Quick answer: A typical 1,656-mile move from Moreno Valley to Des Moines runs $1,253–$8,832 and takes four to 15 days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Des Moines to Moreno Valley guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Moreno Valley to Des Moines

Choosing a long-distance moving company in Moreno Valley to go to Des Moines can be overwhelming. With so many options, it's hard to know which movers to trust… and which ones to avoid.

Don't worry — you won't have to sort through all of them. We've done the research for you and narrowed down the list based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to IA movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 California movers and listed the top 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.

Local moving companies in Moreno Valley

  1. Best California Movers: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  2. Terry Moving and Storage Inc.: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Golden Eagle Moving, LLC: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. VIP Transport, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Trek Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/,
99% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving perfection is rare, but Best California Movers comes close. Out of 1,177 pieces of customer feedback, over 98% are positive. Customers highlight the company's efficient service, careful handling, quick moving process, professional staff, and great communication.
Moves are completed swiftly without sacrificing care, and teams are consistently polite and attentive. Transparent pricing and quick response times also set this company apart from many others. On the flip side, a small number of people mention issues like item damage, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected costs, and slow resolution to complaints. While most customers found pricing and final charges accurate, those few negative experiences reflect the main risks found in the industry—miscommunication, claim delays, and the rare mishandling of belongings. Compared to typical movers, Best California Movers receives far fewer complaints about property damage and shows higher reliability and responsiveness. The feedback shows why so many recommend them for hassle-free, well-managed moves.
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Get a Quote

Company Info

State license #: T0192283

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3489907

Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage, An Moving Forward


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/terrymoving/, https://twitter.com/terrymovingco
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company stands out, and Terry Moving and Storage Inc. has built a strong reputation with feedback from 419 customers—nearly 94% of whom share positive input. Customers consistently praise the speed and efficiency of service, the professionalism and courtesy of the moving team, and especially their careful handling of valuable items. Staff members receive high marks for their great communication, making the moving process less stressful.
Common negatives reported include occasional damage to belongings, unexpected fees or pricing differences, and some gaps in communication during problem situations. While some reviewers faced issues with lost items or claims handling, these incidents are much less frequent than is typical for the industry. Compared to most moving companies, Terry Moving and Storage Inc. is viewed as more reliable and responsive, with a reputation for organization and genuinely helpful crews. The significant volume of positive input confirms this company sets a high bar for moving and storage providers.
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Get a Quote (949) 587-9490

Company Info

State license #: 189603

Years in Business: 28

DOT #: 649215

Alternate Names: Terry Moving and Storage Inc, Richards Moving Company, Orange County Storage Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/goldeneaglemovingunited/,
81% of all reviews were positive
18% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving stories don’t get much better—customers share that Golden Eagle Moving stands out for having polite, professional staff, fast and careful service, and exceptionally helpful crews. Out of 160 customer reviews, 81% reported positive experiences, often noting excellent communication and attention to detail. Most people found their items well handled and teams easy to work with, which sets this mover apart from competitors.
A small but important segment of the feedback points to damaged or missing items, as well as occasions where delivery arrived late. Some also mentioned challenges with compensation for lost or broken belongings. Compared to other movers, Golden Eagle earns high marks for reliability and service, but there are a few cautionary stories about handling precious items and delays.
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Get a Quote (909) 946-7655

Company Info

State license #: 0191570

Years in Business: 44

DOT #: 77949

Alternate Names: Golden Eagle Moving Services


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/VIPMayflower/,
89% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Stellar service and professionalism are at the heart of most customer input for VIP Transport, Inc. Out of 244 reviews analyzed, 88.5% reflect positive feedback with standout praise for the company’s professional staff, reliable communication, and careful handling of possessions. Movers are routinely described as efficient, friendly, and willing to go the extra mile, making the moving process much less stressful.
Customers also highlight helpful attitudes and strong organizational skills from both office and field staff, setting VIP Transport ahead of many competitors. The main negative feedback, making up about 9%, centers on damaged items, slow resolution of claims, or lapses in communication and delivery timelines. Still, these issues appear in a small minority of cases. A few neutral comments mention price competitiveness and the condition of vehicles. With consistent praise for attentive and skilled teams, transparent communication, and a reputation for reducing the hassle of relocation, VIP Transport remains a top choice for complex or long-distance moves—even if some room for improvement persists regarding claims and rare mishandled items.
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Get a Quote (951) 272-3700

Company Info

State license #: 0137029

Years in Business: 43

DOT #: 125563

Alternate Names: Mayflower Transit, VIP Transport East, Inc, VIP Transport - United Van Lines, VIP Transport - Mayflower Transit, United Van Lines


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/TrekMovers/, https://twitter.com/trek_movers
96% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves, stress-free results—Trek Movers impresses with fast, careful, and courteous crews. From nearly 1,400 customer reviews, 95.6% highlight efficient service, professionalism, gentle handling, and excellent communication. Customers praise how movers wrap, pack, and transport even precious or bulky items, finishing jobs ahead of or within timeframes.
Friendly teams minimize moving-day anxiety and adapt to special requests. Compared to other companies, Trek's pricing is transparent and often seen as good value for reliable, polite moving teams. Clients book and reschedule with ease. For many repeat customers, Trek raises the industry bar for care and punctuality. On the other hand, a small share—about 4%—voice frustrations about higher-than-expected costs, rare item damage, or delays. Some cite big bills after slow moves, or unresolved compensation for property harm. A few mention late arrivals. Neutral comments typically mention slower service or difference of opinion on pricing, while still noting jobs get done. For most, Trek Movers delivers trustworthy, efficient, and careful moves unmatched by most other providers.
Show more
Get a Quote (800) 298-0044

Company Info

State license #: 0191956

Pricing: $120/hr

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 3256910

Alternate Names: Trek Solutions LLC, Trek Movers Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Moreno Valley to Des Moines?

Moreno Valley movers charge $150 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,467 - $6,053 $1,230 - $3,253 $1,268 - $2,457
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,753 - $8,832 $2,264 - $4,473 $1,253 - $2,840
4+ bedrooms $7,126 - $11,820 $3,056 - $6,056 $1,594 - $3,337
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,656 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from California to Iowa

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Iowa, you can expect to spend between $1,467 and $6,053. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,753 to $8,832 on the same route (CA to IA). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from California to Iowa typically runs between $7,126 and $11,820.

Cost of moving containers from California to Iowa

When you’re heading from California to Iowa, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,230 and $3,253. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,264 and $4,473. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,056 to $6,056. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Iowa

A moving rental truck 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 $1,268 to $2,457. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,253 to $2,840, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from California to Iowa costs around $1,594 to $3,337.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Moreno Valley to Des Moinestoggle

The cost of Moreno Valley movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Moreno Valley to Des Moines can be as low as $1,467 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $11,562.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Moreno Valley so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,268 to $2,925. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Moreno Valley to Des Moines

Moving from Moreno Valley to Des Moines means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Moreno Valley than in Des Moines, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Moreno Valley compares to Des Moines so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Moreno Valley Des Moines
Average rent cost $2,550 $1,150
Average home value $549,363 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $73,635 $58,492
Cost of living (single person) $2,611 $1,891
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,923 $4,380
Unemployment rate 9.1% 5.9%
Sales tax 7.75% 7.0%
State income tax 13.3% 4.4%
  • Rent prices in Des Moines are 55% lower than in Moreno Valley, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Des Moines.
    Home prices in Des Moines are 65.0% lower than in Moreno Valley.
  • Income in Des Moines is 20.6% lower than in Moreno Valley, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Des Moines — including MercyOne, Principal Financial Group, and Ppw Holdings — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Des Moines. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 27.6% lower than in Moreno Valley.
  • A move to Des Moines can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 26.1% less than what it costs in Moreno Valley.
  • The unemployment rate in Des Moines is 35.16% lower than in Moreno Valley.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Des Moines, since the city's sales taxes in Des Moines are 9.68% lower than in Moreno Valley.
  • One perk of moving to Des Moines is paying less in state income taxes, which are 66.92% lower than in Moreno Valley.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,172.73 in Des Moines to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Moreno Valley.

How life is different in Moreno Valley vs. Des Moines

Des Moines Moreno Valley
Population 699,292 208,634
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 4
Walkability score 45 33
Bike friendliness score 39 37
Crime Index 5.0 40.24
Safety Index 57.8 59.76
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • The population of Des Moines is about 235% greater than Moreno Valley, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • Des Moines offers better access to buses and trains than Moreno Valley, based on public transportation ratings. Des Moines has a transit score of 5 out of 10 compared to 4 in Moreno Valley. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • Living in Des Moines means you'll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in Moreno Valley. Des Moines is considered more walkable than Moreno Valley, with a score of 45 out of 100 versus 33 out of 100 in Moreno Valley. A city's walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
  • Des Moines and Moreno Valley are similarly bike-friendly based on their comparable ratings of 39 and 37 respectively. Bike-friendliness scores between 50 and 100 indicate varying levels of infrastructure to support cyclists, including bike lanes and roadway connectivity. Cities with scores under 50 are considered more car-dependent.
  • Des Moines has a lower crime rate than Moreno Valley based on scores of 5.0 and Moreno Valley's 40.24, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • Des Moines is generally as safe as Moreno Valley, according to their similar safety index ratings. The ratings are based on how comfortable residents feel about walking alone during the daytime and nighttime and the number of small crimes like theft and muggings.
  • You can breathe easy knowing that Des Moines has better air quality than in Moreno Valley. Des Moines has Good air quality, compared to moderate in Moreno Valley. Ratings of good to moderate mean very low risk of health concerns, although people with conditions like asthma or allergies could be affected. Beyond the moderate rating, health concerns increase for some or all residents.

Other things to consider for your Moreno Valley vs. Des Moines move

  • Weather: September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Des Moines, while January and December are the least comfortable months.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth 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: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Iowa does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
  • 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: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you\'ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Des Moines

Now that you've chosen Hartford of the West as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Des Moines to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Sherman Hill
  • Downtown
  • East Village
  • North of Grand
  • Chautauqua Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Linden Heights
  • Waterbury
  • Westwood
  • Salisbury Oaks
  • Beaverdale

Things to do in Des Moines

After getting comfortable in your new Iowa home, it's time to see what Des Moines is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Des Moines include museums and art centers like the Des Moines Art Center, State Historical Museum, Science Center of Iowa, Salisbury House, and World Food Prize Hall of Laureates.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Gray's Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Moreno Valley to Des Moines?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Moreno Valley to Des Moines are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Moreno Valley. are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from Moreno Valley to Des Moines?

Because most people are moving from Moreno Valley to Des Moines in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Moreno Valley to Des Moines take?

Moving from Moreno Valley, CA to Des Moines, IA covers 1,656 miles and usually takes four to 15 days Need to move faster? Some Moreno Valley movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Des Moines.

Helpful moving resources