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($1,123) Cost to Move From Hartford, CT to Des Moines, IA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 1,208 miles from Hartford to Des Moines typically costs between $846 and $5,587. The trip is expected to last from two–eight 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 Hartford 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 Hartford to Des Moines

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Hartford 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 Hartford, there are 24 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 Hartford to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,208-mile move from Hartford to Des Moines using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 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 $1,902 – $4,363
  • Moving Container $1,284 – $2,384
  • Rental Truck $744 – $1,420
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,483 – $5,587
  • Moving Container $1,656 – $3,067
  • Rental Truck $846 – $1,790
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,217 – $7,715
  • Moving Container $2,242 – $4,358
  • Rental Truck $1,073 – $2,079
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.
Safeway Moving
West Hartford, CT Williamson, IA
Studio apartment
Sep 29, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Orange, CT Ames, IA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 09, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Southington, CT Huxley, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 05, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Farmington, CT Grimes, IA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
PODS
New Hartford Center, CT St. Marys, IA
Studio apartment
Aug 26, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Plainville, CT Carlisle, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 26, 2025
American Van Lines
Hamden, CT Stuart, IA
Studio apartment
Aug 09, 2025
BLVD Moving
Westbrook Center, CT Altoona, IA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 04, 2025
United Van Lines
Naugatuck, CT Perry, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Jul 31, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Bantam, CT Sandyville, IA
4 Bedrooms
Jul 30, 2025

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

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

Finding a trusted local moving company in Hartford that offers long-distance services to Des Moines can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 33 top local movers in Hartford 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 Hartford to Des Moines.

  1. Fallon Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  2. RT Relocation: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Colonial Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  5. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
63.9% of all reviews were positive
33.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Choosing Fallon Moving & Storage means meeting a team that often delivers quick, careful moves with professional, polite crews. Customers commend their efficient service, clear communication, and the attention paid to valuables during the moving process. Over sixty percent of the 227 reviews highlight their reliability and effective handling as a standout compared to many competitors. Still, feedback identifies problems that can’t be ignored: many negative reviews discuss items damaged during the move, unexpected additional charges, and delivery or arrival delays. Claims of scratched furniture, broken items, and compensation issues are recurring themes in complaints. While many customers find Fallon’s pricing transparent and the service dependable, a notable portion express concern about communication gaps and the accuracy of time and cost estimates. Fallon earns strong praise for professionalism and moving speed, but damage to items and poor complaint response remain pain points. This mix places Fallon above many moving companies for service quality and courteous staff, but those considering Fallon should stay alert to potential risks regarding item safety and keep communication clear throughout their move.
Get a Quote (860) 298-7071

Company Info

State license #: 849

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 1397550

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.6% of all reviews were positive
6.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback for RT Relocation stands out for its overwhelmingly positive nature: out of 282 reviews, 93.6% express satisfaction with the moving experience. Customers highlight fast, efficient service, a professional and polite staff, careful handling of belongings, and quick moving processes. Many would highly recommend the company, often emphasizing the respectful attitude and attention to customer needs. On the downside, a handful of complaints—about 6.4% of input—focus on damage to items, unexpected charges, or challenges with insurance claims if problems occurred. Some mention missing or delayed compensation for lost or broken belongings. Pricing disputes, such as final costs exceeding estimates, appear occasionally. Compared with typical moving companies, RT Relocation receives much stronger praise regarding professionalism and efficiency, but the rare negative input points to areas for potential improvement in communication and damage resolution. The company’s reputation for courteous, hard-working crews and dependable moving services sets it apart in a competitive industry.
Get a Quote (833) 668-3978

Company Info

State license #: 1802

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 3285714

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
47.0% of all reviews were positive
51.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about All My Sons Moving & Storage for their efficient service, respectful staff, careful handling, and quick moving process. Many mention friendly movers who take extra care of belongings, helping to reduce stress on moving day. On the downside, over half report experiencing unexpected charges, furniture damage, or delayed delivery. Reports of a bait-and-switch on pricing and last-minute cost hikes are frequent, with some customers calling out unclear terms or billing errors. While movers on-site often get praise for professionalism and speed, complaints about broken items, property damage, and missed time windows are widespread. Compared to other moving companies, All My Sons stands out for hard-working crews and positive personal interactions, but issues with transparent pricing, timely communication, and claim resolution leave many dissatisfied. Out of 451 reviews, only 47% are positive, indicating that while many find the actual moving teams reliable and helpful, persistent problems with costs and handling customer complaints overshadow these strengths.
Get a Quote (860) 590-7673

Company Info

State license #: 1738

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281

Alternate Names: All My Sons of Hartford, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
79.0% of all reviews were positive
20.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Colonial Moving & Storage stands out for its speed, professionalism, careful handling, and fair rates according to most customer feedback. After analyzing 252 reviews, 79% are positive, with many customers highlighting efficient moves, courteous staff, and great care with valuable or fragile belongings. The company offers affordable rates, often beating competitors’ quotes, and multiple users noted the friendly and organized crews. On the flip side, about 20% of reviews report problems such as damaged items, delayed pickups or deliveries, and unexpected or higher-than-estimated charges. These negative experiences often mention property or furniture damage and issues with timing. Only a few reviews are neutral. Compared to typical movers, Colonial gets more praise for efficiency and care, but negative feedback sharply focuses on item damage and scheduling reliability. People searching for a moving company will find strong dedication to fast, attentive service, yet should watch for communication or pricing issues highlighted in customer input.
Get a Quote (860) 505-7221

Company Info

State license #: 1794

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3115246

Alternate Names: Tait Transportation, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.1% of all reviews were positive
10.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers regularly praise College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving for efficient service, a quick moving process, and professional, polite staff. Most feedback highlights careful handling of belongings and clear communication. The booking process is reported as smooth, and pricing is often seen as fair. Some users share positive experiences with friendliness and how the team reduced their moving stress. Negative feedback focuses on damage to items, unexpected charges, and difficulties with communication or follow-up, particularly regarding claims or pricing quotes. Compared to many moving companies, College Hunks receives higher marks for professionalism and friendliness but shares challenges seen across the industry when it comes to damage resolution and consistent pricing transparency. Out of 269 reviews, 88% are positive, showing that most customers have a smooth, stress-free move, but a handful encounter issues with damage or final charges that impact their trust.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #: 1796

Years in Business: 0

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: EJD Hauling LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

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

In Connecticut, moving services typically cost around 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 $1,123 – $4,337 $853 – $2,110 $722 – $1,391
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,483 – $5,587 $1,656 – $3,067 $846 – $1,790
4+ bedrooms $4,217 – $7,715 $2,242 – $4,358 $1,073 – $2,079
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 1,208-mile move from Hartford to Des Moines, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 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 Hartford to Des Moines

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Des Moines from Hartford, you can expect prices to land between $1,123 and $4,337. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,483 to $5,587 for the trip from Hartford to Des Moines. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,217 and $7,715.

Cost of moving containers from Hartford to Des Moines

Moving containers from Hartford to Des Moines will cost you $853 to $2,110 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,656 to $3,067. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,242 to $4,358. Learn more about PODS cost.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Hartford to Des Moines

Renting a moving truck from Hartford 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 $722 and $1,391 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $846 to $1,790. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,073 to $2,079.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

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

The cost of Hartford movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,268 for a one-bedroom, or up to $7,249 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Hartford.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $722 to $1,826, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Hartford to Des Moines

Many movers find Des Moines easier on the wallet than Hartford – roughly 9% less for singles and 16% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,891 for one person in Des Moines versus $2,085 in Hartford. For a family of four, it’s $4,380 compared with $5,185.

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

Hartford Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $2,039 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $3,350 $1,763
Average home value $164,597 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $71,103 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $2,085 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $5,185 $4,380
Unemployment rate 14.0% 5.9%
Sales tax 6.35% 7.0%
State income tax 3.0% 4.4%
  • When relocating from Hartford to Des Moines, expect to find rent about 14% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
  • Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Des Moines are about 17% higher than those in Hartford.
  • Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 18% lower in Des Moines compared to Hartford.
  • You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Des Moines, as the cost of living for a single person is 9% lower compared to Hartford.
  • 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 16% less than what it costs in Hartford.
  • The unemployment rate in Des Moines is about 58% lower than in Hartford. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
  • Sales taxes in Des Moines are 10% more than in Hartford, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
  • Income taxes in Iowa are 47% above those in Connecticut. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.

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

Living Expense Hartford Des Moines
Basic utilities $118.73 $144.82
Cell phone plan $41.88 $51.25
Dozen eggs $4.75 $3.61
Loaf of bread $3.97 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $20.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $95.00 $77.50
Gym membership $49.67 $66.67
  • Basic utilities cost less in Hartford than in Des Moines, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Hartford than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs cost more in Hartford than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in Hartford than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Hartford than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Hartford than in Des Moines.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Hartford than in Des Moines.

How life is different in Hartford vs. Des Moines

Hartford Des Moines
Population 121,054 699,292
Transportation score 8 5
Walkability score 67 45
Bike friendliness score 54 39
Crime index 63.75 5.0
Safety index 36.25 57.8
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 478% greater than Hartford.
  • Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Hartford’s score of 8.
  • Des Moines is less walkable than Hartford with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Hartford’s 67 out of 100.
  • Des Moines has a bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Hartford, which has a score of 54.
  • Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Hartford with a score of 5.0 compared to Hartford’s 63.75. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Hartford neighborhoods are safer than 63.75%.
  • Des Moines is considered to be safer than Hartford with a safety index of 57.8 vs Hartford’s 36.25.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Hartford it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Hartford 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 Hartford to Des Moines?

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

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

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

The 1,208-mile journey from Hartford, CT to Des Moines, , typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Hartford 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 Hartford?

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 Hartford?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Hartford, 24 movers can manage piano relocations. 16 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Connecticut has 45 piano movers and 35 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

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

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