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($1,137) Cost to Move From Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH

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Estimated cost & time: For a 646 mile move from Des Moines to Columbus, costs typically range from $502 to $5,354. Plan for the travel time to be around one–six days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Des Moines to Columbus

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 Columbus

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Des Moines to Columbus, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 9 interstate moving companies located in Des Moines, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Columbus seamless and enjoyable.

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 Columbus

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 646-mile move from Des Moines to Columbus using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,406 – $3,975
  • Moving Container $1,010 – $1,789
  • Rental Truck $489 – $862
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,204 – $5,354
  • Moving Container $1,334 – $2,551
  • Rental Truck $502 – $1,034
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,971 – $8,193
  • Moving Container $1,646 – $3,077
  • Rental Truck $621 – $1,300
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.
Colonial Van Lines
Melcher-Dallas, IA Mutual, OH
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 17, 2025
Roadway Moving
Madrid, IA Obetz, OH
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 30, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Colo, IA Ashville, OH
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Waukee, IA Heath, OH
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 16, 2025
United Van Lines
Jamaica, IA Millersport, OH
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 15, 2025
PODS
Mitchellville, IA Dublin, OH
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 09, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Johnston, IA Kingston, OH
2 Bedrooms
Aug 10, 2025
BLVD Moving
Sandyville, IA Delaware, OH
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 08, 2025
American Van Lines
Panora, IA South Bloomfield, OH
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 07, 2025
Safeway Moving
West Des Moines, IA Marysville, OH
Studio apartment
Aug 03, 2025

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

The best local movers for Des Moines to Columbus moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Des Moines that also handles long-distance moves to Columbus. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 13 local movers in Des Moines who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Des Moines to Columbus.

  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 Columbus?

The average hourly rate for movers in Iowa is $128. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,137 – $3,679 $726 – $1,667 $456 – $906
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,204 – $5,354 $1,334 – $2,551 $502 – $1,034
4+ bedrooms $3,971 – $8,193 $1,646 – $3,077 $621 – $1,300
*Approximate cost ranges for a 646-mile move from Des Moines to Columbus are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Columbus

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Des Moines to Columbus will cost between $1,137 and $3,679. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Des Moines to Des Moines will range from $2,204 to $5,354, and a large move from Des Moines to Columbus will cost from $3,971 to $8,193.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Columbus

If you’re moving from Des Moines to Columbus, expect to pay between $726 and $1,667 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,334 up to $2,551. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,646 and $3,077. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Iowa.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Columbus

Renting a moving truck from Des Moines to Columbus is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $456 and $906. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $502 and $1,034. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $621 up to $1,300 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Des Moines to Columbus

The cost of Des Moines movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,772, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,543.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Des Moines, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($456–$1,113) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Columbus

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Columbus runs about 47% higher for singles and 66% higher for families than Des Moines.

Singles spend around $2,784 in Des Moines versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $7,249 compared with $4,380.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Des Moines Columbus
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $1,567
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $2,957
Average home value $192,347 $238,832
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $65,075
Cost of living (single) $1,891 $2,784
Cost of living (family of four) $4,380 $7,249
Unemployment rate 5.9% 5.7%
Sales tax 7.0% 7.5%
State income tax 4.4% 3.5%
  • Rent is estimated to be 25% higher in Columbus compared to Des Moines; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 24% greater in Columbus than in Des Moines.
  • Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 11% higher in Columbus than in Des Moines, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Columbus, since the cost of living for a single person in Columbus is 47% higher than in Des Moines. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • When relocating to Columbus, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Columbus is 66% greater than in Des Moines.
  • The unemployment rates of Columbus and Des Moines are very similar, with less than a 5% difference, thus maintaining a consistent employment landscape.
  • Sales taxes rise by 7% in Columbus over Des Moines, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Income taxes are 20% less in Ohio than in Iowa. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Des Moines and Columbus:

Living Expense Des Moines Columbus
Basic utilities $144.82 $263.89
Cell phone plan $51.25 $60.77
Dozen eggs $3.61 $3.21
Loaf of bread $2.50 $2.98
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $20.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $80.00
Gym membership $66.67 $46.25
  • Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Columbus, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Columbus.
  • Eggs cost more in Des Moines than in Columbus.
  • Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Columbus.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Columbus.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Des Moines than in Columbus.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Columbus.

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Columbus

Des Moines Columbus
Population 699,292 905,748
Transportation score 5 5
Walkability score 45 41
Bike friendliness score 39 48
Crime index 5.0 49.65
Safety index 57.8 50.35
Air quality Good Good
  • Columbus’s population is about 30% greater than Des Moines.
  • Columbus’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Des Moines, making them very similar.
  • Columbus is less walkable than Des Moines with a score of 41 out of 100 vs Des Moines’s 45 out of 100.
  • With a score of 48 out of 100, Columbus 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.
  • Columbus’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 49.65 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 49.65% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
  • Columbus is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 50.35 vs Des Moines’s 57.8.
  • Air quality in Columbus is Good, and in Des Moines it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Columbus move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Ohio, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Ohio moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Ohio 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: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Columbus. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Columbus

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to The Arch City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Columbus.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Short North
  • Victorian Village
  • Clintonville
  • Grandview Heights
  • Ashville
  • Dublin

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Bexley
  • Clintonville
  • Gahanna
  • Hilliard
  • Upper Arlington

Things to do in Columbus

Once you’re settled into your new home in Ohio, it’s time to get out and discover what Columbus has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Columbus, such as the Beeler Gallery, Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum, Central Ohio Fire Museum, and Columbus Historical Society.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Scioto Mile, Topiary Garden, and Schiller Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Columbus Crew (MLS)Ohio State Buckeyes (NCAA)Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL)Columbus Clippers (AAAE) game.

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Des Moines to Columbus is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Des Moines.

When is the cheapest time to move from Des Moines to Columbus?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Des Moines to Columbus, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Des Moines to Columbus take?

Moving from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, covers 646 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 Columbus.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Des Moines?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 10 movers in Des Moines advertise piano moving expertise. 6 movers in Des Moines provide antique moving services. State totals show 24 piano movers and 15 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

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