Local moving companies in Des Moines
Out of 13 Des Moines movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to South Dakota.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- All Mighty Movers LLC: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Black Belt Movers: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
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
Company Info
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
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
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
Local moving services in Des Moines, IA
Here’s how many movers in Des Moines include specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Des Moines, IA to South Dakota
Check the table below for expected cost ranges to move from Des Moines to South Dakota with various services, based on your home’s size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,118 – $3,018 | $623 – $1,605 | $389 – $746 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,861 – $4,946 | $1,208 – $2,347 | $431 – $860 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,317 – $7,231 | $1,558 – $2,864 | $521 – $1,004 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 453-mile move from Des Moines, IA, to South Dakota using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes them monthly to account for seasonal shifts and market trends. Your actual cost can change based on move size, added services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to South Dakota
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Des Moines to South Dakota, you can expect prices to land between $1,118 and $3,018. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,861 to $4,946 for the trip from Des Moines to SD. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,317 and $7,231.
Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to South Dakota
Moving containers from Des Moines to South Dakota will cost you $623 to $1,605 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,208 to $2,347. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,558 to $2,864. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Des Moines.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to South Dakota
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $389 and $746 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Des Moines to South Dakota with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $431 to $860. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $521 to $1,004.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors influencing moving costs from Des Moines to SD
Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Des Moines:
- Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
- Time of year: Summer moves in Des Moines fall during peak season, which usually means higher prices.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.
What you should know before moving from Des Moines to SD
When relocating from Des Moines to South Dakota, you can look forward to new experiences, yet it’s crucial to anticipate higher living expenses. With South Dakota typically being more costly than Des Moines, careful financial planning is essential.
Compare the lifestyle in Des Moines with that in South Dakota to better prepare yourself for your upcoming move:
Compare cost of living: Des Moines vs. South Dakota
| Des Moines, IA | South Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,150 | $878 |
| Average home cost | $192,347 | $306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) | $58,492 | $69,457 |
| Cost of living index | 87 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 1.9% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 0.0% |
South Dakota sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- In South Dakota, rent is about 24% lower than in Des Moines, making housing easier on your budget.
- Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 60% higher in South Dakota than in Des Moines.
- On average, incomes in South Dakota run 19% above Des Moines, potentially improving your financial flexibility.
- Expect the cost of living in South Dakota to be roughly 15% higher than in Des Moines, which may require some budgeting adjustments.
- South Dakota has a lower unemployment rate than Des Moines by about 68%, suggesting a stronger job market.
- South Dakota has no income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Iowa.
How life is different in Des Moines, IA from South Dakota
From the weather and population to local politics, here’s how life in South Dakota stacks up against what you’re used to in Des Moines.
| Des Moines, IA | South Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 919,318 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-41 | Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 85ºF |
| Winter low | 13ºF | 7ºF |
| Annual rain | 36″ | 23″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 39″ |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 21.14 |
South Dakota Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, South Dakota leaned Republican, while Des Moines supported Democratic.
- Summertime highs settle at approximately 85ºF in South Dakota as well as 86ºF in Des Moines, ensuring the climate feels quite familiar. Apart from temperatures, it’s important to think about humidity, weather trends, and energy costs to grasp what summertime will be like in your new area.
- Colder winters set in at 7ºF in South Dakota, compared to 13ºF in Des Moines. With this change, expect brisker winters and higher costs, but also the unique appeal of a colder climate.
- In South Dakota, you’ll get only about 23 inches of rain per year, versus 36 inches in Des Moines. Less rain means more sunshine, more time outdoors, and fewer weather-related concerns.
- Each year, South Dakota gets about 39 inches of snow, while Des Moines sees only 33 inches. More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
- South Dakota records a higher crime rate (21.14) than Des Moines (5.0). It’s wise to research neighborhoods to understand how this may affect your day-to-day.
Other considerations when moving to South Dakota
When you’re moving from Des Moines to South Dakota, you’ll want to do more than just pack your boxes and hire movers. Make sure you’re up to speed on local rules, permits, and other logistics that could affect your move.
- HOA rules: Always check community regulations beforehand so your move-in goes smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve the elevator if your building requires it for move-ins.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in South Dakota, 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. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
- State regulator: You can verify a South Dakota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s site.
- Moving permits: There’s no need for a moving permit in South Dakota, but be sure to look up local parking rules before moving day.
- Change of address: Make sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You can choose your official move date and have your mail forwarded to South Dakota. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. In South Dakota, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. To enhance protection, discuss Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, consider exploring third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your moving insurance in South Dakota.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay organized and be sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in South Dakota
Whether you’re into sports, parks, museums, or universities, South Dakota has tons for you to discover and enjoy.
Museums in South Dakota
Parks in South Dakota
Sports teams in South Dakota
Universities in South Dakota
FAQ
How long does a move from Des Moines to South Dakota take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Des Moines, IA, to South Dakota? Most moves on this route usually take one to four days, depending on your service. Just a heads up. Moving during the hectic summer season might leave you open to delays.
To keep your move on track and steer clear of delays, be sure to ask about the delivery timeline before you book your movers.
How many movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?
There are eight movers in Des Moines that offer customized crates for a variety of fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped pieces, including artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you will need special crating for any of your items, be sure to confirm with a Des Moines moving company that they will be able to accommodate your specific needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Des Moines to South Dakota?
Need to get your car from Des Moines to South Dakota? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Des Moines to South Dakota car shippers.
Why are people moving from Des Moines to South Dakota?
Many people are moving to South Dakota because of its outstanding tax benefits and robust job market.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to South Dakota.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Des Moines?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Des Moines.
Can I pay for my move from Des Moines, IA, with cash?
There are four movers in Des Moines that accept cash payments. Even so, cash is not the norm in the moving industry, where traceable payment types are preferred. Plan to pay a deposit to lock in your booking and move date. The rest of the balance is usually due at pickup or after delivery—verify timing and accepted methods with your mover.
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