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($1,235) Movers from Des Moines, IA to Tempe, AZ

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Image of a moving truck going from Des Moines to Tempe
Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 1,391 miles from Des Moines to Tempe, expect to pay between $890 and $6,181. The journey should take about three–eight days. Costs can vary due to distance, the date of the move, home size, and your choice between DIY and professional assistance.
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ryan carrigan moving expert
Hi, I’m Ryan.
Let’s get moving.
I’ve helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that’s right for you.
I’ve helped thousands of people move over the last decade, and I can tell you that no two moves are exactly alike. Let me help you find the mover that’s right for you.

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Best professional movers from Des Moines to Tempe

For a stress-free interstate move from Des Moines to Tempe, selecting a full-service mover is a wise choice. These professionals cover all aspects of the move, freeing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

With 9 interstate moving companies in Des Moines, we’re here to highlight the best options for a seamless transition to Tempe.

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 Tempe

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,391-mile move from Des Moines to Tempe using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 22, 2026. moveBuddha compiles thousands of validated rates from movers across the U.S., with monthly updates to reflect seasonality and market conditions. Your end price may shift due to load size, service add-ons, access or parking limitations, fuel costs, and your move date. We recommend obtaining several quotes to get a reliable estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,170 – $5,069
  • Moving Container $1,288 – $2,333
  • Rental Truck $848 – $1,468
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,880 – $6,181
  • Moving Container $1,710 – $3,192
  • Rental Truck $890 – $1,893
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,735 – $9,010
  • Moving Container $2,101 – $4,161
  • Rental Truck $1,066 – $2,243
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
Hartford, IA Phoenix, AZ
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 29, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Madrid, IA Fountain Hills, AZ
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 19, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Melbourne, IA Tempe, AZ
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Dec 17, 2025
PODS
Lambs Grove, IA Sun City, AZ
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 13, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Maxwell, IA Goodyear, AZ
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 09, 2025
United Van Lines
Johnston, IA Avondale, AZ
Icon of a house 4 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 15, 2025
Joyce Van Lines
Winterset, IA Chandler, AZ
Icon of a house Studio apartment
Icon of a calendar Nov 14, 2025
Roadway Moving
West Des Moines, IA Peoria, AZ
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Oct 23, 2025
American Van Lines
Berkley, IA Paradise Valley, AZ
Icon of a house Studio apartment
Icon of a calendar Oct 22, 2025
Safeway Moving
Cambridge, IA Maricopa, AZ
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Oct 12, 2025

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

Top-rated local movers that handle Des Moines to Tempe moves

When planning a move from Des Moines to Tempe, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 13 local movers in Des Moines who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Des Moines to Tempe.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.56 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. Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  5. Select Van & Storage Co.: 4.3 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92% of all reviews were positive
8% 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% of all reviews were positive
36% 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
93% of all reviews were positive
7% 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
100% of all reviews were positive
0% 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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
68% of all reviews were positive
29% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Select Van & Storage Co. comes with strong benefits, as most customer feedback praises their professional and polite staff, quick moving process, and efficient service. Out of 34 reviews, over two-thirds are positive, highlighting helpful movers who keep pricing transparent, and jobs often completed faster or under budget compared to competitors. Customers frequently describe interactions as courteous, emphasize smooth experiences, and value responsive communication. Some reviewers appreciated a detailed and upfront estimate process as well as careful handling of items. On the downside, many negative reports focus on late or unreliable deliveries, occasional damage or loss of items, and frustrating lapses in communication. Delayed pickups, items left behind, and slow claim responses stand out as key drawbacks when compared to top moving services. Input shows Select Van & Storage excels with professionalism and efficient handling, but clients looking for guaranteed timeliness and consistent communication may want to confirm all details before booking.
Get a Quote (515) 223-8329

Company Info

Years in Business: 79

DOT #: 1098759

Alternate Names: Mayflower

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified

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

Movers in Iowa charge $128 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,235 – $4,496 $939 – $2,347 $848 – $1,514
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,880 – $6,181 $1,710 – $3,192 $890 – $1,893
4+ bedrooms $4,735 – $9,010 $2,101 – $4,161 $1,066 – $2,243
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 1,391-mile relocation from Des Moines to Tempe, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Jan 22, 2026. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from moving companies across the country and updates the data each month to capture seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Final pricing may vary based on shipment size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. For accuracy, collect quotes from several movers.

Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Tempe

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Des Moines to Tempe, you can expect to spend between $1,235 and $4,496. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,880 to $6,181 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Des Moines to Tempe typically runs between $4,735 and $9,010.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Tempe

When moving from Des Moines to Tempe, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $939 and $2,347. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,710 to $3,192. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,101 up to $4,161. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Iowa.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Tempe

Renting a moving truck in Des Moines is usually your cheapest option to get to Tempe. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $848 and $1,514. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $890 and $1,893. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,066 and $2,243.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Des Moines to Tempe

The cost of Des Moines movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $2,479, but larger homes can run up to $8,146.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Des Moines.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($848–$2,071) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Tempe

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Tempe runs about 187% higher for singles and 55% higher for families than Des Moines.

Singles spend around $5,433 in Des Moines versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $6,810 compared with $4,380.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Des Moines Tempe
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $1,900
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $2,450
Average home value $192,347 $471,494
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $64,080
Cost of living (single) $1,891 $5,433
Cost of living (family of four) $4,380 $6,810
Unemployment rate 5.9% 5.4%
Sales tax 7.0% 8.1%
State income tax 4.4% 2.5%
  • As you consider relocating to Tempe, note that rent can be roughly 59% more expensive than it is in Des Moines; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
  • Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 145% higher in Tempe than in Des Moines.
  • Great news! You’ll find the average income is about 10% higher in Tempe compared to Des Moines, giving you some extra room for savings or investments.
  • Plan for higher expenses in Tempe, since the cost of living for a single person is 187% more than in Des Moines. This encompasses usual costs like utilities, groceries, apparel, and transit.
  • If your journey leads to Tempe, be prepared for higher living expenditures. The cost of living for a family in Tempe is 55% more than it is in Des Moines.
  • Tempe experiences an unemployment rate that is about 8% lower than that of Des Moines. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
  • Sales taxes are 16% higher in Tempe than in Des Moines. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • Income taxes are 43% lower in Arizona compared to Iowa. With these reduced income tax rates, your paycheck will reflect more of your earnings, allowing you greater freedom in managing your finances.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Des Moines with Tempe:

Living Expense Des Moines Tempe
Basic utilities $144.82 $256.54
Cell phone plan $51.25 $70.53
Dozen eggs $3.61 $4.75
Loaf of bread $2.50 $4.18
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $19.17
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $80.00
Gym membership $66.67 $30.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Tempe, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Tempe.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Des Moines than in Tempe.
  • Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Tempe.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Tempe.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Des Moines than in Tempe.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Tempe.

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Tempe

Des Moines Tempe
Population 699,292 180,587
Transportation score 5 8
Walkability score 45 54
Bike friendliness score 39 75
Crime index 5.0 42.36
Safety index 57.8 57.64
Air quality Good Good
  • Tempe’s population is about 74% less than Des Moines.
  • Tempe’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Des Moines’s score of 5.
  • Tempe is more walkable than Des Moines with a score of 54 out of 100 vs Des Moines’s 45 out of 100.
  • With a score of 75 out of 100, Tempe 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.
  • Tempe’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 42.36 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that Tempe neighborhoods are safer than 42.36% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
  • Tempe and Des Moines have a similar safety level, with scores of 57.64 and 57.8.
  • Air quality in Tempe is Good, and in Des Moines it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Tempe move

  • HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Arizona moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Arizona doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Tempe smoothly. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Tempe

Now that you’ve chosen Tempe as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Tempe to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cyprus Southwest
  • Daley Park
  • Kyrene-Superstition
  • Mitchell Park West
  • University Heights

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Alta Mira
  • Dava-Lakeshore
  • Meyer Park
  • Sandahl
  • Tempe Gardens

Things to do in Tempe

After getting comfortable in your new Arizona home, it’s time to see what Tempe is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Tempe offers cultural landmarks like the AZ Heritage Center at Papago Park, Tempe History Museum, Arizona State University Art Museum, and ASU Museum Ceramics Center and Brickyard Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Tempe Town Lake, Kiwanis Park, and Papago Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Arizona State University Sun Devils (NCAA) game.

FAQ

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

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Des Moines to Tempe are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Des Moines are lower.

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

Because spring and fall moves from Des Moines to Tempe are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

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

A move of 1,391 miles from Des Moines, IA to Tempe, generally takes three to eight days. Movers in Des Moines sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Tempe is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which movers in Des Moines offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 10 movers in Des Moines have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 6 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across IA, there are 24 piano movers and 15 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,299 and 1,464.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

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