Quick answer: For a 534-mile move from Des Moines to Lansing, expect to spend around $505–$5,773 and one to six days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you're going DIY or using a moving company.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Lansing to Des Moines guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best movers by type

Choosing an interstate mover from Des Moines, IA, to Lansing, MI, isn’t as simple as picking the first name you find. In Des Moines, there are 9 companies that can handle that route, each with their own approach, pricing, and service style.

Our team took a close look at every interstate mover in Des Moines, examining service options, costs, and what customers are actually saying in reviews. The result is a carefully curated list of the best long-distance movers in Des Moines you can trust with your Des Moines to Lansing relocation.

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Best professional movers from Des Moines to Lansing

Making the trip from Des Moines to Lansing is easier when you hire a full-service moving company to handle every stage of the relocation. From packing and loading to delivery and unpacking, they manage the process so you can focus on the bigger picture.

We’ve put together a list of the best full-service movers for this route to help you make the move with ease.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

What moving services are available in Des Moines?toggle

Markets differ, and so do mover offerings. Scan this table to compare Des Moines with the broader IA landscape and national totals, helping you spot services that are common versus those that might be tougher to find.

Service Des Moines (Count) Des Moines (%) Iowa (Count) Iowa (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 12 92% 29 97% 2835 98%
Unpacking 12 92% 29 97% 2800 97%
Fragile-only packing 4 31% 8 27% 717 25%
Packing materials 11 85% 24 80% 1683 58%
Storage
Storage 8 62% 23 77% 2501 87%
Climate-controlled storage 1 8% 5 17% 975 34%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 8 62% 17 57% 1886 65%
Art 7 54% 17 57% 1400 48%
Antiques 6 46% 14 47% 1400 48%
Piano 10 77% 22 73% 2175 75%
Hot tub 2 15% 3 10% 669 23%
Pool table 3 23% 7 23% 943 33%

How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to MI movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 24 Iowa movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

The best local movers servicing Des Moines to Lansing moves

Finding a trusted local moving company in Des Moines that offers long-distance services to Lansing can be a challenge. With so many movers advertising similar services, it's tough to know who really delivers on quality.

Good news — we've done the homework for you. Our team reviewed top local movers in Des Moines who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Des Moines to Lansing.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. All Mighty Movers LLC: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  3. Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  4. Select Van & Storage Co.: 4.34 out of 5 stars
  5. Lint Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/TwoMenAndATruckDesMoines, https://twitter.com/TwoMenDesMoines
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.
Show more
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/Allmightymovers/,
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.
Show more
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/adamantinespinemoving/,
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.
Show more
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/SelectVanMoving/, https://x.com/mayflowermoving
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.
Show more
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
https://www.facebook.com/pages/lint%20van%20lines,%20dsm,Ia/218222321536290/,
92% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Lint Van Lines means your belongings are in the hands of a reliable and dedicated team. After evaluating 226 pieces of customer feedback, 91.6% were positive, reflecting a strong reputation for professionalism, efficiency, careful item handling, consistent communication, and speedy moves. Clients praised courteous staff and the stress-free organization, making long and local relocations easier than expected.
On the downside, some experienced frustration from damaged items and delayed or poorly communicated deliveries, making claims difficult to resolve in a few cases. Compared to the moving industry, Lint Van Lines stands out for service quality and responsiveness but should improve consistency during claims and post-move support to satisfy every customer.
Show more
Get a Quote (515) 265-8161

Company Info

Years in Business: 65

DOT #: 543541

Alternate Names: Lint Van Lines


Services Offered

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

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

Des Moines movers charge $142 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 $1,279 - $3,629 $785 - $1,816 $502 - $906
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,483 - $5,773 $1,432 - $2,583 $505 - $1,116
4+ bedrooms $4,062 - $9,364 $1,815 - $3,465 $642 - $1,269
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 534 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Iowa to Michigan

Planning a move from Iowa to Michigan? For a studio or one-bedroom, you'll likely pay between $1,279 and $3,629. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,483 and $5,773 for the same journey (IA to MI). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,062 to $9,364.

Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Michigan

If you're relocating from Iowa to Michigan, you'll typically spend between $785 and $1,816 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,432 up to $2,583. If you're moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $1,815 and $3,465. 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 Iowa to Michigan

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 in a rental truck will cost around $502 to $906. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $505 to $1,116, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from Iowa to Michigan costs around $642 to $1,269.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Des Moines to Lansing movetoggle

The cost of Des Moines movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Des Moines to Lansing might cost as little as $1,279, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $7,619.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Des Moines, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $502 to $1,167 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Lansing

Budget-wise, Lansing tends to come out ahead — about 16% lower for singles and 4% lower for families than Des Moines.

One person’s costs run $1,595 in Lansing vs. $1,891 in Des Moines; for a family of four, think $4,199 vs. $4,380.

Scan the comparison below to see where you’ll save most:

Des Moines Lansing
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $901
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $1,775
Average home value $192,347 $148,542
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $64,729
Unemployment rate 5.9% 7.4%
Sales tax 7.0% 6.0%
State income tax 4.4% 4.25%
  • Rent prices in Lansing are 2% lower than in Des Moines, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Lansing.
    Home prices in Lansing are 22.8% lower than in Des Moines.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Lansing, where incomes are, on average, 10.7% higher than in Des Moines. Major employers in Lansing include Health Management Associates, Michigan State Police, and Sparrow Health System.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Lansing. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 15.7% lower than in Des Moines.
  • A move to Lansing 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 4.1% less than what it costs in Des Moines.
  • The unemployment rate in Lansing is 25.42% higher than in Des Moines.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Lansing, since the city's sales taxes in Lansing are 14.29% lower than in Des Moines.
  • One perk of moving to Lansing is paying less in state income taxes, which are 3.41% lower than in Des Moines.

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

Des Moines Lansing
Basic utilities $144.82 $172.97
Cell phone plan $51.25 $46
Dozen eggs $3.61 $3.52
Loaf of bread $2.5 $2.91
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16 $18
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.5 $68.5
Gym membership $66.67 $31.67
  • Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Lansing, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Des Moines than in Lansing.
  • Eggs cost more in Des Moines than in Lansing.
  • Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Lansing.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Lansing.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Des Moines than in Lansing.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Lansing.

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Lansing

Lansing Des Moines
Population 112,644 699,292
Transportation Score 5 5
Walkability score 46 45
Bike friendliness score 55 39
Crime Index 48.66 5.0
Safety Index 51.34 57.8
Air Quality Good Good
  • Lansing's population is about 84% less than Des Moines.
  • Lansing's public transportation has a similar score to Des Moines.
  • Lansing and Des Moines are similarily walkable.
  • With a score of 55 out of 100, Lansing 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 they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Lansing's crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 48.66 compared to Des Moines's 5.0. This means that Lansing neighborhoods are safer than 48.66% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
  • Lansing is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 51.34 vs Des Moines's 57.8.
  • Air quality in Lansing is good, and in Des Moines it's good.

Other things to consider for your Des Moines vs. Lansing move

  • Weather: Best months to consider moving in Lansing are August, July and June as these months have favorable weather. Summer in Lansing are one of the best in the country as the heat are not that extreme so it's still comfortable. Snowfall, which normally occurs from November to April.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Michigan moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Michigan doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • 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 Lansing. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items' full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore 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 Lansing

Now that you've decided to make the move to Capital City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Lansing.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Haslett
  • Waverly
  • Edgemont Park
  • DeWitt
  • Mason

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Okemos
  • Haslett
  • Waverly
  • DeWitt Charter Township
  • Holt

Things to do in Lansing

After settling into your new Michigan home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Lansing has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

  • Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Lansing, such as the Michigan History Center, Impression 5 Science Center, and R.E. Olds Transportation Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Woldumar Nature Center, Potter Park Zoo, Hawk Island Park, and River Trail — along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Lansing Lugnuts (Baseball) game.

FAQ

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

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Des Moines to Lansing 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 Lansing?

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

Moving from Des Moines, IA to Lansing, MI covers 534 miles and usually takes one to six days Need to move faster? Some Des Moines movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Lansing.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Des Moines?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Des Moines, 10 movers can manage piano relocations. 6 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Iowa has 22 piano movers and 14 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2175 and 1400 respectively.

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

Helpful moving resources