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($1,112) Movers From Arkansas to Des Moines, IA

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 556 miles from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA typically costs from $447 to $5,309. The journey usually takes one–six days, with final pricing influenced by timing, how much you’re moving, and if you go DIY or professional.
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Best movers from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only
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 Arkansas to Des Moines, IA

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 556-mile move from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 17, 2026. We aggregate thousands of verified prices from movers across the U.S. and update them monthly to capture seasonal patterns and market movement. Your final bill can vary with shipment size, optional services, access/parking hurdles, fuel rates, and scheduling. For the clearest picture, compare quotes from multiple companies.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,202 – $3,948
  • Moving Container $951 – $1,678
  • Rental Truck $435 – $816
Two Three Bed Icon

2 – 3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,135 – $5,309
  • Moving Container $1,231 – $2,388
  • Rental Truck $447 – $914
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,765 – $7,659
  • Moving Container $1,499 – $2,960
  • Rental Truck $579 – $1,069
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.
Budget Truck Rental
Wheatley, AR St. Charles, IA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 21, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
North Little Rock, AR Elkhart, IA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 13, 2025
United Van Lines
Holly Grove, AR Cambridge, IA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 04, 2025
Joyce Van Lines
Des Arc, AR Urbandale, IA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 03, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Hunter, AR Kellogg, IA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Nov 28, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Judsonia, AR Ackworth, IA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 18, 2025
North American Van Lines
Portia, AR Rhodes, IA
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 14, 2025
PODS
Little Flock, AR Luther, IA
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Nov 10, 2025
Roadway Moving
Altheimer, AR West Des Moines, IA
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Oct 29, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Marked Tree, AR Boone, IA
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Oct 06, 2025

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

Local moving companies in Arkansas

When you’re moving from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA, make your move easy with one of the best local movers who know the ins and outs of relocating from the Natural State to the vibrant Hartford of the West.

Out of 19 Arkansas movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Des Moines, IA.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. Little Guys Movers : 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Elite Movers Inc: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  5. Admiral Movers Little Rock: 4.42 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK earns high marks from customers, with over 84% of feedback praising their efficient service, professional and polite staff, careful handling of items, fast moving process, and friendly team. Many point out the company’s ability to ease stressful moves and accommodate last-minute changes, standing out for their courteous crew and smooth operations. Stringent attention to protecting belongings and prompt communication are highlighted especially when compared to other moving companies. Issues reported in negative feedback, which makes up about 14% of the 220 reviews analyzed, mainly involve property damage, inaccurate estimates, and delays in arrival or delivery. Several customers cite receiving charges that greatly exceeded estimates or damages not addressed by management. Neutral input, just under 2%, typically mentions communication improvements and quote transparency. The company’s positive track record in service efficiency and professionalism positions it above many competitors, though consistent attention to estimates and damage resolution would enhance trust for future customers.
Get a Quote (479) 202-4498

Company Info

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: TMT Arkansas

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Little Guys Movers earns praise from the vast majority of customers for careful handling, professional and courteous movers, efficient moves, and excellent communication. Out of 248 feedback entries, 93% were favorable, highlighting the company’s skillful, attentive, and reliable teams. Customers especially note staff politeness, timely service, straightforward pricing, and frequent updates. A small number cite problems such as damaged belongings, disorganized packing, or communication lapses. These issues are less frequent here than at most moving companies based on comparable feedback volumes, but they are the most likely complaints. Most customer input shows Little Guys Movers stands out for trustworthiness, careful work, and ease throughout the entire moving process. Negative experiences focus mainly on item damage or subpar packing. Despite rare lapses, this company consistently outperforms typical industry standards for dependable and professional service.
Get a Quote (479) 755-8935

Company Info

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 1931566

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89% of all reviews were positive
11% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast, friendly, and reliable sums up the customer feedback for College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving. Out of 253 reviews, 88.5% praised the efficiency, professionalism, careful handling, and helpfulness of the staff. Customers often described crews as hard-working, polite, and able to handle even complex or heavy items quickly. People repeatedly mention movers’ respectful attitudes and willingness to accommodate requests, making stressful moves easy and smooth. Many customers pointed out transparent pricing and the company’s ability to provide quick moving solutions, often on short notice, at reasonable rates that compared favorably with competitors. On the downside, 11% reported problems mainly about items getting damaged, cost estimates being much lower than final bills, and communication lapses with office staff or management. These negative experiences contrast sharply with the majority, but highlight the need for attention around managing estimates, careful handling, and responsive customer support. Only one neutral review surfaced, so nearly all feedback was clearly one-sided toward high satisfaction. Compared to other moving companies, College Hunks stands out for speed and friendly service, but customers should confirm pricing and insurance details to avoid rare but costly issues.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: College Hunks Moving , SELBON, INC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
96% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day made easy—Elite Movers Inc receives praise from 238 customers, with 96% positive feedback. Most say the staff is polite and professional, and their crews handle possessions with care and speed. Quick service, efficient movers, and repeated recommendations dominate the input. Customers mention the company’s ability to manage complicated items without damages, and note a hassle-free booking experience compared to many moving firms. A small proportion of feedback raises concerns about items being damaged, slow arrivals, and subpar packing, sometimes paired with communication gaps or repair delays. Compared to typical movers, Elite Movers stands out for professionalism and efficiency, though a handful of clients point to improvement opportunities when complex situations arise.
Get a Quote (501) 316-0145

Company Info

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1345746

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Admiral Movers Little Rock stands out for their consistently professional, efficient, and careful moving service, with 89% of customer feedback rating their experience as positive out of the 125 reviews analyzed. Customers frequently highlight the friendly attitude, careful handling of items, and reliable, quick moving process. Many share that the staff communicates well and treat belongings as if they were their own. Negative feedback, though rare, raises concerns about damage to possessions, missed delivery dates, and slow or unhelpful claim response—issues often seen across competitors in the moving industry. Few reviewers mention neutral experiences, mostly unrelated to moving services. The company’s emphasis on professionalism and care clearly sets it ahead of average moving providers, even as occasional claims or delays arise, as is common in this line of work.
Get a Quote (501) 223-6041

Company Info

Years in Business: 93

Alternate Names: Admiral Mayflower

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

Cost to move from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA

This table details typical cost ranges to move from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA, depending on your home size and the moving service selected.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,112 – $3,359 $643 – $1,518 $418 – $801
2-3 bedrooms $2,135 – $5,309 $1,231 – $2,388 $447 – $914
4+ bedrooms $3,765 – $7,659 $1,499 – $2,960 $579 – $1,069

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 556-mile move from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 17, 2026. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes the data each month to capture seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers to gauge a fair price.

Cost to hire professional movers from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA, typically costs between $1,112 and $3,359. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,135 and $5,309. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA, you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,765 up to $7,659.

Cost of moving containers from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA

When relocating from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA, you’ll typically spend between $643 and $1,518 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,231 up to $2,388. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $1,499 and $2,960. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Arkansas.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA, expect to pay between $418 and $801. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $447 to $914. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $579 and $1,069.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Compare local moving companies from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA

Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:

Company Full Service Antiques Military Discount Senior Discount
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK × × ×
Little Guys Movers × × ×
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving × × ×
Elite Movers Inc × ×
Admiral Movers Little Rock × ×

After evaluating 3,179 movers, here’s how Arkansas movers measure up to the countrywide competition in terms of offered services and discounts:

Arkansas Nationwide
Full Service 91% 96%
Antiques 33% 46%
Military Discount 4% 4%
Senior Discount 4% 4%

Things to know before moving from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA

Before packing your bags, it’s important to understand how life in Des Moines, IA differs from what you’re used to in Arkansas. From the cost of living and cultural vibe to everyday experiences. We’ll walk you through key lifestyle differences and the top local attractions you can explore in your new hometown.

Cost of living: Arkansas vs. Des Moines, IA

Arkansas Des Moines
Average rent cost $868 $1,150
Average home cost $208,078 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $56,335 $58,492
Cost of Living Index 90 87
Unemployment rate 2.3% 5.9%
State Income Tax 2.0% 4.4%
  • Rent in Des Moines is approximately 32% higher than in Arkansas. Keep this in mind when planning your budget.
  • Buying a home in Des Moines could be more affordable, with prices averaging 8% less than in Arkansas.
  • Because income levels in Des Moines are comparable to those in Arkansas, you can expect a similar financial situation in your new hometown.
  • Even though unemployment in Des Moines is 157% higher than in Arkansas, you’ll still find opportunities if you’re proactive. Start building your network early.
  • Income taxes are 120% higher in Iowa than in Arkansas. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

How life is different in Des Moines from Arkansas

Des Moines Arkansas
Population 699,292 3,067,732
Political leaning Democratic 57-41 Republican 64-36
Summer high 86ºF 91ºF
Winter low 13ºF 28ºF
Annual rain 36″ 50″
Annual snow 33″ 4″
Crime index 5.0 30.97
  • In the last presidential election, Des Moines leaned Democratic, while Arkansas went Republican.
  • Summer temperatures in Des Moines typically reach 86ºF, which is about the same as the average 91ºF you’re used to in Arkansas. That means you won’t have to worry about a major heat increase. However, be sure to consider local humidity, weather patterns, and possible shifts in energy costs for a complete picture of what summer living will be like in your new home.
  • Winter in Des Moines brings colder temperatures, often dropping to 13ºF. That’s noticeably chillier than the 28ºF winters back in Arkansas. Get ready for higher heating bills and a few adjustments to your routine. The upside? Des Moines treats you to fresh air, beautiful winter landscapes, and loads of seasonal activities.
  • You can expect only about 36 inches of annual rainfall in Des Moines vs the 50 inches you’re used to in Arkansas. With less rain each year, you’ll enjoy more sunshine and freedom to get outside without worrying about the weather. This kind of climate can be a real boost for your energy and outlook when you’re moving.
  • Each year, Des Moines gets about 33 inches of snow, while Arkansas sees only 4 inches. More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
  • Heading to Des Moines means you’ll be moving to a safer place, with a crime index of 5.0, lower than Arkansas’s 30.97. A drop in crime usually means tighter communities, safer neighborhoods, and less daily stress. While safety isn’t everything, the peace of mind can be well worth the move.

Things to do in Des Moines

Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Des Moines.

Museums in Des Moines

  • Des Moines Art Center
  • State Historical Museum
  • Science Center of Iowa
  • Salisbury House
  • World Food Prize Hall of Laureates

Parks in Des Moines

  • Gray’s Lake Park
  • Pappajohn Sculpture Park
  • Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
  • Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens
  • Clive Greenbelt Trail

Sports teams in Des Moines

  • Drake Bulldogs

Universities in Des Moines

  • AIB College of Business
  • Mercy College of Health Sciences
  • Drake University
  • Grand View University
  • Vatterott College Des Moines

Other considerations when moving to Des Moines, IA

  • HOA rules: Before your move, double-check any neighborhood or community guidelines to help everything go smoothly.
  • Elevator reservation: One thing you’ll want to take care of early is reserving your building’s elevator and finding out any moving policies they have.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for your moving truck, so check your new neighborhood’s regulations before moving day.
  • 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. Double-check that your moving company is properly licensed before booking.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
  • Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to settle in Iowa, but it’s a smart idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
  • Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You’ll be able to select your move date so your mail gets forwarded to Iowa on time. Get started here.
  • Mover’s insurance: Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Staying organized is key to a stress-free move. Our moving checklist helps you stay on track, so you don’t miss a single detail.

FAQ

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

The time it takes to move from Arkansas to Des Moines, IA depends on where you’re starting and the kind of moving option you choose. No matter which route you go, packing and loading your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it all on your own.

Obviously, the further upstate you are in Arkansas, the longer the drive time to Des Moines will be. If you’re driving a rental truck, the move could be completed in one or two days, on average, depending on your route and how often you stop.

Depending on the company’s schedule and shipping logistics, delivery from Arkansas to Des Moines can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re using professional movers or a moving container. Be sure to ask for an estimated timeline before you book.

How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Arkansas to Des Moines?

If you’re planning a 556-mile move from Arkansas to Des Moines, it’s a good idea to schedule your moving date as soon as your plans are confirmed. To get the best rates and secure your preferred date, aim to book your movers two to three months ahead of time.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to Des Moines, IA?

Summer temperatures in Des Moines can soar to 86°F, while winters can get as chilly as 13°F. That’s why most people making the move from Arkansas to Des Moines prefer the milder weather of spring or fall. But if you’re hoping to dodge the crowds and maybe snag a better deal, consider moving during summer or winter. Sure, you’ll have to handle a bit more heat or cold, but it could be worth it. Want more advice? Check out our tips on peak moving season.

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