When moving from Maine to Iowa, you’ll likely pay between $3,041–$7,196 with professional movers, roughly
$2,651 for a moving container, and about
$1,356
for a rental truck.
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The best local moving companies in Maine
In Maine, there are 13 interstate moving companies available to accommodate your move to Iowa. To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best local movers in Maine, all known for their solid reputations, clear pricing, and impressive customer satisfaction.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Bisson Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- Allen & Coles Moving Systems: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Midwest Moving Company: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: TMT Portland, LLC
Two Men and a Truck, based in Westbrook, ME, has been providing reliable local residential moving services since 2018. With a strong Google My Business rating of 4.4 from 209 reviews and an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, they stand out in comparison to other local movers. Although some Yelp reviews average to a 2.9 rating, the company excels in offering comprehensive services, including packing and unpacking, labor-only services, and no deposit requirement. Their acceptance of credit cards adds to the convenience, making them a solid choice for local moves in the Westbrook area.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 105
DOT #: 125550
Alternate Names: Bisson Moving & Storage Company , Bisson I & R Commercial Services , Bisson I & R Document Security , Bisson Transportation
Bisson Moving & Storage has been the trusted choice for local residential moving services in and around Westbrook, ME since 1920. Renowned for its extensive experience, Bisson also stands out with its specialty services, including piano, hot tub, and antique moving, ensuring a seamless relocation of your most cherished items. With a strong Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and mixed consumer reviews—ranging from a 2.1 on Yelp to a favorable 4.4 on Google—Bisson remains a reliable contender among local movers. Unlike some competitors, Bisson offers additional conveniences such as packing services and full valuation insurance coverage, making them a comprehensive option for your moving needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 1846942
Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine has been serving the Portland, ME area with local residential moving services since 2010. This reputable company differentiates itself from other nearby movers by offering comprehensive packing, unpacking, and crating services, as well as the capability to move specialized items like pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. With an average rating of 3.9 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google, customer satisfaction reflects a generally positive experience, though some reviews suggest room for improvement. Liberty Bell accepts both cash and credit cards and provides full valuation insurance coverage for added peace of mind.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 38
DOT #: 070851
Alternate Names: Agent for North American Van Lines , Allen & Coles Moving System
Allen & Coles Moving Systems, serving the Portland, ME area since 1999, specializes in local residential moves and offers an array of services including packing, unpacking, crating, and handling fragile items. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also expertly manage the transport of pianos, pool tables, antiques, and safes without requiring a deposit. However, the company has received consistently low ratings on Yelp, with a concerning average of 1.0 across three reviews, which may give potential customers pause.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 0
DOT #: 3263587
Midwest Moving Company, established in 2024, specializes in local residential moves in and around Biddeford, ME. With an impressive Google My Business rating of 4.9 from 301 reviews, customers praise their reliable and professional service, although their Better Business Bureau rating stands at a C. Unlike some other nearby movers, Midwest Moving Company offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, and they can handle delicate items like antiques and art. They accept both cash and credit cards, though a deposit is required, ensuring full valuation insurance coverage for peace of mind.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
The best Maine to Iowa moving container companies
Moving containers help you save money without having to do all the heavy lifting. You load and unload your stuff, while the company handles all the driving, picking up your container in Maine and dropping it off at your new home in Iowa.
Check out our top picks for the best moving container companies:
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The best Maine to Iowa moving truck rentals
Want to save money on your move from Maine to Iowa? Consider renting a moving truck. With this option, you’ll do all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
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The best Maine to Iowa labor-only movers
Need an extra set of hands for loading your belongings into a rental truck or storage unit? Labor-only movers have you covered. You pick the team size that works for you, and you’re only charged for the hours they’re on the job.
When you’re getting ready to move from Maine to Iowa, make your move a breeze with these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your ME to IA move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 15 Maine movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
- Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
- 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.
How much does it cost to move from Maine to Iowa?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Maine to Iowa, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,433 – $5,210 | $916 – $2,317 | $824 – $1,676 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,041 – $7,196 | $1,720 – $3,583 | $874 – $1,838 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,715 – $10,321 | $2,315 – $4,359 | $1,099 – $2,363 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 1,415-mile relocation from ME to IA, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 04, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues, fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Maine to Iowa
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Maine to Iowa, you’ll likely pay between $1,433 and $5,210. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,041 and $7,196 for the same journey (ME to IA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $5,715 to $10,321.
Cost of moving containers from Maine to Iowa
When you’re heading from Maine to Iowa, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $916 and $2,317. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,720 and $3,583. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,315 to $4,359. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Maine easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Maine to Iowa
A moving rental truck 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 $824 to $1,676. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $874 to $1,838, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Maine to Iowa costs around $1,099 to $2,363.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from ME to IA
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Maine to Iowa. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
- How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
- The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Maine when demand for movers is highest.
- DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from ME to IA
If you’re moving to Iowa from Maine, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Maine vs. Iowa
Understanding how costs compare between Maine and Iowa can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
| Maine | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,009 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $401,297 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $68,251 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 100 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 2.9% | 3.0% |
| Average sales tax | 5.5% | 6.94% |
| State income tax | 5.8% | 4.4% |
- Rent in Iowa is around 9% less than in Maine, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
- Here’s some good news for your wallet — home prices in Iowa are about 45% lower than in Maine. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
- The average income is about the same in both Maine and Iowa, so you won’t need to worry about a big change to your budget.
- The cost of living in Iowa is about 11% lower than in Maine. With a lower cost of living, it can be a great financial opportunity, but it’s still important to plan thoughtfully.
- Unemployment rates are pretty similar in Iowa and Maine, so you probably won’t notice much change in job opportunities or competition after your move.
- Sales taxes are 26% higher in Iowa than in Maine. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes in Iowa are 24% lower than in Maine. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in Iowa vs. Maine
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Iowa and Maine line up on these lifestyle indicators.
| Iowa | Maine | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,207,004 | 1,395,722 |
| Political leaning | Republican 53-45 | Democratic 52.6-45.3 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 78ºF |
| Winter low | 10ºF | 7ºF |
| Annual rain | 35″ | 46″ |
| Annual snow | 30″ | 75″ |
| Crime index | 16.18 | 13.17 |
- The population of Iowa is approximately 130% greater than the population of Maine. With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
- In the most recent presidential election, Iowa voted Republican, while Maine went Democratic.
- Iowa averages 84°F in the summer, compared to 78°F in Maine. Hotter summers bring more sunshine and outdoor opportunities but also more reliance on air conditioning.
- Winter temperatures usually fall to 10°F in Iowa and 7°F in Maine. With such similar lows, you won’t face much adjustment beyond local weather quirks.
- In Iowa, you’ll get about 35 inches of rain each year — less than the 46 inches you’re used to in Maine. That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
- In Iowa, you’ll only get about 30 inches of snow each year, much less than Maine. That means moving to Iowa brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
- Iowa has a higher crime rate than Maine, with a crime index of 16.18 compared to 13.17. While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods.
Comparing the pros of Maine vs. Iowa
New beginnings can be really exciting. Here’s a quick comparison between life in Iowa and Maine:
| Pros of living in Maine | Pros of living in Iowa |
|---|---|
| Beautiful outdoors | Low cost of living |
| High quality | Ample economic opportunity |
| Delicious fresh food | High quality of education |
| Ample economic opportunity | No traffic |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in Maine vs. Iowa
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live. Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Maine for Iowa:
| Cons of living in Maine | Cons of living in Iowa |
|---|---|
| Harsh winter weather | Severe weather conditions |
| High tax burden | Limited recreational opportunities |
| Remote | High taxes |
| Limited job progression | High emphasis on politics |
| Low diversity | Rustic food |
Other things to consider for your Maine to Iowa move
- HOA rules: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
- Parking permits: Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
- 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. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Iowa, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Iowa right on schedule. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Iowa
While you’re in Iowa, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Iowa
- National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
- Figge Art Museum
- National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
- The Putnam Museum & Science Center
- Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
Parks in Iowa
- Vander Veer Botanical Park
- Gray’s Lake Park
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Eagle Point Park
- Terry Trueblood Recreational Area
Sports teams in Iowa
- Iowa Wolves (NBA G League)
- Iowa Hawkeyes (NCAA)
- Northern Iowa Panthers (NCAA)
- Iowa State Cyclones (NCAA)
- Drake Bulldogs (NCAA)
Universities in Iowa
- Iowa State University
- University of Iowa
- University of Northern Iowa
- Maharishi International University
- Grinnell College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Maine to Iowa?
Going with a full-service Maine moving company is a bigger financial investment, but it saves you a ton of hassle. If you’re looking to cut costs, renting a moving truck or using a moving container will keep your budget in check, but you’ll have to do more of the heavy lifting. Want more options for saving money? Check out our tips on the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Maine to Iowa?
A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or, if you prefer, you can arrange vehicle transport from Maine to Iowa on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from Maine to Iowa?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Maine to Iowa to enjoy all the great benefits Iowa provides, such as low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in Maine or Iowa?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Maine. Housing is more affordable in Iowa, with average rent about 9% less and home prices 45% lower than in Maine. Taxes are also lower in Iowa, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Maine residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Iowa?
Thinking of moving to Iowa on your own? You’ll want to earn around $63,616 to cover your expenses comfortably. If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,436 per month, or around $5,230 if you have a family of four. Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Maine?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. Military members can find special pricing from 1 companies.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
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