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($1,240) Cost to Move From Huntsville, AL to Des Moines, IA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 765 miles from Huntsville to Des Moines is generally between $596 and $5,938. The trip duration should be approximately two–seven days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from Huntsville 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 Huntsville to Des Moines

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Huntsville to Des Moines, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.

In Huntsville, you have a choice of 8 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Des Moines smoothly and with confidence.

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 Huntsville to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 765-mile move from Huntsville to Des Moines using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset each month to track seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and timing. We suggest gathering estimates from several companies to get the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,706 – $4,487
  • Moving Container $1,055 – $1,936
  • Rental Truck $559 – $1,040
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,346 – $5,938
  • Moving Container $1,340 – $2,712
  • Rental Truck $596 – $1,188
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,035 – $7,797
  • Moving Container $1,869 – $3,599
  • Rental Truck $726 – $1,426
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.
PODS
Holly Pond, AL Woodward, IA
Studio apartment
Oct 23, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
New Hope, AL Johnston, IA
Studio apartment
Oct 12, 2025
North American Van Lines
Triana, AL Lucas, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 11, 2025
Safeway Moving
Baileyton, AL Nevada, IA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 28, 2025
BLVD Moving
Lester, AL Sheldahl, IA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 28, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Hillsboro, AL Panora, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 27, 2025
United Van Lines
Redstone Arsenal, AL State Center, IA
Studio apartment
Sep 17, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Langston, AL Bevington, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 10, 2025
Roadway Moving
Union Grove, AL Lorimor, IA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 07, 2025
Mayflower Transit
South Vinemont, AL Norwalk, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 18, 2025

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

Top local movers for Huntsville to Des Moines moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Huntsville that also provides long-distance services to Des Moines can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed eight local movers in Huntsville who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Huntsville to Des Moines.

  1. Motivated Movers, Inc.: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Black Tie Moving: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  4. Applewhite Movers LLC: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  5. This Side Up Moving & Storage : 4.44 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.7% of all reviews were positive
5.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top marks for hustle: the vast majority of the 255 feedback entries for Motivated Movers, Inc. praise efficient moving, professional teams, and careful handling of customer belongings. Nearly 94% of customers shared a positive experience, highlighting staff courtesy, quick and organized service, and movers who routinely went the extra mile. Clients often compare Motivated Movers favorably to other companies, citing lower stress, reasonable prices, and reliable communication. On the rare occasion issues occurred (about 6% of input), most complaints centered on items damaged, unexpectedly high final bills, or unprofessional behavior by management during disputes. A single neutral review noted high costs and poorly protected appliances. Motivated Movers appears to perform far above industry averages in service quality, with especially strong marks for professionalism and efficiency, but future customers should clarify pricing and keep an eye on item care to avoid rare pitfalls.
Get a Quote (256) 858-6683

Company Info

Years in Business: 14

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.4% of all reviews were positive
12.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Two Men and a Truck frequently means careful handling and a courteous, professional team. Analysis of 247 pieces of customer feedback reveals 85% positive experiences. Movers stand out for treating furniture and fragile items with care, working efficiently, and keeping customers informed. Packing is meticulous, and jobs are often finished quickly. Communication from the office and booking staff is reliable. Many customers returned to the company after trying competitors who didn’t measure up. On the downside, about 13% of feedback reports notable problems. Damaged belongings top complaints, followed by delays and trouble resolving issues with the claims department. A handful of families described slow moves or items arriving late, and several noted poor follow-up when filing claims for broken items. Compared to most moving services, Two Men and a Truck’s drivers and teams deliver stronger respect for property and quicker, friendlier service. Some customers did pay more than expected or faced communication lapses when there was a problem, but the majority received a seamless, damage-free move with attentive, helpful service.
Get a Quote (256) 392-9462

Company Info

State license #: 614

Years in Business: 35

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
96.5% of all reviews were positive
3.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers describe Black Tie Moving as exceptionally professional, careful with belongings, fast, and reliable. Out of 226 feedback samples, 96.5% express positive experiences. Reviewers consistently highlight the team’s respectful approach, excellent communication, and swift, efficient moves with no damage to items or homes. Many say the staff showed up on time, handled furniture with protection, and followed through on commitments—qualities that often set Black Tie apart from typical moving firms. While most input is glowing, a handful of reviewers faced issues, mostly around poor packing, unexpected extra costs, and some instances of damage or mishandling. Compared with others, Black Tie earns high marks for its professionalism and care, though a few customers encountered significant lapses in packing detail or billing clarity.
Get a Quote (256) 755-4836

Company Info

State license #: 4111

Years in Business: 4

DOT #: 2407712

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
87.1% of all reviews were positive
10.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—most customers describe Applewhite Movers LLC as prompt, polite, and highly efficient. Out of 140 reviews analyzed, 87% were positive. Clients often highlight the professionalism, careful handling of belongings, impressive speed, and helpful movers who communicate well. Many noted a stress-free experience and appreciated the team’s respectfulness and reliability, which set Applewhite apart from typical moving services in the region. Negative feedback mostly relates to property damage, delayed schedules, and unprofessional attitude during some moves, with a few reports of mishandling and poor claim resolution. Compared to other companies, Applewhite consistently delivers better communication and more diligent movers, though some improvements in damage claims and staff consistency could further strengthen their reputation.
Get a Quote (256) 430-1198

Company Info

State license #: 4119

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2172780

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.9% of all reviews were positive
5.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about This Side Up Moving & Storage for their professionalism, careful handling, efficiency, and strong communication, with 229 out of 244 reviews praising these traits. Movers regularly earn praise for their courtesy, quick moving process, and the care they show in protecting belongings and homes. Many mention seamless booking, reliable quote accuracy, and respectful treatment, even in physically demanding moves. Compared to other moving companies, This Side Up receives more consistent five-star input. Some negative feedback centers on property damage, poor complaint resolution, and lost items. Delays in claims handling and unaddressed damages frustrate the small minority of dissatisfied customers. One neutral review noted confusion and a truck mismatch, resulting in minor damages and unexpected charges. The company stands out for delivering a professional and respectful experience, but could improve by enhancing how it handles claims and follows up after reported issues.
Get a Quote (256) 653-7612

Company Info

State license #: 3959

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1874024

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

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

Movers in Alabama generally charge an average of per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,240 – $3,985 $782 – $1,750 $559 – $950
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,346 – $5,938 $1,340 – $2,712 $596 – $1,188
4+ bedrooms $4,035 – $7,797 $1,869 – $3,599 $726 – $1,426
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 765-mile move from Huntsville to Des Moines, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Huntsville to Des Moines

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Huntsville to Des Moines typically costs between $1,240 and $3,985. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,346 and $5,938 when moving from Huntsville to Des Moines. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Huntsville to Des Moines, you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,035 up to $7,797.

Cost of moving containers from Huntsville to Des Moines

If you’re relocating from Huntsville to Des Moines, you’ll typically spend between $782 and $1,750 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,340 up to $2,712. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,869 and $3,599. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Alabama.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Huntsville to Des Moines

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Huntsville to Des Moines move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $559 and $950. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $596 to $1,188. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $726 and $1,426.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Huntsville to Des Moines

The cost of Huntsville movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Huntsville to Des Moines might be as low as $2,019, while a four-bedroom could reach $6,552.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Huntsville.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $559 to $1,346 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Huntsville to Des Moines

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Des Moines runs about -40% higher for singles and 6% higher for families than Huntsville.

Singles spend around $1,891 in Huntsville versus $3,133 in Huntsville; families pay $4,380 compared with $4,140.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Huntsville Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $1,358 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $2,400 $1,763
Average home value $266,736 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $60,959 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $3,133 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $4,140 $4,380
Unemployment rate 3.1% 5.9%
Sales tax 9.0% 7.0%
State income tax 5.0% 4.4%
  • Good news! When moving to Des Moines from Huntsville, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 18% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
  • With home prices being nearly 28% cheaper in Des Moines, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
  • Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Des Moines and Huntsville, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
  • Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Des Moines. The cost of living for a single person is 40% less compared to Huntsville.
  • As you plan your move to Des Moines, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 6% more than it is in Huntsville.
  • The unemployment rate in Des Moines exceeds that of Huntsville by about 90%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
  • Sales taxes are 22% lower in Des Moines than Huntsville, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
  • Income taxes are 12% lower in Iowa than in Alabama. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Huntsville and Des Moines, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Huntsville Des Moines
Basic utilities $180.00 $144.82
Cell phone plan $50.56 $51.25
Dozen eggs $4.26 $3.61
Loaf of bread $3.33 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.50 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $62.50 $77.50
Gym membership $44.00 $66.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Huntsville than in Des Moines.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Huntsville than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs cost more in Huntsville than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in Huntsville than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Huntsville than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Huntsville than in Des Moines.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Huntsville than in Des Moines.

How life is different in Huntsville vs. Des Moines

Huntsville Des Moines
Population 241,114 699,292
Transportation score 2 5
Walkability score 24 45
Bike friendliness score 40 39
Crime index 42.55 5.0
Safety index 57.45 57.8
Air quality Good Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 190% greater than Huntsville.
  • Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Huntsville’s score of 2.
  • Des Moines is more walkable than Huntsville with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Huntsville’s 24 out of 100.
  • Both Des Moines and Huntsville have similar bike-friendliness scores (40 vs 39), meaning Des Moines is about as safe for cyclists as Huntsville. 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 Huntsville with a score of 5.0 compared to Huntsville’s 42.55. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Huntsville neighborhoods are safer than 42.55%.
  • Des Moines and Huntsville have a similar safety level, with scores of 57.8 and 57.45.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Huntsville it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Huntsville to Des Moines move

  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
  • 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Iowa moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Iowa, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Des Moines without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Des Moines

Ready to relocate to Hartford of the West? Here are some of the top 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

Now that you’ve made the move to Iowa, it’s the perfect time to explore Des Moines. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Des Moines include museums and art centers like the Des Moines Art Center, State Historical Museum, Science Center of Iowa, and Salisbury House.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Gray’s Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.

FAQ

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

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Huntsville to Des Moines. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Huntsville.

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

With many people choosing to move from Huntsville to Des Moines in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

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

Covering 765 miles, the move from Huntsville, AL to Des Moines, typically takes two to seven days. Some Huntsville movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Des Moines can help bridge the gap.

Do movers in Huntsville offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers provide military discounts. 1 movers extend senior citizen discounts.

Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.

How many movers in Huntsville can handle specialty items for my move to Des Moines?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Huntsville, 7 movers can handle pianos. 3 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of AL, there are 35 piano movers and 16 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

Helpful moving resources

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