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($1,162) Cost to Move From Des Moines, IA to Cleveland, OH

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Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 662 miles from Des Moines to Cleveland, expect to pay between $495 and $5,282. The journey should take about one–six days. Costs can vary due to distance, the date of the move, home size, and your choice between DIY and professional assistance.
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Best movers from Des Moines to Cleveland

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 Cleveland

For a stress-free interstate move from Des Moines to Cleveland, selecting a full-service mover is a wise choice. These professionals cover all aspects of the move, freeing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

With 9 interstate moving companies in Des Moines, we’re here to highlight the best options for a seamless transition to Cleveland.

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 Cleveland

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 662-mile move from Des Moines to Cleveland using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of validated rates from movers across the U.S., with monthly updates to reflect seasonality and market conditions. Your end price may shift due to load size, service add-ons, access or parking limitations, fuel costs, and your move date. We recommend obtaining several quotes to get a reliable estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,435 – $4,150
  • Moving Container $1,031 – $1,775
  • Rental Truck $478 – $895
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,162 – $5,282
  • Moving Container $1,258 – $2,633
  • Rental Truck $495 – $1,062
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,685 – $8,118
  • Moving Container $1,683 – $3,250
  • Rental Truck $657 – $1,324
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.
Mayzlin Relocation
Waukee, IA North Olmsted, OH
2 Bedrooms
Oct 09, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Sandyville, IA Solon, OH
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 04, 2025
BLVD Moving
Colfax, IA Westfield Center, OH
3 Bedrooms
Oct 01, 2025
PODS
Runnells, IA Waite Hill, OH
4 Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
United Van Lines
Pleasant Hill, IA Independence, OH
2 Bedrooms
Sep 15, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Spring Hill, IA Bedford, OH
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 08, 2025
Roadway Moving
Lambs Grove, IA Richmond Heights, OH
4 Bedrooms
Sep 08, 2025
North American Van Lines
Rhodes, IA Grand River, OH
3 Bedrooms
Sep 06, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Granger, IA Berea, OH
3 Bedrooms
Aug 29, 2025
Safeway Moving
Indianola, IA Clinton, OH
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 03, 2025

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

Top-rated local movers that handle Des Moines to Cleveland moves

When planning a move from Des Moines to Cleveland, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 13 local movers in Des Moines who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Des Moines to Cleveland.

  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 Cleveland?

Movers in Iowa charge $128 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,162 – $3,692 $734 – $1,689 $502 – $895
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,162 – $5,282 $1,258 – $2,633 $495 – $1,062
4+ bedrooms $3,685 – $8,118 $1,683 – $3,250 $657 – $1,324
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 662-mile relocation from Des Moines to Cleveland, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from moving companies across the country and updates the data each month to capture seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Final pricing may vary based on shipment size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. For accuracy, collect quotes from several movers.

Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Cleveland

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Des Moines to Cleveland, you can expect to spend between $1,162 and $3,692. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,162 to $5,282 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Des Moines to Cleveland typically runs between $3,685 and $8,118.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Cleveland

When moving from Des Moines to Cleveland, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $734 and $1,689. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,258 to $2,633. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,683 up to $3,250. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Iowa.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Cleveland

Renting a moving truck in Des Moines is usually your cheapest option to get to Cleveland. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $502 and $895. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $495 and $1,062. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $657 and $1,324.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Des Moines to Cleveland

The cost of Des Moines movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $1,810, but larger homes can run up to $6,415.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Des Moines.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($502–$1,156) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Cleveland

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Cleveland runs about 32% higher for singles and 54% higher for families than Des Moines.

Singles spend around $2,490 in Des Moines versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $6,729 compared with $4,380.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Des Moines Cleveland
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $1,338
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $2,733
Average home value $192,347 $108,509
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $64,965
Cost of living (single) $1,891 $2,490
Cost of living (family of four) $4,380 $6,729
Unemployment rate 5.9% 6.8%
Sales tax 7.0% 8.0%
State income tax 4.4% 3.5%
  • As you consider relocating to Cleveland, note that rent can be roughly 13% more expensive than it is in Des Moines; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
  • Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 44% lower in Cleveland than in Des Moines.
  • Great news! You’ll find the average income is about 11% higher in Cleveland compared to Des Moines, giving you some extra room for savings or investments.
  • Plan for higher expenses in Cleveland, since the cost of living for a single person is 32% more than in Des Moines. This encompasses usual costs like utilities, groceries, apparel, and transit.
  • If your journey leads to Cleveland, be prepared for higher living expenditures. The cost of living for a family in Cleveland is 54% more than it is in Des Moines.
  • The unemployment rate in Cleveland is 15% higher compared to Des Moines, translating to more job seekers for available positions, which might elevate competition.
  • Sales taxes are 14% higher in Cleveland than in Des Moines. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • Income taxes are 20% lower in Ohio compared to Iowa. With these reduced income tax rates, your paycheck will reflect more of your earnings, allowing you greater freedom in managing your finances.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Des Moines with Cleveland:

Living Expense Des Moines Cleveland
Basic utilities $144.82 $310.82
Cell phone plan $51.25 $48.93
Dozen eggs $3.61 $4.11
Loaf of bread $2.50 $3.06
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $19.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $55.00
Gym membership $66.67 $35.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Cleveland, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Des Moines than in Cleveland.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Des Moines than in Cleveland.
  • Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Cleveland.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Cleveland.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Des Moines than in Cleveland.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Cleveland.

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Cleveland

Des Moines Cleveland
Population 699,292 372,624
Transportation score 5 8
Walkability score 45 57
Bike friendliness score 39 52
Crime index 5.0 63.41
Safety index 57.8 36.59
Air quality Good Moderate
  • Cleveland’s population is about 47% less than Des Moines.
  • Cleveland’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Des Moines’s score of 5.
  • Cleveland is more walkable than Des Moines with a score of 57 out of 100 vs Des Moines’s 45 out of 100.
  • With a score of 52 out of 100, Cleveland 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.
  • Cleveland’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 63.41 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that Cleveland neighborhoods are safer than 63.41% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
  • Cleveland is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 36.59 vs Des Moines’s 57.8.
  • Air quality in Cleveland is Moderate, and in Des Moines it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Cleveland move

  • HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Ohio, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Ohio moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Ohio doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Cleveland smoothly. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Cleveland

Now that you’ve chosen America’s North Coast as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Cleveland to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Tremont
  • Ohio City
  • Detroit-Shoreway
  • Clark-Fulton
  • Waterloo

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Edgewater
  • Jefferson
  • Kamm’s Corner
  • Ohio City
  • Old Brooklyn

Things to do in Cleveland

After getting comfortable in your new Ohio home, it’s time to see what Cleveland is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Cleveland offers cultural landmarks like the A Christmas Story House, African American Museum, ARTneo, and Artists Archives of the Western Reserve.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Edgewater Park, Cleveland Metroparks, Cleveland Botanical Garden, and Rocky River Reservation — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Cleveland Browns (NFL)Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA)Cleveland Charge NBA G-League)Cleveland Crunch (MASL2)Cleveland Guardians (MLB)Cleveland Monsters (AHL) game.

FAQ

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

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Des Moines to Cleveland are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Des Moines are lower.

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

Because spring and fall moves from Des Moines to Cleveland are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

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

A move of 662 miles from Des Moines, IA to Cleveland, generally takes one to six days. Movers in Des Moines sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Cleveland is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which movers in Des Moines offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 10 movers in Des Moines have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 6 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across IA, there are 24 piano movers and 15 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

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