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($1,182) Cost to Move From Des Moines, IA to Durham, NC

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 1,089 miles from Des Moines to Durham has an average cost ranging from $725 to $5,898. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly two–eight days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Des Moines to Durham

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 Durham

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Des Moines to Durham. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 9 interstate moving companies in Des Moines. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Durham.

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 Durham

Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,079 – $4,723
  • Moving Container $1,229 – $2,118
  • Rental Truck $719 – $1,287
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,609 – $5,898
  • Moving Container $1,461 – $2,947
  • Rental Truck $725 – $1,500
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,422 – $8,151
  • Moving Container $1,994 – $4,008
  • Rental Truck $975 – $1,920
Recent Moving Price Estimates
Colonial Van Lines
Monroe, IA Gibsonville, NC
2 Bedrooms
Oct 22, 2025
BLVD Moving
Valeria, IA Raleigh, NC
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 19, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Earlham, IA Liberty, NC
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 14, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Woodburn, IA Sanford, NC
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 07, 2025
PODS
Indianola, IA Apex, NC
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 04, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Stuart, IA Franklinton, NC
4 Bedrooms
Sep 17, 2025
Safeway Moving
Lambs Grove, IA Butner, NC
4 Bedrooms
Aug 27, 2025
North American Van Lines
West Des Moines, IA Holly Springs, NC
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 08, 2025
American Van Lines
Des Moines, IA Ossipee, NC
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 07, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Nevada, IA Henderson, NC
4 Bedrooms
Jul 31, 2025

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

Highly rated local moving companies for Des Moines to Durham moves

Organizing a move from Des Moines to Durham can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 13 local movers in Des Moines known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

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

  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.
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/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.
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/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.
Show more
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.
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

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

On average, moving companies in Iowa charge about $128 per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,182 – $4,791 $849 – $2,155 $664 – $1,366
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,609 – $5,898 $1,461 – $2,947 $725 – $1,500
4+ bedrooms $4,422 – $8,151 $1,994 – $4,008 $975 – $1,920
*Estimated cost ranges for a 1,089-mile move from Des Moines to Durham are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Durham

When planning a move to Durham from Des Moines, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,182 and $4,791. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,609 and $5,898 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,422 to $8,151.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Durham

When you’re heading from Des Moines to Durham, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $849 and $2,155. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,461 and $2,947. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,994 to $4,008. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Iowa easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Durham

A moving rental truck from Des Moines to Durham 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 $664 to $1,366. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $725 to $1,500, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Des Moines to Durham costs around $975 to $1,920.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Des Moines to Durham toggle

The cost of Des Moines movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Des Moines to Durham may only cost $2,227, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $7,237.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Des Moines.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($664–$1,689), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Durham

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Durham runs about 48% higher for singles and 36% higher for families than Des Moines.

Singles spend around $2,803 in Des Moines versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $5,945 compared with $4,380.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Des Moines Durham
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $1,875
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $2,573
Average home value $192,347 $391,719
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $69,117
Cost of living (single) $1,891 $2,803
Cost of living (family of four) $4,380 $5,945
Unemployment rate 5.9% 4.1%
Sales tax 7.0% 7.5%
State income tax 4.4% 4.5%
  • Rent is about 48% more expensive in Durham than in Des Moines. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
  • Plan for a heftier mortgage payment since home prices are approximately 104% steeper in Durham compared to Des Moines.
  • Here’s some fantastic news, the average income is approximately 18% greater in Durham than in Des Moines, offering more potential for savings or investments each month.
  • Prepare for elevated costs in Durham, with the cost of living for a single person being 48% more than in Des Moines. This includes routine costs such as utilities, groceries, clothes, and transportation.
  • When considering a family move to Durham, prepare for a potential rise in household expenses. The cost of living for a family here is 36% higher than in Des Moines.
  • Durham has a lower unemployment rate than Des Moines by about 31%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes in Durham surpass those in Des Moines by 7%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
  • Income taxes are nearly the same between North Carolina and Iowa, within a 5% range. This consistency assures you of predictable financial planning during your state move.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Des Moines versus Durham:

Living Expense Des Moines Durham
Basic utilities $144.82 $148.21
Cell phone plan $51.25 $51.67
Dozen eggs $3.61 $4.53
Loaf of bread $2.50 $3.66
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $70.00
Gym membership $66.67 $40.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Durham, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Durham.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Des Moines than in Durham.
  • Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Durham.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Des Moines than in Durham.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Des Moines than in Durham.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Durham.

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Durham

Des Moines Durham
Population 699,292 283,506
Transportation score 5 4
Walkability score 45 30
Bike friendliness score 39 38
Crime index 5.0 54.72
Safety index 57.8 45.28
Air quality Good Good
  • Durham’s population is about 59% less than Des Moines.
  • Durham’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Des Moines’s score of 5.
  • Durham is less walkable than Des Moines with a score of 30 out of 100 vs Des Moines’s 45 out of 100.
  • Both Durham and Des Moines have similar bike-friendliness scores (39 vs 38), meaning Durham is about as safe for cyclists as Des Moines. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
  • Durham’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 54.72 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that Durham neighborhoods are safer than 54.72% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
  • Durham is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 45.28 vs Des Moines’s 57.8.
  • Air quality in Durham is Good, and in Des Moines it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Durham move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Des Moines and Durham are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • 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: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in North Carolina, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in North Carolina, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Durham. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Durham

With your sights set on City of The Viper, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Durham.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Golden Belt
  • Warehouse District
  • City Center
  • Research Triangle Park
  • Central Park
  • Chapel Hill
  • Northgate Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Treyburn
  • American Village/Arrowhead
  • Willowhaven
  • Fieldstone by the Eno
  • Hope Valley Farms

Things to do in Durham

With your move to North Carolina complete, you can dive right into experiencing Durham. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Durham is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Museum of Life + Science, Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University, Museum of Durham History, and V & E Simonetti Historic Tuba Collection.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s West Point on the Eno, RollingView Falls Lake State Park, Durham Central Park, and Historic Durham Athletic Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Duke University (ACC)Durham Bulls (Triple-A East baseball) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Des Moines to Durham?toggle

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Des Moines to Durham. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Des Moines.

When is the cheapest time to move from Des Moines to Durham?toggle

Want to save on your move from Des Moines to Durham? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Des Moines to Durham take?toggle

The 1,089-mile move from Des Moines, IA, to Durham, , takes two to eight days. Some Des Moines movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Durham.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Des Moines?toggle

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 10 movers in Des Moines provide piano moving services. 6 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 24 piano movers and 15 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

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