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Top-rated movers to make your Grand Rapids to Des Moines move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Grand Rapids that offers long-distance services to Des Moines can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 13 top local movers in Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids to Des Moines.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Powell Relocation Group: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Corrigan Moving Systems: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- H & H Moving Company, LLC: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Phase Six Moving, LLC , Two Men and A Truck/Grand Rapids North
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 261884
Years in Business: 63
DOT #: 261884
Alternate Names: Powell Moving & Storage, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 2956991
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: MTC Learning Technologies, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 97
DOT #: 77949
Alternate Names: Corrigan Moving Systems – Grand Rapids, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
Company Info
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3328141
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Grand Rapids 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 | $1,168 – $3,126 | $638 – $1,531 | $409 – $705 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,048 – $5,283 | $1,174 – $2,380 | $407 – $845 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,836 – $8,041 | $1,515 – $2,849 | $544 – $1,039 |
Cost to hire movers from Grand Rapids to Des Moines
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Des Moines from Grand Rapids, you can expect prices to land between $1,168 and $3,126. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,048 to $5,283 for the trip from Grand Rapids to Des Moines. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,836 and $8,041.
Cost of moving containers from Grand Rapids to Des Moines
Moving containers from Grand Rapids to Des Moines will cost you $638 to $1,531 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,174 to $2,380. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,515 to $2,849. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Grand Rapids to Des Moines
Renting a moving truck from Grand Rapids 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 $409 and $705 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $407 to $845. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $544 to $1,039.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Grand Rapids to Des Moines move
The cost of Grand Rapids movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,620 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,606 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Grand Rapids.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $409 to $984, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Grand Rapids to Des Moines
Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Grand Rapids – roughly 65% less for singles and 39% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $5,333 in Grand Rapids. For a family of four, it’s $4,380 compared with $7,160.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Grand Rapids | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,900 | $1,229 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,200 | $1,763 |
| Average home value | $328,256 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,299 | $58,492 |
| Cost of living (single) | $5,333 | $1,891 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,160 | $4,380 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.3% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 4.4% |
- When relocating from Grand Rapids to Des Moines, expect to find rent about 31% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 41% more affordable in Des Moines compared to Grand Rapids.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 8% lower in Des Moines compared to Grand Rapids.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Des Moines, as the cost of living for a single person is 65% lower compared to Grand Rapids.
- 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 39% less than what it costs in Grand Rapids.
- Des Moines shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Grand Rapids by around 37%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes in Des Moines are 17% more than in Grand Rapids, 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 Grand Rapids and Des Moines:
| Living Expense | Grand Rapids | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $118.12 | $144.82 |
| Cell phone plan | $45.33 | $51.25 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.25 | $3.61 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.46 | $2.50 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.00 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $67.50 | $77.50 |
| Gym membership | $33.99 | $66.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Grand Rapids than in Des Moines, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Grand Rapids than in Des Moines.
- Eggs are less expensive in Grand Rapids than in Des Moines.
- Bread is more expensive in Grand Rapids than in Des Moines.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Grand Rapids than in Des Moines.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Grand Rapids than in Des Moines.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Grand Rapids than in Des Moines.
How life is different in Grand Rapids vs. Des Moines
| Grand Rapids | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 198,893 | 699,292 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 56 | 45 |
| Bike friendliness score | 52 | 39 |
| Crime index | 44.23 | 5.0 |
| Safety index | 55.77 | 57.8 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Des Moines’s population is about 252% greater than Grand Rapids.
- Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Grand Rapids’s score of 6.
- Des Moines is less walkable than Grand Rapids with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Grand Rapids’s 56 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 Grand Rapids, which has a score of 52.
- Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Grand Rapids with a score of 5.0 compared to Grand Rapids’s 44.23. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Grand Rapids neighborhoods are safer than 44.23%.
- Des Moines and Grand Rapids have a similar safety level, with scores of 57.8 and 55.77.
- Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Grand Rapids it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids to Des Moines?
Planning your move from Grand Rapids to Des Moines? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Grand Rapids.
When is the cheapest time to move from Grand Rapids to Des Moines?
Because most people are moving from Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids to Des Moines take?
The 494-mile journey from Grand Rapids, MI to Des Moines, , typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members.
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 Grand Rapids?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Grand Rapids, 10 movers can manage piano relocations. 4 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Michigan has 51 piano movers and 19 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.
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