnston, IA Pleasant Ridge, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 18, 2025

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

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

Finding a trusted local moving company in Des Moines that offers long-distance services to Detroit can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 13 top local movers in Des Moines 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 Des Moines to Detroit.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. All Mighty Movers LLC: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  4. Black Belt Movers: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  5. Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
8.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Two Men and a Truck earns its reputation for being fast, careful, and professional, with 92% of customer feedback praising efficient service, attention to detail, and courteous movers. Most people said the crews worked quickly, handled belongings with care, communicated well, and made moving less stressful. Many customers noted the movers were polite, helpful, and followed directions accurately, setting them apart from less organized competitors. Some even reported coming in under budget due to team efficiency, and highlighted transparent pricing and great office support. Negative feedback primarily cited issues with item damage, inexperienced movers, and unexpected costs. A small number of reviewers mentioned poor packing, lack of effort to resolve damages, and occasional rude remarks, especially in more complex moves. While damage to belongings arose more often than other negatives, the vast majority of feedback still positions this company as one of the most reliably consistent options for moving services in the region.
Get a Quote (515) 216-3654

Company Info

Years in Business: 27

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
64.0% of all reviews were positive
36.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast, affordable, and careful—most customer feedback praises All Mighty Movers LLC for their quick moving process, professional crews, and attentive handling of belongings. Out of 25 reviews analyzed, 64% are positive, often highlighting low rates, polite staff, and efficient service. Clients commonly appreciate how speedily and safely items were moved, noting that furniture and fragile goods arrived undamaged. Many mention the company beats local competitors in both price and quality, thanks to thoughtful movers who keep an upbeat attitude even with challenging jobs. On the downside, 36% of feedback centers on inaccurate estimates, unexpected charges, and unclear communication, especially regarding additional fees and scheduling. Some customers feel misled when final costs exceeded quoted amounts. Compared to many moving companies, All Mighty Movers earns high marks for efficiency and pricing but leaves room to improve transparency and customer relations, especially for billing and communication during more complex moves.
Get a Quote (515) 313-1395

Company Info

Pricing: $130/hr

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2468266

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.7% of all reviews were positive
7.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving has never looked so easy. From 260 customer feedback entries, College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving earned praise for efficient service, professionalism, and careful handling, with 92.7% of responses reflecting positive experiences. The staff often receives high marks for friendliness and effective communication, outperforming many competitors on reliability. Customers commonly mention the quick moving process and how carefully items are treated. On the downside, some reported damage to belongings, unexpected charges, and unprofessional conduct—chiefly in the few negative submissions, which account for 7.3% of the total. Compared to others, College Hunks stands out for speed, courteous crews, and strong problem-solving skills, but attention to quality control and transparent billing could prevent negative encounters. The company sets a high standard for service and staff demeanor, making it a leading choice in the moving industry.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 2378173

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
% of all reviews were positive
% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Get a Quote (515) 393-4253

Company Info

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 3527158

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
99.6% of all reviews were positive
0.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews consistently place Adamantine Spine Moving at the top of moving services in Iowa and beyond. Analyzing 223 customer reviews, 99.6% of feedback highlights professionalism, efficient service, excellent communication, careful handling, and quick moving crews. Customers repeatedly mention that staff are polite, approachable, and make stressful moves easy with precise organization and prompt responses. Quotes tend to be accurate, crews are well-trained, and moves large or small are handled with care. Compared to larger moving firms, Adamantine stands out for its hard-working teams and reliable pricing, with many clients calling the experience the best they’ve had. The only significant complaint noted involves a billing discrepancy where the final charge was much higher than the initial estimate, and the situation wasn’t resolved effectively. This single negative input strongly contrasts the otherwise outstanding reputation. Adamantine’s client input sets it apart from typical moving companies and makes it a top recommendation for anyone looking for trusted moving professionals.
Get a Quote (319) 519-0154

Company Info

Pricing: $100/hr

Years in Business: 25

DOT #: 1471037

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

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

In Iowa, moving services typically cost around $128 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 $1,203 – $3,369 $710 – $1,744 $450 – $806
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,093 – $5,170 $1,180 – $2,413 $471 – $1,007
4+ bedrooms $3,777 – $7,873 $1,608 – $3,147 $630 – $1,203
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 599-mile move from Des Moines to Detroit, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. 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 Des Moines to Detroit

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Detroit from Des Moines, you can expect prices to land between $1,203 and $3,369. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,093 to $5,170 for the trip from Des Moines to Detroit. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,777 and $7,873.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Detroit

Moving containers from Des Moines to Detroit will cost you $710 to $1,744 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,180 to $2,413. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,608 to $3,147. Learn more about PODS cost.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Detroit

Renting a moving truck from Des Moines to Detroit typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $450 and $806 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $471 to $1,007. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $630 to $1,203.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

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

The cost of Des Moines movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,747 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,933 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Des Moines.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $450 to $1,029, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Detroit

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Detroit runs about 32% higher for singles and 53% higher for families than Des Moines.

Singles spend around $2,500 in Des Moines versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $6,687 compared with $4,380.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Des Moines Detroit
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $1,325
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $2,542
Average home value $192,347 $73,156
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $37,761
Cost of living (single) $1,891 $2,500
Cost of living (family of four) $4,380 $6,687
Unemployment rate 5.9% 9.06%
Sales tax 7.0% 6.0%
State income tax 4.4% 4.25%
  • Planning a move to Detroit? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 9% higher than in Des Moines, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
  • You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 62% more affordable in Detroit compared to Des Moines.
  • Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 35% lower in Detroit compared to Des Moines.
  • Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Detroit, as living costs for a single person are 32% higher than in Des Moines. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
  • If you’re moving your family to Detroit, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Detroit is 53% higher than in Des Moines.
  • Detroit shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Des Moines by around 54%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
  • Sales taxes are 14% less in Detroit relative to Des Moines. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
  • Income taxes have a close resemblance in Michigan and Iowa, 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 Des Moines and Detroit:

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

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Detroit

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

Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Detroit 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: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Michigan’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: Michigan 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 Detroit. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Detroit

Planning your move to America’s Comeback City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Detroit.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Corktown
  • Brush Park
  • Woodbridge
  • Downtown
  • Lafayette Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Sherwood Forest
  • Palmer Woods
  • University District
  • Corktown
  • Lafayette Park

Things to do in Detroit

After settling into your new Michigan home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Detroit has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Detroit features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum, The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, and Detroit Historical Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Belle Isle Park, Beacon Park, Palmer Park, and Balduck Park — 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 Detriot Tigers (MLB)Detroit Red Wings (NHL)Detroit Lions (NFL)Detroit Pistons (NBA) game.

FAQ

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

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

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

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

The 599-mile journey from Des Moines, IA to Detroit, , typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Des Moines offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Detroit.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Des Moines?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Des Moines, 10 movers can manage piano relocations. 6 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Iowa has 24 piano movers and 15 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

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