Best Movers Near Defiance, IA (2025 Guide)

Ryan Carrigan

Last Updated: Aug 13, 2025 • 5 min read

Fact Checked by: Hilary Snow

Quick answer: After comparing 24 moving companies in Iowa, our recommended local mover in Defiance, IA, is Bellhop Moving thanks to their pricing, variety of moving solutions, and great customer reviews. Safeway Moving earns our top pick for out-of-state or long-distance moves from Iowa because they are affordable without cutting corners on service.

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's right for you.

Preferred partner:

Bellhop Moving

4.42
Best local IA mover:

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

4.76
Best interstate mover:

Safeway Moving

4.85
Best DIY moving option:

U-Haul Truck Rental

4.15

Need more help? Build your move plan.

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Preferred partners

Company	Quote	Rating
Bellhop Moving	Get A Quote	4.42 / 5
Safeway Moving	Get A Quote	4.85 / 5
International Van Lines	Get A Quote	4.45 / 5

Our track record

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

6 Cheapest movers when moving locally in Defiance, IA

Whether you're moving within Defiance, relocating to nearby Earling or Buck Grove, or heading to another Iowa city less than 50 miles away, here are some affordable and highly-rated movers to consider:

Preferred Partner

Bellhop Moving: 4.42 out of 5 stars

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.76 out of 5 stars
Select Van & Storage Co.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
King's Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc: 4.72 out of 5 stars
Jim's Moving & Delivery Co Inc: 4.58 out of 5 stars

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

3110 S 67th Street, Omaha, NE 68106 US

58% of all reviews were positive

39% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Fast hands and friendly faces define most feedback for Two Men and a Truck, with 58.3% of 300 reviews being positive. Customers repeatedly praise the team's efficiency, professionalism, careful handling, speed, and clear communication—key reasons many said they'd use them again or recommend them. However, 39.3% of input describes significant problems.

The most common complaints involve damaged items, unexpected extra charges, and lack of communication from office or claims staff. Clients detailed experiences where claims for property damage went unanswered, bills ended up much higher than quoted, or calls to company representatives weren't returned. By contrast, similar companies often get fewer complaints about property damage or billing disputes. While their teams work quickly and treat items with care, the company should address its billing transparency and claims handling to better match the strengths of its crews.

Get a Quote (402) 764-1002

Company Info

State license #: 2590545

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: JTW Omaha Movers, Inc.

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Pianos
Storage
Safes
Pay by credit card

Select Van & Storage Co.

8006 J Street, Omaha, NE 68127 US

89% of all reviews were positive

11% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Reliable help meets careful hands. A thorough analysis of 244 customer reviews shows that nearly nine out of ten customers reported a positive experience with Select Van & Storage Co. Feedback frequently highlights efficient service, quick moves, and professional, polite teams.

Customers mention careful handling of belongings and strong communication, setting this company ahead of standard moving services. On the downside, the small number of negative experiences involves damaged items, shipment delays, or communication lapses. Despite these, the company’s reputation stands out for speed, respectful teams, and dependable handling—earning them more frequent praise than many peers. Select Van & Storage Co. is especially well-regarded by military families and repeat movers for consistent, quality support. For those seeking a moving company that combines efficiency with genuine care, most input suggests this team delivers on its promises.

Get a Quote (402) 935-3700

Company Info

Years in Business: 79

DOT #: 1098759

Alternate Names: Mayflower Movers, Mayflower Transit, Select Van & Storage Co.

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Art
Antiques
Crating
Crane vans
Shipment tracking
Full-valuation coverage
Storage
Fragile-only packing
Pay by credit card
DOD certified

King's Moving

7530 F Street, Omaha, NE 68127 US

98% of all reviews were positive

2% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

A standout reputation sets King's Moving apart in the moving industry. Among 238 feedback entries, almost 98% share positive experiences with prompt, efficient service, careful handling of items, and a courteous, professional team. Many customers emphasize how the movers went the extra mile, protecting both homes and belongings during the process.

Quick moving without sacrificing safety and staff members who genuinely care make this company a top pick compared to others. A few customers encountered issues, mostly citing frustration over communication delays, occasional lost or damaged items, or problems resolving claims. Negative input centers on responsiveness and rare accountability concerns, but these form a tiny fraction of the company’s feedback. Compared to many moving services, King’s Moving consistently delivers reliability, attention to detail, and a level of care not easily matched.

Get a Quote (402) 676-0719

Company Info

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 960979

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Hot Tubs
Pool Tables
Art
Antiques
Crating
Storage
Fragile-only packing
Safes

Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc

5600 Harbor Dr, Sioux City, IA 51111 US

78% of all reviews were positive

22% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Service that’s speedy, skilled, and careful stands out at Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc. From 27 reviews, 78% praised the team’s professionalism, gentle handling, efficiency, strong recommendation rates, and affordable prices. Several customers noted the crew’s friendly attitude, thorough organization, and prompt communication, putting this company ahead of many competitors who struggle with reliability or responsiveness.

Negative feedback (22%) centered on damaged items, surprise charges, and complaints about packing quality. While most customers highlight positive outcomes and attentive service, a few experienced carelessness handling belongings and confusion over costs. The majority of feedback shows Claeys Brothers consistently delivers fast, careful moves with a respected and courteous crew.

Get a Quote (712) 252-1335

Company Info

Years in Business: 69

DOT #: 70719

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Art
Antiques
Crating
Storage
Pay by cash
Pay by credit card

Jim's Moving & Delivery Co Inc

5610 Highland Dr., Omaha, NE 68133 US

37% of all reviews were positive

63% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Past customers describe Jim's Moving & Delivery Co Inc as fast, respectful, and careful with belongings, with many mentioning polite movers and reasonable pricing. Positive input highlights professional attitudes and quick, effective service, often emphasizing the care taken in handling furniture and helpful communication. By contrast, negative feedback details frequent issues with damages to items, unresolved claims regarding property harm, and frustrating communication breakdowns.

Several customers reported long response times or unaddressed complaints after problems occurred, unlike leading moving companies who tend to respond more quickly and thoroughly. In reviewing 19 pieces of input, just under 37% was favorable, with the majority raising concerns about property damage, lack of follow-up, and unsatisfactory resolutions. Choosing this company may mean quick, budget-friendly service but also carries notable risk for damage and poor support if issues arise.

Get a Quote (402) 291-2490

Company Info

State license #: 732686

Years in Business: 43

DOT #: 732686

Alternate Names: Live Grow Move, LLC

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Antiques
Full-valuation coverage
Storage
Fragile-only packing
Safes
Pay by credit card

Other local IA movers

While these local Iowa movers did not make our top list, they are still worth looking into:

Cheapest movers when moving out of Iowa

Relocating from Iowa to a new state? You’ll need an experienced interstate moving company to get you there. Here are our recommendations:

Safeway Moving: 4.85 out of 5 stars
International Van Lines: 4.45 out of 5 stars
Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
PODS: 4.8 out of 5 stars
American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Safeway Moving

rating

4.85 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Best overall value
Portion to charity
Veteran owned

Get A Quote

(855) 650-0657

International Van Lines

rating

4.45 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

24/7 cust. service
Competitive rates
10% discounts

Get A Quote

(855) 929-4120

Mayzlin Relocation

rating

4.9 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Family owned
East coast focus
Affordable pricing

Get A Quote

(980) 217-6841

PODS

rating

4.8 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Unlimited storage
3 container sizes
10% discount

Get A Quote

Visit Website

American Van Lines

rating

4.5 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Certified crews
Flat-rate pricing
Family-owned

Get A Quote

866-835-2392

Cheapest DIY moving options in Defiance, IA

Choosing a full-service mover for your Defiance, Iowa move is definitely the most convenient option, but it’s also usually the priciest. If you’re looking to cut costs, consider going with one of the top moving container companies. Or, check out moving truck rental companies in Defiance instead.

PODS

rating

4.8 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Unlimited storage
3 container sizes
10% discount

Get A Quote

Visit Website

U-Pack

rating

5 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Fast delivery
Nationwide
100+ miles moves

Check prices Visit Website

MovingYourself

rating

4.5 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Affordable pricing
Offers car shipping
No hidden fees

Get A Quote

(352) 322-2920

Budget Truck Rental

rating

4.3 / 5

Licensed

Insured

Price

Affordable pricing
Online pricing
Several discounts

Check prices Visit Website

Top-rated movers in other nearby Iowa cities

See less

How we chose the best movers in Defiance, IA

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 24 Iowa movers and listed the top five best movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Average cost of movers in Defiance, IA

Check out the pricing table below to get a rough idea of what local moves typically cost in and around the Defiance area. For a deeper dive, be sure to explore our guide on the moving costs in Iowa.

Keep in mind that the moving quotes shown are general estimates. Your actual expenses may vary based on your specific moving situation. For a more accurate estimate, try our moving cost calculator.

Home Size	Avg. Total Cost	Cost/hour	# of Movers	# Hours
Studio	$974	$194	2 movers	3 hours
1 Bedroom	$1,168	$194	2 movers	4 hours
2 Bedroom	$1,597	$272	3 movers	5 hours
3 Bedroom	$3,067	$381	4 movers	8 hours
4 Bedroom	$3,449	$381	4 movers	9 hours
5+ Bedroom	$5,053	$534	5 movers	10 hours

Compare the top Defiance, IA movers

Let’s compare how the top movers in Defiance, IA stack up in terms of their reputation.

Company	moveBuddha rating	BBB rating	Yelp rating	Google rating
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK	4.8/5	A+	1.9/5	4.4/5
Select Van & Storage Co.	4.8/5	A+	2.2/5	4.9/5
King's Moving	4.6/5	A+	3.5/5	4.9/5
Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc	4.7/5	A+		4.2/5
Jim's Moving & Delivery Co Inc	4.6/5	A+	2.5/5	4.3/5
Bellhop Moving	4.4/5	C	5/5	4.5/5
Action Movers	4.3/5	A+	4.5/5	4.9/5
10 Men Movers	4.5/5	A+	4.9/5	4.9/5
Firefighters on the Move	4.5/5	A+	4.2/5	4.8/5
All My Sons Moving & Storage	4.4/5	A	1.2/5	/5

FAQs

How can I verify if my mover is legally licensed?

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.

Every mover featured in our guide is fully licensed. Check out our best movers in Iowa page for top picks.

What’s the best way to find a trustworthy Defiance mover?

Finding a dependable Defiance moving company can be a challenge, but there are a few key things that can help you identify a reputable mover:

Reputation: A strong reputation is important, whether the mover is a small local business or a well-established van lines company.
Dispute resolution: Steer clear of movers with a track record of unresolved complaints. While every Defiance mover may encounter customer issues, the best ones handle disputes quickly and professionally.
Experience with your type of move: Great reviews for short moves don’t guarantee success on a cross-country relocation. Make sure the mover has handled moves like yours before.

When is the most affordable day to hire movers in Defiance, IA?

Movers in Defiance, Iowa, are usually cheapest on weekdays, as weekends tend to be busier and more expensive. Typically, the most affordable time to move falls between October and April. Moving costs spike between May and September due to high demand during peak season.

It’s best to book your Defiance move early. To save money, try to avoid weekends, holidays, and peak summer months. And remember, a low initial quote isn’t always a good sign. Some movers increase the price on moving day after low-balling up front.

How can I move out of state from Defiance, IA on a budget?

If you're looking to save money, renting a moving truck is the most affordable way to move out of state or even locally within Defiance, Iowa. It’s a DIY solution, though, so you’ll be responsible for packing, loading, unloading, and doing all the driving.

Is using a moving container a smart choice for my move from Defiance?

Moving containers give you the flexibility to move on your schedule, but you’ll need to handle all the lifting and loading yourself. Once everything is packed, the container company will take care of transporting it to your new home, so you can skip the hassle of driving a moving truck.

Can I get help loading my moving container in Defiance?

If you’re going the DIY route with a rental truck or container, labor-only moving companies are a great way to get some extra help. Hiring professionals to assist with loading and unloading can lighten the workload and speed up the process.

Can I get storage from Defiance moving companies?

Many Defiance movers offer both short- and long-term storage options. Some companies may rely on third-party storage facilities, so be sure to ask how and where your belongings will be stored. It’s a good idea to confirm availability and costs when comparing movers.

Learn more: Should you use your mover's storage solutions?