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 West Virginia.
- 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
At a glance, the number of Des Moines movers with specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Des Moines, IA to West Virginia
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Des Moines to West Virginia with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,202 – $4,635 | $785 – $1,832 | $593 – $1,154 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,519 – $6,026 | $1,467 – $2,817 | $659 – $1,291 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,862 – $7,905 | $1,802 – $3,834 | $779 – $1,699 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 885-mile move from Des Moines, IA, to West Virginia using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha collects and verifies thousands of prices from movers nationwide, then updates the figures monthly to reflect seasonal changes and market dynamics. Your total may vary with load size, extra services, access or parking hurdles, fuel prices, and your move date. Get several mover quotes to better validate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Des Moines to West Virginia
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Des Moines to West Virginia typically costs between $1,202 and $4,635. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,519 and $6,026. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,862 up to $7,905.
Cost of moving containers from Des Moines to West Virginia
If you’re relocating from Des Moines to West Virginia, you’ll typically spend between $785 and $1,832 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,467 up to $2,817. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $1,802 and $3,834. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Des Moines.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Des Moines to West Virginia
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 from Des Moines to West Virginia, expect to pay between $593 and $1,154. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $659 to $1,291. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $779 and $1,699.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors influencing moving costs from Des Moines to WV
The cost of a move in Des Moines can change based on:
- Move size: The amount of items you have, as well as your home size and layout, will impact the total cost of your relocation.
- Time of year: Peak summer months in Des Moines often come with higher moving rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Handling the move yourself lowers costs but adds stress; pros cost more but save time and effort.
What you should know before moving from Des Moines to WV
When you move to West Virginia from Des Moines, IA, expect living costs to be largely equivalent. Your financial planning may not require significant changes, yet it’s advisable to analyze the expenses to pinpoint any minor discrepancies.
Compare cost of living: Des Moines vs. West Virginia
| Des Moines, IA | West Virginia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,150 | $899 |
| Average home cost | $192,347 | $168,172 |
| Average income (per capita) | $58,492 | $55,217 |
| Cost of living index | 87 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 4.2% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 6.5% |
West Virginia sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 22% lower in West Virginia than in Des Moines, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.
- In West Virginia, home prices are about 13% lower than in Des Moines, easing your mortgage burden.
- Incomes in West Virginia are around 6% below those in Des Moines, which could mean tightening your budget.
- Since cost of living levels are so similar in West Virginia and Des Moines, you won’t see much financial change after relocating.
- The unemployment rate in West Virginia is around 29% lower than in Des Moines, pointing to a more favorable employment outlook.
- Taxes in West Virginia are roughly 48% higher than in Iowa, so you’ll notice a smaller paycheck.
How life is different in Des Moines, IA from West Virginia
When planning a move from Des Moines to West Virginia, you’ll be in for some changes, including new weather, a different community feel, and a unique political scene. Here’s what awaits when you leave the Des Moines behind for life in West Virginia.
| Des Moines, IA | West Virginia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 1,782,959 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-41 | Republican 69-30 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 83ºF |
| Winter low | 13ºF | 21ºF |
| Annual rain | 36″ | 45″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 33″ |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 17.47 |
West Virginia Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, West Virginia leaned Republican, while Des Moines supported Democratic.
- Summer highs typically reach about 83ºF in West Virginia and 86ºF in Des Moines. With similar temperatures, you shouldn’t have much trouble adjusting to the climate. Remember to also consider humidity, general weather patterns, and energy expenses to really understand what summer will feel like in your new home.
- Winter temperatures in West Virginia average 21ºF, warmer than Des Moines, where lows dip to 13ºF. Expect simpler winters, lighter routines, and less time spent battling the cold.
- Get ready for 45 inches of rain annually in West Virginia—a noticeable increase over 36 inches in Des Moines. Expect lusher surroundings and wetter days, so pack your rain gear and adjust routines.
- In West Virginia, you can expect about 33 inches of snow each year. By comparison, Des Moines typically gets around 33 inches annually. Since both places see similar snowfall, your move shouldn’t come with unexpected weather challenges.
- West Virginia posts a higher crime index of 17.47 compared to Des Moines’s 5.0. It’s worth checking local data and preparing for a potentially more challenging safety environment.
Other considerations when moving to West Virginia
If you’re relocating from Des Moines to West Virginia, there’s more involved than simply packing up and hiring movers. Don’t forget to look into local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could impact your 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 you find out how to reserve it for your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks or oversized vehicles, so be sure to find out ahead of time if you’ll need one for your move.
- State licensing: In the Mountaineer State, the state’s Public Service Commission oversees local and intrastate movers. The commission strives to support and promote the interests of both businesses and consumers, and those interested in hiring an in-state mover can browse the Commission’s Regulated Motor Carrier Database to verify that they’re reputable businesses in good standing. Double-check that your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can easily verify a West Virginia moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory site.
- Moving permits: West Virginia does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can select your official move date to ensure your mail gets forwarded to West Virginia without a hitch. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance rules aren’t the same everywhere. They change depending on the state. When relocating in West Virginia, prioritize movers’ insurance for comprehensive coverage. Many movers provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection by exploring Full Value Protection options with the moving company or considering tailored plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your West Virginia state moving insurance, ensuring a secure and stress-free relocation experience.
- Moving checklist: Move with confidence using our moving checklist. It keeps you organized and covers all the details, letting you stress less and focus on settling into your new place.
Things to do in West Virginia
Whether you love parks, museums, sports, or college-town energy, West Virginia has plenty for you to discover and enjoy.
Museums in West Virginia
- West Virginia State Museum
- The Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum
- Heritage Farm Museum and Village
- Clay Center
- Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum
Parks in West Virginia
- Oglebay Park
- Ritter Park
- Wheeling Park
- Haddad Riverfront Park
- Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park
Sports teams in West Virginia
- Wheeling Nailers (ECHL)
- West Virginia Mountaineers (NCAA)
Universities in West Virginia
- West Virginia University
- Marshall University
- Shepherd University
- West Virginia State University
- Fairmont State University
FAQ
How long does a move from Des Moines to West Virginia take?
The time it takes to move from Des Moines, IA, to West Virginia ultimately depends on the moving method you choose. But on average it will take two to seven days. Deliveries will likely take longer during the busy summer months.
For the fastest turnaround, ask your moving company for an estimated delivery window before booking.
Do movers in Des Moines offer custom-built crate services?
Eight movers in Des Moines list custom crating, a useful option for fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped items. Before you book, ask a Des Moines mover about crate specs and whether they can tailor the build to your needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Des Moines to West Virginia?
Need to ship your car from Des Moines to West Virginia? Go with a team that takes professionalism and car care seriously, with proven experience to match. See our top choices for car shipping from Iowa to West Virginia.
Why are people moving from Des Moines to West Virginia?
Many people are moving to West Virginia because of its low cost of living and abundant outdoor activities.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to West Virginia.
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.
Is cash an option to pay for a move from Des Moines, IA?
THere are currently, four movers in Des Moines that allow customers to pay with cash. Keep in mind that cash remains the exception; most carriers want traceable payments and digital receipts. Standard process is to pay a deposit to secure the date and crew. You’ll pay the remainder at pickup or after delivery—verify the exact timing and acceptable methods before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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