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($1,158) Cost to Move From Des Moines, IA to Chapel Hill, NC

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 1,084 miles from Des Moines to Chapel Hill typically costs between $732 and $5,836. The trip is expected to last from two–eight days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from Des Moines to Chapel Hill

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 Chapel Hill

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Des Moines to Chapel Hill much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In Des Moines, there are 9 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Chapel Hill.

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 Chapel Hill

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,084-mile move from Des Moines to Chapel Hill using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,121 – $4,821
  • Moving Container $1,146 – $2,075
  • Rental Truck $726 – $1,287
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,454 – $5,836
  • Moving Container $1,461 – $3,039
  • Rental Truck $732 – $1,625
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,508 – $8,232
  • Moving Container $2,076 – $4,208
  • Rental Truck $938 – $1,958
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.
Safeway Moving
Melcher-Dallas, IA Garner, NC
2 Bedrooms
Oct 23, 2025
North American Van Lines
Kellogg, IA Morrisville, NC
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 22, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
New Virginia, IA Siler City, NC
2 Bedrooms
Oct 18, 2025
PODS
Polk City, IA Roxboro, NC
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 11, 2025
United Van Lines
De Soto, IA Liberty, NC
4 Bedrooms
Sep 15, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Gilbert, IA Apex, NC
3 Bedrooms
Sep 01, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Patterson, IA Franklinville, NC
Studio apartment
Aug 30, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Cambridge, IA Mebane, NC
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 13, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Waukee, IA Broadway, NC
3 Bedrooms
Aug 08, 2025
American Van Lines
Bondurant, IA Knightdale, NC
1 Bedroom (large)
Jul 30, 2025

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

Top-rated movers to make your Des Moines to Chapel Hill move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Des Moines that offers long-distance services to Chapel Hill can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 13 top local movers in Des Moines 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 Des Moines to Chapel Hill.

  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 Chapel Hill?

In Iowa, moving services typically cost around $128 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 $1,158 – $4,598 $849 – $1,969 $712 – $1,339
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,454 – $5,836 $1,461 – $3,039 $732 – $1,625
4+ bedrooms $4,508 – $8,232 $2,076 – $4,208 $938 – $1,958
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 1,084-mile move from Des Moines to Chapel Hill, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Chapel Hill

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Chapel Hill from Des Moines, you can expect prices to land between $1,158 and $4,598. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,454 to $5,836 for the trip from Des Moines to Chapel Hill. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,508 and $8,232.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Chapel Hill

Moving containers from Des Moines to Chapel Hill will cost you $849 to $1,969 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,461 to $3,039. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,076 to $4,208. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Iowa.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Chapel Hill

Renting a moving truck from Des Moines to Chapel Hill typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $712 and $1,339 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $732 to $1,625. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $938 to $1,958.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Des Moines to Chapel Hill move

The cost of Des Moines movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,368 for a one-bedroom, or up to $7,237 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Des Moines.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $712 to $1,654, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Chapel Hill

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Chapel Hill runs about 19% higher for singles and 9% higher for families than Des Moines.

Singles spend around $2,248 in Des Moines versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $4,790 compared with $4,380.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Des Moines Chapel Hill
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $1,325
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $3,433
Average home value $192,347 $592,460
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $65,621
Cost of living (single) $1,891 $2,248
Cost of living (family of four) $4,380 $4,790
Unemployment rate 5.9% 3.2%
Sales tax 7.0% 7.5%
State income tax 4.4% 4.5%
  • Planning a move to Chapel Hill? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 70% higher than in Des Moines, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
  • Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Chapel Hill are about 208% higher than those in Des Moines.
  • Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 12% higher in Chapel Hill compared to Des Moines, which might allow for more savings or investments.
  • Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Chapel Hill, as living costs for a single person are 19% higher than in Des Moines. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
  • If you’re moving your family to Chapel Hill, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Chapel Hill is 9% higher than in Des Moines.
  • The unemployment rate in Chapel Hill is about 46% lower than in Des Moines. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
  • Sales taxes in Chapel Hill are 7% more than in Des Moines, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
  • Income taxes have a close resemblance in North Carolina and Iowa, 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 Des Moines and Chapel Hill:

Living Expense Des Moines Chapel Hill
Basic utilities $144.82 $156.99
Cell phone plan $51.25 $55.25
Dozen eggs $3.61 $4.53
Loaf of bread $2.50 $4.04
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $80.00
Gym membership $66.67 $42.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Chapel Hill, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Chapel Hill.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Des Moines than in Chapel Hill.
  • Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Chapel Hill.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Des Moines than in Chapel Hill.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Des Moines than in Chapel Hill.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Chapel Hill.

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Chapel Hill

Des Moines Chapel Hill
Population 699,292 63,764
Transportation score 5 6
Walkability score 45 34
Bike friendliness score 39 50
Crime index 5.0 26.42
Safety index 57.8 73.58
Air quality Good Moderate
  • Chapel Hill’s population is about 91% less than Des Moines.
  • Chapel Hill’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Des Moines’s score of 5.
  • Chapel Hill is less walkable than Des Moines with a score of 34 out of 100 vs Des Moines’s 45 out of 100.
  • With a score of 50 out of 100, Chapel Hill 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.
  • Chapel Hill’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 26.42 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that Chapel Hill neighborhoods are safer than 26.42% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
  • Chapel Hill is considered to be safer than Des Moines with a safety index of 73.58 vs Des Moines’s 57.8.
  • Air quality in Chapel Hill is Moderate, and in Des Moines it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Chapel Hill 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: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: North Carolina’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: North Carolina 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 Chapel Hill. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Chapel Hill

Planning your move to Southern Part of Heaven? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Chapel Hill.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown Chapel Hill
  • Franklin Street Area
  • Carrboro
  • Midtown Chapel Hill
  • East 54

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Meadowmont
  • The Oaks
  • Winmore
  • The Preserve at Jordan Lake
  • Southern Village
  • Briar Chapel
  • Dunhill
  • Governor’s Club
  • Westfall
  • Claremont/Claremont South

Things to do in Chapel Hill

After settling into your new North Carolina home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Chapel Hill has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Chapel Hill features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The Carolina Basketball Museum, Ackland Art Museum, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, and Kidzu Children’s Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s North Carolina Botanical Garden, Coker Arboretum, Brumley Forest Nature Preserve, and Battle Park — 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 UNC Tar Heels (Various sports) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Des Moines to Chapel Hill?

Planning your move from Des Moines to Chapel Hill? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Des Moines.

When is the cheapest time to move from Des Moines to Chapel Hill?

Because most people are moving from Des Moines to Chapel Hill 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 Des Moines to Chapel Hill take?

The 1,084-mile journey from Des Moines, IA to Chapel Hill, , typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Des Moines offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Chapel Hill.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Des Moines?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Des Moines, 10 movers can manage piano relocations. 6 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Iowa has 24 piano movers and 15 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.

Helpful moving resources

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