Local moving companies in Michigan
When making the move from Michigan to Des Moines, IA, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.
Out of 57 Michigan movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Des Moines, IA.
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Powell Relocation Group: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Handle With Care Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Madison Heights, MI. Known for their excellent customer service, they boast an impressive average rating of 4.3 on Yelp from 74 reviews and an even higher 4.9 average rating on Google from 866 reviews, making them one of the top-rated moving companies in the area. Unlike some competitors, they also provide office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, all without requiring a deposit. For those prioritizing convenience and reliability, this company stands out in the local market.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 29737
Years in Business: 23
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: KoHo, LLC
Two Men and a Truck has been a staple in the Kalamazoo, MI local moving scene since 2003, offering reliable residential moving services. Unlike some nearby companies, they boast an impressive portfolio with 621 reviews on Google averaging a stellar 4.9, demonstrating high customer satisfaction. Their comprehensive services include packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, and they don’t require a deposit, making the process hassle-free. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and generally favorable consumer reviews, Two Men and a Truck stand out as a reputable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 261884
Years in Business: 63
DOT #: 261884
Alternate Names: Powell Moving & Storage, Inc.
Powell Relocation Group, serving the Grand Rapids, MI area since 1963, stands out as a reputable local moving company. With an impressive array of services, including packing, crating, and moving valuable items like pianos and antiques, they cater to diverse moving needs. Customers consistently praise Powell Relocation Group, as evidenced by their 5.0 average rating on Yelp and a strong 4.7 on Google, coupled with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Unlike many competitors, they also offer full valuation insurance coverage and accept credit cards, making them a reliable and customer-focused choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 39
DOT #: 624288
Alternate Names: Whitestar Movers, Inc.
White Star Movers, Inc., a trusted name in Sterling Heights, MI since 1987, excels in local residential moving services. They stand out with an impressive Google rating of 4.5 from 343 reviews and hold an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their strong reputation. Unlike many competitors, White Star Movers also offers specialized services such as fragile-only packing and senior moving, ensuring a tailored experience. Notably, they provide full valuation insurance coverage and require no deposit, making them a reliable and cost-effective choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 359936
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 808976
Handle With Care Moving has been a trusted name in Ann Arbor, MI, since 1994, specializing in local residential moving services. With stellar consumer feedback, boasting a 4.8 average rating from 271 Google reviews and a 4.0 average from 26 Yelp reviews, along with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, clients consistently praise their reliability and professionalism. Unlike many nearby companies, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and even fragile-only packing, ensuring all moving needs are met with utmost care. With the added convenience of accepting credit cards and requiring no upfront deposit, Handle With Care Moving stands out as a dependable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Michigan to Des Moines, IA
The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from Michigan to Des Moines, IA, by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,202 – $3,608 | $696 – $1,611 | $464 – $856 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,263 – $5,487 | $1,292 – $2,485 | $485 – $977 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,693 – $8,345 | $1,575 – $2,991 | $606 – $1,131 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 597-mile move from Michigan to Des Moines, IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of authenticated price data points from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Your end price can vary by shipment size, added services, parking/access limitations, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing several mover quotes to confirm pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Michigan to Des Moines, IA
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Michigan to Des Moines, IA, you can expect prices to land between $1,202 and $3,608. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,263 to $5,487. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,693 and $8,345.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Des Moines, IA
Moving containers from Michigan to Des Moines, IA, will cost you $696 to $1,611 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,292 to $2,485. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,575 to $2,991. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Des Moines, IA
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $464 and $856 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Michigan to Des Moines, IA with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $485 to $977. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $606 to $1,131.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Compare local moving companies from Michigan to Des Moines, IA
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Powell Relocation Group | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| White Star Movers, Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Handle With Care Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
Considering the 3,175 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how Michigan movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:
| Michigan | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 22% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 6% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 7% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Michigan to Des Moines, IA
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Des Moines, IA stacks up against Michigan. We’ll cover everything, from cost of living and the social scene to daily life and can’t-miss attractions in your area.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Des Moines, IA
| Michigan | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,037 | $1,150 |
| Average home cost | $245,716 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $68,505 | $58,492 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92 | 87 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 5.9% |
| State Income Tax | 4.25% | 4.4% |
Des Moines sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 11% more expensive in Des Moines than in Michigan, so be sure to plan ahead and allocate additional funds.
- Moving to Des Moines means you’ll spend about 22% less on housing compared to Michigan, so your budget will go further.
- Salaries in Des Moines are typically about 15% lower than in Michigan. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
- Unemployment in Des Moines runs 26% above Michigan, so be proactive with networking and applications.
- With income taxes roughly equal in Iowa and Michigan, your monthly budget should remain stable.
How life is different in Des Moines from Michigan
| Des Moines | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 10,037,261 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-41 | Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter low | 13ºF | 14ºF |
| Annual rain | 36″ | 34″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 64″ |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 19.98 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Des Moines voted Democratic and Michigan voted Republican.
- Summers in Des Moines typically reach highs of 86ºF, which is comparable to the average 81ºF in Michigan. The temps in your new home shouldn’t come as a shock. However, be sure to consider the area’s humidity, local weather patterns, and changes in energy expenses for a complete picture of what summer will feel like in your new home.
- During the coldest months, Des Moines sees lows of 13ºF, about the same as Michigan, which hits 14ºF. With similar winter temperatures, your move should go smoothly.
- You can expect about 36 inches of rain each year in Des Moines, almost the same as the 34 inches you’d encounter in Michigan. Even though the annual rainfall is similar, different weather patterns and rainfall timing might still change up your daily routine.
- In Des Moines, you’ll see just 33 inches of snow each year, compared to Michigan, which gets 64 inches annually. Moving to Des Moines means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
- Des Moines is safer than Michigan, with a crime index of 5.0 compared to 19.98. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and fewer day-to-day worries. While crime isn’t the only thing to think about when moving, a low crime rate is definitely a big plus for your peace of mind.
Things to do in Des Moines
From beautiful parks and intriguing museums to thrilling sports and excellent universities, Des Moines can meet a wide variety of interests.
Museums in Des Moines
- Des Moines Art Center
- State Historical Museum
- Science Center of Iowa
- Salisbury House
- World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
Parks in Des Moines
- Gray’s Lake Park
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
- Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens
- Clive Greenbelt Trail
Sports teams in Des Moines
- Drake Bulldogs
Universities in Des Moines
- AIB College of Business
- Mercy College of Health Sciences
- Drake University
- Grand View University
- Vatterott College Des Moines
Other considerations when moving to Des Moines, IA
- HOA rules: Before moving day, you should review your neighborhood or community guidelines to avoid any surprises.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new local regulations beforehand.
- 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 booking.
- State regulator: You can check your Iowa moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to relocate to Iowa, but you should check local parking regulations ahead of moving day.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Iowa. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is everything. With our moving checklist, you can be sure you’re on top of every detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Michigan to Des Moines take?
The time it takes to move from Michigan to Des Moines, IA varies based on where you’re starting and the type of move you pick. No matter which option you choose, loading up your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it on your own.
If you’re heading to Des Moines from northern Michigan, expect a longer trip. When you rent a truck, budget one to two days for the drive, depending on your route and how many stops you make along the way.
Moving your belongings from Michigan to Des Moines typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Make sure to ask for a delivery estimate before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Michigan to Des Moines?
Because of the 597-mile move, it’s best to book your move from Michigan to Des Moines as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Des Moines, IA?
With summer temperatures reaching 86°F and winter nights dipping to 13°F, most people make the move from Michigan to Des Moines in the spring or fall. If you want to skip the crowds during peak moving seasons and potentially save some cash, consider scheduling your move in the summer or winter instead.
Helpful moving resources
Michigan moving services
Popular Michigan routes
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