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($1,144) Cost to Move From Louisville, KY to Des Moines, IA

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 588 miles from Louisville to Des Moines has an average cost ranging from $461 to $5,600. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly one–six days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Louisville to Des Moines

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 Louisville to Des Moines

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Louisville to Des Moines. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 12 interstate moving companies in Louisville. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Des Moines.

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 Louisville to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 588-mile move from Louisville to Des Moines using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,440 – $4,069
  • Moving Container $969 – $1,711
  • Rental Truck $441 – $823
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,155 – $5,600
  • Moving Container $1,267 – $2,413
  • Rental Truck $461 – $957
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,812 – $7,624
  • Moving Container $1,624 – $3,178
  • Rental Truck $612 – $1,203
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.
Budget Truck Rental
Vine Grove, KY Indianola, IA
Studio apartment
Oct 20, 2025
North American Van Lines
Hills and Dales, KY Granger, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 18, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Goshen, KY Hartford, IA
3 Bedrooms
Oct 08, 2025
Safeway Moving
Murray Hill, KY Nevada, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 21, 2025
PODS
Meadowview Estates, KY Norwalk, IA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
United Van Lines
Rolling Fields, KY Swan, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 03, 2025
Roadway Moving
West Buechel, KY Maxwell, IA
Studio apartment
Sep 03, 2025
Allied Van Lines
River Bluff, KY Colo, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 01, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Fort Knox, KY Melcher-Dallas, IA
Studio apartment
Aug 19, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Moorland, KY Altoona, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 14, 2025

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

Highly rated local moving companies for Louisville to Des Moines moves

Organizing a move from Louisville to Des Moines can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 14 local movers in Louisville known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Louisville to Des Moines.

  1. Kentuckiana Moving, LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Margaret’s Movers and Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  4. Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  5. Berger Allied Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.9% of all reviews were positive
9.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast about Kentuckiana Moving’s standout service. Nearly 89% of customer feedback highlights their professional attitude, efficient teams, careful handling, speedy moves, and clear communication. Customers frequently mention respectful and friendly staff who ensure belongings stay protected—often contrasting their experience to less reliable competitors. Most clients describe reasonable rates and a smooth booking process. Some input, about 10%, calls out issues like damage to furniture or homes, late arrivals, and surprise charges. A few reviewers faced inadequate communication or experienced price changes on moving day. Compared to other moving companies, Kentuckiana Moving earns high marks for consistent professionalism and going the extra mile, but they should improve reliability in scheduling and increase care to minimize property damage, especially during large moves.
Get a Quote (502) 408-5848

Company Info

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2933318

Alternate Names: Kentuckiana Moving, LLC , Kentuckiana Moving Company, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
20.0% of all reviews were positive
80.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Margaret’s Movers and Storage sparks heated feedback. Only 7 of the 35 reviews, or 20%, reflect a positive experience, with clients praising professional and courteous staff, quick and efficient moves, careful handling of belongings, and helpful crews. Customers mention a standout team approach and knowledgeable service, putting them ahead in staff courtesy compared to some competitors. Yet, the bulk of input highlights problems: 80% report damaged items, surprise charges, and poor communication. People often describe costly billing surprises, delays, ignored warranty or insurance claims, left-behind or lost items, and a lack of response to concerns. Margaret’s Movers receives far more negative commentary than similar local moving companies, signaling significant trust and reliability concerns.
Get a Quote (502) 584-5234

Company Info

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 1325076

Alternate Names: Margaret’s Movers, Inc. , Margaret’s Moving and Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
79.6% of all reviews were positive
19.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers regularly rave about Two Men and a Truck’s polite, professional staff and efficient moves. Nearly 80% of 269 reviews reflect positive feedback highlighting careful handling, swift service, and clear communication from both movers and office teams. Many describe their belongings arriving safely, moves happening faster than expected, and prices being as quoted. Movers often go the extra mile with courtesy, responsiveness, and attention to detail, such as wrapping furniture or accommodating unique needs. On the flip side, about one in five customers express frustration chiefly over damaged items and property, bills exceeding estimates, and late arrivals. Trouble with costly moves, slow claims, or lack of clear resolution is common for detractors. Compared to other moving companies, Two Men and a Truck stands out for reliability and service attitude, but inconsistency in damage control and cost transparency remains a weak point. Thorough communication and fair billing set expectations, while minimizing damages could boost trust. Most customers recommend them, but those most dissatisfied do so for significant financial or property loss.
Get a Quote (502) 324-1718

Company Info

State license #: 3448

Years in Business: 20

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
95.5% of all reviews were positive
4.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving, giving high marks to their professionalism, careful handling of belongings, efficient and quick service, and friendly crews. Most feedback mentions respectful attitudes, effective communication, and prompt arrivals, with many highly recommending the company to others. Repeated positive input highlights careful packing and moves completed without damage—many said the staff treated items as their own and made stressful moves much easier. Compared to other companies, Neutz’s staff show stronger courtesy and attention to detail while pricing remains reasonable. A small number of customers report serious problems such as belongings damaged, lost, or poorly handled. Some note issues with follow-up on claims and dissatisfaction with complaint resolution. These negative experiences stand out for their impact but are rare in the overall feedback analyzed—just 4.5% of reviews. Most customers experience a high level of trust, organization, and satisfaction, making Neutz one of the area’s most frequently praised moving services.
Get a Quote (502) 618-1902

Company Info

State license #: 3561

Years in Business: 18

DOT #: 1834511

Alternate Names: N & R Properties, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.3% of all reviews were positive
14.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Berger Allied Moving & Storage earns standout praise, with 229 feedback entries analyzed and 84% of customers offering positive comments. Clients highlight professional behavior, careful handling of items, efficiency, fast moves, and clear communication—qualities that push this company ahead of less reliable competitors. Users consistently describe movers as respectful, friendly, and attentive, with many noting how staff exceeded expectations to solve challenges. While most deliveries are quick and seamless, a small number of reviews document problems such as item damage, missed timelines, and frustrating communication gaps. These negative experiences, though fewer, often mention lack of resolution on claims or unexpected delivery delays. Still, compared to industry averages, Berger Allied’s customer-focused approach, attention to property care, and team professionalism place them among the top full-service moving choices. For those wanting careful, efficient, and courteous movers, Berger Allied moves to the head of the pack, though addressing item protection and delivery timing could further strengthen their reputation.
Get a Quote (866) 969-5040

Company Info

State license #: 3847

Years in Business: 115

DOT #: 125665

Alternate Names: Berger Allied

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

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

On average, moving companies in Kentucky charge about $105 per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,144 – $3,643 $696 – $1,628 $450 – $847
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,155 – $5,600 $1,267 – $2,413 $461 – $957
4+ bedrooms $3,812 – $7,624 $1,624 – $3,178 $612 – $1,203
*Estimated cost ranges for a 588-mile move from Louisville to Des Moines are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Louisville to Des Moines

When planning a move to Des Moines from Louisville, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,144 and $3,643. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,155 and $5,600 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,812 to $7,624.

Cost of moving containers from Louisville to Des Moines

When you’re heading from Louisville to Des Moines, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $696 and $1,628. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,267 and $2,413. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,624 to $3,178. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Kentucky easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Louisville to Des Moines

A moving rental truck from Louisville to Des Moines is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $450 to $847. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $461 to $957, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Louisville to Des Moines costs around $612 to $1,203.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Louisville to Des Moines

The cost of Louisville movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Louisville to Des Moines may only cost $1,781, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $6,728.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Louisville.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($450–$1,094), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Louisville to Des Moines

Overall, Louisville and Des Moines land in a similar cost of living range, so your monthly outlay shouldn’t swing dramatically.

Singles average $1,891 in Des Moines and $1,862 in Louisville, while families in Des Moines see $4,380 versus $4,532 in Des Moines.

Here’s how the everyday expenses compare across both cities:

Louisville Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $1,220 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $2,120 $1,763
Average home value $242,612 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $69,771 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $1,862 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $4,532 $4,380
Unemployment rate 5.0% 5.9%
Sales tax 6.0% 7.0%
State income tax 4.0% 4.4%
  • Rent is about 8% less expensive in Des Moines than in Louisville, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 21% cheaper in Des Moines than in Louisville.
  • You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 16% less in Des Moines than in Louisville.
  • As the cost of living for a single person differs by around 5% between Des Moines and Louisville, you likely won’t feel a significant change.
  • The cost of living for a family between Des Moines and Louisville remains comparable, differing by roughly 5%, so your overall expenses won’t dramatically change.
  • Des Moines has a higher unemployment rate than Louisville by about 18%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
  • Sales taxes in Des Moines surpass those in Louisville by 17%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
  • Income taxes are 10% more in Iowa than in Kentucky. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Louisville versus Des Moines:

Living Expense Louisville Des Moines
Basic utilities $225.63 $144.82
Cell phone plan $56.73 $51.25
Dozen eggs $3.02 $3.61
Loaf of bread $2.61 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.50 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80.00 $77.50
Gym membership $22.00 $66.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Louisville than in Des Moines.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Louisville than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Louisville than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in Louisville than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Louisville than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Louisville than in Des Moines.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Louisville than in Des Moines.

How life is different in Louisville vs. Des Moines

Louisville Des Moines
Population 782,969 699,292
Transportation score 6 5
Walkability score 91 45
Bike friendliness score 79 39
Crime index 56.68 5.0
Safety index 43.32 57.8
Air quality Good Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 11% less than Louisville.
  • Des Moines’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Louisville’s score of 6.
  • Des Moines is less walkable than Louisville with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Louisville’s 91 out of 100.
  • Des Moines has a bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Louisville, which has a score of 79.
  • Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Louisville with a score of 5.0 compared to Louisville’s 56.68. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Louisville neighborhoods are safer than 56.68%.
  • Des Moines is considered to be safer than Louisville with a safety index of 57.8 vs Louisville’s 43.32.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Louisville it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Louisville to Des Moines move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Louisville and Des Moines are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the 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: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: When moving within Iowa, make sure to hire a company that is licensed by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Each household goods mover in the state should have an Iowa Motor Carrier (IOWAMC) Number, which means they’ve met minimum insurance and highway safety requirements. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Iowa, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Iowa, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • 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 Des Moines. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Des Moines

With your sights set on Hartford of the West, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Des Moines.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Sherman Hill
  • Downtown
  • East Village
  • North of Grand
  • Woodland Heights
  • Arbor Peaks
  • Chautauqua Park
  • Beaverdale
  • Westwood

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Linden Heights
  • Waterbury
  • Waveland Park
  • Westwood
  • Salisbury Oaks
  • Meredith
  • Beaverdale

Things to do in Des Moines

With your move to Iowa complete, you can dive right into experiencing Des Moines. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Des Moines is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Des Moines Art Center, State Historical Museum, Science Center of Iowa, and Salisbury House.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Gray’s Lake Park, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.

FAQ

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

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Louisville to Des Moines. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Louisville.

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

Want to save on your move from Louisville to Des Moines? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

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

The 588-mile move from Louisville, KY, to Des Moines, , takes one to six days. Some Louisville movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Des Moines.

What kinds of discounts do Louisville movers offer?

Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. 1 movers offer special pricing for military members.

Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Louisville?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 11 movers in Louisville provide piano moving services. 6 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 21 piano movers and 14 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

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