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($1,146) Cost to Move From Des Moines, IA to Fargo, ND

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Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 477 miles from Des Moines to Fargo is generally between $450 and $5,029. The trip duration should be approximately one–four days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from Des Moines to Fargo

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 Fargo

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Des Moines to Fargo, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.

In Des Moines, you have a choice of 9 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Fargo smoothly and with confidence.

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 Fargo

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 477-mile move from Des Moines to Fargo using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset each month to track seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and timing. We suggest gathering estimates from several companies to get the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,232 – $3,816
  • Moving Container $973 – $1,675
  • Rental Truck $417 – $713
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,050 – $5,029
  • Moving Container $1,210 – $2,311
  • Rental Truck $450 – $872
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,514 – $7,660
  • Moving Container $1,657 – $2,967
  • Rental Truck $560 – $997
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.
Allied Van Lines
Rhodes, IA Reile’s Acres, ND
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 19, 2025
North American Van Lines
Melbourne, IA Sheldon, ND
3 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
Safeway Moving
Patterson, IA Oxbow, ND
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 28, 2025
BLVD Moving
New Virginia, IA Mapleton, ND
4 Bedrooms
Aug 26, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Osceola, IA Argusville, ND
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 19, 2025
Roadway Moving
St. Marys, IA Colfax, ND
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 13, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Bevington, IA Galesburg, ND
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 09, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Polk City, IA Abercrombie, ND
Studio apartment
Aug 06, 2025
United Van Lines
Spring Hill, IA Dwight, ND
4 Bedrooms
Aug 03, 2025
PODS
Berkley, IA West Fargo, ND
Studio apartment
Jul 31, 2025

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

Top local movers for Des Moines to Fargo moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Des Moines that also provides long-distance services to Fargo 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 Fargo.

  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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Fargo?

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 $1,146 – $3,038 $657 – $1,547 $378 – $727
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,050 – $5,029 $1,210 – $2,311 $450 – $872
4+ bedrooms $3,514 – $7,660 $1,657 – $2,967 $560 – $997
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 477-mile move from Des Moines to Fargo, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Fargo

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Des Moines to Fargo typically costs between $1,146 and $3,038. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,050 and $5,029 when moving from Des Moines to Fargo. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Des Moines to Fargo, you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,514 up to $7,660.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Fargo

If you’re relocating from Des Moines to Fargo, you’ll typically spend between $657 and $1,547 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,210 up to $2,311. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,657 and $2,967. 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 Fargo

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Des Moines to Fargo 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 $378 and $727. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $450 to $872. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $560 and $997.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Des Moines to Fargo

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 Fargo might be as low as $1,498, while a four-bedroom could reach $6,159.
  • 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 $378 to $965 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Fargo

Many movers find Fargo easier on the wallet than Des Moines – roughly 17% less for singles and 25% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,566 for one person in Fargo versus $1,891 in Des Moines. For a family of four, it’s $3,299 compared with $4,380.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Des Moines Fargo
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $963
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $2,563
Average home value $192,347 $287,548
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $59,493
Cost of living (single) $1,891 $1,566
Cost of living (family of four) $4,380 $3,299
Unemployment rate 5.9% 3.6%
Sales tax 7.0% 7.5%
State income tax 4.4% 2.9%
  • Good news! When moving to Fargo from Des Moines, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 8% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
  • A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 49% higher in Fargo than in Des Moines.
  • Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Fargo and Des Moines, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
  • Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Fargo. The cost of living for a single person is 17% less compared to Des Moines.
  • Relocating to Fargo could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 25% lower than in Des Moines.
  • With an unemployment rate approximately 39% lower than Des Moines, Fargo boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
  • Sales taxes in Fargo exceed those in Des Moines by 7%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
  • Income taxes are 34% lower in North Dakota than in Iowa. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Des Moines and Fargo, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Des Moines Fargo
Basic utilities $144.82 $159.44
Cell phone plan $51.25 $54.00
Dozen eggs $3.61 $4.00
Loaf of bread $2.50 $3.25
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $50.00
Gym membership $66.67 $55.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Fargo, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Fargo.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Des Moines than in Fargo.
  • Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Fargo.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Des Moines than in Fargo.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Des Moines than in Fargo.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Fargo.

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Fargo

Des Moines Fargo
Population 699,292 125,990
Transportation score 5 4
Walkability score 45 45
Bike friendliness score 39 49
Crime index 5.0 8.0
Safety index 57.8 56.17
Air quality Good Good
  • Fargo’s population is about 82% less than Des Moines.
  • Fargo’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Des Moines’s score of 5.
  • Fargo and Des Moines are similarly walkable.
  • With a score of 49 out of 100, Fargo 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.
  • Fargo’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 8.0 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that Fargo neighborhoods are safer than 8.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
  • Fargo and Des Moines have a similar safety level, with scores of 56.17 and 57.8.
  • Air quality in Fargo is Good, and in Des Moines it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Fargo 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: All local and intrastate movers operating in the Flickertail State are regulated by the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT). Each mover in good standing is issued an NDDOT Number, which consumers may check the status and validity of by calling the phone number listed below. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a North Dakota moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in North Dakota, 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 Fargo 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 cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, providing minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your selected moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Fargo

Ready to relocate to Fargo? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Fargo.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Longfellow
  • Rose Creek
  • Southpointe
  • Stonebridge
  • Lincoln
  • Horace Mann

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Rose Creek
  • Longfellow
  • Southpointe
  • Centennial
  • Pointe West
  • Woodhaven

Things to do in Fargo

Now that you’ve made the move to North Dakota, it’s the perfect time to explore Fargo. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Fargo include museums and art centers like the Fargo Air Museum, Roger Maris Museum, and Plains Art Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Lindenwood Park, Rheault Farm, Northern Plains Botanic Garden Society, and Broadway Square, 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 Fargo Force (USHL)North Dakota State Bison (Summit League) game.

FAQ

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

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Des Moines to Fargo. 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 Fargo?

With many people choosing to move from Des Moines to Fargo 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 Fargo take?

Covering 477 miles, the move from Des Moines, IA to Fargo, typically takes one to four days. Some Des Moines movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Fargo can help bridge the gap.

How many movers in Des Moines can handle specialty items for my move to Fargo?

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

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