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Top local movers for Des Moines to Kansas City moves
Searching for a dependable local mover in Des Moines that also provides long-distance services to Kansas City 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 Kansas City.
- 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
How much does it cost to move from Des Moines to Kansas City?
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 | $693 – $2,562 | $552 – $1,321 | $220 – $365 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,370 – $3,761 | $967 – $1,893 | $231 – $445 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,865 – $5,174 | $1,317 – $2,313 | $285 – $538 |
Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Kansas City
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Des Moines to Kansas City typically costs between $693 and $2,562. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $1,370 and $3,761 when moving from Des Moines to Kansas City. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Des Moines to Kansas City, you’re looking at costs ranging from $1,865 up to $5,174.
Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Kansas City
If you’re relocating from Des Moines to Kansas City, you’ll typically spend between $552 and $1,321 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $967 up to $1,893. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,317 and $2,313. 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 Kansas City
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Des Moines to Kansas City 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 $220 and $365. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $231 to $445. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $285 and $538.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Major factors affecting moving costs from Des Moines to Kansas City
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 Kansas City might be as low as $987, while a four-bedroom could reach $4,159.
- 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 $220 to $452 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
What to know before moving from Des Moines to Kansas City
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Kansas City runs about 31% higher for singles and 45% higher for families than Des Moines.
Singles spend around $2,473 in Des Moines versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $6,361 compared with $4,380.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Des Moines | Kansas City | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,229 | $1,350 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,763 | $2,375 |
| Average home value | $192,347 | $233,378 |
| Average income (per capita) | $58,492 | $64,551 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,891 | $2,473 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,380 | $6,361 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 5.3% |
| Sales tax | 7.0% | 8.4% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 4.8% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 13% higher in Kansas City than in Des Moines, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 21% higher in Kansas City than in Des Moines.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 10% higher in Kansas City than in Des Moines, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Kansas City, as the cost of living for a single person in Kansas City is 31% greater than in Des Moines. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Kansas City, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 45% more than it is in Des Moines.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 10% lower than Des Moines, Kansas City boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes in Kansas City exceed those in Des Moines by 20%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 9% higher in Missouri than in Iowa. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Des Moines and Kansas City, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Des Moines | Kansas City |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $144.82 | $218.18 |
| Cell phone plan | $51.25 | $62.08 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.61 | $3.61 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.50 | $3.48 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $77.50 | $77.50 |
| Gym membership | $66.67 | $58.33 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Kansas City, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Kansas City.
- Eggs are priced about the same in both cities.
- Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Kansas City.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Kansas City.
- The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
- Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Kansas City.
How life is different in Des Moines vs. Kansas City
| Des Moines | Kansas City | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 508,090 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 45 | 35 |
| Bike friendliness score | 39 | 35 |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 58.4 |
| Safety index | 57.8 | 42.6 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Kansas City’s population is about 27% less than Des Moines.
- Kansas City’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Des Moines’s score of 5.
- Kansas City is less walkable than Des Moines with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Des Moines’s 45 out of 100.
- Kansas City has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Des Moines, which has a score of 39.
- Kansas City’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 58.4 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that Kansas City neighborhoods are safer than 58.4% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
- Kansas City is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 42.6 vs Des Moines’s 57.8.
- Air quality in Kansas City is Good, and in Des Moines it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Kansas City 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: Movers that provide local and intrastate relocation services in Missouri fall under the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). Every household goods mover operating in the state is required to have a MoDOT Number. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Missouri moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Missouri, 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 Kansas City 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. Opt for Released Value Protection, the budget-friendly choice with no extra cost from movers. This minimal coverage ensures that movers are liable for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per item. For a comprehensive coverage of your valuables, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider. Ensure the full value of your items is covered by consulting with the moving company for suitable alternatives.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.
Where to live in Kansas City
Ready to relocate to KC? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Kansas City.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- River Market
- Union Hill
- Volker
- West Plaza
- West Waldo
Best neighborhoods for families
- Armour Hills
- Brookside
- Sunset Hill
- Volker
- Waldo
Things to do in Kansas City
Now that you’ve made the move to Missouri, it’s the perfect time to explore Kansas City. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Kansas City include museums and art centers like the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, National World War I Museum and Memorial, and Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden, Loose Park, Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site, and Line Creek Trail, 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 Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)Kansas City Royals (MLB)Sporting Kansas City (MLS)Sporting Kansas City II (MLS Next Pro)Kansas City Current (NWSL)Kansas City Mavericks (ECHL)Kansas City Comets (MASL)Kansas City Monarchs (American Association)Kansas City Blues (USA Rugby D1)Kansas City Storm (WTFA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Des Moines to Kansas City?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Des Moines to Kansas City. 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 Kansas City?
With many people choosing to move from Des Moines to Kansas City 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 Kansas City take?
Covering 193 miles, the move from Des Moines, IA to Kansas City, typically takes one to two days. Some Des Moines movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Kansas City can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Des Moines can handle specialty items for my move to Kansas City?
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.
Helpful moving resources
Des Moines moving services
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