The BEST Moving Companies in Des Moines, IA

Our Top Pick: If you’re moving locally in Des Moines, our top pick is College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving. We’ve rated them 4.62 out of 5 stars. If you’re looking for an interstate moving company to handle your Iowa move, we recommend Safeway Moving.

With 699,292 people living in Des Moines, the city sees its fair share of moving trucks. With an average moving cost of $142 per hour in Des Moines, finding a moving company that balances cost and quality is key.

Whether your new place is down the road or you’re looking for the best long-distance moving company, we’ve reviewed the best moving companies in Des Moines to make your next move a smooth transition.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned

% of users select this mover

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • 20 yrs experience
  • Flat rate pricing
  • Family owned

% of users select this mover

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing

% of users select this mover

How we chose the best movers in Des Moines

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 26 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.

Best movers for those moving locally in Des Moines

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.62 / 5

DOT #: 2378173

Years in Business: 6

10500 Hickman Rd Suite H,
Clive, IA 50325

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, serving Clive, IA since 2018, specializes in local residential moves and stands out from other nearby movers with their comprehensive packing, unpacking, and labor-only services. They also cater to office moving needs, making them a versatile choice. While their Yelp reviews average 3.2 from 14 ratings, their astounding 4.8 out of 1452 Google reviews suggest a generally positive customer experience. Additionally, they accept credit cards and do not require a deposit, offering convenience and flexibility. Despite their F rating from the BBB, their extensive positive feedback on Google indicates a largely satisfactory service.

Get a Quote (515) 207-2003

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage

Additional Information

Back to Top movebuddha icon

Two Men and a Truck

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.72 / 5

DOT #: 2527384

Years in Business: 26

2601 104th St #400,
Urbandale, IA 50322

Two Men and a Truck, a reputable moving company in Urbandale, IA, has been providing local residential moving services since 1998. Renowned for their packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, they stand out by requiring no deposit and accepting credit cards, adding convenience for their clients. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Google from over 500 reviews and a BBB rating of A+, they excel in customer satisfaction compared to other nearby movers. Their proven track record makes them a trusted choice for local moves.

Get a Quote (515) 216-3654

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Back to Top movebuddha icon

Black Belt Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.58 / 5

DOT #: 3527158

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 15

1209 SW ORDNANCE RD STE B,
ANKENY, IA 50023

Black Belt Movers, serving the Ankeny, IA area since 2009, offers a comprehensive range of local residential moving services. With an A rating from the Better Business Bureau and an average Yelp rating of 4.0 based on 15 reviews, their reputation stands strong among nearby moving companies. They also provide office moving, packing, unpacking, and specialized services like moving pianos and antiques. Unlike many competitors, they accept credit cards, require no deposit, and provide full valuation insurance coverage.

Get a Quote (515) 393-4253

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Flat Rate Movers, LLC
Back to Top movebuddha icon

Adamantine Spine Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.52 / 5

DOT #: 1471037

Pricing: $100/hr

Years in Business: 24

4701 NW Urbandale Dr.,
Des Moines, IA 50322

Adamantine Spine Moving, a trusted local moving company serving Des Moines, IA, has been a reliable choice for residential moves since 2000. With a remarkable average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and a perfect 5.0 on Google, it consistently outshines other nearby movers. Renowned for its A+ BBB rating, the company offers comprehensive services including packing, crating, and the careful handling of pianos, art, and antiques. Charging $100 per hour for local moves, Adamantine Spine Moving accepts cash, credit cards, and money orders, ensuring flexible payment options for their clients.

Get a Quote (319) 519-0154

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 1471037
Back to Top movebuddha icon

All Mighty Movers LLC

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.52 / 5

DOT #: 2468266

Pricing: $130/hr

Years in Business: 9

59 Clark St.,
Des Moines, IA 50314

All Mighty Movers LLC, a trusted local moving company serving Des Moines, IA, has been providing top-notch residential moving services since 2015. Unlike many other local movers, All Mighty Movers stands out with their ability to handle challenging items like pianos, hot tubs, and pool tables. Their consumer reviews reflect their reputation: they boast an impressive 4.8 average rating on Google with 455 reviews and maintain an A rating from the Better Business Bureau. With competitive rates at $130 per hour and convenient payment options including credit cards, All Mighty Movers offers reliable and professional services without requiring a deposit.

Get a Quote (515) 313-1395

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Safes

Additional Information

Back to Top movebuddha icon

Best movers for those moving out of Iowa

Best Overall Value
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(855) 650-0657

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • GPS tracked trucks and tractors
  • Barcode scanned and tracked inventory of your possessions
  • Dedicated move coordinator assigned to each client
  • A portion of every move is donated to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657

93% of users select this mover

Best industry reputation
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • Over 20 years in business
  • Excellent customer service score
  • Best pricing we've seen
  • Can handle last minute moves
read our full review
(866) 835-2392

93% of users select this mover

Best Upfront Pricing
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.45 / 5
(980) 217-6841

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • Family owned with locations covering the east coast
  • Full refund for cancellations within 7 days of your move
  • Packing and unpacking services available
  • Handle residential, corporate, and military moves
read our full review
(980) 217-6841

93% of users select this mover

Best for complex moves
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
(844) 950-2963

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • Over 74 years in business
  • More than 1,800 trucks in the fleet
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Top major moving company in the U.S.
  • Highest rated agent van line among moveBuddha customers
read our full review
(844) 950-2963

93% of users select this mover

Best for high-end moves
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
(703) 972-1772

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • Guaranteed pick up and delivery dates
  • Low deposit requirement of $250 for interstate moves
  • Easy and fast AI-powered in-home estimate tool
  • Over 40k moves in the past 3 years
  • Available Financing as low as 0% Interest for low monthly payments
  • Extremely responsive customer service
read our full review
(703) 972-1772

93% of users select this mover

Alternative Des Moines moving options

Moving Containers

  1. U-Pack: 5 out of 5
  2. PODS: 4.8 out of 5
Best value container
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • Long distance moves only
  • Only pay for the space you use
  • No deposit or initial fees
  • Fast delivery time frames
read our full review
Check prices Check prices

93% of users select this mover

Best Nationwide Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • 30 days storage included
  • Local and long distance moving options
  • Unlimited loading/unloading time
  • Store on property or at a facility
read our full review
Check prices

93% of users select this mover

Labor Only

  1. HireAHelper: 4.5 out of 5
  2. Bellhop: 4.3 out of 5
Best Labor Only
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Check prices Visit Website

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • First call quoting, get a quote in just a couple of minutes
  • Rates are typically 20-40% lower than the industry averages
  • $1,000 money-back service guarantee
  • Fast and accurate delivery times
  • Free damage coverage with additional coverage options
read our full review
Check prices Check prices

93% of users select this mover

Best customer experience
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
(866) 774-5063

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • Quick and easy booking process
  • National 4.75/5 star rating (these guys are good at what they do)
  • Dedicated move concierge specialist
  • Pay as you go service. 2-hour minimum and then prorated down to the minute
  • The time clock starts when the movers arrive and ends when you tell them
read our full review
(866) 774-5063

93% of users select this mover

Full DIY

  1. U-Haul Truck Rental: 4.15 out of 5
  2. Penske Truck Rental: 4 out of 5
Best Availability
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Check prices (800) 468-4285

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • More than 20,000 locations with prominent pricing
  • Rental options include everything from pick-up trucks to 26-foot moving trucks
  • Gentle-Ride Suspension add protection to avoid damaging your items during transit
  • U-Box moving containers available if you don't want to drive
read our full review
Check prices (800) 468-4285

93% of users select this mover

Most Reliable
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Check prices (844) 847-9517

93% of users select this mover

At A Glance
  • Limits environmental impact as part of the EPA's SmartWay Program
  • Non-slip flooring makes loading and unloading easier
  • Easily choose truck size with their Truck Wizard Tool
read our full review
Check prices (844) 847-9517

93% of users select this mover

Average cost of movers in Des Moines

The pricing table below shows ballpark costs for local moves within the Des Moines area and its surrounding suburbs. Or check out our post on the cost to move in Iowa for more pricing info.

Keep in mind the price ranges listed are only averages. Actual costs can vary greatly depending on the specific requirements of your move.

You can also check out our moving cost calculator for more accurate moving cost estimates.

Local moving costs in Des Moines

If you’re moving within 50 miles of Des Moines, it’s considered a local move. The cost of a rental truck combines a base fee and the mileage fees. In Des Moines, the base fee ranges from $19 to $39 while the mileage ranges from $0.69 per mile to $1.19 per mile.

And if you’re looking for some labor help, the average cost for movers in Des Moines is $142 per hour.

Home Size Avg. Total Cost Cost/hour # of Movers # Hours
Studio $1,001 $198 2 movers 3 hours
1 Bedroom $1,199 $198 2 movers 4 hours
2 Bedroom $1,637 $278 3 movers 5 hours
3 Bedroom $3,137 $389 4 movers 8 hours
4 Bedroom $3,526 $389 4 movers 9 hours
5+ Bedroom $5,163 $545 5 movers 10 hours

Interstate moving costs out of Des Moines

The cost to move from Des Moines to a different state is determined by how much you’re moving and how far away the new state is from Iowa. Here are a few examples:

Don’t see your new home state? Check out these popular moving routes.

How do I find a reputable Des Moines mover?

If you’re looking for the best movers in Des Moines, here’s what you should look for:

  • A good reputation: Whether they’re a new family-owned business in Des Moines or a large van lines company with years of experience operating all over Iowa, a good reputation is absolutely essential. Watch out for red flags and common moving scams.
  • Look into dispute resolution: All businesses may have some hiccups, but it's how they handle these incidents that shows the company’s true colors. If a mover in Des Moines has a history of unresolved customer complaints, it might be best to look elsewhere.
  • Ensure experience aligns with your move: A mover with excellent reviews for local moves in Des Moines may not be the best interstate moving company. Verify that the company has adequate experience with the type of move you're planning.
  • Get multiple estimates: Reputable Des Moines movers should provide a free estimate for your move. Getting moving quotes from multiple companies will give you a good idea of a fair price for the services you need.

Fortunately, the Des Moines movers on this list all pass this checklist with flying colors and have been hand selected by our experts at moveBuddha.

If you want to broaden your search to the whole state, check out the best moving companies in Iowa.

FAQs

Do I need to get a parking permit for movers in Des Moines?

special parking permits are issued by the Traffic and Transportation Division of the Engineering Department and are intended to provide for services or needs of an infrequent or unique nature. Examples include utility work, constructions, special events, etc.

For more info on parking permits in Des Moines, visit the local DOT website.

How can I save money when hiring a Des Moines moving company?

It’s almost always cheaper to hire a moving company in Des Moines outside of their busy season. Moving during the week and between October and April allows for the greatest savings.

Now that you know when moving companies in Des Moines are less busy, you can use that to negotiate your moving costs.

Do Des Moines movers offer storage?

Yes, depending on your storage needs most moving companies in Des Moines do offer both short and long-term storage units.

However, while some have their own storage facilities, others don't, in which case they may store your items at a third-party warehouse. It's always worth asking about storage facilities and getting quotes when screening prospective movers early on in the moving process.

If your Des Moines mover doesn’t offer storage - or you need services beyond what they can provide - reach out to at least three of the best self-storage companies to get an idea of the price of self-storage before choosing one.

Should you use your mover's storage solutions?

What is there to do in Des Moines?

Some popular attractions in Des Moines include:

  • State Capitol
  • Science Center of Iowa
  • John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park
  • Salisbury House & Gardens
  • Des Moines Art Center
  • Principal Park
  • East Village
  • Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
  • Water Works Park
  • Iowa State Fair
  • Hoyt Sherman Place
  • Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens

How’s the job market in Des Moines?

Des Moines’s unemployment rate is at 5.9%. Looking for a job in the “Hartford of the West”? Let us help you start looking, here’s a list of the top employers in Des Moines:

  • MercyOne
  • Principal Financial Group
  • Ppw Holdings
  • Meredith
  • AMCO Insurance Company
  • MidAmerican Energy
  • Kemin Industries
  • BH Management
  • CDS Global
  • EMC Insurance Group

How can I see all moving companies in Iowa?

You can find all moving companies in Iowa be clicking here.

Helpful Des Moines Resources

Not what you were looking for?

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

See All
Hide All