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Local moving companies in Iowa
When relocating from Iowa to Portland, OR, let our favorite local movers take the stress out of your journey from the Hawkeye State to the lively Bridgetown. We’ve rounded up moving companies that specialize in making your move smooth and simple, so you can focus on settling into your new home.
Out of 20 Iowa movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Portland, OR.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- White Glove Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Action Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Key City Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 2527384
Two Men and a Truck, a reputable moving company in Urbandale, IA, has been providing local residential moving services since 1998. Renowned for their packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, they stand out by requiring no deposit and accepting credit cards, adding convenience for their clients. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Google from over 500 reviews and a BBB rating of A+, they excel in customer satisfaction compared to other nearby movers. Their proven track record makes them a trusted choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 2991947
White Glove Movers, a local moving company based in Marion, IA, has been providing reliable residential moving services since 2005. Compared to other nearby movers, White Glove stands out with its comprehensive packing and unpacking services, as well as specialized capabilities to handle delicate items like pianos and art. Renowned for their exceptional service, they hold an average Google rating of 4.9 from 234 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their excellent consumer feedback and array of services make them a top choice for local moves, offering peace of mind and quality assurance.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 70
DOT #: 70719
Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc, a staple in Sioux City, IA since 1955, offers comprehensive local residential moving services. With a strong reputation reflected in their 4.2 average rating on Google and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they are a trusted choice among local movers. Unlike many nearby moving companies, Claeys Brothers also offer packing and unpacking services, as well as the capability to move pianos, art, and antiques. The firm accepts both cash and credit cards, and no deposit is required, making them a flexible and customer-friendly option for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 42
DOT #: 299154
Action Moving & Storage, Inc. has been reliably serving the Sioux City, IA area since 1983, specializing in local residential moves. They stand out among local movers with their extensive experience and a stellar reputation, evidenced by an impressive average rating of 4.7 from 161 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, they offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for art and antiques. Action Moving & Storage also accepts both cash and credit cards and requires no deposit, making them a convenient and trustworthy option for local relocations.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 115
DOT #: 125563
Key City Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Peosta, IA since 1910. With glowing customer feedback, including an average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google, as well as an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they stand out among local competitors. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized fragile-only packing, ensuring a stress-free move. Unlike other movers, they don't require a deposit and accept both cash and credit cards, making them a customer-friendly choice for your next move.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Comparing local moving companies from Iowa to Portland, Oregon:
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| White Glove Movers | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc | ✔ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Action Moving & Storage, Inc. | ✗ | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Key City Moving & Storage | ✔ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
Out of the 2,887 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how Iowa movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:
| Iowa | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 90% | 97% |
| Antiques | 47% | 48% |
| Military Discount | 3% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 0% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Iowa to Portland, OR
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Portland, OR stacks up against Iowa. We’ll cover everything, from cost of living and the social scene to daily life and can’t-miss attractions in your area.
Cost of living: Iowa vs Portland, OR
| Iowa | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $914 | $1,530 |
| Average home value | $220,277 | $522,596 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,571 | $85,876 |
| Unemployment rate | 3% | 7% |
| State income tax | 4% | 10% |
Portland sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Portland is about 67% higher than in Iowa, so make sure to budget extra for your move-in costs and monthly rent.
- Home prices in Portland are approximately 137% higher than in Iowa. Be sure to budget for a larger down payment, higher property taxes, and increased overall homeownership costs.
- On average, incomes in Portland are about 22% higher than in Iowa. This could help you stay on top of living expenses or grow your savings over time.
- Even though unemployment in Portland is about 130% higher than in Iowa, you’ll still find opportunities if you’re proactive. Start building your network early and approach your job search with a smart strategy.
- Income taxes are 125% higher in Portland compared to Iowa. Be sure to budget for this change, since it could mean a smaller paycheck.
How life is different in Portland from Iowa
| Portland | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 652,503 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Republican 49-48 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 81ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 36ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 43" | 35" |
| Annual snow | 3" | 30" |
| Crime index | 57.37 | 16.18 |
Portland sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both Iowa and Portland voted Republican.
- The average high in the summertime in Portland is 81ºF and in Iowa, it’s 84ºF. With summer temperatures being similar, you’ll likely enjoy an easy transition, but don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather trends, and energy costs to truly understand what summer will be like in your new state.
- During the coldest part of the year, Portland reaches a temperature of 36ºF while Iowa gets down to 10ºF. Relocating to Portland means you’ll enjoy milder winters, making daily life easier, more affordable, and better for spending time outside.
- You can expect about 43 inches of annual rainfall in Portland vs only 35 inches of rainfall in Iowa. More rainfall equates to lusher landscapes and rainier days, so you'll want to make a few tweaks to your routine. Grab some waterproof gear before you move.
- In Portland, it only snows about 3 inches annually vs the 30 inches of snow in Iowa that you are likely used to. Moving to Portland, with less snow, means less maintenance and fewer winter-weather events, making it perfect it you prefer a milder winter season.
- Portland has a higher crime rate than Iowa with a crime index of 57.37 vs 16.18. A higher crime rate isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s your cue to research local safety measures and think about how it might affect your day-to-day life.
Things to do in Portland
Whether you love scenic parks, world-class museums, thrilling sports, or renowned universities, Portland truly offers something for everyone.
Museums in Portland
Parks in Portland
Sports Teams in Portland
Universities in Portland
Other considerations when moving to Portland, OR
- Weather: Portland has cool and rainy winters and warm and dry summers. Portland also has overcast, wet, and changing weather conditions in fall, winter, and spring, Be sure to check your weather app to avoid rainy days,
- HOA rules: Check into any neighborhood or community rules on moving ahead of time to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- State licensing: Moving companies headquartered in Oregon must possess an up-to-date USDOT Number as well as a license issued by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can verify a Oregon moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- Moving permits: Oregon does not require any moving permits, but it’s helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Oregon. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Released Value Protection is a cost-effective choice as it comes at no extra cost. Movers provide this option without additional charges, but the coverage it offers is minimal. With Released Value Protection, the mover's liability is limited to 60 cents per pound per article.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
FAQ
How long does a move from Iowa to Portland take?
The time it takes to move from Iowa to Portland, OR depends on where you’re starting and the kind of moving option you choose. No matter which route you go, packing and loading your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it all on your own.
Planning a move from northern Iowa to Portland? Be prepared for a longer haul. If you’re renting a truck, set aside one to two days for the journey. Your travel time will depend on your route and how many breaks you take.
Moving your belongings from Iowa to Portland typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Iowa to Portland?
Planning a 1828-mile move from Iowa to Portland? Once you know your moving date, book your movers right away. Reserving two to three months ahead means better prices and a better shot at your preferred date.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Portland, OR?
Summer in Portland can reach highs of 81°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 36°F. That’s why most people moving from Iowa to Portland opt for the milder spring or fall weather. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds—and possibly score a better price—think about moving in the off-season, even if you have to endure crazier temperatures. Need more help planning? Check out our tips on peak moving seasons.
