Best Des Moines Moving Companies ($142/hr Movers)

Des Moines, Hartford of the West, is home to 699,292 people and sees its fair share of moving trucks. With an average moving cost of $142 per hour in Des Moines, finding a mover that balances cost-effectiveness and quality is key. Whether your new place is down the road or you’re moving across the country, we’ve reviewed the best moving companies in Des Moines to make your relocation a smooth transition.

Our Top Pick: If you’re moving locally in Des Moines, our top pick is Two Men and a Truck. We’ve rated them 4.8 out of 5 stars. If your relocation plans extend beyond Des Moines, our well-curated guide on the best movers in Iowa is a valuable resource, helping you navigate the larger moving landscape with ease.

Our Ratings of The Best Movers in Des Moines, IA

  1. Two Men and a Truck, 4.8 out of 5
  2. Iowa Moving 1, 4.62 out of 5
  3. Adamantine Spine Moving, 4.58 out of 5
  4. Maher Bros. Transfer and Storage, 4.58 out of 5
  5. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, 4.52 out of 5
  6. Black Belt Movers, 4.48 out of 5
  7. All Mighty Movers LLC, 4.42 out of 5
  8. Hemmen Moving and Storage, 4.38 out of 5
  9. Porter Moving Company, 4.38 out of 5
  10. Blue Line Moving & Storage, 4.34 out of 5

Comparing the Best Local Movers in Des Moines, IA

Company Our Rating BBB Rating Quote
Iowa Moving 1 starstarstarstarstar
4.62 overall rating
A+
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Adamantine Spine Moving starstarstarstarstar
4.58 overall rating
A+
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Maher Bros. Transfer and Storage starstarstarstarstar
4.58 overall rating
A+
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College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving starstarstarstarstar
4.52 overall rating
F
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Black Belt Movers starstarstarstarstar
4.48 overall rating
A
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All Mighty Movers LLC starstarstarstarstar
4.42 overall rating
A
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Hemmen Moving and Storage starstarstarstarstar
4.38 overall rating
A+
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Porter Moving Company starstarstarstarstar
4.38 overall rating
A+
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Blue Line Moving & Storage starstarstarstarstar
4.34 overall rating
A+
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Our Reviews of the Best Local Movers in Des Moines

Two Men and a Truck

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.8 / 5

DOT #: 1209512

Years in Business: 26

2601 104th St #400,
Urbandale, IA 50322

Two Men and a Truck is a longstanding moving company that has been serving the Urbandale, IA area since 1997. They offer comprehensive services, ranging from local and long-distance residential moving services to packing, unpacking, and labor-only services. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they can handle special items, such as pianos and grandfather clocks, and no deposit is required. With an impressive customer satisfaction rating on both Yelp and Google My Business, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, Two Men and a Truck outshines many local competitors. They've managed to maintain a high standard of service with over 400 reviews, implying a consistency in quality that sets them apart.

Get a Quote (515) 216-3654

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Storage

Additional Information

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Iowa Moving 1

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.62 / 5

Years in Business: 14

2958 99th St., Ste. 5,
Des Moines, IA 50322

Established in 2009, Iowa Moving 1 is a front-runner in the Des Moines moving industry, offering dependable local residential and office moving services. Unlike many of its competitors, it also provides convenient packing and labor-only services. The company's credibility is evidenced by its solid A+ Better Business Bureau rating and high scores on Yelp and Google My Business, with average ratings of 4.5 and 4.8 respectively, outshining many neighboring firms. What sets them apart further is the customer-friendly policy of requiring no deposit. With over a decade of professional experience, Iowa Moving 1 emerges as a trusted choice for smooth and hassle-free relocations in the Des Moines, IA area.

Get a Quote (515) 975-2840

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Offices
  • Storage

Additional Information

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Adamantine Spine Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.58 / 5

DOT #: 1471037

Pricing: $100/hr

Years in Business: 24

4701 NW Urbandale Dr.,
Des Moines, IA 50322

Adamantine Spine Moving has been servicing Des Moines, IA and the surrounding areas since 1999, offering an array of moving services that is exceptional when compared to other nearby companies. The company specializes in local, long-distance, and international residential moving services, in addition to providing comprehensive office moves. They excel in moving specialty items including pianos, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, and safes. Packing, unpacking and crating services are also on offer, making the moving process a breeze for their clientele. With a competitive rate of $100 per hour for local moves, payment is made easy through acceptance of money orders, cash, and credit cards, along with a requisite deposit. Adamantine Spine Moving's focus on client satisfaction is reflected through its insurance coverage providing full valuation. Their reputation shines with 32 Yelp reviews averaging a 4.5 rating, 198 Google My Business reviews with a solid 5.0 average rating, and an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. This level of customer appreciation sets Adamantine Spine Moving a cut above the rest, thus making it an excellent choice for your moving needs.

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
  • State license #: 1471037
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Maher Bros. Transfer and Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.58 / 5

DOT #: 087390

Years in Business: 34

370 50th Ave Dr. SW,
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

Maher Bros. Transfer and Storage sets itself apart from other moving companies in the Cedar Rapids, IA area with its extensive list of services. In business since 1989, this well-established company not only provides local residential moving but also offers long-distance and international residential moving solutions. Unlike many of its competitors, Maher Bros also caters to office relocations, something not all moving companies offer. On top of moving services, they extend packing, unpacking, and crating services, specializing in moving delicate items such as art and antiques. Where some companies require deposits, Maher Bros demonstrates its trust in its clients by eliminating this need and also provides the convenience of shipment tracking. Although its Yelp rating might raise eyebrows with an average of just 1.5 based on 4 reviews, it’s worth noting that a larger pool of 20 reviews on Google My Business reveals a high average rating of 4.8. Their commitment to superior service is further emphasized by their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Get a Quote (319) 229-2418

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Maher Bros Transfer & Storage
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College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.52 / 5

DOT #: 2378173

Years in Business: 6

10500 Hickman Rd Suite H,
Clive, IA 50325

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving has been a reliable moving service provider in Clive, IA and its surrounding areas since 2017. Compared to other local movers, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including both long distance and local residential moves, office relocation, packing and unpacking, and labor-only services. They stand out from competitors with their flexible payment methods, accepting credit cards and not requiring a deposit. While their average rating on Yelp is 3.5 based on 14 reviews, they have a remarkably high rating of 4.8 on Google My Business, making them a popular choice despite their low Better Business Bureau rating of F. This diverse review profile suggests a high level of customer satisfaction overall.

Get a Quote (515) 207-2003

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage

Additional Information

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Black Belt Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.48 / 5

DOT #: 3527158

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 15

1209 SW ORDNANCE RD STE B,
ANKENY, IA 50023

Established in 2008, Black Belt Movers stands as a leading moving company in Ankeny, IA. Offering a range of services that surpasses many local competitors, Black Belt Movers caters to both residential and office moves, ensuring a streamlined transition to your new location. Their comprehensive list of services include packing, unpacking, crating, as well as specialized handling of delicate items like antiques, art, pool tables, pianos, and safes. Unlike many other moving companies, no deposit is required and full valuation insurance coverage is provided. Priced at $150 per hour, their services reflect a balance of quality and affordability. Acceptance of credit cards adds to the convenience of their services. Testimonials from their 16 Yelp reviews averaging 4.0 and an 'A' rating from the Better Business Bureau further serve as evidence of their commitment to delivering top-notch moving solutions. Their impressive service portfolio makes Black Belt Movers a prime choice for those seeking a hassle-free moving experience.

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
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All Mighty Movers LLC

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.42 / 5

DOT #: 2468266

Pricing: $130/hr

Years in Business: 9

59 Clark St.,
Des Moines, IA 50314

Since launching in 2014, All Mighty Movers LLC has established itself as a trusted moving service in and around Des Moines, IA. It has carved a niche with its versatility, capable of handling everything from local to long-distance residential moves, as well as office relocations. Distinguishing itself from competitors, the company also provides labor-only services and is proficient in handling unique items such as pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, and safes - a testament to their comprehensive service. Unlike many local competitors, All Mighty Movers LLC offers a straightforward pricing system, with a $130 per hour flat rate for local moves, and no deposit required. They also accept credit cards, offering convenience and flexibility for their clients. The company's reputation is reflected in its strong online presence. It has accumulated a combined total of 481 reviews on both Yelp and Google My Business, boasting impressive average ratings of 4.0 and 4.8 respectively. Furthermore, it holds a prestigious A-rating from the Better Business Bureau, reinforcing its standing as a reliable and customer-oriented moving company in the Des Moines area.

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

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Hemmen Moving and Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.38 / 5

DOT #: 608245

Pricing: $140/hr

Years in Business: 34

1293 West St,,
Des Moines, IA 50315

Hemmen Moving and Storage is a commendable choice for local and long distance residential moving services in and around Des Moines, IA, boasting an impressive tenure of over three decades in this highly competitive industry. Their broad range of services include not only comprehensive moving packages but also labor-only services, allowing clients to customize the level of assistance they need. The rate of $140 per hour for local moves is on par with other local movers. A deposit confirms the commitment on both sides, and the peace of mind is further amplified by their provision of full valuation insurance coverage. While their Yelp profile only hosts two reviews with an average score of 3.0, their larger online reputation, reflected by 109 reviews on Google My Business, stands tall with an outstanding average rating of 4.9. Notably, Hemmen Moving and Storage proudly holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, outpacing many competitors in the area.

Get a Quote (515) 226-1210

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Full-valuation coverage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Delivered Storage Trailer
  • State 2 State Pro Movers
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Porter Moving Company

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.38 / 5

DOT #: 2427654

Years in Business: 9

1151 26th Ave SW,
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

Porter Moving Company stands as a premier moving service provider in and around Cedar Rapids, IA. Established in 2014, the company has differentiated itself from its competitors by not just offering local residential moving services but also long distance and international residential moves. In addition, Porter Moving Company extends its services to office moves, an offering that not all movers in the area provide. Their comprehensive services include packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring the safe transport of invaluable items. They also boast the capability to move specialized items such as pianos, pool tables, works of art, and safes, which adds an extra layer of convenience for their clients. With their customer-friendly practices like accepting credit cards and not requiring a deposit, Porter Moving Company provides an easy and hassle-free moving experience. Their commitment to service excellence is evident in their A+ Better Business Bureau rating, as well as an average Google My Business rating of 4.6 based on 148 reviews, significantly higher than their Yelp average. These positive ratings and their comprehensive services place Porter Moving Company among the top choices for moving services in the Cedar Rapids region.

Get a Quote (319) 560-5050

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

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Blue Line Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.34 / 5

DOT #: 742169

Years in Business: 85

5614 Nordic Dr,
Cedar Falls, IA 50613

Blue Line Moving & Storage, a distinguished moving company established in 1938, is a trusted name in Cedar Falls, IA, and beyond for residential and office moves. Their service range covers local, long-distance, and even international residential moving. A step above many local competitors, Blue Line also offers specialty services such as piano relocation. They specialize in comprehensive packing, unpacking, and fragile-only packing services which cater to the unique needs of the client. Convenient payment modes, including cash and credit cards, and a no-required-deposit policy make them an accessible option for many. Moreover, Blue Line Moving & Storage stands out for the high level of security they provide to client's belongings - full valuation insurance coverage, shipment tracking are just some of their security measures. While their Yelp ratings may be averages to 2.5, they boast an impressive 4.6 score from 47 reviews on Google My Business and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, positioning them as a reliable choice among the area's moving companies.

Get a Quote (319) 266-3591

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

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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 Des Moines 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, 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 rate for movers in Des Moines is $141.75 per hour.

Home Size Avg. Total Cost Cost/hour # of Movers # Hours
Studio $964 $198 2 movers 3 hours
1 Bedroom $1,162 $198 2 movers 4 hours
2 Bedroom $1,600 $278 3 movers 5 hours
3 Bedroom $3,100 $389 4 movers 8 hours
4 Bedroom $3,489 $389 4 movers 9 hours
5+ Bedroom $5,126 $545 5 movers 10 hours

Things to keep in mind for your Des Moines move

  • Parking Permits: 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.
  • State Licensing: When moving within Iowa, make sure to hire a company that is licensed by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Each household goods mover in the state should have an Iowa Motor Carrier (IOWAMC) Number, which means they’ve met minimum insurance and highway safety requirements.

FAQs for Des Moines movers

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.
  • 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 estimates 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.

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.

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 “Hartford of the West?” Let us help you start looking, here’s a list of the top employers from this Iowa city:

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

Helpful Des Moines Resources

How we picked the best movers in Des Moines

Over the past 10 years, we've developed a rigorous review process to identify the absolute best Des Moines moving companies. We look at:

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, expedited delivery, and more.

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