Quick answer: A typical 1,796-mile move from Des Moines to Olympia runs $1,331–$8,424 and takes five to 16 days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Olympia to Des Moines guide.

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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

When you’ve got 7 interstate movers to choose from like you do in Des Moines, the search for the right one can quickly become overwhelming. And that’s after you decide whether to hand the job over to a full-service team or keep more control — and save a little money — with a DIY approach.

We’ve already done the hard work for you. Each Des Moines mover was reviewed for services offered, pricing, and overall value, with customer experiences drawn from online reviews. From there, we narrowed the field to the best long-distance movers in Des Moines, so you can move forward with confidence.

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Best professional movers from Des Moines to Olympia

Making the trip from Des Moines to Olympia is easier when you hire a full-service moving company to handle every stage of the relocation. From packing and loading to delivery and unpacking, they manage the process so you can focus on the bigger picture.

We’ve put together a list of the best full-service movers for this route to help you make the move with ease.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

What moving services are available in Des Moines?toggle

Availability varies a lot by market. Use this table to see how common each service is among movers in Des Moines, compared to all of IA and nationwide, so you can spot what’s easy to book and what may take extra planning.

Service Des Moines (Count) Des Moines (%) Iowa (Count) Iowa (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 11 100% 27 100% 2545 98%
Unpacking 11 100% 27 100% 2514 97%
Fragile-only packing 3 27% 6 22% 631 24%
Packing materials 9 82% 21 78% 1519 59%
Storage
Storage 7 64% 21 78% 2248 87%
Climate-controlled storage 1 9% 5 19% 823 32%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 7 64% 15 56% 1649 64%
Art 6 55% 15 56% 1271 49%
Antiques 5 45% 12 44% 1190 46%
Piano 9 82% 21 78% 1919 74%
Hot tub 1 9% 2 7% 585 23%
Pool table 2 18% 6 22% 845 33%

How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to WA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 22 Iowa movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

The top local movers servicing Des Moines to Olympia moves

It's not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Des Moines that also handles long-distance moves to Olympia. With so many options, figuring out which ones you can trust takes time.

Luckily, we've done the research for you. We evaluated the top local movers in Des Moines who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

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

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Adamantine Spine Moving: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  3. Select Van & Storage Co.: 4.34 out of 5 stars
  4. Lint Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
  5. The Approved Movers: 4.14 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/TwoMenAndATruckDesMoines, https://twitter.com/TwoMenDesMoines
92% of all reviews were positive
8% 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/adamantinespinemoving/,
100% of all reviews were positive
0% 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
https://www.facebook.com/SelectVanMoving/, https://x.com/mayflowermoving
68% of all reviews were positive
29% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Select Van & Storage Co. comes with strong benefits, as most customer feedback praises their professional and polite staff, quick moving process, and efficient service. Out of 34 reviews, over two-thirds are positive, highlighting helpful movers who keep pricing transparent, and jobs often completed faster or under budget compared to competitors. Customers frequently describe interactions as courteous, emphasize smooth experiences, and value responsive communication.
Some reviewers appreciated a detailed and upfront estimate process as well as careful handling of items. On the downside, many negative reports focus on late or unreliable deliveries, occasional damage or loss of items, and frustrating lapses in communication. Delayed pickups, items left behind, and slow claim responses stand out as key drawbacks when compared to top moving services. Input shows Select Van & Storage excels with professionalism and efficient handling, but clients looking for guaranteed timeliness and consistent communication may want to confirm all details before booking.
Show more
Get a Quote (515) 223-8329

Company Info

Years in Business: 79

DOT #: 1098759

Alternate Names: Mayflower


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/pages/lint%20van%20lines,%20dsm,Ia/218222321536290/,
92% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Lint Van Lines means your belongings are in the hands of a reliable and dedicated team. After evaluating 226 pieces of customer feedback, 91.6% were positive, reflecting a strong reputation for professionalism, efficiency, careful item handling, consistent communication, and speedy moves. Clients praised courteous staff and the stress-free organization, making long and local relocations easier than expected.
On the downside, some experienced frustration from damaged items and delayed or poorly communicated deliveries, making claims difficult to resolve in a few cases. Compared to the moving industry, Lint Van Lines stands out for service quality and responsiveness but should improve consistency during claims and post-move support to satisfy every customer.
Show more
Get a Quote (515) 265-8161

Company Info

Years in Business: 65

DOT #: 543541

Alternate Names: Lint Van Lines


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/TheApprovedMovers1/,
100% of all reviews were positive
0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Consistently high marks set The Approved Movers apart, with all 84 pieces of input rating the company five stars. Customers regularly point to professional, polite staff, quick and well-organized moves, affordable pricing, and careful attention to belongings. Efficient service stands out, as movers often exceed expectations for speed and handling.
Many mention respectful and friendly crews who handle complicated moves and tight timing with flexibility and skill. Reports of affordable rates and seamless service sharply contrast with feedback for typical moving services, often plagued by hidden costs or careless work. Traditional concerns like property damage, poor communication, or extra fees did not appear in the feedback analyzed. No negative or neutral reviews emerged, making The Approved Movers' reputation both impressive and rare among moving companies.
Show more
Get a Quote (515) 339-0139

Company Info

Years in Business: 4

DOT #: 3477744


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Des Moines to Olympia?

Des Moines movers charge $142 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 $1,436 - $5,368 $1,191 - $3,092 $1,206 - $2,185
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,804 - $8,424 $2,102 - $4,390 $1,331 - $2,627
4+ bedrooms $6,566 - $11,564 $2,872 - $5,718 $1,613 - $3,414
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,796 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Iowa to Washington

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Iowa to Washington, you can expect to spend between $1,436 and $5,368. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,804 to $8,424 on the same route (IA to WA). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Iowa to Washington typically runs between $6,566 and $11,564.

Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Washington

If you're moving from Iowa to Washington, expect to pay between $1,191 and $3,092 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,102 up to $4,390. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,872 and $5,718. 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 Iowa to Washington

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you'll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you're moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,206 and $2,185. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,331 to $2,627. If you're tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,613 and $3,414.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors that influence moving costs from Des Moines to Olympiatoggle

The cost of Des Moines movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Des Moines to Olympia might cost just $1,436 for a one-bedroom, but up to $11,310 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Des Moines, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $1,206 and $2,996, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Des Moines to Olympia

Monthly costs run higher in Olympia than in Des Moines — roughly 31% more for singles and 23% more for families.

Singles spend $2,473 vs. $1,891, and families $5,391 vs. $4,380.

Use the comparison below to plan your budget with confidence:

Des Moines Olympia
Average 1 BR rent $1,229 $1,675
Average 3 BR rent $1,763 $2,817
Average home value $192,347 $508,798
Average income (per capita) $58,492 $66,492
Unemployment rate 5.9% 5.6%
Sales tax 7.0% 9.4%
State income tax 4.4% 0.0%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Olympia, since prices are typically 65% higher than in Des Moines.
  • The home prices in Olympia are 164.5% higher than in Des Moines, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Olympia, where incomes are, on average, 13.7% higher than in Des Moines. Major employers in Olympia include Washington State ESD, The Evergreen State College, and Employment Security Department.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Olympia, since the cost of living for a single person in Olympia is 30.8% higher than in Des Moines. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Olympia, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Olympia is 23.1% higher than in Des Moines.
  • The unemployment rate in Olympia is 5.08% lower than in Des Moines.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Olympia, since its sales taxes are 34.29% higher than what you are paying in Des Moines.
  • One perk of moving to Olympia is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Des Moines.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Des Moines and Olympia, from monthly bills to routine purchases.

Des Moines Olympia
Basic utilities $144.82 $152.8
Cell phone plan $51.25 $58.64
Dozen eggs $3.61 $4.3
Loaf of bread $2.5 $3.94
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16 $20
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.5 $70
Gym membership $66.67 $58.33
  • Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Olympia, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Olympia.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Des Moines than in Olympia.
  • Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Olympia.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Des Moines than in Olympia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Des Moines than in Olympia.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Olympia.

How life is different in Des Moines vs. Olympia

Olympia Des Moines
Population 55,605 699,292
Transportation Score 5 5
Walkability score 39 45
Bike friendliness score 59 39
Crime Index 27.95 5.0
Safety Index 62.25 57.8
Air Quality Good Good
  • Olympia's population is about 92% less than Des Moines.
  • Olympia's public transportation has a similar score to Des Moines.
  • Olympia is less walkable than Des Moines with a score of 39 out of 100 vs Des Moines's 45 out of 100.
  • With a score of 59 out of 100, Olympia 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 they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Olympia's crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 27.95 compared to Des Moines's 5.0. This means that Olympia neighborhoods are safer than 27.95% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
  • Olympia is considered to be safer than Des Moines with a safety index of 62.25 vs Des Moines's 57.8.
  • Air quality in Olympia is good, and in Des Moines it's good.

Other things to consider for your Des Moines vs. Olympia move

  • Weather: July, August and September are the driest months in Olympia, WA and so it would be best to plan moving during these months. Snow and rain might be a challenge deo relocation during the colder months, specially during December and January.
  • 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 you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move 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: Movers operating within Washington DC city limits are subject to regulation by the Utilities and Transportation Commission, which issues operating permits to household goods moving companies. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Washington moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Washington 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: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Olympia. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. When planning a move in Washington state, explore movers' insurance options for added peace of mind. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Enhance your protection by discussing Full Value Protection with the moving company or exploring personalized plans with third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Washington state moving insurance.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you\'ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Olympia

Ready to relocate to Oly? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Olympia.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • South Capitol
  • Bigelow Highlands
  • North East
  • South Westside
  • Wellington West

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Holiday Hills
  • Eastside
  • Cain Road
  • Indian Creek
  • Bigelow

Things to do in Olympia

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

  • Arts and culture: Olympia features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Hands On Children's Museum, Olympic Flight Museum, WET Science Center, Bigelow House Museum, and Childhood's End Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, Squaxin Park, Percival Landing, and Tolmie State Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an game.

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Des Moines to Olympia 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 Olympia?

With many people choosing to move from Des Moines to Olympia in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

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

The 1,796-mile move from Des Moines, IA, to Olympia, WA, takes five to 16 days. Some Des Moines movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Olympia.

Which movers in Des Moines offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 9 movers in Des Moines have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 5 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across IA, there are 21 piano movers and 12 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 1919 and 1190.

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

Helpful moving resources