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($1,257) Cost to Move From Des Moines, IA to Scottsdale, AZ

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 1,387 miles from Des Moines to Scottsdale is generally between $878 and $6,674. 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 Scottsdale

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 Scottsdale

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Des Moines to Scottsdale, 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 Scottsdale 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 Scottsdale

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,387-mile move from Des Moines to Scottsdale 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 $2,142 – $4,909
  • Moving Container $1,363 – $2,396
  • Rental Truck $846 – $1,619
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,846 – $6,674
  • Moving Container $1,622 – $3,414
  • Rental Truck $878 – $1,830
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,764 – $8,803
  • Moving Container $2,180 – $4,453
  • Rental Truck $1,106 – $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.
Mayflower Transit
Waukee, IA Gilbert, AZ
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 15, 2025
American Van Lines
Patterson, IA Glendale, AZ
3 Bedrooms
Sep 13, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Boone, IA Sun City, AZ
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 13, 2025
United Van Lines
Runnells, IA Buckeye, AZ
4 Bedrooms
Sep 10, 2025
North American Van Lines
Huxley, IA Youngtown, AZ
Studio apartment
Sep 08, 2025
Safeway Moving
Melcher-Dallas, IA Peoria, AZ
4 Bedrooms
Sep 07, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Kelley, IA Mesa, AZ
4 Bedrooms
Sep 04, 2025
PODS
Winterset, IA Tempe, AZ
3 Bedrooms
Aug 13, 2025
BLVD Moving
Melbourne, IA Anthem, AZ
3 Bedrooms
Aug 08, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Collins, IA Carefree, AZ
3 Bedrooms
Aug 01, 2025

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

Top local movers for Des Moines to Scottsdale moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Des Moines that also provides long-distance services to Scottsdale 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 Scottsdale.

  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 Scottsdale?

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 $1,257 – $5,005 $908 – $2,273 $846 – $1,635
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,846 – $6,674 $1,622 – $3,414 $878 – $1,830
4+ bedrooms $4,764 – $8,803 $2,180 – $4,453 $1,106 – $2,351
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 1,387-mile move from Des Moines to Scottsdale, 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 Scottsdale

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Des Moines to Scottsdale typically costs between $1,257 and $5,005. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,846 and $6,674 when moving from Des Moines to Scottsdale. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Des Moines to Scottsdale, you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,764 up to $8,803.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Scottsdale

If you’re relocating from Des Moines to Scottsdale, you’ll typically spend between $908 and $2,273 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,622 up to $3,414. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $2,180 and $4,453. 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 Scottsdale

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Des Moines to Scottsdale 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 $846 and $1,635. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $878 to $1,830. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,106 and $2,351.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Des Moines to Scottsdale

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 Scottsdale might be as low as $2,523, while a four-bedroom could reach $8,533.
  • 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 $846 to $2,212 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Scottsdale

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Scottsdale runs about 204% higher for singles and 4% higher for families than Des Moines.

Singles spend around $5,753 in Des Moines versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $4,570 compared with $4,380.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Des Moines Scottsdale
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $1,850
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $3,410
Average home value $192,347 $827,308
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $64,533
Cost of living (single) $1,891 $5,753
Cost of living (family of four) $4,380 $4,570
Unemployment rate 5.9% 4.7%
Sales tax 7.0% 8.05%
State income tax 4.4% 2.5%
  • Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 187% higher in Scottsdale than in Des Moines, which may impact your monthly finances.
  • A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 330% higher in Scottsdale than in Des Moines.
  • Exciting news here, the average income is about 10% higher in Scottsdale than in Des Moines, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
  • Anticipate increased living expenses in Scottsdale, as the cost of living for a single person in Scottsdale is 204% greater than in Des Moines. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
  • The cost of living for a family remains roughly the same between Scottsdale and Des Moines, varying by only about 5%, so you likely won’t notice a significant change in expenses.
  • With an unemployment rate approximately 20% lower than Des Moines, Scottsdale boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
  • Sales taxes in Scottsdale exceed those in Des Moines by 15%, 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 Scottsdale, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Des Moines Scottsdale
Basic utilities $144.82 $256.54
Cell phone plan $51.25 $70.53
Dozen eggs $3.61 $4.22
Loaf of bread $2.50 $3.58
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $77.00
Gym membership $66.67 $34.33
  • Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Scottsdale, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Scottsdale.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Des Moines than in Scottsdale.
  • Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Scottsdale.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Scottsdale.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Des Moines than in Scottsdale.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Scottsdale.

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Scottsdale

Des Moines Scottsdale
Population 699,292 241,361
Transportation score 5 5
Walkability score 45 32
Bike friendliness score 39 56
Crime index 5.0 25.8
Safety index 57.8 74.2
Air quality Good Good
  • Scottsdale’s population is about 65% less than Des Moines.
  • Scottsdale’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Des Moines, making them very similar.
  • Scottsdale is less walkable than Des Moines with a score of 32 out of 100 vs Des Moines’s 45 out of 100.
  • With a score of 56 out of 100, Scottsdale 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.
  • Scottsdale’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 25.8 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that Scottsdale neighborhoods are safer than 25.8% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
  • Scottsdale is considered to be safer than Des Moines with a safety index of 74.2 vs Des Moines’s 57.8.
  • Air quality in Scottsdale is Good, and in Des Moines it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Scottsdale 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 Scottsdale 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 Scottsdale

Ready to relocate to The West’s Most Western Town? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Scottsdale.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Old Town Scottsdale
  • Gainey Ranch
  • Kierland
  • Shea Corridor
  • South Scottsdale

Best neighborhoods for families

  • McCormick Ranch
  • DC Ranch
  • Grayhawk
  • Troon North
  • South Scottsdale

Things to do in Scottsdale

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

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Scottsdale include museums and art centers like the Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, Penske Racing Museum, Cosanti, and Wonderspaces Arizona.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Chaparral Park, Xeriscape Garden, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, and Scottsdale Artists’ School Rose Garden, 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 Scottsdale Scorpions (MiLB) game.

FAQ

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

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Des Moines to Scottsdale. 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 Scottsdale?

With many people choosing to move from Des Moines to Scottsdale 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 Scottsdale take?

Covering 1,387 miles, the move from Des Moines, IA to Scottsdale, typically takes three to eight days. Some Des Moines movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Scottsdale can help bridge the gap.

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

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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