The BEST Long-Distance Movers in Iowa City, IA

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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.
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Preferred partners

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

Best long-distance movers in Iowa City for those moving out of state

Relocating from Iowa City, to a new state is a big step. We've selected the top interstate movers to help make that transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
866-835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
read our full review
866-835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
866-825-0554
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
read our full review
(844) 950-2963

Best long-distance movers in Iowa City for those staying in state

Moves that stay within Iowa can still be considered long-distance if you’re covering serious ground from Iowa City. Even without crossing state lines, the distance can make a big difference in planning.

For longer in-state relocations, it’s best to choose from the best long-distance moving companies.

Here are our top-rated moving companies in Iowa City, IA:

Preferred Partner
Bellhop Moving: 4.14 out of 5 stars

Other top partners:
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving draws applause for professional, courteous staff and speedy, efficient moves. Customers’ input highlights careful handling of belongings, clear communication, and a straightforward booking process. Many describe movers as friendly, organized, and respectful of both property and timelines. Yet, some feedback details significant issues, such as property damage, late or no-shows, and communication breakdowns. A sizable portion of feedback reveals frustration with damages and unresolved complaints, especially when compared to other services where reliability and handling of items were stronger. While most customers report smooth, affordable moves with attentive teams, those experiencing scheduling problems or delayed arrivals faced extra stress. Across 56 reviews, 63% praised Bellhop’s professionalism and efficiency, while roughly 36% encountered unpredictable timing or carelessness. Bellhop Moving receives broad endorsements for professionalism but falls short for some on reliability and item safety.
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 2878240

DOT #: 2878240


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/KeyCityMoving/,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Highly recommended
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Unfriendly or rude staff
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Key City Moving & Storage's professionalism, careful handling of belongings, fast work, and friendly, polite staff. Feedback highlights efficient moves with recommendations from customers who appreciated quick, damage-free delivery and excellent communication. Negative input focuses on unhelpful phone interactions and lack of follow-up on quotes. With 48 reviews analyzed and nearly 94% expressing satisfaction, the company stands out for providing a stress-free and reliable moving experience, outperforming many competitors who often receive more mixed input. Only a small portion of input referenced unfriendly customer service, a rare concern based on the high number of positive responses.
Get a Quote (563) 582-3237

Company Info

Years in Business: 114

DOT #: 125563


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/whiteglovemoverscr, https://twitter.com/whiteglovemoves?lang=ar-x-fm
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

Years in Business: 19

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
https://www.facebook.com/MaherBrosTransferStorage/,
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

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
https://www.facebook.com/PorterMovingCompany/,
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

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2427654


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/EasternIowaTMAAT/, https://x.com/TwoMenAndATruck
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Misplaced or lost items
  • Lack of communication
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

Best long-distance movers in Iowa City, IA, for small moves

Many full-service moving companies have shipment minimums that smaller moves just can’t meet. If you’re only relocating a few items, that can quickly limit your options.

Don’t fret — some movers are built for just this kind of job. These companies specialize in small moves, making them a great fit if you're moving out of Iowa City with only a studio’s worth of stuff or a handful of belongings.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
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Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • No minimum move size
  • Full-service packing
  • Short-term storage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
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  • 34+ yrs experience
  • Online chatbot
  • Car shipping

Moving containers for long-distance moves in Iowa City, IA

For a more relaxed DIY move from Iowa City, moving containers, sometimes called moving pods, are tough to beat. You get to pack and load when it works for you, with storage options if needed. Once you're ready, the container gets picked up and delivered right to your new home.

Here’s a look at our favorite moving container companies for long-distance moves from Iowa City:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves

Rental trucks in Iowa City, IA for a total DIY long-distance move

Rental trucks are often the cheapest way to move long-distance from Iowa City, but also require the most work. You do everything yourself — from boxing up your belongings to loading, driving the whole way, and unloading on your own. Costs can increase dramatically when you add on mileage fees, tolls, and gas though so make sure this option really is cheaper for your move before making a final decision.

Here are our favorite rental truck companies for long-distance moves:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage

Labor-only moving companies in Iowa City, IA

Hiring labor-only movers means you take care of the truck and materials, and they take care of the muscle. From loading and unloading to assembling your furniture, it’s a streamlined way to get professional support without the full moving package.

These are some of the best labor-only moving companies for long-distance relocations from Iowa City, IA:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.14 / 5
  • Years in Business: 2025
  • Yelp: 3.5 / 5
  • BBB:
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.62 / 5
  • Years in Business: 114
  • Yelp: 4.3 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.38 / 5
  • Years in Business: 10
  • Yelp: 2.5 / 5
  • BBB: B-

Comparing the best long-distance movers in Iowa City, IA

Company Our Rating Quote
Safeway Moving starstarstarstarstar
4.85 overall rating
Get A Quote
American Van Lines starstarstarstarstar
4.5 overall rating
Get A Quote
Allied Van Lines starstarstarstarstar
4.75 overall rating
Get A Quote
Mayzlin Relocation starstarstarstarstar
4.9 overall rating
Get A Quote
North American Van Lines starstarstarstarstar
4.5 overall rating
Get A Quote

How we chose the best long-distance movers in Iowa City, IA

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

  • Customer satisfaction (40%): Companies that consistently deliver services in a timely manner — with good communication and within the estimated cost — score the highest within this category.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry, so we look for companies that take a customer-focused approach to handling their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
  • Industry reputation (15%): We look at whether a company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
  • Online reputation (15%): It’s important to us that a company maintains a professional website with accurate information and promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
  • Service options (10%): We look for companies with a wide breadth of services, including packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Read more about our moving company rating methodology.

Average cost of a long-distance move out of Iowa City, IA

Professional movers in Iowa charge around $199 per hour on average. However, even the most reputable interstate moving companies need more details—like how far and how much you're moving—before giving you an accurate quote.

Here’s a look at average long-distance moving costs from Iowa City, IA to major cities:

Destination Distance Home size Cost
Little Rock, AR 591 miles 3 bedroom $4,214 - $6,479
Jacksonville, FL 1,157 miles 2 bedroom $3,386 - $7,552
Jackson, MS 736 miles 1 bedroom $2,506 - $5,556

To get an accurate estimate of the cost for your long-distance move out of Iowa City, use our moving cost calculator. And, be sure to check out our detailed post about moving costs in Iowa.

FAQs

What else should you know about moving out of state?

Movers helping you relocate from Iowa must carry proper licensing and a USDOT number. All Iowa City movers on our list meet these standards, but you can confirm this info yourself via the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s database.

Don’t forget to check out the FMCSA’s Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move booklet before your interstate move.

Should I use a local company or a national company when moving from Iowa City?

If your move is staying within Iowa City, hiring a local mover is usually the most budget-friendly choice. For out-of-state relocations, national companies like Safeway Moving offer more experience with long-distance moves..

When is the cheapest time of year to move away from Iowa City?

Since demand for movers in Iowa City drops in November and December — thanks to the holiday season and school commitments — you’ll have more room to negotiate with moving companies and potentially lock in lower prices.

What are the cheapest ways to move out of Iowa City?

If you're staying within 50 miles of Iowa City, doing the move yourself is usually the most affordable option. That includes renting a truck from companies like U-Haul or going with a moving container service such as PODS. Read our full breakdown of the cheapest ways to move out of state.

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