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($1,145) Cost to Move From Des Moines, IA to Louisville, KY

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 588 miles from Des Moines to Louisville has an average cost ranging from $457 to $5,547. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly one–six 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 Des Moines to Louisville

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 Louisville

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

There are 9 interstate moving companies in Des Moines. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Louisville.

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 Louisville

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 588-mile move from Des Moines to Louisville 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 $1,305 – $3,873
  • Moving Container $988 – $1,676
  • Rental Truck $437 – $806
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,114 – $5,547
  • Moving Container $1,218 – $2,389
  • Rental Truck $457 – $938
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,777 – $7,479
  • Moving Container $1,674 – $3,178
  • Rental Truck $570 – $1,191
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
Swan, IA Old Brownsboro Place, KY
Studio apartment
Oct 12, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
New Virginia, IA Pleasureville, KY
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 08, 2025
Roadway Moving
Alleman, IA Spring Valley, KY
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 24, 2025
North American Van Lines
Hartford, IA Irvington, KY
Studio apartment
Sep 22, 2025
Safeway Moving
West Des Moines, IA Green Spring, KY
4 Bedrooms
Sep 17, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Pleasantville, IA Rolling Fields, KY
Studio apartment
Sep 03, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Minburn, IA Forest Hills, KY
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 27, 2025
PODS
Van Meter, IA Hollyvilla, KY
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 23, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Grimes, IA Middletown, KY
2 Bedrooms
Aug 04, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Cumming, IA Seneca Gardens, KY
3 Bedrooms
Aug 01, 2025

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

Highly rated local moving companies for Des Moines to Louisville moves

Organizing a move from Des Moines to Louisville can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 13 local movers in Des Moines 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 Des Moines to Louisville.

  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 Louisville?

On average, moving companies in Iowa charge about $128 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 $1,145 – $3,301 $703 – $1,694 $446 – $823
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,114 – $5,547 $1,218 – $2,389 $457 – $938
4+ bedrooms $3,777 – $7,479 $1,674 – $3,178 $570 – $1,191
*Estimated cost ranges for a 588-mile move from Des Moines to Louisville 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 Des Moines to Louisville

When planning a move to Louisville from Des Moines, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,145 and $3,301. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,114 and $5,547 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,777 to $7,479.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Louisville

When you’re heading from Des Moines to Louisville, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $703 and $1,694. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,218 and $2,389. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,674 to $3,178. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Louisville

A moving rental truck from Des Moines to Louisville 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 $446 to $823. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $457 to $938, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Des Moines to Louisville costs around $570 to $1,191.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Des Moines to Louisville

The cost of Des Moines movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Des Moines to Louisville may only cost $1,629, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $6,867.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Des Moines.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($446–$1,083), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Louisville

Overall, Des Moines and Louisville land in a similar cost of living range, so your monthly outlay shouldn’t swing dramatically.

Singles average $1,862 in Louisville and $1,891 in Des Moines, while families in Louisville see $4,532 versus $4,380 in Louisville.

Here’s how the everyday expenses compare across both cities:

Des Moines Louisville
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $1,220
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $2,120
Average home value $192,347 $242,612
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $69,771
Cost of living (single) $1,891 $1,862
Cost of living (family of four) $4,380 $4,532
Unemployment rate 5.9% 5.0%
Sales tax 7.0% 6.0%
State income tax 4.4% 4.0%
  • Rent is about 9% more expensive in Louisville than in Des Moines. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
  • Plan for a heftier mortgage payment since home prices are approximately 26% steeper in Louisville compared to Des Moines.
  • Here’s some fantastic news, the average income is approximately 19% greater in Louisville than in Des Moines, offering more potential for savings or investments each month.
  • As the cost of living for a single person differs by around 5% between Louisville and Des Moines, you likely won’t feel a significant change.
  • The cost of living for a family between Louisville and Des Moines remains comparable, differing by roughly 5%, so your overall expenses won’t dramatically change.
  • Louisville has a lower unemployment rate than Des Moines by about 15%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes are 14% cheaper in Louisville compared to Des Moines. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
  • Income taxes are 9% less in Kentucky compared to Iowa, 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 Des Moines versus Louisville:

Living Expense Des Moines Louisville
Basic utilities $144.82 $225.63
Cell phone plan $51.25 $56.73
Dozen eggs $3.61 $3.02
Loaf of bread $2.50 $2.61
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $16.50
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $80.00
Gym membership $66.67 $22.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Louisville, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Louisville.
  • Eggs cost more in Des Moines than in Louisville.
  • Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Louisville.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Louisville.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Des Moines than in Louisville.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Louisville.

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Louisville

Des Moines Louisville
Population 699,292 782,969
Transportation score 5 6
Walkability score 45 91
Bike friendliness score 39 79
Crime index 5.0 56.68
Safety index 57.8 43.32
Air quality Good Good
  • Louisville’s population is about 12% greater than Des Moines.
  • Louisville’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Des Moines’s score of 5.
  • Louisville is more walkable than Des Moines with a score of 91 out of 100 vs Des Moines’s 45 out of 100.
  • With a score of 79 out of 100, Louisville 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.
  • Louisville’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 56.68 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that Louisville neighborhoods are safer than 56.68% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
  • Louisville is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 43.32 vs Des Moines’s 57.8.
  • Air quality in Louisville is Good, and in Des Moines it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Louisville move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Des Moines and Louisville 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: Movers in Kentucky are licensed and regulated by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) – Division of Motor Carriers. Moving companies that operate within the state must carry adequate cargo insurance and file public tariffs detailing the services they offer and the cost for each. The KYTC can assist consumers with resolving disputes with movers, but only after a customer makes a formal written complaint. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Kentucky, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Kentucky, 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 Louisville. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Choose Released Value Protection for free, basic coverage from movers at 60 cents per pound. For comprehensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Louisville

With your sights set on City of Beautiful Churches, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Louisville.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Butchertown
  • Clifton
  • Crescent Hill
  • Downtown
  • The Highlands
  • St. Matthews

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Bonnycastle
  • Clifton Heights
  • Crescent Hill
  • Hayfield Dundee
  • Highlands Douglass

Things to do in Louisville

With your move to Kentucky complete, you can dive right into experiencing Louisville. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Louisville is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, Kentucky Derby Museum, Conrad-Caldwell House Museum (Conrad’s Castle), and Muhammad Ali Center.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s The Parklands of Floyds Fork, Louisville Waterfront Park, Iroquois Park, and Cherokee Park — 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 Louisville Cardinals (NCAA)Louisville Bats (Triple-A East)Louisville City FC (USL Championship) game.

FAQ

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

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

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

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

The 588-mile move from Des Moines, IA, to Louisville, , takes one to six days. Some Des Moines movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Louisville.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Des Moines?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 10 movers in Des Moines provide piano moving services. 6 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 24 piano movers and 15 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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