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The best local movers for Salt Lake City to Des Moines moves
It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Salt Lake City that also handles long-distance moves to Des Moines. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 23 local movers in Salt Lake City who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.
Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Salt Lake City to Des Moines.
- Moving Connections: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Two Man Movers : 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Best Of Utah Moving Company LLC: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.36 out of 5 stars
- Kellogg Movers: 4.38 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 2028429
Pricing: $129/hr
Years in Business: 25
DOT #: 2028429
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 2256609
Years in Business: 22
DOT #: 2256609
Alternate Names: Simmons West, Inc
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 2920944
Years in Business: 12
DOT #: 2920944
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 902281
Alternate Names: All My Sons Moving & Storage Layton , All My Sons Moving & Storage Of Salt Lake City, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 979105
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 979105
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Offices
- Pianos
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Salt Lake City to Des Moines?
The average hourly rate for movers in Utah is $129. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,180 – $5,031 | $816 – $1,991 | $645 – $1,237 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,613 – $5,927 | $1,492 – $3,127 | $755 – $1,610 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,068 – $7,911 | $2,117 – $3,806 | $921 – $1,791 |
Cost to hire movers from Salt Lake City to Des Moines
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Salt Lake City to Des Moines will cost between $1,180 and $5,031. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Salt Lake City to Salt Lake City will range from $2,613 to $5,927, and a large move from Salt Lake City to Des Moines will cost from $4,068 to $7,911.
Cost of moving containers from Salt Lake City to Des Moines
If you’re moving from Salt Lake City to Des Moines, expect to pay between $816 and $1,991 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,492 up to $3,127. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,117 and $3,806. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Utah.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Salt Lake City to Des Moines
Renting a moving truck from Salt Lake City to Des Moines is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $645 and $1,237. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $755 and $1,610. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $921 up to $1,791 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Key factors that influence moving costs from Salt Lake City to Des Moines
The cost of Salt Lake City movers will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,218, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $7,212.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Salt Lake City, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($645–$1,758) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
What to know before moving from Salt Lake City to Des Moines
Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Salt Lake City – roughly 13% less for singles and 9% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $2,172 in Salt Lake City. For a family of four, it’s $4,380 compared with $4,827.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Salt Lake City | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,618 | $1,229 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,727 | $1,763 |
| Average home value | $549,528 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,975 | $58,492 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,172 | $1,891 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,827 | $4,380 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 7.75% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 4.4% |
- If you’re heading to Des Moines from Salt Lake City, you’ll find that rent is roughly 23% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
- Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 65% less in Des Moines than in Salt Lake City.
- Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 9% lower in Des Moines compared to Salt Lake City.
- Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Des Moines. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 13% lower than in Salt Lake City.
- Choosing to move to Des Moines can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 9% less than in Salt Lake City.
- In Des Moines, the unemployment rate is approximately 97% higher than in Salt Lake City, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
- Sales taxes drop 10% in Des Moines compared to Salt Lake City, providing a relief on your cost of living, especially for frequent shoppers.
- Income taxes are 11% less in Iowa than in Utah. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.
Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Salt Lake City and Des Moines:
| Living Expense | Salt Lake City | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $183.16 | $144.82 |
| Cell phone plan | $67.42 | $51.25 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.28 | $3.61 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.36 | $2.50 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.00 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $82.50 | $77.50 |
| Gym membership | $27.89 | $66.67 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Salt Lake City than in Des Moines.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Salt Lake City than in Des Moines.
- Eggs cost more in Salt Lake City than in Des Moines.
- Bread is more expensive in Salt Lake City than in Des Moines.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Salt Lake City than in Des Moines.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Salt Lake City than in Des Moines.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Salt Lake City than in Des Moines.
How life is different in Salt Lake City vs. Des Moines
| Salt Lake City | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 200,133 | 699,292 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 59 | 45 |
| Bike friendliness score | 74 | 39 |
| Crime index | 34.64 | 5.0 |
| Safety index | 65.36 | 57.8 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Des Moines’s population is about 249% greater than Salt Lake City.
- Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Salt Lake City’s score of 8.
- Des Moines is less walkable than Salt Lake City with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Salt Lake City’s 59 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 Salt Lake City, which has a score of 74.
- Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Salt Lake City with a score of 5.0 compared to Salt Lake City’s 34.64. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Salt Lake City neighborhoods are safer than 34.64%.
- Des Moines is considered to be less safe than Salt Lake City with a score of 57.8 vs Salt Lake City’s 65.36.
- Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Salt Lake City it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Salt Lake City to Des Moines move
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
- Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
- 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
- State regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: Iowa doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Des Moines. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.
Where to live in Des Moines
Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Hartford of the West, these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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
Once you’re settled into your new home in Iowa, it’s time to get out and discover what Des Moines has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:
- Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Des Moines, such as 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 — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Drake Bulldogs game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Salt Lake City to Des Moines?
The best time to move from Salt Lake City to Des Moines is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Salt Lake City.
When is the cheapest time to move from Salt Lake City to Des Moines?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Salt Lake City to Des Moines, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.
How long does a move from Salt Lake City to Des Moines take?
Moving from Salt Lake City, UT to Des Moines, covers 1,066 miles and usually takes two to eight days. Need to move faster? Some Salt Lake City movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Des Moines.
Which movers in Salt Lake City give price breaks?
Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers have deals for seniors.
Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.
Who can move pianos or antiques in Salt Lake City?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 18 movers in Salt Lake City advertise piano moving expertise. 13 movers in Salt Lake City provide antique moving services. State totals show 26 piano movers and 18 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.
Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.
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