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($1,224) Movers from Birmingham, AL to Des Moines, IA

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Image of a moving truck going from Birmingham to Des Moines
Estimated cost & time: Moving 846 miles from Birmingham to Des Moines has an average cost ranging from $616 to $5,784. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly two–seven days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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ryan carrigan moving expert
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.
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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Professional
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Best professional movers from Birmingham to Des Moines

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Birmingham to Des Moines. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 9 interstate moving companies in Birmingham. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Des Moines.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Birmingham to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 846-mile move from Birmingham to Des Moines using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 22, 2026. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,742 – $4,479
  • Moving Container $1,006 – $1,894
  • Rental Truck $559 – $992
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,332 – $5,784
  • Moving Container $1,359 – $2,707
  • Rental Truck $616 – $1,216
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,108 – $7,679
  • Moving Container $1,879 – $3,537
  • Rental Truck $726 – $1,416
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
BLVD Moving
Vestavia Hills, AL Sheldahl, IA
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 29, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Morris, AL Bouton, IA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 18, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Oak Grove, AL East Peru, IA
Icon of a house Studio apartment
Icon of a calendar Dec 01, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Jemison, AL Valeria, IA
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 21, 2025
North American Van Lines
Coaling, AL Cumming, IA
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 19, 2025
PODS
Chelsea, AL Redfield, IA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Nov 02, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Leeds, AL New Virginia, IA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Oct 27, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Ashville, AL Sandyville, IA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Oct 26, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Margaret, AL Madrid, IA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Oct 19, 2025
United Van Lines
North Bibb, AL Linden, IA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Oct 09, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Des Moines, IA to Birmingham, AL guide.

Highly rated local moving companies for Birmingham to Des Moines moves

Organizing a move from Birmingham to Des Moines can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 10 local movers in Birmingham known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Birmingham to Des Moines.

  1. Changing Spaces Moving Inc: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. New Latitude Movers : 4.48 out of 5 stars
  3. MoveDaddy: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  4. Road Runner Moving & Storage: 4.22 out of 5 stars
  5. Motivated Movers, Inc.: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers consistently praise Changing Spaces Moving Inc for their efficiency, professional and polite staff, careful handling, quick moving process, and helpful movers. Out of 225 customer responses, over 94% described their experience positively, which is an exceptionally high satisfaction rate compared to typical moving companies. Many clients mention courteous crews who demonstrate attention to detail, safe handling, and a willingness to accommodate specific requests. Transparent communication and straightforward booking processes stand out, as well as repeat customers who trust the team with multiple moves. Some negative feedback highlights unexpected charges, issues with damage to items, and unprofessional conduct from staff during a small number of moves. One complaint also referenced mishandling of lost items and inadequate follow-up. These criticisms, while infrequent, show opportunities for better billing transparency and staff training. Feedback rarely falls in the middle ground, with neutral responses being almost nonexistent. Compared to most moving companies, Changing Spaces stands out for reliable service and care, but should address isolated complaints to maintain their leading reputation.
Get a Quote (205) 972-0744

Company Info

State license #: 3822

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 1164434

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
99% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews set New Latitude Movers apart, with 245 customer inputs and an impressive 99% awarding positive marks. Feedback highlights remarkable efficiency, with teams working quickly without sacrificing careful handling. Many customers praise the crew’s professionalism, courtesy, and helpfulness—qualities often missing elsewhere. Clients consistently note stress-free booking and moves completed ahead of schedule. Movers routinely assist beyond expectations, like assembling furniture or helping with last-minute changes. Customers appreciate belonging protection, efficiency that lowers moving costs, and trustworthy, friendly staff. A tiny fraction mention delivery delays or trouble reaching the office by phone or email. Unlike many competitors, New Latitude Movers consistently fulfills promises and builds lasting loyalty with transparent communication, skilled teams, and careful treatment of property.
Get a Quote (205) 988-9000

Company Info

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 2179652

Alternate Names: Move & Store, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Move Daddy earns rave feedback for speed, professionalism, and care. With 270 reviews considered, 94.4% praise the team’s efficient service, friendly attitude, meticulous handling, and fair rates. Customers describe movers as motivated, always polite, and careful with belongings. Fluid communication and hard work make tight timelines and heavy items seem easy. Rates are often called affordable relative to other movers, and many highlight transparent, reliable quotes. While most feedback glows, 5.2% of customers cite problems like delays in arrival, lack of professionalism in rare cases, or occasional item damage. A single neutral review notes promises about supplies and billing not fully met. Compared to alternatives, Move Daddy stands out as one of the most energetic and consistently efficient moving options.
Get a Quote (205) 977-2222

Company Info

State license #: 4029

Years in Business: 10

Alternate Names: Move daddy

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
53% of all reviews were positive
46% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
High praise for Road Runner Moving & Storage centers on their swift, courteous movers and seamless moving process. Over half of feedback highlights staff professionalism, efficiency, timeliness, careful handling of belongings, and helpful attitudes, setting a standard many other movers struggle to match. Customers frequently mention quick turnaround, friendly interactions, and attentive service. On the other hand, nearly as many complaints call out property damage, inconsistent communication, and unexpected charges. Some customers reported unresolved damage claims, lost or mishandled items, and issues tracking down staff after problems occurred. Negative experiences often note significant costs, broken items, lack of accountability, and ignored calls or emails. Taken together, feedback reflects that while many customers enjoyed a stress-free moving day and respectful crew, others faced damages and poor follow-up that overshadowed their move. Compared to similar companies, Road Runner stands out for polite staff and speed but falls short in reliability and post-move accountability.
Get a Quote (205) 945-8339

Company Info

State license #: C3780

Years in Business: 45

Alternate Names: Road Runner Moving II, LLC , Road Runner Moving , Road Runner Moving Service

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews highlight Motivated Movers, Inc. as a leader in the industry, reflected by 92.7% positive input from 248 customer experiences. Most people valued the efficiency, professionalism, and care provided by the staff. Many noted how quickly moves were completed and praised the team’s communication throughout the process. Furniture was routinely handled with attention and respect, minimizing any moving stress and earning high recommendations. A small portion of feedback flagged concerns with damaged items, unresolved claims, and unexpected charges, especially when communication after a problem was lacking. While these issues occurred infrequently, they stood out against the company’s reputation for dependability and transparent pricing. Compared to similar moving brands, Motivated Movers excels by combining swift, careful moves with courteous staff—a winning formula that keeps clients coming back.
Get a Quote (205) 995-7585

Company Info

State license #: C4079

Years in Business: 18

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Birmingham to Des Moines?

On average, moving companies in Alabama charge about per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,224 – $4,001 $711 – $1,853 $575 – $1,085
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,332 – $5,784 $1,359 – $2,707 $616 – $1,216
4+ bedrooms $4,108 – $7,679 $1,879 – $3,537 $726 – $1,416
*Estimated cost ranges for a 846-mile move from Birmingham to Des Moines are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Jan 22, 2026. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Birmingham to Des Moines

When planning a move to Des Moines from Birmingham, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,224 and $4,001. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,332 and $5,784 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,108 to $7,679.

Cost of moving containers from Birmingham to Des Moines

When you’re heading from Birmingham to Des Moines, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $711 and $1,853. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,359 and $2,707. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,879 to $3,537. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Alabama easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Birmingham to Des Moines

A moving rental truck from Birmingham to Des Moines is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $575 to $1,085. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $616 to $1,216, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Birmingham to Des Moines costs around $726 to $1,416.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Birmingham to Des Moines

The cost of Birmingham movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Birmingham to Des Moines may only cost $2,119, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $6,396.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Birmingham.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($575–$1,379), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Birmingham to Des Moines

Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Birmingham – roughly 30% less for singles and 35% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $2,697 in Birmingham. For a family of four, it’s $4,380 compared with $6,727.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Birmingham Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $1,542 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $2,612 $1,763
Average home value $125,988 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $39,403 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $2,697 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $6,727 $4,380
Unemployment rate 5.6% 5.9%
Sales tax 10.0% 7.0%
State income tax 5.0% 4.4%
  • Rent is about 8% less expensive in Des Moines than in Birmingham, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Plan for a heftier mortgage payment since home prices are approximately 53% steeper in Des Moines compared to Birmingham.
  • Here’s some fantastic news, the average income is approximately 48% greater in Des Moines than in Birmingham, offering more potential for savings or investments each month.
  • Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Des Moines. The cost of living for a single person there is 30% below that of Birmingham.
  • A move to Des Moines can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 35% lower compared to Birmingham.
  • Des Moines and Birmingham have roughly the same unemployment rate (within about 5%), so you likely won’t see a major shift in job availability or competition from what you’re used to.
  • Sales taxes are 30% cheaper in Des Moines compared to Birmingham. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
  • Income taxes are 12% less in Iowa compared to Alabama, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Birmingham versus Des Moines:

Living Expense Birmingham Des Moines
Basic utilities $211.40 $144.82
Cell phone plan $49.55 $51.25
Dozen eggs $4.20 $3.61
Loaf of bread $3.52 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60.00 $77.50
Gym membership $47.50 $66.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Birmingham than in Des Moines.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Birmingham than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs cost more in Birmingham than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in Birmingham than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Birmingham than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Birmingham than in Des Moines.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Birmingham than in Des Moines.

How life is different in Birmingham vs. Des Moines

Birmingham Des Moines
Population 196,644 699,292
Transportation score 0 5
Walkability score 33 45
Bike friendliness score 31 39
Crime index 61.64 5.0
Safety index 38.36 57.8
Air quality Good Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 256% greater than Birmingham.
  • Des Moines has a public transportation score of 5 out of 10, while Birmingham has no measurable transit system (score of 0).
  • Des Moines is more walkable than Birmingham with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Birmingham’s 33 out of 100.
  • With a score of 39 out of 100, Des Moines is more bike-friendly than Birmingham, which has a score of 31 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Birmingham with a score of 5.0 compared to Birmingham’s 61.64. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Birmingham neighborhoods are safer than 61.64%.
  • Des Moines is considered to be safer than Birmingham with a safety index of 57.8 vs Birmingham’s 38.36.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Birmingham it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Birmingham to Des Moines move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Birmingham and Des Moines are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Iowa, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Iowa, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Des Moines. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Des Moines

With your sights set on Hartford of the West, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Des Moines.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Sherman Hill
  • Downtown
  • East Village
  • North of Grand
  • Woodland Heights
  • Arbor Peaks
  • Chautauqua Park
  • Beaverdale
  • Westwood

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Linden Heights
  • Waterbury
  • Waveland Park
  • Westwood
  • Salisbury Oaks
  • Meredith
  • Beaverdale

Things to do in Des Moines

With your move to Iowa complete, you can dive right into experiencing Des Moines. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Des Moines is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Des Moines Art Center, State Historical Museum, Science Center of Iowa, and Salisbury House.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Gray’s Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Birmingham to Des Moines?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Birmingham to Des Moines. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Birmingham.

When is the cheapest time to move from Birmingham to Des Moines?

Want to save on your move from Birmingham to Des Moines? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Birmingham to Des Moines take?

The 846-mile move from Birmingham, AL, to Des Moines, , takes two to seven days. Some Birmingham movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Des Moines.

What kinds of discounts do Birmingham movers offer?

Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers.

Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Birmingham?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 9 movers in Birmingham provide piano moving services. 3 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 34 piano movers and 15 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,299 and 1,464.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

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