Local moving companies in Des Moines
Out of 13 Des Moines movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Arizona.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- All Mighty Movers LLC: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Black Belt Movers: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Pricing: $130/hr
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2468266
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Pricing: $150/hr
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 3527158
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Pricing: $100/hr
Years in Business: 25
DOT #: 1471037
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Local moving services in Des Moines, IA
A quick snapshot of how many Des Moines movers provide add-on specialty services:
Cost to move from Des Moines, IA to Arizona
The following table outlines average prices to move from Des Moines to Arizona, organized by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,226 – $4,611 | $884 – $2,212 | $809 – $1,500 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,752 – $6,379 | $1,664 – $3,353 | $892 – $1,820 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,843 – $8,402 | $2,146 – $4,322 | $1,111 – $2,131 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,323-mile move from Des Moines, IA, to Arizona using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends. Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Arizona
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Des Moines to Arizona, you’ll likely pay between $1,226 and $4,611. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,752 and $6,379 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,843 to $8,402.
Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Arizona
When you’re heading from Des Moines to Arizona, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $884 and $2,212. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,664 and $3,353. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,146 to $4,322. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Des Moines easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Arizona
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 from Des Moines to Arizona in a rental truck will cost around $809 to $1,500. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $892 to $1,820, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms costs around $1,111 to $2,131.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors influencing moving costs from Des Moines to AZ
Several factors influence the cost of movers in Des Moines:
- Move size: A studio move is far less expensive than relocating a large household.
- Time of year: Higher demand in the summer season pushes up moving company rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY options are budget-friendly but labor-intensive; hiring movers costs more but makes the process easier.
What you should know before moving from Des Moines to AZ
Moving from Des Moines to Arizona brings exciting changes, though you’ll also notice a surge in living costs. Since Arizona often has a pricier lifestyle compared to Des Moines, it’s wise to prepare financially.
Explore the differences between residing in Des Moines and Arizona to ensure you’re ready before relocating:
Compare cost of living: Des Moines vs. Arizona
| Des Moines, IA | Arizona | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,150 | $1,308 |
| Average home cost | $192,347 | $428,711 |
| Average income (per capita) | $58,492 | $72,581 |
| Cost of living index | 87 | 107 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 3.6% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 2.5% |
Arizona sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Expect to pay roughly 14% more for rent in Arizona compared to Des Moines. Plan accordingly for higher housing costs.
- Expect mortgage payments to be about 123% higher in Arizona than in Des Moines, requiring some adjustments.
- Salaries in Arizona are typically 24% higher than in Des Moines, which could make it easier to cover expenses or boost savings.
- The cost of living is about 23% higher in Arizona than in Des Moines, so plan your finances carefully to handle the increase.
- Job seekers may have an advantage in Arizona, where the unemployment rate is 39% lower than in Des Moines.
- Income taxes are 43% lower in Arizona than in Iowa, leaving you with more money each month.
How life is different in Des Moines, IA from Arizona
If you’re moving from Des Moines to Arizona, everything from the weather and local population to the predominant political views can feel pretty different. Let’s break down what life in Arizona is like compared to Des Moines.
| Des Moines, IA | Arizona | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 7,431,344 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-41 | Democrat 56-44 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 99ºF |
| Winter low | 13ºF | 34ºF |
| Annual rain | 36″ | 12″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 6″ |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 24.89 |
Arizona Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Arizona leaned Democrat, while Des Moines supported Democratic.
- High summer temperatures in Arizona can climb to 99ºF, making it significantly hotter than Des Moines, where summer highs max out at 86ºF. Prepare yourself for more sunshine, vibrant outdoor gatherings, and potentially higher air conditioning costs as you adjust to this sunnier place.
- Milder winters in Arizona average 34ºF, compared with Des Moines, which dips to 13ºF. This can mean fewer weather hassles, reduced heating costs, and easier living.
- In Arizona, yearly rainfall averages 12 inches, less than the 36 inches in Des Moines. Expect sunnier skies and fewer weather disruptions, perfect for spending more time outdoors.
- In Arizona, you’ll only get about 6 inches of snow each year, much less than Des Moines. That means moving to Arizona brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
- With a crime index of 24.89, Arizona is less safe than Des Moines, which has a lower index of 5.0. Plan accordingly and stay alert to local safety advice.
Other considerations when moving to Arizona
When moving from Des Moines to Arizona, think beyond just hiring movers and boxing up your stuff to keep things running smoothly. Don’t forget to check local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could affect your move.
- HOA rules: Some neighborhoods have specific rules for move-in days — verify with your HOA before moving.
- Elevator reservation: Many buildings require advance booking of elevators for moves — check before your moving date.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit if you’re using a moving truck or larger vehicle. Be sure to check ahead of time to see if you’ll need one for your move.
- State licensing: Though Arizona is largely an “unregulated” state, local moving companies are subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations intended to ensure that they operate safely and ethically. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Arizona moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Arizona, but it’s a good idea to check the local parking regulations ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Be sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can set your official move date so your mail is forwarded to Arizona without any hiccups. Start here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance rules differ from state to state, so your specific needs will depend on your location. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness—offered by movers at no extra charge, although it provides minimal coverage. With a liability limit of 60 cents per pound per article, consider this option carefully. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement would only be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternative options or consider third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Arizona
No matter what you’re into—parks, museums, sports, or universities—you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy in Arizona.
Museums in Arizona
- Musical Instrument Museum
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Commemorative Air Force Museum
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
- Jerome State Historic Park
Parks in Arizona
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Sunset Crater & Wupatki National Monuments
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
- Saguaro National Park
Sports teams in Arizona
- Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
- Phoenix Suns Basketball (NBA)
- Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
- Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
- Arizona Rattlers (IFL)
Universities in Arizona
- Arizona State University
- Northern Arizona University
- University of Arizona
- American Indian College
- Carrington College
FAQ
How long does a move from Des Moines to Arizona take?
Wondering how long your move from Des Moines, IA to Arizona will take? Timing depends on the service you choose, but it typically takes three to eight days. Keep in mind, if you’re moving during the busy summer months, your move might take a little longer.
If you want your move to go smoothly and avoid delays, make sure to ask about the delivery timeframe before booking your moving company.
Can I find movers that build custom crates in Des Moines?
Yes—eight movers in Des Moines offer custom crating, ideal for protecting artwork, antiques, and other fragile pieces. When requesting a quote, ask a Des Moines mover about crate construction, padding, and lead times.
What is the best way to get a car from Des Moines to Arizona?
Need to ship your car from Des Moines to Arizona? Trust professionals who’ll protect your vehicle and manage all the details seamlessly. See our top choices for car shipping from Iowa to Arizona.
Why are people moving from Des Moines to Arizona?
Many people are moving to Arizona because of its ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Arizona.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Des Moines?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Des Moines.
Can I pay for my move from Des Moines, IA, with cash?
There are four movers in Des Moines that accept cash payments. That said, cash is not common in the moving industry—most companies prefer card, ACH, or cashier’s check for traceability and receipts. Typically, you’ll pay a deposit to secure your booking and move date, with the remaining balance collected at pickup or after delivery (policy varies by mover). Always confirm accepted payment types and the timing of each payment before you book.
Helpful moving resources
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