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($1,220) Cost to Move From Des Moines, IA to Nashville, TN

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Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 655 miles from Des Moines to Nashville, expect to pay between $547 and $5,612. The journey should take about one–six days. Costs can vary due to distance, the date of the move, home size, and your choice between DIY and professional assistance.
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Best movers from Des Moines to Nashville

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 Nashville

For a stress-free interstate move from Des Moines to Nashville, selecting a full-service mover is a wise choice. These professionals cover all aspects of the move, freeing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

With 9 interstate moving companies in Des Moines, we’re here to highlight the best options for a seamless transition to Nashville.

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 Nashville

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 655-mile move from Des Moines to Nashville using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of validated rates from movers across the U.S., with monthly updates to reflect seasonality and market conditions. Your end price may shift due to load size, service add-ons, access or parking limitations, fuel costs, and your move date. We recommend obtaining several quotes to get a reliable estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,435 – $4,314
  • Moving Container $1,031 – $1,865
  • Rental Truck $483 – $904
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,075 – $5,612
  • Moving Container $1,310 – $2,457
  • Rental Truck $547 – $1,105
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,723 – $7,566
  • Moving Container $1,717 – $3,185
  • Rental Truck $638 – $1,363
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.
United Van Lines
Alleman, IA Fairview, TN
3 Bedrooms
Oct 14, 2025
Roadway Moving
Macksburg, IA Franklin, TN
Studio apartment
Oct 03, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Luther, IA Mitchellville, TN
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 25, 2025
BLVD Moving
Redfield, IA Mount Juliet, TN
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 23, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Sandyville, IA Chapel Hill, TN
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 08, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Dawson, IA Murfreesboro, TN
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 19, 2025
PODS
Osceola, IA Pegram, TN
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 08, 2025
Safeway Moving
Dexter, IA Belle Meade, TN
Studio apartment
Aug 07, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Windsor Heights, IA Cross Plains, TN
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 04, 2025
American Van Lines
Clive, IA Hartsville, TN
1 Bedroom (small)
Jul 30, 2025

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

Top-rated local movers that handle Des Moines to Nashville moves

When planning a move from Des Moines to Nashville, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 13 local movers in Des Moines who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Des Moines to Nashville.

  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 Nashville?

Movers in Iowa charge $128 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,220 – $3,692 $734 – $1,671 $459 – $949
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,075 – $5,612 $1,310 – $2,457 $547 – $1,105
4+ bedrooms $3,723 – $7,566 $1,717 – $3,185 $638 – $1,363
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 655-mile relocation from Des Moines to Nashville, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from moving companies across the country and updates the data each month to capture seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Final pricing may vary based on shipment size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. For accuracy, collect quotes from several movers.

Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to Nashville

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Des Moines to Nashville, you can expect to spend between $1,220 and $3,692. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,075 to $5,612 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Des Moines to Nashville typically runs between $3,723 and $7,566.

Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to Nashville

When moving from Des Moines to Nashville, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $734 and $1,671. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,310 to $2,457. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,717 up to $3,185. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Iowa.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to Nashville

Renting a moving truck in Des Moines is usually your cheapest option to get to Nashville. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $459 and $949. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $547 and $1,105. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $638 and $1,363.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Des Moines to Nashville

The cost of Des Moines movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $1,846, but larger homes can run up to $6,348.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Des Moines.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($459–$1,168) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Nashville

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Nashville runs about 64% higher for singles and 93% higher for families than Des Moines.

Singles spend around $3,108 in Des Moines versus $1,891 in Des Moines; families pay $8,447 compared with $4,380.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Des Moines Nashville
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $1,887
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $4,044
Average home value $192,347 $428,678
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $79,020
Cost of living (single) $1,891 $3,108
Cost of living (family of four) $4,380 $8,447
Unemployment rate 5.9% 4.5%
Sales tax 7.0% 9.75%
State income tax 4.4% 0.0%
  • As you consider relocating to Nashville, note that rent can be roughly 71% more expensive than it is in Des Moines; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
  • Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 123% higher in Nashville than in Des Moines.
  • Great news! You’ll find the average income is about 35% higher in Nashville compared to Des Moines, giving you some extra room for savings or investments.
  • Plan for higher expenses in Nashville, since the cost of living for a single person is 64% more than in Des Moines. This encompasses usual costs like utilities, groceries, apparel, and transit.
  • If your journey leads to Nashville, be prepared for higher living expenditures. The cost of living for a family in Nashville is 93% more than it is in Des Moines.
  • Nashville experiences an unemployment rate that is about 24% lower than that of Des Moines. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
  • Sales taxes are 39% higher in Nashville than in Des Moines. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • Tennessee has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Des Moines with Nashville:

Living Expense Des Moines Nashville
Basic utilities $144.82 $202.09
Cell phone plan $51.25 $70.35
Dozen eggs $3.61 $3.92
Loaf of bread $2.50 $4.08
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $17.50
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $80.00
Gym membership $66.67 $40.82
  • Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Nashville, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Nashville.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Des Moines than in Nashville.
  • Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Nashville.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Nashville.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Des Moines than in Nashville.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Nashville.

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Nashville

Des Moines Nashville
Population 699,292 689,447
Transportation score 5 4
Walkability score 45 96
Bike friendliness score 39 72
Crime index 5.0 49.1
Safety index 57.8 50.9
Air quality Good Good
  • Nashville’s population is within about 5% of Des Moines, so they’re very similar in size.
  • Nashville’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Des Moines’s score of 5.
  • Nashville is more walkable than Des Moines with a score of 96 out of 100 vs Des Moines’s 45 out of 100.
  • With a score of 72 out of 100, Nashville 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.
  • Nashville’s crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 49.1 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. This means that Nashville neighborhoods are safer than 49.1% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
  • Nashville is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 50.9 vs Des Moines’s 57.8.
  • Air quality in Nashville is Good, and in Des Moines it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Nashville move

  • HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
  • 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 Tennessee, 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Tennessee moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Tennessee doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Nashville smoothly. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. When it comes to movers’ insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Nashville

Now that you’ve chosen Athens of the South as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Nashville to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Germantown
  • The Gulch
  • Midtown
  • Music Row

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Belmont-Hillsboro
  • Buena Vista
  • Green Hills
  • Lockeland Springs
  • Oak Hill

Things to do in Nashville

After getting comfortable in your new Tennessee home, it’s time to see what Nashville is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Nashville offers cultural landmarks like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage, The Johnny Cash Museum, and RCA Studio B.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Centennial Park, Radnor Lake State Park, Edwin and Percy Warner Parks, and Riverfront Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Tennessee Titans (NFL)Nashville Predators (NHL)Nashville SC (MLS) game.

FAQ

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

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Des Moines to Nashville are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Des Moines are lower.

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

Because spring and fall moves from Des Moines to Nashville are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

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

A move of 655 miles from Des Moines, IA to Nashville, generally takes one to six days. Movers in Des Moines sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Nashville is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which movers in Des Moines offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 10 movers in Des Moines have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 6 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across IA, there are 24 piano movers and 15 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources

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