Best Movers Near Iowa City, IA (2025 Guide)

Ryan Carrigan

Last Updated: Nov 25, 2025 • 5 min read

Fact Checked by: Hilary Snow

Our research of 37 movers across Iowa revealed that White Glove Movers is the best option for local moves in Iowa City, IA. Their 229 reviews show a company with a strong customer track record — 94.3% of them are positive.

Those planning a move out of state will find Safeway Moving to be a reliable and affordable choice.

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.

Best local IA mover:

White Glove Movers

4.48
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
Safeway Moving	Get A Quote	4.85 / 5
International Van Lines	Get A Quote	4.45 / 5
Mayzlin Relocation	Get A Quote	4.9 / 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

5 Cheapest movers when moving locally in Iowa City, IA

Staying local? Whether your move keeps you in Iowa City or takes you to nearby cities within 50 miles like University Heights or Coralville, these moving companies offer reliable service at some of the most affordable rates in Iowa.

White Glove Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.34 out of 5 stars
Porter Moving Company: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Maher Bros. Transfer and Storage: 4.28 out of 5 stars
Horizon Movers & Climate Control Storage: 4.3 out of 5 stars

White Glove Movers

4600 Commercial Ave, Marion, IA 52302 US

94% of all reviews were positive

6% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

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

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 2991947

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Pool Tables
Art
Crating
Full-valuation coverage
Storage
Pay by credit card

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

1846 16th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 US

87% of all reviews were positive

13% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Moving plans go smoother with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, according to 248 customer reviews analyzed. Nearly 87% highlighted efficient service, polite professionalism, and careful handling of belongings—qualities that set this company ahead of others. Clients often mentioned teams working quickly and respectfully while staying communicative throughout the move. Rates frequently came in below or matched estimates, further boosting their reputation. Most feedback points to prompt, organized crews who take care not to damage property, keeping moves stress-free for customers of all ages. On the negative side, around 13% mentioned damaged or missing items, and a smaller group noted trouble getting issues resolved or lack of follow-up after complaints. Compared to other movers, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK stands out for reliability and service, but those with valuable or fragile items should confirm inventory and insurance details upfront.

Get a Quote (319) 483-6425

Company Info

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Berns Moving Company

Services Offered

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

Porter Moving Company

1151 26th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 US

96% of all reviews were positive

4% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

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

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 2427654

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Pool Tables
Art
Crating
Storage
Safes
Pay by credit card

Maher Bros. Transfer and Storage

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

84% of all reviews were positive

16% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

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

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 087390

Alternate Names: Maher Bros Transfer & Storage

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Art
Antiques
Crating
Shipment tracking
Storage

Horizon Movers & Climate Control Storage

4726 N Brady St, Davenport, IA 52806 US

98% of all reviews were positive

1% of reviews were negative

Read Reviews

Review Analysis

Movers making moving easy—feedback for Horizon Movers & Climate Control Storage stands out among local moving companies. 232 reviews were analyzed, with 98% reporting positive experiences. Customers often highlight their careful handling of belongings, professional and polite teams, efficiency, fast process, and clear communication. Many mention respectful treatment of property and stress-free relocations, including for long-distance and complicated moves. A few reports note unprofessional scheduling behavior, some items being damaged, or poor communication, though these are rare. Compared to other movers, Horizon receives more praise for reliability, attention to detail, and courteous service, cementing its reputation as a top choice for hassle-free and trustworthy moving and storage services.

Get a Quote (563) 381-9866

Company Info

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 763103

Alternate Names: Megladon Inc

Services Offered

Local moves
Interstate moves
International moves
Packing
Unpacking
Offices
Pianos
Hot Tubs
Pool Tables
Art
Antiques
Crating
Full-valuation coverage
Storage
Pay by cash
Pay by credit card

Local moving services in Iowa City

Specialized moving services aren’t guaranteed no matter where you are. Some cities have greater access than others.

In the chart below, you’ll see how Iowa City, IA, compares to broader trends in your state and nationwide. It’s a useful snapshot for understanding the local landscape before you book a mover.

Service	Iowa City	IA	National
Packing	5	35	3068
Unpacking	5	34	2968
Packing Materials	4	27	1808
Piano	4	24	2298
Antiques	2	15	1464
Debris Removal	1	8	819
Art	4	17	1448
Storage	5	29	2691
Climate-Controlled Storage	1	6	1030
Small Moves	3	21	1549
Custom Crating	4	19	1928
Grandfather Clock	1	2	407
Junk Removal	1	10	1151
Office Moves	4	29	2704
Pool Table	2	8	968
Safe	3	12	1155

Other local IA movers

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

Top-rated movers in other nearby Iowa cities

Don’t see the service you need in your area? Check out other highly rated Iowa moving companies for nearby options.

See less

Cheapest movers when moving out of Iowa

Making a move from Iowa to another state? You'll want a reliable interstate moving company to handle the journey. Check out our top picks

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 Iowa City, IA

While a full-service mover is the most convenient option for your Iowa City, Iowa relocation, it will also likely be the most expensive route. To save some money, you may want to consider using one of the top moving container companies, or moving truck rental companies in Iowa City 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

Hire help, hold the truck. Not all moving help includes a truck, and that’s good news if you’re renting your own or using a moving container. In Iowa City, 2 labor-only movers can assist with the loading and unloading side of your move.

How we chose the best movers in Iowa City, IA

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 31 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 Iowa City, IA

The pricing table below offers a general sense of what you might pay for a local move in the Iowa City area. To learn more, take a look at our full guide to moving costs in Iowa.

The moving quotes listed are ballpark figures—your final cost could be higher or lower depending on your individual move. For a more tailored estimate, use our moving cost calculator.

Home Size	Avg. Total Cost	Cost/hour	# of Movers	# Hours
Studio	$726	$349	2 movers	3 hours
1 Bedroom	$1,075	$349	2 movers	4 hours
2 Bedroom	$1,845	$490	3 movers	5 hours
3 Bedroom	$4,483	$684	4 movers	8 hours
4 Bedroom	$5,168	$684	4 movers	9 hours
5+ Bedroom	$8,049	$959	5 movers	10 hours

Compare the top Iowa City, IA movers

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

Company	moveBuddha rating	BBB rating	Yelp rating	Google rating
White Glove Movers	4.5/5	A+	4.1/5	4.8/5
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK	4.3/5	F	2.7/5	4.8/5
Porter Moving Company	4.3/5	B-	2.5/5	4.9/5
Maher Bros. Transfer and Storage	4.3/5	A+	2.7/5	4.5/5
Horizon Movers & Climate Control Storage	4.3/5	A+	4.6/5	4.9/5
Adamantine Spine Moving	4/5		5/5	5/5
Key City Moving & Storage	4.5/5	A+	4.3/5	4.9/5
Riley Moving And Storage	4.1/5		2.3/5	4.5/5
Blue Line Moving & Storage	4.3/5	A+	2.1/5	4.8/5
Errand Boys	4/5	A+	3.2/5	/5

FAQs

How can I tell if a moving company is 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.

All movers included in our listings hold the proper licenses. Visit our best movers in Iowa roundup for suggestions.

How do I find a reputable Iowa City mover?

Looking for a reliable Iowa City moving company can be difficult, but there are certain things to consider to ensure you choose a trustworthy mover. These include:

Reputation: A mover's reputation is crucial, whether they're a new mom-and-pop business or a seasoned van lines company.
Dispute resolution: It's best to avoid movers with lots of unresolved customer complaints. Every Iowa City moving company will face customer issues. The best companies resolve customer disputes in a timely manner.
Relevant experience: Even if a mover has great reviews for local moves, they may not have the experience needed to handle a cross-country move. Check if they have experience with the type of move you require.

Can Iowa City movers help with long-distance relocations?

While some Iowa City movers stick to local moves only, 5 can help with out-of-state and long-distance relocations. If you're planning an out-of-state move, check out our list of the best long-distance movers in Iowa City.

Which day of the week is cheapest for hiring movers in Iowa City, IA?

Movers in Iowa City, Iowa, are often cheaper to hire on weekdays, as weekends see higher demand and pricing. According to our research, the cheapest moving period is from October through April—outside the peak May to September season.

To cut costs, book your Iowa City move as early as possible. Avoid high-demand days like weekends, holidays, and summer months. And be wary of movers who offer extremely low quotes. They might raise prices at the last minute.

What’s the most affordable way to relocate from Iowa City, IA?

Renting a truck is often considered the cheapest way to move out of state or within Iowa City, Iowa. It’s also the most hands-on — expect to manage the packing, lifting, and driving on your own.

Is a moving container a good option for relocating from Iowa City?

Moving containers let you move on your timeline, but keep in mind you’ll be doing all the loading and unloading yourself. After you're packed, the company picks up the container and delivers it to your new home, eliminating the need to drive a moving truck.