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($1,255) Cost to Move From Fontana, CA to Des Moines, IA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 1,637 miles from Fontana to Des Moines is generally between $998 and $6,878. The trip duration should be approximately four–15 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 Fontana 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 Fontana to Des Moines

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Fontana 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 Fontana, you have a choice of 49 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 Fontana to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,637-mile move from Fontana 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 $2,173 – $4,822
  • Moving Container $1,458 – $2,665
  • Rental Truck $998 – $1,936
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,883 – $6,878
  • Moving Container $1,738 – $3,578
  • Rental Truck $998 – $2,106
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $5,302 – $10,239
  • Moving Container $2,519 – $5,091
  • Rental Truck $1,243 – $2,816
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
Lake Forest, CA Runnells, IA
Studio apartment
Oct 08, 2025
United Van Lines
Norwalk, CA Cambridge, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 07, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Big Bear Lake, CA Windsor Heights, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 06, 2025
Roadway Moving
Industry, CA Melcher-Dallas, IA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 03, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Meadowbrook, CA Lambs Grove, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 16, 2025
PODS
Arcadia, CA Rippey, IA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 13, 2025
BLVD Moving
Santa Ana, CA Carlisle, IA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 06, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Villa Park, CA Linden, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 01, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Rose Hills, CA Ankeny, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 31, 2025
American Van Lines
San Marino, CA New Virginia, IA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 16, 2025

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

Top local movers for Fontana to Des Moines moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Fontana that also provides long-distance services to Des Moines can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 52 local movers in Fontana who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

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

  1. Big Deahl’s Movers: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  2. Trek Movers: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  3. Alex Moving and Storage: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  4. Inland Empire Movers: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  5. Golden West Moving Systems, Inc.: 4.36 out of 5 stars
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 (909) 328-8894

Company Info

State license #: 0191969

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 3295324

Alternate Names: People Trusted Company Group

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95.6% of all reviews were positive
4.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—Trek Movers stands out for efficiency, careful handling, and professionalism, with 1,378 reviews analyzed and 95.6% of feedback being positive. Customers consistently praise the team’s speed, attention to detail, and clear communication. Many highlight how the movers arrive on time, work quickly, and treat belongings with respect, making the process stress-free. Transparent pricing and helpful staff are frequently mentioned, setting Trek Movers apart from many competitors. Some negative feedback points to unreliable timing, unexpected high costs, and occasional damage to items. A few customers experienced longer-than-quoted moves or issues with compensation for damages. Neutral reviews often mention slower pace or minor communication gaps. Compared to other moving companies, Trek Movers receives far more positive input, especially for reliability and care, but customers should clarify timing and costs upfront to avoid surprises.
Get a Quote (800) 298-0044

Company Info

State license #: 0191956

Pricing: $120/hr

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 3256910

Alternate Names: Trek Solutions LLC , Trek Movers Inc

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
42.9% of all reviews were positive
54.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer experiences with Alex Moving and Storage often stand out for efficient service, professional and friendly teams, and careful handling of belongings. Many customers note fast moves and clear communication exceeding what is typical among moving services. However, reports of damaged items, lost boxes, and lack of communication occur more frequently than with highly-rated competitors. Over half of the analyzed feedback was negative, citing property loss and damage as common themes. While staff professionalism shines in some moves, repeated breakdowns in handling and tracking led to distrust among customers. Out of 126 reviews, 42.9% shared positive stories, while 54.8% reported serious issues, placing Alex Moving & Storage behind top-tier moving companies in reliability.
Get a Quote (714) 482-3599

Company Info

State license #: 0164751

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 582228

Alternate Names: Uribe Trucking, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
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 (909) 922-0000

Company Info

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1778475

Alternate Names: Local Moving Services, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
87.5% of all reviews were positive
12.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for Golden West Moving Systems shows a strong record of professional, efficient, and helpful service, with 88% of reviews sharing positive experiences. Many customers praise the movers’ care with belongings, quick process, and respectful demeanor. Clients appreciate both smooth long-distance and complex moves, and several note accurate estimates and clear communication throughout the process. Negative feedback makes up about 13% of input and centers chiefly on employee conduct, accidental property damage, and limited service availability. Rare incidents of unprofessional behavior and lack of area coverage contrast with the many endorsements for the company’s reliability and thoroughness. Golden West appears to deliver a higher standard of moving service compared to many competitors, earning frequent recommendations for both residential and business moves.
Get a Quote (800) 548-2400

Company Info

State license #: 0190351

Years in Business: 61

DOT #: 70719

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified

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

Movers in California generally charge an average of $128 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 $1,255 – $4,877 $1,035 – $2,450 $1,007 – $1,788
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,883 – $6,878 $1,738 – $3,578 $998 – $2,106
4+ bedrooms $5,302 – $10,239 $2,519 – $5,091 $1,243 – $2,816
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 1,637-mile move from Fontana 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 Fontana to Des Moines

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Fontana to Des Moines typically costs between $1,255 and $4,877. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,883 and $6,878 when moving from Fontana to Des Moines. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Fontana to Des Moines, you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,302 up to $10,239.

Cost of moving containers from Fontana to Des Moines

If you’re relocating from Fontana to Des Moines, you’ll typically spend between $1,035 and $2,450 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,738 up to $3,578. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $2,519 and $5,091. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Fontana to Des Moines

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Fontana 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 $1,007 and $1,788. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $998 to $2,106. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,243 and $2,816.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Fontana to Des Moines

The cost of Fontana movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Fontana to Des Moines might be as low as $2,600, while a four-bedroom could reach $9,225.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Fontana.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,007 to $2,353 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Fontana to Des Moines

Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Fontana – roughly 36% less for singles and 36% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $2,972 in Fontana. For a family of four, it’s $4,380 compared with $6,875.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Fontana Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $2,000 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $3,200 $1,763
Average home value $631,669 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $72,918 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $2,972 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $6,875 $4,380
Unemployment rate 7.6% 5.9%
Sales tax 7.75% 7.0%
State income tax 13.3% 4.4%
  • Good news! When moving to Des Moines from Fontana, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 62% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
  • With home prices being nearly 70% cheaper in Des Moines, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
  • Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 20% lower in Des Moines than in Fontana.
  • Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Des Moines. The cost of living for a single person is 36% less compared to Fontana.
  • Relocating to Des Moines could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 36% lower than in Fontana.
  • With an unemployment rate approximately 22% lower than Fontana, Des Moines boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
  • Sales taxes are 10% lower in Des Moines than Fontana, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
  • Income taxes are 67% lower in Iowa than in California. 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 Fontana and Des Moines, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Fontana Des Moines
Basic utilities $226.85 $144.82
Cell phone plan $61.89 $51.25
Dozen eggs $4.99 $3.61
Loaf of bread $4.09 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $10.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $55.00 $77.50
Gym membership $66.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Fontana than in Des Moines.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Fontana than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs cost more in Fontana than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in Fontana than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Fontana than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Fontana than in Des Moines.

How life is different in Fontana vs. Des Moines

Fontana Des Moines
Population 212,704 699,292
Transportation score 6 5
Walkability score 37 45
Bike friendliness score 41 39
Crime index 31.65 5.0
Safety index 68.35 57.8
Air quality Good Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 229% greater than Fontana.
  • Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Fontana’s score of 6.
  • Des Moines is more walkable than Fontana with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Fontana’s 37 out of 100.
  • Both Des Moines and Fontana have similar bike-friendliness scores (41 vs 39), meaning Des Moines is about as safe for cyclists as Fontana. 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 Fontana with a score of 5.0 compared to Fontana’s 31.65. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Fontana neighborhoods are safer than 31.65%.
  • Des Moines is considered to be less safe than Fontana with a score of 57.8 vs Fontana’s 68.35.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Fontana it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Fontana 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 Fontana to Des Moines?

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

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

With many people choosing to move from Fontana 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 Fontana to Des Moines take?

Covering 1,637 miles, the move from Fontana, CA to Des Moines, typically takes four to 15 days. Some Fontana movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Des Moines can help bridge the gap.

Do movers in Fontana offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers in Fontana offer AAA member savings. 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 Fontana can handle specialty items for my move to Des Moines?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Fontana, 40 movers can handle pianos. 31 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 297 piano movers and 227 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.

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