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($1,260) Cost to Move From Riverside, CA to Des Moines, IA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 1,648 miles from Riverside to Des Moines typically costs between $1,065 and $6,646. The trip is expected to last from four–15 days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from Riverside to Des Moines

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
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
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

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Riverside to Des Moines

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Riverside to Des Moines much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In Riverside, there are 50 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move 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 Riverside to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,648-mile move from Riverside to Des Moines using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,077 – $5,201
  • Moving Container $1,354 – $2,601
  • Rental Truck $918 – $1,835
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,961 – $6,646
  • Moving Container $1,696 – $3,673
  • Rental Truck $1,065 – $2,141
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $5,334 – $9,516
  • Moving Container $2,458 – $5,114
  • Rental Truck $1,341 – $2,643
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
Mission Viejo, CA Cumming, IA
Studio apartment
Nov 25, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Laguna Beach, CA Kellogg, IA
2 Bedrooms
Nov 20, 2025
United Van Lines
La Habra, CA Jamaica, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 18, 2025
BLVD Moving
Chino Hills, CA Granger, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 29, 2025
Roadway Moving
West Covina, CA Johnston, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 27, 2025
PODS
Ontario, CA Lucas, IA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 25, 2025
North American Van Lines
West Whittier-Los Nietos, CA Van Meter, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 15, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Jurupa Valley, CA Ames, IA
Studio apartment
Oct 09, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Lake Elsinore, CA Lorimor, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 29, 2025
Allied Van Lines
San Juan Capistrano, CA Indianola, IA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 24, 2025

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

Top-rated movers to make your Riverside to Des Moines move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Riverside that offers long-distance services to Des Moines can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 55 top local movers in Riverside who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Riverside to Des Moines.

  1. VIP Transport, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Burgess Moving and Storage: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  3. Golden West Moving Systems, Inc.: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  4. Alex Moving and Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Inland Empire Movers: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.5% of all reviews were positive
9.0% 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.
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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.0% of all reviews were positive
11.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy is the promise most echoed in customer feedback for Burgess Moving and Storage. Out of 100 reviews analyzed, 86% praised the company for professional, polite staff, careful handling, efficiency, helpful movers, and good communication—qualities not always found with competitors. Customers consistently highlighted how respectful and attentive the teams are, along with their ability to manage even fragile or complicated moves with ease. Many reviewers emphasized the stress-free process and the reliability of the crews, noting thoughtful touches like clear labeling, organized packing, and transparent coordination. On the downside, 11% of feedback focused on damage to items, poor communication, or unexpected charges. Issues such as mishandled insurance claims, delays in delivery, and unresolved damages set them apart from top-tier service providers. Although most people described the company as responsive and considerate, a small number cited frustration with follow-up and accountability after the move. Compared to many moving companies, Burgess stands out for outstanding service and professionalism, but some gaps remain in handling complaints and post-move issues.
Get a Quote (951) 682-4300

Company Info

State license #: 0056647

Years in Business: 78

DOT #: 070851

Alternate Names: Burgess North America , North American Moving & Storage , Burgess Moving and Storage , Inland Moving & Storage Company , Burgess North American

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
87.5% of all reviews were positive
12.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for Golden West Moving Systems shows a strong record of professional, efficient, and helpful service, with 88% of reviews sharing positive experiences. Many customers praise the movers’ care with belongings, quick process, and respectful demeanor. Clients appreciate both smooth long-distance and complex moves, and several note accurate estimates and clear communication throughout the process. Negative feedback makes up about 13% of input and centers chiefly on employee conduct, accidental property damage, and limited service availability. Rare incidents of unprofessional behavior and lack of area coverage contrast with the many endorsements for the company’s reliability and thoroughness. Golden West appears to deliver a higher standard of moving service compared to many competitors, earning frequent recommendations for both residential and business moves.
Get a Quote (800) 548-2400

Company Info

State license #: 0190351

Years in Business: 61

DOT #: 70719

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
42.9% of all reviews were positive
54.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer experiences with Alex Moving and Storage often stand out for efficient service, professional and friendly teams, and careful handling of belongings. Many customers note fast moves and clear communication exceeding what is typical among moving services. However, reports of damaged items, lost boxes, and lack of communication occur more frequently than with highly-rated competitors. Over half of the analyzed feedback was negative, citing property loss and damage as common themes. While staff professionalism shines in some moves, repeated breakdowns in handling and tracking led to distrust among customers. Out of 126 reviews, 42.9% shared positive stories, while 54.8% reported serious issues, placing Alex Moving & Storage behind top-tier moving companies in reliability.
Get a Quote (714) 482-3599

Company Info

State license #: 0164751

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 582228

Alternate Names: Uribe Trucking, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
% of all reviews were positive
% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Get a Quote (909) 922-0000

Company Info

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1778475

Alternate Names: Local Moving Services, Inc.

Services Offered

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

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

In California, moving services typically cost around $128 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,260 – $4,571 $980 – $2,342 $974 – $1,709
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,961 – $6,646 $1,696 – $3,673 $1,065 – $2,141
4+ bedrooms $5,334 – $9,516 $2,458 – $5,114 $1,341 – $2,643
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 1,648-mile move from Riverside to Des Moines, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Riverside to Des Moines

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Des Moines from Riverside, you can expect prices to land between $1,260 and $4,571. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,961 to $6,646 for the trip from Riverside to Des Moines. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,334 and $9,516.

Cost of moving containers from Riverside to Des Moines

Moving containers from Riverside to Des Moines will cost you $980 to $2,342 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,696 to $3,673. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,458 to $5,114. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Riverside to Des Moines

Renting a moving truck from Riverside to Des Moines typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $974 and $1,709 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,065 to $2,141. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,341 to $2,643.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Riverside to Des Moines move

The cost of Riverside movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,465 for a one-bedroom, or up to $8,478 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Riverside.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $974 to $2,439, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Riverside to Des Moines

Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Riverside – roughly 27% less for singles and 22% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $2,573 in Riverside. For a family of four, it’s $4,380 compared with $5,604.

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

Riverside Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $2,163 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $3,270 $1,763
Average home value $642,297 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $76,755 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $2,573 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $5,604 $4,380
Unemployment rate 7.1% 5.9%
Sales tax 8.75% 7.0%
State income tax 13.3% 4.4%
  • When relocating from Riverside to Des Moines, expect to find rent about 50% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
  • You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 70% more affordable in Des Moines compared to Riverside.
  • Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 24% lower in Des Moines compared to Riverside.
  • You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Des Moines, as the cost of living for a single person is 27% lower compared to Riverside.
  • 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 22% less than what it costs in Riverside.
  • The unemployment rate in Des Moines is about 17% lower than in Riverside. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
  • Sales taxes are 20% less in Des Moines relative to Riverside. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
  • Income taxes in Iowa are 67% below those in California. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Riverside and Des Moines:

Living Expense Riverside Des Moines
Basic utilities $226.85 $144.82
Cell phone plan $46.50 $51.25
Dozen eggs $5.45 $3.61
Loaf of bread $4.02 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $19.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $85.00 $77.50
Gym membership $35.00 $66.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Riverside than in Des Moines.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Riverside than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs cost more in Riverside than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in Riverside than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Riverside than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Riverside than in Des Moines.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Riverside than in Des Moines.

How life is different in Riverside vs. Des Moines

Riverside Des Moines
Population 317,261 699,292
Transportation score 5 5
Walkability score 43 45
Bike friendliness score 49 39
Crime index 40.24 5.0
Safety index 59.76 57.8
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 120% greater than Riverside.
  • Des Moines’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Riverside, making them very similar.
  • Des Moines and Riverside are similarly walkable.
  • Des Moines has a bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Riverside, which has a score of 49.
  • Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Riverside with a score of 5.0 compared to Riverside’s 40.24. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Riverside neighborhoods are safer than 40.24%.
  • Des Moines and Riverside have a similar safety level, with scores of 57.8 and 59.76.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Riverside it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Riverside to Des Moines move

  • 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, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Iowa’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • 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: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Des Moines. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Des Moines

Planning your move to Hartford of the West? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home 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

After settling into your new Iowa home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Des Moines has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Des Moines features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • 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 Riverside to Des Moines?

Planning your move from Riverside to Des Moines? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Riverside.

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

Because most people are moving from Riverside 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 Riverside to Des Moines take?

The 1,648-mile journey from Riverside, CA to Des Moines, , typically takes four to 15 days. Some movers in Riverside offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Des Moines.

Are there special savings available from movers in Riverside?

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.

These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Riverside?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Riverside, 41 movers can manage piano relocations. 33 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, California has 296 piano movers and 227 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,300 and 1,465 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

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