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($1,245) Cost to Move From Lansing, MI to Des Moines, IA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 534 miles from Lansing to Des Moines typically costs between $464 and $5,354. The trip is expected to last from one–six days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from Lansing 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 Lansing to Des Moines

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Lansing to Des Moines much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In Lansing, there are 8 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move 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 Lansing to Des Moines

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 534-mile move from Lansing to Des Moines using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,344 – $3,842
  • Moving Container $976 – $1,616
  • Rental Truck $422 – $760
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,126 – $5,354
  • Moving Container $1,214 – $2,280
  • Rental Truck $464 – $947
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,960 – $8,177
  • Moving Container $1,634 – $3,118
  • Rental Truck $544 – $1,075
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
Bancroft, MI Rhodes, IA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 02, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Hastings, MI Granger, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 26, 2025
North American Van Lines
Fowler, MI Knoxville, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 23, 2025
Roadway Moving
Linden, MI Hartford, IA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 23, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Mulliken, MI Alleman, IA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 22, 2025
BLVD Moving
Okemos, MI Williamson, IA
Studio apartment
Sep 08, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Woodland, MI Bondurant, IA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 29, 2025
Safeway Moving
Williamston, MI Polk City, IA
Studio apartment
Aug 23, 2025
PODS
Ionia, MI Pleasantville, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 19, 2025
American Van Lines
Leslie, MI New Virginia, IA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 03, 2025

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

Top-rated movers to make your Lansing to Des Moines move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Lansing that offers long-distance services to Des Moines can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 11 top local movers in Lansing who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

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

  1. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. Kingsley Moving Systems LLC: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  4. M & M Moving and Storage: 4.22 out of 5 stars
  5. Helper Moving LLC: 4.22 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
96.2% of all reviews were positive
3.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving for their efficiency, professionalism, and speed. Out of 262 reviews, 96% were positive, with clients praising careful item handling, courteous staff, and movers who quickly complete jobs. Many describe moving experiences as far less stressful due to clear communication and helpful workers. Competitive and transparent pricing often surpasses larger competitors. A handful of customers faced issues like damages to belongings, surprise costs, or estimates significantly off from final charges. Most negative feedback involves broken items or unexpected fees. College Hunks stands out for reliability and exceptional service, making them a top pick for moving and junk removal compared to typical moving companies.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: Hunky Monkey LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.4% of all reviews were positive
8.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Kingsley Moving Systems LLC feels smooth for the vast majority of customers. Analyzing 179 pieces of customer input, 89% reflected positive experiences. Customers often praised Kingsley’s efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, speedy moves, and reasonable rates—a combination rarely matched by competitors. Friendly staff and attention to property safety stood out repeatedly. A minority of clients encountered problems, especially damage to items, late arrivals without timely updates, and occasionally unfriendly staff. Negative feedback emphasized issues with fragile belongings, scheduling problems, or less-than-courteous service, raising caution for those transporting valuable or sensitive possessions. Kingsley outpaces typical moving companies on promptness and affordability, yet potentially risks client trust with rare but significant mishaps. Customer feedback positions them as a top choice for value and efficiency, so long as you get clear expectations for special care needs or timing.
Get a Quote (517) 372-7200

Company Info

State license #: 34172

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 1890987

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
76.3% of all reviews were positive
22.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Two Men and a Truck feels like enlisting a team known for speed, professionalism, and careful handling. Of 262 pieces of feedback analyzed, over three-quarters rated their experience as positive. Customers consistently highlight efficient service, polite staff, extra care with belongings, a quick moving process, and clear communication. Moves often finish ahead of schedule, furniture arrives undamaged, and staff adapt to customer needs. On the downside, a notable portion of input points to damage to items, surprise charges, and communication issues with scheduling or billing. These issues account for most of the dissatisfaction. Compared to other moving companies, Two Men and a Truck stands out for reliable and efficient crews, but struggles with follow-through on damage claims and billing accuracy. For those seeking prompt, respectful service, they lead the pack, but anyone concerned about cost transparency or item safety should review all details closely before booking.
Get a Quote (517) 306-2441

Company Info

Years in Business: 30

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
94.4% of all reviews were positive
5.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers consistently praise M & M Moving and Storage for courteous, professional service and careful handling of belongings. Most input describes efficient, prompt movers who work quickly without sacrificing attention to detail. The team earns high marks for being friendly, keeping rates affordable, and making the moving process less stressful. Common highlights include punctual arrivals, well-protected items, and competitive, transparent pricing. Some feedback reveals dissatisfaction, mostly about significantly higher final bills than initial quotes, and occasional damage to belongings. Compared to many moving companies, M & M stands out for positive customer interactions and reliability, but a few have experienced cost discrepancies or property mishaps.
Get a Quote (517) 977-8859

Company Info

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 2194234

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
100.0% of all reviews were positive
0.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input paints a clear picture: Helper Moving LLC impresses with efficient service, friendly and professional staff, and great care during moves. Every review analyzed awards a perfect rating and highlights how the team made moves easier while being respectful. Clients mention team members by name, noting exceptional politeness and attention to safety, which not all moving companies can claim. The strong recommendation from multiple customers, coupled with zero complaints or negative feedback, suggests consistent high-quality performance. No drawbacks or issues appeared in the available feedback.
Get a Quote (517) 894-5319

Company Info

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2475734

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Fragile-only packing

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

In Michigan, moving services typically cost around per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,245 – $3,496 $672 – $1,555 $439 – $776
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,126 – $5,354 $1,214 – $2,280 $464 – $947
4+ bedrooms $3,960 – $8,177 $1,634 – $3,118 $544 – $1,075
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 534-mile move from Lansing to Des Moines, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Lansing to Des Moines

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Des Moines from Lansing, you can expect prices to land between $1,245 and $3,496. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,126 to $5,354 for the trip from Lansing to Des Moines. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,960 and $8,177.

Cost of moving containers from Lansing to Des Moines

Moving containers from Lansing to Des Moines will cost you $672 to $1,555 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,214 to $2,280. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,634 to $3,118. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Michigan.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Lansing to Des Moines

Renting a moving truck from Lansing to Des Moines typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $439 and $776 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $464 to $947. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $544 to $1,075.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Lansing to Des Moines move

The cost of Lansing movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,684 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,919 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Lansing.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $439 to $1,009, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Lansing to Des Moines

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Des Moines runs about 19% higher for singles and 4% higher for families than Lansing.

Singles spend around $1,891 in Lansing versus $1,595 in Lansing; families pay $4,380 compared with $4,199.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Lansing Des Moines
Average 1 BR rent $901 $1,229
Average 3 BR rent $1,775 $1,763
Average home value $148,542 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $64,729 $58,492
Cost of living (single) $1,595 $1,891
Cost of living (family of four) $4,199 $4,380
Unemployment rate 7.4% 5.9%
Sales tax 6.0% 7.0%
State income tax 4.25% 4.4%
  • Moving to Des Moines from Lansing won’t change your financial plan too much, as rent costs are comparable.
  • Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Des Moines are about 29% higher than those in Lansing.
  • Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 10% lower in Des Moines compared to Lansing.
  • Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Des Moines, as living costs for a single person are 19% higher than in Lansing. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
  • The cost of living for a family is within about 5% of the same in Des Moines and Lansing, so you probably won’t see a major difference in expenses.
  • The unemployment rate in Des Moines is about 20% lower than in Lansing. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
  • Sales taxes in Des Moines are 17% more than in Lansing, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
  • Income taxes have a close resemblance in Iowa and Michigan, staying within a 5% variance. Your financial deductions should remain stable, facilitating a straightforward adjustment to your new setting.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Lansing and Des Moines:

Living Expense Lansing Des Moines
Basic utilities $172.97 $144.82
Cell phone plan $46.00 $51.25
Dozen eggs $3.52 $3.61
Loaf of bread $2.91 $2.50
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $68.50 $77.50
Gym membership $31.67 $66.67
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Lansing than in Des Moines.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Lansing than in Des Moines.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Lansing than in Des Moines.
  • Bread is more expensive in Lansing than in Des Moines.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Lansing than in Des Moines.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Lansing than in Des Moines.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Lansing than in Des Moines.

How life is different in Lansing vs. Des Moines

Lansing Des Moines
Population 112,644 699,292
Transportation score 5 5
Walkability score 46 45
Bike friendliness score 55 39
Crime index 48.66 5.0
Safety index 51.34 57.8
Air quality Good Good
  • Des Moines’s population is about 521% greater than Lansing.
  • Des Moines’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Lansing, making them very similar.
  • Des Moines and Lansing are similarly walkable.
  • Des Moines has a bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Lansing, which has a score of 55.
  • Des Moines’s crime rate is lower than Lansing with a score of 5.0 compared to Lansing’s 48.66. This means that Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Lansing neighborhoods are safer than 48.66%.
  • Des Moines is considered to be safer than Lansing with a safety index of 57.8 vs Lansing’s 51.34.
  • Air quality in Des Moines is Good, and in Lansing it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Lansing to Des Moines 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 to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Iowa’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: Iowa 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: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Des Moines. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Des Moines

Planning your move to Hartford of the West? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home 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

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

  • Arts and culture: Des Moines features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.

FAQ

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

Planning your move from Lansing to Des Moines? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Lansing.

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

Because most people are moving from Lansing to Des Moines in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

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

The 534-mile journey from Lansing, MI to Des Moines, , typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Lansing offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Des Moines.

Are there special savings available from movers in Lansing?

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 have discounts for military personnel. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.

These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Lansing?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Lansing, 7 movers can manage piano relocations. 2 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Michigan has 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

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