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($1,171) Cost to Move From Des Moines, IA to Mesa, AZ

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 1,386 miles from Des Moines to Mesa is generally between $942 and $6,347. The trip duration should be approximately three–eight days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from Des Moines to Mesa

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 Des Moines to Mesa

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Des Moines to Mesa, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.

In Des Moines, you have a choice of 9 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Mesa smoothly and with confidence.

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 Des Moines to Mesa

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,386-mile move from Des Moines to Mesa using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset each month to track seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and timing. We suggest gathering estimates from several companies to get the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,099 – $5,009
  • Moving Container $1,258 – $2,519
  • Rental Truck $829 – $1,539
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,874 – $6,347
  • Moving Container $1,656 – $3,550
  • Rental Truck $942 – $1,983
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,764 – $9,348
  • Moving Container $2,203 – $4,544
  • Rental Truck $1,129 – $2,351
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.
1-800-Pack-Rat
Slater, IA Tolleson, AZ
4 Bedrooms
Oct 20, 2025
Roadway Moving
Des Moines, IA Maricopa, AZ
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 13, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Clive, IA San Tan Valley, AZ
Studio apartment
Sep 18, 2025
United Van Lines
Urbandale, IA Florence, AZ
4 Bedrooms
Sep 12, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Bouton, IA Chandler, AZ
Studio apartment
Sep 07, 2025
North American Van Lines
Linden, IA Scottsdale, AZ
3 Bedrooms
Sep 04, 2025
American Van Lines
Nevada, IA New River, AZ
4 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
BLVD Moving
Macksburg, IA Coolidge, AZ
Studio apartment
Aug 26, 2025
Safeway Moving
East Peru, IA Fountain Hills, AZ
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 19, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Perry, IA Surprise, AZ
4 Bedrooms
Aug 08, 2025

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

Top local movers for Des Moines to Mesa moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Des Moines that also provides long-distance services to Mesa can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 13 local movers in Des Moines who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Des Moines to Mesa.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. All Mighty Movers LLC: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  4. Black Belt Movers: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  5. Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
8.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Two Men and a Truck earns its reputation for being fast, careful, and professional, with 92% of customer feedback praising efficient service, attention to detail, and courteous movers. Most people said the crews worked quickly, handled belongings with care, communicated well, and made moving less stressful. Many customers noted the movers were polite, helpful, and followed directions accurately, setting them apart from less organized competitors. Some even reported coming in under budget due to team efficiency, and highlighted transparent pricing and great office support. Negative feedback primarily cited issues with item damage, inexperienced movers, and unexpected costs. A small number of reviewers mentioned poor packing, lack of effort to resolve damages, and occasional rude remarks, especially in more complex moves. While damage to belongings arose more often than other negatives, the vast majority of feedback still positions this company as one of the most reliably consistent options for moving services in the region.
Get a Quote (515) 216-3654

Company Info

Years in Business: 27

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
64.0% of all reviews were positive
36.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast, affordable, and careful—most customer feedback praises All Mighty Movers LLC for their quick moving process, professional crews, and attentive handling of belongings. Out of 25 reviews analyzed, 64% are positive, often highlighting low rates, polite staff, and efficient service. Clients commonly appreciate how speedily and safely items were moved, noting that furniture and fragile goods arrived undamaged. Many mention the company beats local competitors in both price and quality, thanks to thoughtful movers who keep an upbeat attitude even with challenging jobs. On the downside, 36% of feedback centers on inaccurate estimates, unexpected charges, and unclear communication, especially regarding additional fees and scheduling. Some customers feel misled when final costs exceeded quoted amounts. Compared to many moving companies, All Mighty Movers earns high marks for efficiency and pricing but leaves room to improve transparency and customer relations, especially for billing and communication during more complex moves.
Get a Quote (515) 313-1395

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.7% of all reviews were positive
7.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving has never looked so easy. From 260 customer feedback entries, College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving earned praise for efficient service, professionalism, and careful handling, with 92.7% of responses reflecting positive experiences. The staff often receives high marks for friendliness and effective communication, outperforming many competitors on reliability. Customers commonly mention the quick moving process and how carefully items are treated. On the downside, some reported damage to belongings, unexpected charges, and unprofessional conduct—chiefly in the few negative submissions, which account for 7.3% of the total. Compared to others, College Hunks stands out for speed, courteous crews, and strong problem-solving skills, but attention to quality control and transparent billing could prevent negative encounters. The company sets a high standard for service and staff demeanor, making it a leading choice in the moving industry.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 2378173

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
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 (515) 393-4253

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
99.6% of all reviews were positive
0.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews consistently place Adamantine Spine Moving at the top of moving services in Iowa and beyond. Analyzing 223 customer reviews, 99.6% of feedback highlights professionalism, efficient service, excellent communication, careful handling, and quick moving crews. Customers repeatedly mention that staff are polite, approachable, and make stressful moves easy with precise organization and prompt responses. Quotes tend to be accurate, crews are well-trained, and moves large or small are handled with care. Compared to larger moving firms, Adamantine stands out for its hard-working teams and reliable pricing, with many clients calling the experience the best they’ve had. The only significant complaint noted involves a billing discrepancy where the final charge was much higher than the initial estimate, and the situation wasn’t resolved effectively. This single negative input strongly contrasts the otherwise outstanding reputation. Adamantine’s client input sets it apart from typical moving companies and makes it a top recommendation for anyone looking for trusted moving professionals.
Get a Quote (319) 519-0154

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

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

Movers in Iowa generally charge an average of $128 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,171 – $4,908 $917 – $2,203 $796 – $1,667
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,874 – $6,347 $1,656 – $3,550 $942 – $1,983
4+ bedrooms $4,764 – $9,348 $2,203 – $4,544 $1,129 – $2,351
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 1,386-mile move from Des Moines to Mesa, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Mesa

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Des Moines to Mesa typically costs between $1,171 and $4,908. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,874 and $6,347 when moving from Des Moines to Mesa. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Des Moines to Mesa, you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,764 up to $9,348.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Mesa

If you’re relocating from Des Moines to Mesa, you’ll typically spend between $917 and $2,203 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,656 up to $3,550. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $2,203 and $4,544. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Mesa

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Des Moines to Mesa move, 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, expect to pay between $796 and $1,667. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $942 to $1,983. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,129 and $2,351.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Des Moines to Mesa

The cost of Des Moines movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Des Moines to Mesa might be as low as $2,400, while a four-bedroom could reach $8,289.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Des Moines.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $796 to $2,085 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Mesa

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Mesa runs about 28% higher for singles and 27% higher for families than Des Moines.

Singles spend around $2,416 in Des Moines versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $5,566 compared with $4,380.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Des Moines Mesa
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $1,734
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $2,500
Average home value $192,347 $432,892
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $64,524
Cost of living (single) $1,891 $2,416
Cost of living (family of four) $4,380 $5,566
Unemployment rate 5.9% 6.1%
Sales tax 7.0% 8.3%
State income tax 4.4% 2.5%
  • Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 55% higher in Mesa than in Des Moines, which may impact your monthly finances.
  • A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 125% higher in Mesa than in Des Moines.
  • Exciting news here, the average income is about 10% higher in Mesa than in Des Moines, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
  • Anticipate increased living expenses in Mesa, as the cost of living for a single person in Mesa is 28% greater than in Des Moines. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
  • As you plan your move to Mesa, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 27% more than it is in Des Moines.
  • There’s little difference in the unemployment rates of Mesa and Des Moines, within a margin of 5%, so job opportunities should be similar.
  • Sales taxes in Mesa exceed those in Des Moines by 19%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
  • Income taxes are 43% lower in Arizona than in Iowa. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Des Moines and Mesa, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Des Moines Mesa
Basic utilities $144.82 $256.54
Cell phone plan $51.25 $70.53
Dozen eggs $3.61 $4.69
Loaf of bread $2.50 $4.18
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $20.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $75.00
Gym membership $66.67 $42.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Mesa, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Mesa.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Des Moines than in Mesa.
  • Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Mesa.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Mesa.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Des Moines than in Mesa.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Mesa.

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Mesa

Des Moines Mesa
Population 699,292 504,258
Transportation score 5 4
Walkability score 45 38
Bike friendliness score 39 60
Crime index 5.0 44.67
Safety index 57.8 55.33
Air quality Good Good
  • Mesa’s population is about 28% less than Des Moines.
  • Mesa’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Des Moines’s score of 5.
  • Mesa is less walkable than Des Moines with a score of 38 out of 100 vs Des Moines’s 45 out of 100.
  • With a score of 60 out of 100, Mesa is more bike-friendly than Des Moines, which has a score of 39 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Mesa’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 44.67 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that Mesa neighborhoods are safer than 44.67% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
  • Mesa and Des Moines have a similar safety level, with scores of 55.33 and 57.8.
  • Air quality in Mesa is Good, and in Des Moines it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Mesa move

  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
  • 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 through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Arizona, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Mesa without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Mesa

Ready to relocate to ? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Mesa.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Central
  • Southwest
  • Northwest
  • Northeast
  • West Central

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Red Mountain Ranch
  • Superstition Springs
  • Eastmark
  • Dobson Ranch
  • Alta Mesa

Things to do in Mesa

Now that you’ve made the move to Arizona, it’s the perfect time to explore Mesa. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Mesa include museums and art centers like the Commemorative Air Force Museum, Arizona Museum of Natural History, Mesa Arts Center, and i.d.e.a. Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, Freestone Park, Riverview Park, and Pioneer Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Des Moines to Mesa?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Des Moines to Mesa. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Des Moines.

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

With many people choosing to move from Des Moines to Mesa in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

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

Covering 1,386 miles, the move from Des Moines, IA to Mesa, typically takes three to eight days. Some Des Moines movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Mesa can help bridge the gap.

How many movers in Des Moines can handle specialty items for my move to Mesa?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Des Moines, 10 movers can handle pianos. 6 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of IA, there are 24 piano movers and 15 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

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