Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($1,317) Cost to Move From Des Moines, IA to Philadelphia, PA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Quick answer: Expect to pay $824 – $6,383 when moving from Des Moines to Philadelphia, with most moves taking two to eight days. Prices depend on load size, timing, and whether you move yourself or hire help for the 1,076 miles.

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our guide to moving from Philadelphia to Des Moines.

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

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 Philadelphia

When you’d rather skip the packing tape, heavy lifting, and scheduling hassles for your interstate move from Des Moines to Philadelphia, full-service movers are the answer. They manage every step so you can keep your attention on the big decisions and the excitement of the move.

There are 9 interstate moving companies in Des Moines, here are our picks for the most reliable full-service movers ready to take you to Philadelphia without the headaches.

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

What moving services are available in Des Moines?toggle

Markets differ, and so do mover offerings. Scan this table to compare Des Moines with the broader IA landscape and national totals, helping you spot services that are common versus those that might be tougher to find.

Service Des Moines (Count) Des Moines (%) IA (Count) IA (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 12 92% 29 96% 2,833 98%
Unpacking 12 92% 29 96% 2,798 96%
Fragile-only packing 4 30% 8 26% 718 24%
Packing materials 11 84% 24 80% 1,684 58%
Storage
Long-term 8 61% 23 76% 2,499 86%
Climate-controlled 1 7% 5 16% 977 33%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 8 61% 17 56% 1,884 65%
Art 7 53% 17 56% 1,398 48%
Antiques 6 46% 14 46% 1,401 48%
Piano 10 76% 22 73% 2,173 75%
Hot tub 2 15% 3 10% 670 23%
Pool table 3 23% 7 23% 941 32%

How we chose the best movers IA→PA moverstoggle

The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 30 Iowa movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.

  • Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
  • Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
  • Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
  • Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Top-rated movers to make your Des Moines to Philadelphia move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Des Moines that offers long-distance services to Philadelphia can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed top local movers in Des Moines who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Des Moines to Philadelphia.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Black Belt Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. All Mighty Movers LLC: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  4. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  5. Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.38 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
% 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
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
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 Philadelphia?

In Iowa, moving services typically cost around $128 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,317 – $5,388 $873 – $2,131 $733 – $1,448
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,794 – $6,383 $1,598 – $3,351 $824 – $1,590
4+ bedrooms $4,552 – $8,987 $2,289 – $4,292 $1,024 – $2,096
The price ranges shown use 1,076 miles and historical averages as a baseline. Actual costs depend heavily on the scale of your move, add-on services, parking access, current market conditions, and mover availability.

Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Philadelphia

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Philadelphia from Des Moines, you can expect prices to land between $1,317 and $5,388. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,794 to $6,383 for the trip from Des Moines to Philadelphia. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,552 and $8,987.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Philadelphia

Moving containers from Des Moines to Philadelphia will cost you $873 to $2,131 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,598 to $3,351. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,289 to $4,292. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Iowa.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Philadelphia

Renting a moving truck from Des Moines to Philadelphia typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $733 and $1,448 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $824 to $1,590. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,024 to $2,096.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Des Moines to Philadelphia move toggle

The cost of Des Moines movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,386 for a one-bedroom, or up to $7,524 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Des Moines.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $733 to $1,754, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Philadelphia

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Philadelphia runs about 34% higher for singles and 41% higher for families than Des Moines.

Singles spend around $2,541 in Des Moines versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $6,190 compared with $4,380.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Des Moines Philadelphia
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $1,791
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $3,116
Average home value $192,347 $216,914
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $70,746
Unemployment rate 5.9% 10.6%
Sales tax 7.0% 8.0%
State income tax 4.4% 3.07%
  • Planning a move to Philadelphia? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 47% higher than in Des Moines, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
  • Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Philadelphia are about 13% higher than those in Des Moines.
  • Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 21% higher in Philadelphia compared to Des Moines, which might allow for more savings or investments.
  • Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Philadelphia, as living costs for a single person are 34% higher than in Des Moines. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
  • If you’re moving your family to Philadelphia, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Philadelphia is 41% higher than in Des Moines.
  • Philadelphia shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Des Moines by around 80%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
  • Sales taxes in Philadelphia are 14% more than in Des Moines, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
  • Income taxes in Pennsylvania are 30% below those in Iowa. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Des Moines and Philadelphia:

Living Expense Des Moines Philadelphia
Basic utilities $144.82 $269.29
Cell phone plan $51.25 $61.40
Dozen eggs $3.61 $4.30
Loaf of bread $2.50 $4.15
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $20.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $90.00
Gym membership $66.67 $48.67
  • Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Philadelphia, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Philadelphia.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Des Moines than in Philadelphia.
  • Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Philadelphia.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Philadelphia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Des Moines than in Philadelphia.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Philadelphia.

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Philadelphia

Des Moines Philadelphia
Population 699,292 1,603,797
Transportation score 5 9
Walkability score 45 75
Bike friendliness score 39 67
Crime index 5.0 66.09
Safety index 57.8 33.91
Air quality Good Good
  • Philadelphia’s population is about 129% greater than Des Moines.
  • Philadelphia’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Des Moines’s score of 5.
  • Philadelphia is more walkable than Des Moines with a score of 75 out of 100 vs Des Moines’s 45 out of 100.
  • With a score of 67 out of 100, Philadelphia 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.
  • Philadelphia’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 66.09 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
  • Philadelphia is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 33.91 vs Des Moines’s 57.8.
  • Air quality in Philadelphia is Good, and in Des Moines it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Philadelphia move

  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services. Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Pennsylvania’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: Pennsylvania does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Philadelphia. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Philadelphia

Planning your move to Philly? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Philadelphia.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cedar Park
  • Fishtown
  • Manayunk
  • Point Breeze
  • Washington Square West

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Bella Vista
  • Bustleton
  • Chestnut Hill
  • Fitler Square/Rittenhouse Square (City Center West)
  • Foxchase
  • Roxborough

Things to do in Philadelphia

After settling into your new Pennsylvania home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Philadelphia has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Philadelphia features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes, and Museum of the American Revolution.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Wissahickon Valley Park, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Fairmount Park, and Love Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)Philadelphia Eagles (NFL)Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)Philadelphia Phillies (MLB)Philadelphia Union (MLS) game.

FAQ

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

Planning your move from Des Moines to Philadelphia? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Des Moines.

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

Because most people are moving from Des Moines to Philadelphia in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

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

The 1,076-mile journey from Des Moines, IA to Philadelphia, , typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Des Moines offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Philadelphia.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Des Moines?toggle

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Des Moines, 10 movers can manage piano relocations. 6 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Iowa has 22 piano movers and 14 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,173 and 1,401 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

Helpful moving resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle
SunMonTueWedThuFriSat
2829301234567891011121314151617181920212223242526272829303112345678