Local moving companies in Des Moines
Out of 13 Des Moines movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Michigan.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- All Mighty Movers LLC: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Black Belt Movers: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Pricing: $130/hr
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2468266
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Pricing: $150/hr
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 3527158
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Pricing: $100/hr
Years in Business: 25
DOT #: 1471037
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Local moving services in Des Moines, IA
A quick snapshot of how many Des Moines movers provide add-on specialty services:
Cost to move from Des Moines, IA to Michigan
The following table outlines average prices to move from Des Moines to Michigan, organized by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,145 – $3,505 | $710 – $1,578 | $441 – $831 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,135 – $5,440 | $1,255 – $2,533 | $457 – $957 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,739 – $8,030 | $1,691 – $3,240 | $588 – $1,167 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 597-mile move from Des Moines, IA, to Michigan using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends. Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Michigan
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Des Moines to Michigan, you’ll likely pay between $1,145 and $3,505. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,135 and $5,440 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,739 to $8,030.
Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Michigan
When you’re heading from Des Moines to Michigan, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $710 and $1,578. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,255 and $2,533. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,691 to $3,240. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Des Moines easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to 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 from Des Moines to Michigan in a rental truck will cost around $441 to $831. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $457 to $957, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms costs around $588 to $1,167.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors influencing moving costs from Des Moines to MI
Several factors influence the cost of movers in Des Moines:
- Move size: A studio move is far less expensive than relocating a large household.
- Time of year: Higher demand in the summer season pushes up moving company rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY options are budget-friendly but labor-intensive; hiring movers costs more but makes the process easier.
What you should know before moving from Des Moines to MI
Moving from Des Moines to Michigan brings exciting changes, though you’ll also notice a surge in living costs. Since Michigan often has a pricier lifestyle compared to Des Moines, it’s wise to prepare financially.
Explore the differences between residing in Des Moines and Michigan to ensure you’re ready before relocating:
Compare cost of living: Des Moines vs. Michigan
| Des Moines, IA | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,150 | $1,037 |
| Average home cost | $192,347 | $245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) | $58,492 | $68,505 |
| Cost of living index | 87 | 92 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 4.7% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 4.25% |
Michigan sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Michigan runs roughly 10% less than in Des Moines, which means monthly savings.
- Expect mortgage payments to be about 28% higher in Michigan than in Des Moines, requiring some adjustments.
- Salaries in Michigan are typically 17% higher than in Des Moines, which could make it easier to cover expenses or boost savings.
- The cost of living is about 6% higher in Michigan than in Des Moines, so plan your finances carefully to handle the increase.
- Job seekers may have an advantage in Michigan, where the unemployment rate is 20% lower than in Des Moines.
- Income taxes are similar in Michigan and Iowa, so your paycheck deductions should stay consistent, offering financial predictability as you transition.
How life is different in Des Moines, IA from Michigan
If you’re moving from Des Moines to Michigan, everything from the weather and local population to the predominant political views can feel pretty different. Let’s break down what life in Michigan is like compared to Des Moines.
| Des Moines, IA | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 10,037,261 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-41 | Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter low | 13ºF | 14ºF |
| Annual rain | 36″ | 34″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 64″ |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 19.98 |
Michigan Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Michigan leaned Republican, while Des Moines supported Democratic.
- Summer highs hover close to 81ÂşF in Michigan and near 86ÂşF in Des Moines. With such similar temperatures, you’ll find adapting to the new climate relatively straightforward. Don’t forget to consider factors like humidity, overall weather dynamics, and energy usage when picturing your summer experience in the new locale.
- In the coldest months, Michigan sees lows near 14ÂşF, and Des Moines hovers around 13ÂşF. Since the conditions are alike, your expenses and daily routines should remain consistent.
- Each year, Michigan sees about 34 inches of rainfall, very close to the 36 inches recorded in Des Moines. Rain totals won’t differ much, but seasonal shifts could still shape your daily routine.
- Each year, Michigan sees about 64 inches of snowfall, while Des Moines averages just 33 inches. With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation and warm gear.
- With a crime index of 19.98, Michigan is less safe than Des Moines, which has a lower index of 5.0. Plan accordingly and stay alert to local safety advice.
Other considerations when moving to Michigan
When moving from Des Moines to Michigan, think beyond just hiring movers and boxing up your stuff to keep things running smoothly. Don’t forget to check local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could affect your move.
- HOA rules: Some neighborhoods have specific rules for move-in days — verify with your HOA before moving.
- Elevator reservation: Many buildings require advance booking of elevators for moves — check before your moving date.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit if you’re using a moving truck or larger vehicle. Be sure to check ahead of time to see if you’ll need one for your move.
- State licensing: 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Michigan moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Michigan, but it’s a good idea to check the local parking regulations ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Be sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can set your official move date so your mail is forwarded to Michigan without any hiccups. Start here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance rules differ from state to state, so your specific needs will depend on your location. 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: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Michigan
No matter what you’re into—parks, museums, sports, or universities—you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy in Michigan.
Museums in Michigan
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- Motown Museum
- The Henry Ford
- Kalamazoo Valley Museum
- Gerald R. Ford Museum
Parks in Michigan
- 1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- 2. Pere Marquette Park
- 3. Silver Beach County Park
- 4. Presque Isle Park
- 5. Galien River County Park
Sports teams in Michigan
- Detroit Lions (NFL)
- Detroit Pistons (NBA)
- Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
- Detroit Tigers (MLB)
- Grand Rapids Gold (NBA G League)
Universities in Michigan
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- Michigan Technological University
- Wayne State University
- Western Michigan University
FAQ
How long does a move from Des Moines to Michigan take?
Wondering how long your move from Des Moines, IA to Michigan will take? Timing depends on the service you choose, but it typically takes one to six days. Keep in mind, if you’re moving during the busy summer months, your move might take a little longer.
If you want your move to go smoothly and avoid delays, make sure to ask about the delivery timeframe before booking your moving company.
Can I find movers that build custom crates in Des Moines?
Yes—eight movers in Des Moines offer custom crating, ideal for protecting artwork, antiques, and other fragile pieces. When requesting a quote, ask a Des Moines mover about crate construction, padding, and lead times.
What is the best way to get a car from Des Moines to Michigan?
Need to ship your car from Des Moines to Michigan? Trust professionals who’ll protect your vehicle and manage all the details seamlessly. See our top choices for car shipping from Iowa to Michigan.
Why are people moving from Des Moines to Michigan?
Many people are moving to Michigan because of its scenic beauty and good higher education.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Michigan.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Des Moines?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Des Moines.
Can I pay for my move from Des Moines, IA, with cash?
There are four movers in Des Moines that accept cash payments. That said, cash is not common in the moving industry—most companies prefer card, ACH, or cashier’s check for traceability and receipts. Typically, you’ll pay a deposit to secure your booking and move date, with the remaining balance collected at pickup or after delivery (policy varies by mover). Always confirm accepted payment types and the timing of each payment before you book.
Helpful moving resources
Iowa moving services
Popular Iowa routes
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