Best Movers Near Marshalltown, IA (2026 Reviews)
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK is our preferred moving company in Marshalltown. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK also ranks #7 out of 58 movers statewide in Iowa. Rankings are based on 459 verified customer reviews, BBB rating, and proximity to Marshalltown, IA, covering 3 local Marshalltown movers.
Local movers in Marshalltown are priced hourly. The Iowa average is $199/hour for a 2-person crew. Use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to get a personalized estimate.
rating
4.5 / 5
- Years in Business: 29
- Yelp: 3.3 / 5
- BBB: A+
rating
4.42 / 5
- Years in Business: 71
- Yelp: / 5
- BBB: A+
rating
4.42 / 5
- Years in Business: 43
- Yelp: 5 / 5
- BBB: A+
Why use moveBuddha for your Marshalltown, IA move
- moveBuddha users save more than 30% on average by getting multiple Marshalltown mover quotes through our moving cost calculator before booking.
- Book a moveBuddha Certified Marshalltown mover and get an extra $1,000 in move coverage plus dedicated support throughout your move.
- If something goes wrong, moveBuddha steps in with direct dispute mediation between you and your Certified mover.
Moving in Marshalltown, IA right now: November offers some of the lowest prices and best mover availability of the year in Marshalltown. The one exception is the Thanksgiving window. The week of and after Thanksgiving sees an end-of-year demand spike. Aim for early to mid-November for the best combination of price and availability.
What are the top-rated moving companies in Marshalltown, IA?
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK is our preferred moving company in Marshalltown . TWO MEN AND A TRUCK also ranks #7 out of 58 movers statewide in Iowa.
moveBuddha scored 3 Marshalltown movers drawing on 459 verified customer reviews, with a market average score of 3.89/5. Rankings also draw on moveBuddha's reviews of 58 Iowa movers and 13,244 verified Iowa customer reviews to surface the closest and highest-rated companies serving Marshalltown from nearby locations.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Blue Line Moving & Storage: 4.26 out of 5 stars
- All Mighty Movers LLC: 4.36 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Lint Van Lines: 4.22 out of 5 stars
- Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.3 out of 5 stars
- Jake N' Jose Moving Service: 4.12 out of 5 stars
- A-1 Movers: 4.16 out of 5 stars
- White Glove Movers: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- Select Van & Storage Co.: 4.26 out of 5 stars
Friendly and approachable staff
Quick moving process
Efficient service
Quick response times
Professional and polite staff
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has been in business for 26 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has about 91% positive reviews across roughly 334 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.6.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, and TWO MEN AND A TRUCK makes deposit expectations clear upfront.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
The two young men that moved us were fantastic. They were quick and professional, extremely courteous, and the process was faster and more efficient than expected.
The office staff followed up before, during, and after the move. The movers did a fantastic job, and there wasn't any damage or broken items.
Affordable rates
Friendly and approachable staff
Respectful of property
Careful handling
Quick response times
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.4
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Blue Line Moving & Storage has been in business for 88 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and international moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Blue Line Moving & Storage has about 94% positive reviews across roughly 208 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.6.
Quote accuracy 4.0
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Blue Line Moving & Storage.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Blue Line Moving & Storage emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Fantastic moving company, we have used them 3 times over 16years and every time company have been the most affordable in the area. Movers have been professional, pleasant.
Entire experience was exceptional. The office staff was quick to provide an estimate which was very reasonable. The crew was hardworking, efficient and very careful with our items.
Affordable rates
Quick response times
Flexibility
Quick moving process
Consistency and follow-up
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. All Mighty Movers LLC has been in business for 12 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and intrastate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. All Mighty Movers LLC has about 64% positive reviews across roughly 25 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 3.1.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from All Mighty Movers LLC.
Customer service 3.5
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. All Mighty Movers LLC emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
They loaded and moved us into our new home in less than 6 hours. They were professional and the most reasonably priced in town.
They picked up the phone immediately, gave us the lowest quote, and sent a reminder as promised. They were kind and accommodating even when we canceled.
Quick response times
Quick moving process
Helpful movers
Efficient service
Friendly and approachable staff
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has been in business for 8 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like labor-only moving and office moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has about 96% positive reviews across roughly 1864 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.8.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving.
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
I walked into this company at 8am and they had guys helping me move my whole one-bedroom apartment by 10am that same day. They made a very tough situation much easier.
They were timely, efficient, professional, and friendly from start to finish. They handled everything carefully, worked quickly, and made the whole process much easier than I expected.
Consistency and follow-up
Good communication
Friendly and approachable staff
Professional and polite staff
Efficient service
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Lint Van Lines has been in business for 66 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like office moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Lint Van Lines has about 93% positive reviews across roughly 301 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.4.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Lint Van Lines.
Customer service 4.1
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Lint Van Lines emphasizes clear communication.
Recent reviews
Great crew! They arrived on time, worked hard & efficiently, and they were careful & friendly. I was very pleased with the outcome.
Nick, the driver, and both crews were great. They took great care with our belongings. All were very professional, efficient, and friendly. Michelle in the office made the process easy and checked in.
Good communication
Flexibility
Affordable rates
Consistency and follow-up
Respectful of property
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Adamantine Spine Moving has been in business for 27 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Adamantine Spine Moving has about 99% positive reviews across roughly 646 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 5.0.
Quote accuracy 4.2
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Adamantine Spine Moving.
Customer service 4.1
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Adamantine Spine Moving emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
Great communication pre-, peri-, and post-move. Easy process with real time video walkthrough to create estimate of moving costs. Competitive pricing. Friendly and professional service. Very efficient and prompt.
Caleb and the gang were awesome! They were flexible with our schedule. They were professional and quick, work was completed sooner than expected. Everything was moved and set-up with no issues.
Affordable rates
Flexibility
Quick moving process
Quick response times
Efficient service
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.4
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Jake N' Jose Moving Service has been in business for 7 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and small-scale moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Jake N' Jose Moving Service has about 88% positive reviews across roughly 96 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.3.
Quote accuracy 3.8
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Jake N' Jose Moving Service.
Customer service 3.8
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Jake N' Jose Moving Service emphasizes clear communication.
Recent reviews
Jake & Jose are awesome! They helped me move into my new apartment with only one day’s notice, and did a great job! Very professional, quick and reasonably priced. I’d highly recommend them!
Jake and Jose were prompt, communicative, easy to work with and very professional. They unloaded our daughters 2nd floor apartment in less than 2 hours and were very reasonable.
Quick moving process
Quick response times
Respectful of property
Careful handling
Friendly and approachable staff
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 4.7
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. A-1 Movers has been in business for 26 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like small-scale moving and office moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. A-1 Movers has about 71% positive reviews across roughly 111 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 2.3.
Quote accuracy 4.3
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from A-1 Movers.
Customer service 3.2
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. A-1 Movers emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
Emailed back and forth to set up the move. Quick responses helped me figure out cost details. Trey's crew did a great job with no dings or scratches.
Ricky and Shawn were fantastic. They showed up on time, finished earlier than estimated, and were super friendly and professional.
Affordable rates
Respectful of property
Careful handling
Flexibility
Quick moving process
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. White Glove Movers has been in business for 22 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like intrastate moving and interstate moving.
Review quality 4.1
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. White Glove Movers has about 95% positive reviews across roughly 343 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 4.0.
Quote accuracy 3.9
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from White Glove Movers.
Customer service 5.0
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. White Glove Movers emphasizes clear communication, careful handling.
Recent reviews
The rates are excellent, and the service is fast and efficient. Scheduling was flexible, and they relocated additional items from the property.
They treated all of our items with care and respect, padded the doorways, and placed everything where we wanted. White Glove was very reasonable.
Affordable rates
Quick response times
Good communication
Professional and polite staff
Efficient service
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Company stats
Read full reviewIndustry experience 5.0
Companies with more years in business often outperform newer competitors. Select Van & Storage Co. has been in business for 81 years, demonstrating strong staying power in a competitive industry with services like interstate moving and international moving.
Review quality 3.8
Customer reviews are the clearest window into a mover’s reputation. Select Van & Storage Co. has about 68% positive reviews across roughly 40 total reviews, with an average Yelp rating of 1.0.
Quote accuracy 4.1
Quote reliability often comes down to clarity and consistency. Customers can request quotes from Select Van & Storage Co..
Customer service 4.4
From responsiveness to follow-through, customer service is a big differentiator. Select Van & Storage Co. emphasizes clear communication, careful handling, and visibility during transit through shipment tracking.
Recent reviews
Darius and his crew were great. On time, friendly, professional and efficient.
Our questions were answered, movers came on time, and the crew was professional at both ends. Prices were very competitive, and the company provided moving boxes at no charge.
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How do Marshalltown, IA moving companies compare?
| Company | Our rating | City rank | Positive reviews | BBB | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
4.42 |
—
Top 10 in Iowa |
91% | A+ | ||
|
4.26 |
#1 of 3 | 94% | A+ | ||
|
4.36 |
—
Top 10 in Iowa |
64% | A+ | ||
|
4.42 |
—
Top 10 in Iowa |
96% | A+ | ||
|
4.22 |
— | 93% | A+ | ||
|
4.3 |
— | 99% | A+ | ||
4.12 |
#2 of 3 | 88% | A+ | ||
|
4.16 |
— | 71% | A+ | ||
|
4.44 |
—
Top 10 in Iowa |
95% | A+ | ||
|
4.26 |
— | 68% | N/A |
Proximity to Marshalltown is a ranking factor, so a mover appearing higher on the list may have a lower score than one listed below it. A nearby company can outrank a higher-scored mover based further out. Each company's positive review rate and BBB rating are included so you can compare quality and reputation side by side.
Top-rated movers in nearby Iowa cities
- Altoona movers
- Ames movers
- Ankeny movers
- Bettendorf movers
- Boone movers
- Burlington movers
- Carroll movers
- Cedar Falls movers
- Cedar Rapids movers
- Clinton movers
- Clive movers
- Coralville movers
- Council Bluffs movers
- Davenport movers
- Des Moines movers
- Dubuque movers
- Fort Dodge movers
- Fort Madison movers
- Grimes movers
- Indianola movers
- Iowa City movers
- Johnston movers
- Le Mars movers
- Marion movers
- Mason City movers
- Muscatine movers
- Newton movers
- North Liberty movers
- Norwalk movers
- Oskaloosa movers
- Ottumwa movers
- Pella movers
- Pleasant Hill movers
- Sioux City movers
- Storm Lake movers
- Urbandale movers
- Waterloo movers
- Waukee movers
- Waverly movers
- West Des Moines movers
Popular moving routes from Marshalltown, IA
Local movers in Marshalltown are the right choice for moves under 500 miles, typically along I-35 and I-80. For longer moves, you need a full-service interstate carrier with USDOT authority, binding estimate practices, and the logistics to handle cross-country delivery. See our guide to the best long-distance movers from Marshalltown, IA for route-specific recommendations and pricing.
rating
4.9 / 5
- Best overall value
- Veteran owned
- Portion to charity
rating
4.9 / 5
- Certified crews
- Flat-rate pricing
- Family-owned
rating
4.8 / 5
- 1,800 trucks
- Storage available
- Customized moving plans
How much do movers cost in Marshalltown, IA?
Local movers in Marshalltown are priced hourly. The Iowa average is $199/hour for a 2-person crew. Total cost depends on home size and hours on the clock.
| Home size | Estimated local move cost in Marshalltown |
|---|---|
| Studio | $222 – $370 |
| 1 bedroom | $296 – $518 |
| 2 bedrooms | $444 – $740 |
| 3 bedrooms | $666 – $1,110 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $888 – $1,628 |
Estimates based on national average local move costs, adjusted for Marshalltown's cost of living. Actual costs vary by crew size, hours, and services.
Ready to compare Marshalltown mover prices? See our full guide on Marshalltown, IA mover costs →
Which Marshalltown, IA movers offer specialty services?
Not every Marshalltown mover handles specialty items. moveBuddha tracked 3 Marshalltown moving companies across 5 specialty service categories. The breakdown below shows availability rates for this market and the top-rated mover in each category:
- Piano moving: 1 of 3 Marshalltown movers (33.33%) offer it. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving (4.42/5) also offers piano moving.
What movers in Marshalltown offer piano moving?
Piano moving is available from 1 of 3 Marshalltown movers (33.33%). College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving (4.42/5) also offers piano moving.
| Piano moving in Marshalltown | Details |
|---|---|
| Marshalltown movers offering this | 1 of 3 (33.33%) |
| Top-rated Marshalltown piano movers | College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, Adamantine Spine Moving |
| Upright piano | $592 to $1,110 |
| Baby grand piano | $888 to $1,850 |
| Grand piano | $1,332 to $2,590 |
Piano weight (300 to 800 lbs for uprights, 500 to 1,200 lbs for baby grands, over 1,200 lbs for concert grands) is the primary cost driver, as heavier instruments require more crew and specialized equipment. Bundling a piano into a full household move is usually cheaper than booking a piano-only carrier. See moveBuddha's guide to the best piano movers for vetted options and how to pack and move a piano for prep tips.
Apartment and high-rise moving in Marshalltown
Moving in or out of an apartment or high-rise in Marshalltown adds logistical steps that ground-floor moves don't require. Before booking, confirm the following with your mover:
- Elevator reservation: most buildings require a reserved service elevator window. Book it as soon as you have your move date. Slots fill quickly, especially on weekends and the first of the month.
- Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Marshalltown apartment buildings and high-rises require a COI from your mover before they'll allow access to service elevators or loading docks. Ask your mover for a COI early. This is a standard request and any licensed mover should provide it without charge.
- Long carry and shuttle fees: if the moving truck can't park within a short distance of the building entrance, a shuttle vehicle or long-carry charge ($75–$500+) may apply. Confirm the loading dock situation before signing your estimate.
- Labor-only movers: 33% of Marshalltown movers offer labor-only service (loading and unloading without a truck), which pairs well with a rented container or truck. All Mighty Movers LLC also offers labor-only service.
If your building has strict move-in rules, ask your mover for references from similar Marshalltown apartment moves before committing.
DIY moving options in Marshalltown, IA
Not every Marshalltown move needs a full-service crew. These alternatives cost significantly less:
Rental trucks
The best rental truck options for a DIY move in Marshalltown, IA are Budget Truck Rental (4.3/5), U-Haul (4.2/5), and Penske Truck Rental (4.0/5). Budget leads on transparent pricing and discount availability. U-Haul offers 7 truck sizes and one-way rentals for moves that won't bring you back. Penske carries the most consistently maintained fleet, with unlimited mileage on select routes. Use moveBuddha's moving truck size guide to match the right truck to your home size before booking.
rating
4.3 / 5
- Affordable pricing
- Online pricing
- Several discounts
rating
4.0 / 5
- Most expensive
- 4 truck sizes
- Unlimited mileage
rating
4.2 / 5
- Greatest coverage
- 7 truck sizes
- One way rentals
Moving containers
The best moving container companies available in Marshalltown, IA are PODS (4.5/5), Units Moving and Portable Storage (4.3/5), and MovingYourself (5.0/5), based on moveBuddha's ratings. Container moves work by dropping a portable unit at your door, giving you several days to load at your own pace, then the company handles pickup and delivery. See our full moving container company guide for cost comparisons by move size, or the moving container sizes guide to find the right unit for your load.
rating
4.5 / 5
- Unlimited storage
- 3 container sizes
- 10% discount
rating
4.3 / 5
- Flexible timelines
- Local franchise support
- Fits tight spaces
rating
5.0 / 5
- Affordable pricing
- Offers car shipping
- No hidden fees
Labor-only movers + rented truck
The best labor-only movers in Marshalltown, IA start with All Mighty Movers LLC (4.36/5) and College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving (4.42/5), both offering loading, packing, and assembly services. You drive, they lift. Rent a truck, put these crews on the loading and unloading, and keep full control of your timeline and route.
rating
4.36 / 5
- Years in Business: 12
- 64% positive reviews
- BBB: A+
rating
4.42 / 5
- Years in Business: 8
- 96% positive reviews
- BBB: A+
rating
4.12 / 5
- Years in Business: 7
- 88% positive reviews
- BBB: A+
Moving in Marshalltown, IA: what you need to know
A Marshalltown move involves logistics that go beyond booking a crew and loading a truck. The checklist below covers the practical steps specific to moving in this market.
Before move day
- Update your address: file a change of address with the USPS before your move date. Marshalltown residents can start at USPS Mover's Guide. Also update your address with Iowa DMV, your bank, employer, and any subscription services.
- Certificate of Insurance (COI): many Marshalltown buildings require a COI from your moving company before granting loading dock or elevator access. Request this from your mover as soon as you book. It's a standard document and any licensed mover should provide it free of charge.
- Reserve your elevator: if you're in a building with a service elevator, reserve a time window as early as possible. Weekend and month-end slots fill fast.
- Get a binding estimate: a binding estimate locks your final price. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight or time. Always confirm in writing before signing.
Timing your move
- Peak season (May–September): demand is highest in summer. Book at least 4–6 weeks ahead during this window.
- Off-peak savings: moves booked in October–April, on weekdays, or mid-month typically cost 10%–20% less. If your schedule is flexible, ask movers about off-peak pricing. See moveBuddha's best time to move guide for a month-by-month breakdown.
- Winter conditions: Marshalltown's winter lows reach 10°F. Winter moves are cheaper but require planning for ice, snow delays, and longer loading times. Confirm your mover's weather policy before booking.
Iowa moving regulations and your rights
- Verify your mover is licensed: all Iowa movers are required to be licensed with the state. Check your mover's license at Iowa's licensed movers directory. Ask for their USDOT number for interstate moves.
- 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.
- Released-value coverage: movers are required to offer basic protection at $0.60 per pound per item at no extra cost. This covers almost nothing on high-value items. Ask about full valuation coverage before signing.
- Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Your rights as a shipper: for interstate moves, the FMCSA requires movers to provide "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" before your move. Read it. It covers estimates, liability, dispute resolution, and the 110% rule. Download it at fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move.
- Industry oversight: Iowa Motor Truck Association sets professional standards for Iowa movers. Membership is voluntary but signals accountability. Ask your mover if they hold membership.
Frequently asked questions: moving in Marshalltown, IA
How much do movers cost in Marshalltown, IA?
Local movers in Marshalltown, IA charge by the hour. The Iowa average is $199/hour for a 2-person crew. Our preferred Marshalltown mover is TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. It also ranks #7 out of 58 movers statewide in Iowa.
Key cost factors for a Marshalltown move, based on moveBuddha's review data:
- Access fees: stairs, elevators, long carries, and shuttle service each add $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly. Get these costs itemized in your estimate before signing.
- Deposit requirement: many Marshalltown movers require a deposit to secure your booking. Confirm refund terms before paying.
- Full valuation coverage: 33% of Marshalltown movers (1 companies) offer it. The default released-value protection covers only $0.60 per pound. Full valuation coverage costs extra and covers replacement value.
- Hours on-site: local moves bill by the clock. Home size, floor access, elevator waits, and how much packing work the crew handles are the primary time drivers.
- Long-distance pricing: moves leaving Marshalltown across state lines are priced by shipment weight and mileage, not hourly. 67% of Marshalltown movers (2 companies) handle interstate moves. Fuel surcharges on long-distance moves typically add 8%–15% to transportation charges.
- Packing services: 33% of Marshalltown movers (1 companies) offer full packing. Professional packing adds $0.15–$0.21 per pound on average.
DIY options like a rental truck or moving container reduce costs by roughly 30% compared to full-service moving, based on moveBuddha's analysis. Use the moving cost calculator to get a market-specific baseline before collecting quotes.
What do full-service movers in Marshalltown include, and what costs extra?
A standard full-service move in Marshalltown, IA includes loading, transport, and unloading. Basic furniture padding and simple disassembly/reassembly for bed frames and standard furniture pieces are included in the base rate. Packing, valuation upgrades, storage, crating, and specialty-item handling are add-ons billed separately. The table below shows what Marshalltown movers offer and what each add-on typically costs, based on moveBuddha's review data.
| Add-on service | % of Marshalltown movers | Typical cost impact |
|---|---|---|
| Full packing | 33% (1 companies) | +$0.15–$0.21 per pound on average |
| Storage | 33% | ~$0.50 per cubic foot per month; a 1-bedroom (~514 cu ft) runs ~$190/month |
| Full valuation coverage | 33% (1 companies) | 1%–2% of declared shipment value (~$300–$600 on a $30,000 shipment); default released-value protection pays only $0.60/lb |
| Labor-only (load/unload, no transport) | 33% (1 companies) | Hourly rate only; no truck or transport charge |
| Access fees (stairs, elevator, long carry, shuttle) | Situational | $75–$500+ when the truck can't load directly; shuttle service adds $0.08–$0.12 per pound with minimums starting around $200 |
Every add-on above requires written confirmation before booking. A binding estimate locks the final price. A non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight or time. See the hidden and unexpected moving costs guide for a full breakdown of what to request in writing.
Do movers in Marshalltown offer senior, military, or other discounts?
moveBuddha found no confirmed senior, military, AAA, student, teacher, or law enforcement discounts among the Marshalltown movers in its database. That does not mean discounts are unavailable. Ask each mover directly at the quote stage, since some companies offer unpublished rates for eligible groups. Confirm any discount in writing before signing.
How far in advance should I book movers in Marshalltown?
Book Marshalltown movers at least 4–6 weeks ahead during peak moving season (May through September) and on month-end dates. For off-peak moves (October through April, mid-month, or on a weekday), 2–3 weeks is usually sufficient. Last-minute bookings (under 1 week) are possible but limit your options to movers with open capacity, which may not include your preferred company or the best-rated crews.
Once you have a date, request a binding written estimate before paying any deposit. Confirm the mover's cancellation and reschedule policy in writing at booking. Some Marshalltown movers charge a fee for changes made within 48–72 hours of the move.
What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and do Marshalltown movers provide one?
A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is a document from your mover's insurance carrier that names your building as an additional insured and confirms the mover carries active liability coverage. Many Marshalltown apartment buildings, condos, and commercial properties require a COI before they'll permit a moving crew to use service elevators or loading docks.
Any licensed, insured Marshalltown mover should provide a COI at no charge. Request it as soon as you book. Your building management may need it 5–10 business days before your move. If a mover hesitates or charges for a COI, that is a red flag worth taking seriously.
Are movers in Marshalltown licensed and insured?
Iowa requires moving companies operating within the state to hold a valid state license. Verify a mover's license at the Iowa licensed movers directory. For interstate moves (crossing state lines), movers must also hold a USDOT number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can verify any USDOT number at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov.
Always ask your Marshalltown mover for their license number and USDOT number before signing. moveBuddha verifies licensing and insurance status for all movers in its database as part of the review process.
How long does a local move take in Marshalltown?
Local Marshalltown moves are billed by the hour, so understanding time estimates helps you budget accurately. Based on moveBuddha's Marshalltown-area data:
- Studio/1 bedroom: 2–4 hours with a 2-person crew
- 2 bedrooms: 4–6 hours with a 2-person crew
- 3 bedrooms: 6–8 hours with a 3-person crew
- 4+ bedrooms: 8–12 hours with a 3–4 person crew
These are averages. Actual time increases with stairs, elevator waits, long carries from truck to door, and the amount of packing the crew handles. Pre-packing boxes, reserving an elevator, and ensuring a clear loading path are the most effective ways to keep hourly costs on track.
Do Marshalltown movers have experience with apartments and high-rises?
Yes. Most Marshalltown movers regularly handle apartment and high-rise moves. When evaluating a mover for this type of move, ask specifically about their experience with:
- Service elevator scheduling and building move-in procedures in Marshalltown
- Providing a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for building management
- Shuttle vehicles or alternative loading setups when a truck can't park close to the entrance
- Stair carries if the service elevator is unavailable or too small for large pieces
A mover with genuine Marshalltown apartment experience will ask about your building's move-in process during the quoting stage, not after you've signed. If they don't ask, bring it up yourself before committing.
What is the best time of year to move in Marshalltown?
The cheapest time to move in Marshalltown is October through April, particularly on weekdays and mid-month dates when mover demand drops. Moving during this window can reduce your total cost by 10%–20% compared to peak summer rates.
Peak season runs May through September. Marshalltown's summer highs reach 84°F, which makes physically demanding moves harder on crews and can slow load times on the hottest days. Demand is highest on weekends, the first and last days of the month, and during the school-year transition in late August.
Winter moves are the most affordable but require contingency planning. Marshalltown's winter lows reach 10°F. Confirm your mover's weather delay policy before booking a winter move.
Regardless of season, booking 4–6 weeks ahead gives you the best pick of Marshalltown's top-rated movers and the most flexibility on scheduling.
How does moveBuddha rank moving companies in Marshalltown?
moveBuddha scores 3 moving companies in Marshalltown on a weighted five-factor system covering customer satisfaction, dispute resolution, industry reputation, online reputation, and service options. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK also ranks #7 out of 58 movers statewide in Iowa.
How moveBuddha selects and reviews Marshalltown, IA moving companies
moveBuddha's moving analyst team evaluated 58 Iowa moving companies using a five-factor weighted scoring system: customer satisfaction (40%), dispute resolution (20%), industry reputation (15%), online reputation (15%), and service options (10%). Rankings for Marshalltown draw on 13,244 verified customer reviews across Iowa: real move experiences submitted by customers, not scraped from third-party platforms.
That scoring system draws on moveBuddha's dataset of 1,000+ live price points and research across 4,500+ movers nationwide, so you're getting recommendations built on real market data, not just review aggregation.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently completes moves on time, communicates proactively, and delivers within the estimated cost. These factors matter most when hiring a mover.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Problems happen in every industry. We reward companies that take clear ownership of issues and make genuine, documented efforts to resolve them.
- Industry reputation (15%): The company holds standing in professional moving organizations and participates in industry oversight, which signals accountability beyond customer reviews alone.
- Online reputation (15%): The company maintains accurate, up-to-date information online and responds promptly and professionally to customer inquiries and complaints.
- Service options (10%): We favor companies that offer full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery. These services matter on a complex move.
Read our complete moving company rating methodology for the full scoring breakdown.
See how Marshalltown's top movers stack up. Get free quotes from Marshalltown's top movers →
How to move in Marshalltown: permits, COI, and city logistics
A step-by-step guide to planning a local move in Marshalltown, IA, including permit requirements, certificate of insurance, elevator booking, and mover verification.
- Verify your mover's license and insurance. 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. Verify a license.
- Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If your Marshalltown building requires a COI for loading dock or elevator access, request one from your mover immediately after booking. Any licensed mover should provide it free of charge within a few business days.
- Reserve your parking and elevator access. Contact your building manager to reserve a service elevator window and, if needed, a parking permit for the moving truck on your Marshalltown street. Book these at least 2 weeks before your move date.
- Get a binding written estimate. Request a binding estimate from at least 3 Marshalltown movers. A binding estimate locks your final price. Review all line items (including access fees, packing, and valuation coverage) before signing.
The final verdict: moving in Marshalltown, IA
- Best overall: TWO MEN AND A TRUCK (4.42/5), our preferred Marshalltown mover, also ranking in the top 10 movers statewide in Iowa.
- Best runner-up: Blue Line Moving & Storage (4.26/5).
- Best for specialty items (piano, antiques, art): College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving (4.42/5).
- Best labor-only / DIY assist: All Mighty Movers LLC (4.36/5). Hire for loading and unloading while you supply the truck.
- Going rate: hourly; get 3 binding estimates to set your baseline.
Collect at least 3 binding estimates, confirm your mover's license and insurance, and request a COI if your building requires one. Use the moveBuddha cost calculator to set your budget baseline before reaching out to movers.