Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

How Much Do Movers Cost in Waterloo, IA ?

Quick answer: Expect to pay $768 to $6,603 for a local move in Waterloo, Iowa, or around $199 per hour. When moving out of state, the cost of hiring long-distance movers in Waterloo will depend on your move size, mileage, and service needs.

ryan carrigan moving expert
Hi, I’m Ryan.
Let’s get moving.
I’ve helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that fit’s your budget.
I’ve helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that fit’s your budget.
Use our moving cost calculator to get an accurate quote for your move.
Seeing wide cost ranges can be confusing. Actual moving costs in Waterloo are affected by many factors such as, distance and size of your move, along with the time of year, and if you add on any additional services. Use our free moving cost calculator get a more realistic cost for your exact move.
Get Quote

Our track record

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Average cost of local movers in Waterloo, IA

Hiring a moving company in Waterloo is definitely the most convenient way to move, but that convenience comes at a higher cost than a DIY approach.

Here’s how much professional movers cost in Waterloo based on your move size:

Home size Avg. total cost Cost/hour # of movers # hours
Studio $768 $278 2 movers 3 hours
1 bedroom $1,047 $278 2 movers 4 hours
2 bedrooms $1,659 $390 3 movers 5 hours
3 bedrooms $3,765 $546 4 movers 8 hours
4 bedrooms $4,310 $546 4 movers 9 hours
5+ bedrooms $6,603 $764 5 movers 10 hours

Read more cost details

  • Studio: For a studio apartment move, you’ll generally need the expertise of two movers, and the process can last around three hours. The duration varies based on the volume and nature of your possessions, with the service priced at an hourly rate of $278.
  • One bedroom: For your one-bedroom apartment or house, you should budget approximately $278 per hour. This estimate includes a dedicated crew of two movers working for four hours.
  • Two bedrooms: Anticipate spending about $390 per hour to move a two-bedroom place in Iowa. Typically, three movers are necessary for five hours.
  • Three bedrooms: Expect movers in Iowa to ask for $546 per hour to relocate a three-bedroom house. This process is often completed in eight hours by a team of four.
  • Four bedrooms: Moving a four-bedroom house in Iowa will take four movers approximately nine hours, at a rate of $546 per hour.
  • Five or more bedrooms: Engaging Iowa movers for a residence with five or more bedrooms costs $764 per hour. Typically, this type of move needs the assistance of five movers and takes around 10 hours.

Expect to pay more: In Waterloo, moving services come at a premium. The hourly average of $199 is above the U.S. rate of $139.

Easily compare personalized moving quotes for your Waterloo move using our free and instant moving cost calculator.

Best local moving companies in Waterloo, IA

Our experienced team has diligently reviewed licensing details, insurance plans, customer reviews, and an array of other data points to determine the top moving professionals in Waterloo.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. Blue Line Moving & Storage: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  3. White Glove Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  4. Porter Moving Company: 4.3 out of 5 stars
  5. Maher Bros. Transfer and Storage: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  6. Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.0 out of 5 stars
  7. Jake N’ Jose Moving Service: 4.0 out of 5 stars
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
  • Unprofessional behavior
Review Analysis
Moving experiences roll in smooth for most customers with Two Men and a Truck, as over 85% of 162 reviewed praised the company. Customers consistently mention efficient service, professional and polite staff, careful handling, speedy moves, and clear communication. Many appreciate movers’ respect for fragile items and that the service often comes in under estimated costs, a rarity among movers. Feedback highlights friendly teams who work swiftly and with attention to clients’ needs, giving the company an edge over many competitors. On the downside, some customers report damage to items, lingering repair or insurance issues, and lapses in communication after the move. A few experienced unprofessional conduct or challenges with follow-up. Despite some negative input, the volume of positive feedback sets Two Men and a Truck apart from the average moving service.
Get a Quote (319) 208-3228

Company Info

State license #:

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 2527384


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Affordable rates
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Blue Line Moving & Storage receives strikingly positive feedback, with 91% of 120 reviews praising their professionalism, efficiency, and careful handling of items. Customers often compliment the friendly staff, fast service, and affordable rates, noting the team’s ability to deliver as promised and care for property during moves. Many clients mention the low rates compared to competitors, skilled handling of delicate items, and stress-free booking experiences. In contrast, 9% of feedback highlights concerns about damaged belongings, unexpected extra charges, and, on occasion, late arrivals or communication gaps. A few reports describe property damage, dissatisfaction with management, or claims processes that resolved slowly. These patterns suggest Blue Line consistently stands out for service compared to other movers, but a small number of experiences reveal opportunities for improvement in communication and claims handling.
Get a Quote (319) 266-3591

Company Info

State license #:

Years in Business: 86

DOT #: 742169


Services Offered

  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Friendly and approachable staff
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unprofessional behavior
  • Misplaced or lost items
Review Analysis
Moving should be easier, and White Glove Movers makes that happen for most customers. After analyzing 229 pieces of customer feedback, 94% rate their services positively. Customers consistently report efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, and speed. Crews are known for being friendly, polite, and willing to accommodate special requests. Pricing is accurate with many moves completed under estimate. Some feedback highlights excellent teamwork, prompt arrivals, and a stress-free process—a performance level that sets this company apart from many moving providers. Yet, a small but steady number of negative experiences cite damaged items, unprofessional behavior during complaints, and misplaced boxes or belongings. Customers who face problems often mention difficulty getting fair resolutions or compensation. White Glove Movers ranks high for efficiency and professionalism, but prospective customers who need extra care for valuables or complex claims should discuss expectations up front.
Get a Quote (319) 393-3000

Company Info

State license #:

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 2991947


Services Offered

  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Unprofessional behavior
Review Analysis
Customers celebrate Porter Moving Company for their professional and polite staff, efficient service, careful handling of belongings, and strong communication—qualities often lacking at other movers. Of the 239 reviews analyzed, an impressive 95.8% praised the company for quick moving processes, respect for property, and reliability. Feedback highlights attentive movers who call ahead, follow schedules, and handle furniture with care, frequently exceeding expectations. Affordable pricing and easy scheduling make them stand out among moving companies in the area. Negative input, making up just 4.2%, points mostly to incidents of property or furniture damage, missed delivery windows, or unprofessional conduct. These issues remain rare compared to most movers, but potential customers should supervise complex or large moves for peace of mind. No neutral (3-star) reviews were available. Porter Moving Company’s record of consistent service and customer satisfaction makes them a recommended choice, though a small risk of service hiccups remains.
Get a Quote (319) 560-5050

Company Info

State license #:

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 2427654


Services Offered

  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Helpful movers
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Maher Bros. Transfer and Storage stands out for professionalism, attentive movers, careful handling, and excellent communication, with 83.8% positive feedback from 68 customer reviews. Clients highlight efficient and friendly service, along with thorough protection of belongings. Occasional negative input (16.2%) points to damaged items, surprise charges, and delays as the primary concerns. Despite a few serious damages reported, the company receives more consistent praise for politeness, efficiency, and care than most competitors. Feedback suggests most moving experiences are smooth, with standout staff and reliability at the forefront.
Get a Quote (319) 229-2418

Company Info

State license #:

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 087390


Services Offered

  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Good communication
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
Review Analysis
Adamantine Spine Moving stands out for its top-tier professionalism and reliability, based on feedback from 107 customer experiences. Every review was positive, making this company unique in the moving industry, where mixed ratings are common. Customers repeatedly praised the team for their polite attitudes, careful handling of property, clear and timely communication, efficient moving services, and promptness. Many users reported that pricing stayed consistent with estimates, and complex items like pianos were moved safely. Unlike other movers, Adamantine’s staff are consistently described as friendly and hardworking, which builds customer trust and peace of mind. No reviews raised substantial negative issues, making them an unusual find among competitors.
Get a Quote (319) 774-7386

Company Info

State license #:

Pricing: 100/hr

DOT #: 1471037


Services Offered

  • 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
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Affordable rates
  • Careful handling
Customer Complaints
  • Lack of communication
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Unreliable timing
Review Analysis
Smooth moves, fair pricing, and impressive speed sum up Jake N’ Jose Moving Service’s feedback. After analyzing 82 reviews, nearly 90% of customers describe a positive experience. People praise their efficient service, affordability, professional demeanor, and careful handling of items. Many say moves are quick and hassle-free, outpacing competitors who often get dinged for delays or damage. Friendly teams and strong work ethics make stressful transitions easier. On the downside, the main complaints point to lapses in communication—some customers report slow responses, difficulty reaching the company, or unclear scheduling. A few mention delayed arrival or unreliable timing. Unlike larger companies where hidden fees and careless handling come up, Jake N’ Jose’s top weaknesses center on follow-through and communication but not on damage or pricing. Most people found the moves fast, cost-effective, and careful, with shortcomings largely limited to reaching the company or confirming appointments.
Get a Quote (515) 357-4619

Company Info

State license #:

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 


Services Offered

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Pay by cash

Average cost to hire interstate movers in Waterloo, IA

Since the cost of moving out of Iowa depends largely on where you’re moving, we’ve provided some example costs below. To get the most accurate pricing based on your specific destination, find your moving route to Iowa or use our moving cost calculator.

Cost to move a one-bedroom home out of state from Waterloo

The price of moving a one-bedroom home from Waterloo to another state largely depends on how far you’re going, the size of your move, and the moving method you choose.

To help set expectations, here are a few example price ranges for long-distance moves leaving Iowa:

  • Waterloo to Louisville $1,416 – $2,987
  • Waterloo to New York City $2,198 – $4,853
  • Waterloo to San Francisco $2,549 – $4,777

Cost to move a two- or three-bedroom home out of state from Waterloo

Moving a two- or three-bedroom home out of Waterloo comes with costs that vary depending on how much stuff you’re taking. A three-bedroom move with minimal furniture could actually cost less than a heavily decorated two-bedroom with more square footage.

Still, for reference, here are the typical cost ranges for two- to three-bedroom moves covering similar distances from Waterloo:

  • Waterloo to Chicago $1,480 – $4,061
  • Waterloo to Dallas $2,277 – $4,594
  • Waterloo to San Diego $2,836 – $5,623

Cost to move a four-bedroom (or larger) home out of state from Waterloo

Relocating a four-bedroom or larger home from Waterloo involves a number of variables. The costs can vary significantly depending on distance, volume, and seasonality.

Here’s a general idea of what long-distance moves from Waterloo with four or more bedrooms might cost:

  • Waterloo to Chicago $2,020 – $4,967
  • Waterloo to Oklahoma City $3,868 – $6,661
  • Waterloo to Jacksonville $4,057 – $6,775

Best interstate moving companies in Waterloo, IA

Now that you have an idea of what your move from Waterloo should cost, it’s time to start looking at the best interstate moving companies. We vetted each one, examining their pricing, services, and our own real-life customer reviews to pick the best options for you.

Best overall value
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • Best overall value
  • Veteran owned
  • Portion to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Most experienced mover
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392
At A Glance
  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
read our full review
(866) 835-2392
Best for contents coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.8 / 5
(866) 825-0554
At A Glance
  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years’ experience
read our full review
(866) 825-0554
Best customer service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best customized plans
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • 1,800 trucks
  • Storage available
  • Customized moving plans
read our full review
(844) 950-2963

Average cost of moving containers in Waterloo, IA

The average cost of moving containers in Waterloo is approximately $500 for local relocations and as much as $3,000 for long-distance moves. Cross-country moves can reach as high as $7,000 or more. Costs are largely based on distance and the container size you choose.

Best moving containers in Waterloo, IA

Need more options? Take a look at these highly-rated moving container companies before making your decision.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 5.0 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount

Average cost to rent a moving truck in Waterloo, IA

The cheapest way to move from Waterloo is usually by renting a truck. Expect a daily base rate of around $60, though it can run anywhere from $19 to $39, plus a per-mile charge between $1 and $1. While budget-friendly, this option means you’ll handle everything — from loading up to driving the truck to your new home.

Here are the typical costs of Waterloo rental trucks:

  • Base cost: $19 – $39 per day
  • Mileage fee: $1 – $1 per mile
  • Fuel cost: Depends on driving distance
  • Truck coverage: $20-$55 based on coverage level
  • Equipment costs (optional): Dolly, straps, blankets

The total cost to rent a truck from companies like Budget or U-Haul will depend on:

  • How far you’ll be driving
  • The length of time you keep the rental
  • Refueling expenses
  • Overnight stays and food
  • Cost of toll roads
  • Whether you need extra insurance
  • Equipment like dollies or pads
  • City parking fees or permits

Best moving truck rentals in Waterloo, IA

A full DIY move with a rental truck is almost always the lowest-cost option. In Waterloo, you’ll find lots of moving truck rental companies ready to help you get on the road. If you’re ready to do the heavy lifting — literally — these are some of the top companies to check out:

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.0 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.2 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

Best labor-only moving companies in Waterloo

If you’re looking for labor assistance in Waterloo, you’ll want to find a company that offers fair and transparent pricing and a good reputation for quality service. A labor-only moving company that can handle packing or supply boxes and moving supplies may also be a plus.

Here are our favorite labor-only movers.

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Hire moving labor
  • Online quotes
  • Nationwide
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Online booking
  • Move Concierge
  • Affordable

Factors that affect the cost of movers in Waterloo, IA

The exact amount you’ll pay for your move depends on the specific details of your move. That said, here are some of the most common factors that can influence the price of your Waterloo move:

  • Distance: Long-distance moves tend to cost more due to added mileage, fuel charges, and labor hours. Staying within the same city or region is typically more affordable.
  • Move size: More items = more money. Larger households usually need extra hands and a bigger truck, both of which increase the price.
  • When you move: You’ll usually pay more to move during peak season (May-September) because demand is higher. Similarly, the time of month and day of the week you book your move will impact cost. Demand will be higher the first and last of each month, when leases change over, and on Fridays and Saturdays, the most popular moving days. To save money on your move, consider booking during the week and in the middle of one of the off-season months, if possible.
  • The type of mover you choose: In most cases, hiring a full-service mover to assist with loading, unloading, and transport of your belongings will cost more than DIY options like moving container companies, where you handle all the heavy lifting yourself.
  • The services you select: Extra services like packing, unpacking, or premium insurance will add to your total. Even if you’re going DIY, hiring help for loading and unloading will bump up your budget.

Quick tips for a stress-free move

  • Invest in comprehensive coverage of your belongings. Movers are federally required to offer released value protection for free. While that sounds great, the coverage is minimal — just $0.60 per pound, regardless of the item’s actual value. This means you’d only receive $3 for a five-pound antique vase, even though the vase is valued at $300. Consider purchasing full-value coverage from your mover or home insurance provider to ensure better protection based on the item’s value.
  • Check your community’s moving rules. Many areas, especially those with HOAs, have moving restrictions on specific days or times. Be sure to review these rules and notify your building or HOA ahead of time.
  • Prepare your paperwork. Documentation such as proof of insurance or elevator reservation may be required when moving into or out of an apartment. These details are typically included in your moving contract, so be sure to collect them before moving day.

What discounts do Waterloo movers offer?

Some movers in Waterloo advertise discounts for specific groups. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available locally compared to state and national averages:

Type of discount Waterloo Iowa National average
AAA members 0.0% 0.0% 1.13%
Seniors 0.0% 0.0% 4.32%
Students 0.0% 0.0% 1.17%
Teachers 0.0% 0.0% 0.35%
Law enforcement 0.0% 0.0% 0.72%
Military 0.0% 2.7% 3.97%

Not every company promotes discounts publicly, so ask your mover directly about available savings in Waterloo.

What is the cheapest way to move to Waterloo?

If you want to save money, you can hire a container company, where you do the packing and loading, and they transport your belongings in Waterloo for you, or you can rent a moving truck and handle it all on your own.

Here are the average moving costs from Waterloo to another state with different types of movers:

Destination Professional Movers Containers Rental Trucks
New York $2,587 – $6,171 $1,568 – $3,127 $770 – $1,610
Las Vegas $3,096 – $7,013 $1,862 – $3,565 $956 – $2,142
$2,392 – $5,862 $1,524 – $2,974 $728 – $1,401

How to pay for your Waterloo move

Most movers take credit cards, but what if you want to pay by cash or money order? Take a look at how many of the 2 movers in Waterloo accept each form of payment, as well as how those numbers compare to the 37 IA movers and 3,174 moving companies nationwide.

Payment method Waterloo Iowa U.S.
Credit card 2 34 2859
Cash 1 13 822
Money order 0 5 272

Not all companies take every method — always confirm with your Waterloo mover when you call for a quote.

Helpful Waterloo resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle