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($1,146) Cost to Move From Chesapeake, VA to Des Moines, IA

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 1,215 miles from Chesapeake to Des Moines has an average cost ranging from $822 to $5,587. 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake to Des Moines

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

There are 17 interstate moving companies in Chesapeake. 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 Chesapeake to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,215-mile move from Chesapeake 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 $2,002 – $4,363
  • Moving Container $1,210 – $2,247
  • Rental Truck $782 – $1,420
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,609 – $5,587
  • Moving Container $1,576 – $3,291
  • Rental Truck $822 – $1,756
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,048 – $7,637
  • Moving Container $2,177 – $4,274
  • Rental Truck $981 – $2,038
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.
United Van Lines
Dendron, VA Prairie City, IA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 01, 2025
American Van Lines
Southampton Meadows, VA Windsor Heights, IA
Studio apartment
Sep 20, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Virginia Beach, VA East Peru, IA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 14, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Camptown, VA St. Marys, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 04, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Norfolk, VA State Center, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 27, 2025
Roadway Moving
Hampton, VA Polk City, IA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 20, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Smithfield, VA Des Moines, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 19, 2025
Safeway Moving
Franklin, VA Woodward, IA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 11, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Surry, VA Waukee, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 10, 2025
BLVD Moving
Gloucester Point, VA Newton, IA
4 Bedrooms
Aug 03, 2025

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

Highly rated local moving companies for Chesapeake to Des Moines moves

Organizing a move from Chesapeake 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 19 local movers in Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake to Des Moines.

  1. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. Coleman Worldwide Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Apple Moving : 4.48 out of 5 stars
  4. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  5. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
73.9% of all reviews were positive
25.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers continually praise All My Sons Moving & Storage for their professional, courteous crews who work quickly and handle belongings with noticeable care. Many describe helpful movers who are respectful, efficient, and able to ease the stress of moving, especially compared to other companies. Positive feedback repeatedly cites the staff’s friendly attitude and careful handling—even for delicate or specialty items—making them a common recommendation in the area. Some reviewers highlight the efficient pace and extra steps taken by crews to protect furniture and homes. Despite these strengths, a significant portion of feedback points to higher-than-expected costs, including surprise charges that diverge from initial estimates. Instances of property or item damage, along with dissatisfaction about unexpected fees and payment policies, appear regularly in complaints. Customers frustrated by these issues say they felt blindsided or compelled to pay more than quoted, which sets All My Sons apart from more transparent competitors. In short, most report a smooth, positive move but call out cost transparency and careful handling if considering this company for a future move. Total customer input analyzed: 268, with almost 74% positive and just over a quarter expressing major concerns.
Get a Quote (757) 997-6615

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
37.3% of all reviews were positive
61.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input for Coleman Worldwide Moving makes one thing clear: reliability is a challenge. From 59 reviews, only 37% classified as positive. Clients who left favorable responses point out careful handling, professional staff, and helpful movers. Many described efficient packing and open communication as distinct perks. In contrast, negative feedback covers 61% of responses, where late arrivals, poor or missing communication, and significant damage to personal items dominate the complaints. Delays not only disrupt schedules but also result in missed flights and unnecessary stress. Compared to leading movers, Coleman shows more frequent timing and damage complaints, with less responsiveness on problems. Service can be friendly and efficient in some cases, but a high rate of dissatisfied feedback signals a need for improvement in reliability and care.
Get a Quote (757) 857-0101

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
56.4% of all reviews were positive
42.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving feedback about Apple Moving paints a clear picture: most customers appreciate the company’s professional and polite staff, careful handling, prompt and efficient crews, and genuinely helpful movers. Out of the 275 reviews analyzed, 56% gave positive input, which sets Apple Moving ahead of many competitors who often struggle to earn majority positive feedback. Customers regularly highlight the movers’ attention to detail and willingness to accommodate special requests. Still, nearly 43% of the feedback is negative, focusing primarily on damage to items, missing or misplaced belongings, and difficulty getting timely responses or claims resolved. Many negative reviewers felt attempts to resolve issues were dismissed or inadequately handled, especially regarding lost property or poor follow-up. While the moving teams are often described as hardworking and personable, the company could improve by increasing accountability and communication, particularly when damages or losses occur.
Get a Quote (757) 397-1248

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
79.8% of all reviews were positive
18.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving is rarely stress-free, but customer feedback for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK shows most people feel they’re in good hands. Of 258 reviews analyzed, 4 out of 5 praised efficient service, polite and professional staff, and careful handling of belongings. Customers also noted speedy moves and great communication, with many reporting a hassle-free booking process and consistent updates. On the downside, nearly 1 in 5 reviews warned about damage to items, unexpected extra charges, or inaccurate initial cost estimates—problems that led some to switch companies. When compared with others in the moving industry, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK stands out for professionalism and efficiency but has room to improve on cost transparency and precision in estimates.
Get a Quote (757) 250-7167

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
81.2% of all reviews were positive
17.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers consistently applaud College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving for their efficient service, professional and polite staff, fast process, and careful handling. Good communication stands out, with many noting timely updates and easy scheduling. Most reviewers found the entire experience smooth, appreciating courteous teams and minimal stress. On the downside, complaints center on damage to belongings—especially high-value items—unexpected charges, and frequent delays or late arrivals. Some customers felt let down by post-damage claims and unreliability in honoring quotes. With 325 reviews analyzed, more than 8 out of 10 shared positive feedback, making this company much more favorably rated than industry averages where moving complaints can be common. Customers who value speed, professionalism, and friendly crews report the best experience, but those needing strict timing or extra attention to valuables should review insurance and estimates closely.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

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 Chesapeake to Des Moines?

On average, moving companies in Virginia charge about $161 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 $1,146 – $4,383 $933 – $2,219 $767 – $1,377
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,609 – $5,587 $1,576 – $3,291 $822 – $1,756
4+ bedrooms $4,048 – $7,637 $2,177 – $4,274 $981 – $2,038
*Estimated cost ranges for a 1,215-mile move from Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake to Des Moines

When planning a move to Des Moines from Chesapeake, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,146 and $4,383. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,609 and $5,587 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,048 to $7,637.

Cost of moving containers from Chesapeake to Des Moines

When you’re heading from Chesapeake to Des Moines, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $933 and $2,219. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,576 and $3,291. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,177 to $4,274. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chesapeake to Des Moines

A moving rental truck from Chesapeake 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 $767 to $1,377. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $822 to $1,756, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Chesapeake to Des Moines costs around $981 to $2,038.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Chesapeake to Des Moines

The cost of Chesapeake movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Chesapeake to Des Moines may only cost $2,247, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $6,767.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Chesapeake.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($767–$1,826), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Chesapeake to Des Moines

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Des Moines runs about 0% higher for singles and 20% higher for families than Chesapeake.

Singles spend around $1,891 in Chesapeake versus $1,882 in Chesapeake; families pay $4,380 compared with $3,656.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Chesapeake Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $1,775 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $2,250 $1,763
Average home value $375,209 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $63,484 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $1,882 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $3,656 $4,380
Unemployment rate 5.0% 5.9%
Sales tax 6.0% 7.0%
State income tax 5.75% 4.4%
  • Rent is about 36% less expensive in Des Moines than in Chesapeake, 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 49% cheaper in Des Moines than in Chesapeake.
  • You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 8% less in Des Moines than in Chesapeake.
  • As the cost of living for a single person differs by around 5% between Des Moines and Chesapeake, you likely won’t feel a significant change.
  • When considering a family move to Des Moines, prepare for a potential rise in household expenses. The cost of living for a family here is 20% higher than in Chesapeake.
  • Des Moines has a higher unemployment rate than Chesapeake by about 18%. 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 in Des Moines surpass those in Chesapeake by 17%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
  • Income taxes are 23% less in Iowa compared to Virginia, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.

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

Living Expense Chesapeake Des Moines
Basic utilities $302.50 $144.82
Cell phone plan $53.67 $51.25
Dozen eggs $3.36 $3.61
Loaf of bread $4.17 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $13.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $70.00 $77.50
Gym membership $43.00 $66.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Chesapeake than in Des Moines.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chesapeake than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Chesapeake than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in Chesapeake than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Chesapeake than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Chesapeake than in Des Moines.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Chesapeake than in Des Moines.

How life is different in Chesapeake vs. Des Moines

Chesapeake Des Moines
Population 249,422 699,292
Transportation score 2 5
Walkability score 21 45
Bike friendliness score 35 39
Crime index 25.0 5.0
Safety index 70.88 57.8
Air quality Good Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 180% greater than Chesapeake.
  • Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Chesapeake’s score of 2.
  • Des Moines is more walkable than Chesapeake with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Chesapeake’s 21 out of 100.
  • With a score of 39 out of 100, Des Moines is more bike-friendly than Chesapeake, which has a score of 35 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Chesapeake with a score of 5.0 compared to Chesapeake’s 25.0. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chesapeake neighborhoods are safer than 25.0%.
  • Des Moines is considered to be less safe than Chesapeake with a score of 57.8 vs Chesapeake’s 70.88.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Chesapeake it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Chesapeake to Des Moines move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake to Des Moines?

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

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

Want to save on your move from Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake to Des Moines take?

The 1,215-mile move from Chesapeake, VA, to Des Moines, , takes two to eight days. Some Chesapeake movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Des Moines.

What kinds of discounts do Chesapeake movers offer?

Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers.

Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Chesapeake?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 16 movers in Chesapeake provide piano moving services. 9 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 77 piano movers and 47 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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