$1,398 Movers from Michigan to Des Moines, IA
Quick Answer: The cost to move from Michigan to Des Moines, IA averages from $564 to $6,507 depending on how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself. Hiring movers will be on the more expensive side. Renting a truck or renting a moving container is usually cheaper but requires more work.
In this article, we’ll lay out everything you need to know for your upcoming move to Des Moines, IA.
But first, here are a few resources if you need immediate answers:
Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Movers Cost: Des Moines, IA to Michigan guide.
Moving from Michigan to Des Moines, IA
- Best Michigan to Des Moines, IA movers: If you plan on hiring a moving company be sure to check out our list of the top movers from Michigan to Des Moines, IA.
- How much will your move cost?: Want to narrow down how much your move will cost? Use our moving cost calculator to get more specific price ranges and recommendations on the best companies to use for your move.
- Consider moving containers: Need a more budget-friendly option? With these companies, you load and they drive! These are the best moving container companies.
- Michigan to Des Moines, IA car shippers: Moving your car? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced.
Moving 598 miles is no joke. Here's what you need to know.
The Best Michigan to Des Moines, IA Moving Companies
Hiring a moving company is a big deal.
We’ve researched over 500 interstate moving companies, cross-referencing verified customer reviews, license data, insurance data, and federal complaint records to find you the best long distance moving companies in the industry.
If you’re moving a 1 bedroom apartment worth of stuff or more, these are the best full service moving companies.
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If you’re just trying to ship a few items, here’s a list of our recommended services for small moves.
How Much do Movers Cost?
Get instant ballpark pricing. No email or phone required. It's fast, free, and easy.
What is the average cost to move from Michigan to Des Moines, IA?
The table below lays out average cost ranges for different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Size of the Move | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,398 - $4,112 | $808 - $1,949 | $523 - $976 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $2,554 - $6,507 | $1,458 - $2,833 | $564 - $1,158 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,562 - $9,511 | $1,946 - $3,658 | $705 - $1,398 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 598 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.
The cost to move from Michigan to Des Moines, IA will depend on:
- Move size: 5 bedroom homes are more expensive to move than 1 bedroom apartments.
- Time of year: Summer is busy season so moving companies charge more.
- Do-it-yourself vs Professional Mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress.
How much does it cost to hire professional movers from Michigan to Des Moines, IA?
To ship furniture from Michigan to Des Moines with a mover will cost between $1,398 to $4,112. The cost to move a 2 to 3 bedroom home from Des Moines to IA will range from $2,554 to $6,507, and a large move from Michigan to Des Moines will cost from $4,562 to $9,511.
How much are moving containers like PODS from Michigan to Des Moines, IA?
Moving pods from Michigan to Des Moines will cost you $808 to $1,949 for a small move. For a 2 to 3 bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,458 to $2,833. A 4-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,946 to $3,658.
How much is a moving truck from Michigan to Des Moines, IA?
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor; these estimates include the estimated fuel cost:
Moving a studio or 1-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $523 to $976. A larger move will cost $564 to $1,158, and a 4+ bedroom move from Michigan to Des Moines costs from $705 to $1,398.
Is moving from Michigan to Des Moines, IA a good idea?
Cost of Living: Michigan vs Des Moines, IA
| Michigan | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $871 | $878 |
| Average home value | $225,774 | $189,518 |
| Average income (per capita) | $59,234 | $58,492 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.9% | 5.9% |
| State Income Tax | 4.25% | 8.53% |
Des Moines sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about the same cost in Des Moines and Michigan.
- Home prices are about 16.1% lower in Des Moines than in Michigan.
- The average income is about 1.3% lower in Des Moines than in Michigan.
- Des Moines has a higher unemployment rate than Michigan by about 20.4%.
- Income taxes are 100.71% higher in Des Moines than in Michigan.
How is life different in Des Moines from Michigan?
| Des Moines | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 10,050,811 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-41 | Democratic 59-48 |
| Summer High | 86ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter Low | 13ºF | 14ºF |
| Annual Rain | 36" | 34" |
| Annual Snow | 33" | 64" |
| Crime Index | 5.0 | 18.19 |
Des Moines sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- The population of Des Moines is approximately 93% lower than the population of Michigan.
- In the last presidential election, Des Moines voted Democratic and Michigan voted Democratic.
- The average high in the summertime in Des Moines is 86ºF and in Michigan, it’s 81ºF.
- During the coldest part of the year, Des Moines reaches the temperature of 13ºF and Michigan gets down to 14ºF.
- You can expect about 36 inches of annual rainfall in Des Moines vs 34 inches of rainfall in Michigan.
- In Des Moines, it snows about 33 inches annually vs 64 inches of snow in Michigan.
- Des Moines has a lower crime rate than Michigan with a crime index of 18.19 vs 5.0.
Considerations for moving to Des Moines, IA
- Weather: September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Des Moines, while January and December are the least comfortable months..
- HOA Rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator Reservation: One common and important example of something 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 parking permits for large vehicles, find out ahead of time with your new local rules.
- 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 the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State Regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- Moving Permits: Iowa does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- 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 and this way all of your mail will get properly forward to Iowa. Get started here.
- Mover's Insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Released Value Protection is the most economical option because it doesn’t cost anything. It is offered by movers at no additional charge, but the protection is minimal. Under this option, the mover is responsible for no more than 60 cents per pound per article. For example, if your mover lost or damaged a 50 inch TV weighing 25 pounds, you would only receive $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). If you need for the full value of your items to be covered, please consult with the moving company you're hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving Checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
Looking for local Michigan movers?
| Company | Quote | Rating | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
most popular
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Get A Quote |
 
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3824 44th St SE, Kentwood, MI, 49512 (616) 368-2900 |
| Handle With Care Moving | Get A Quote |
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4260 Varsity Drive, Ann Arbor, MI, 48108 (734) 677-2000 |
| Powell Relocation Group | Get A Quote |
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4937 Starr St SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49546 (616) 956-0900 |
Visit our Best Movers in Michigan page to see a complete list of moving companies, including hourly rates, services, and reviews.
Need a local Des Moines mover?
| Company | Quote | Rating | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
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most popular
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Get A Quote |
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1209 SW ORDNANCE RD STE B, ANKENY, IA, 50023 (515) 393-4253 |
| Iowa Moving 1 | Get A Quote |
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2958 99th St., Ste. 5, Des Moines, IA, 50322 (515) 975-2840 |
| College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving | Get A Quote |
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10500 Hickman Rd Suite H, Clive, IA, 50325 (515) 207-2003 |
Visit our Best Movers in Des Moines page to see a complete list of moving companies, including hourly rates, services, and reviews.
What to do in Des Moines?
Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Des Moines.
Museums in Des Moines
- Des Moines Art Center
- State Historical Museum
- Science Center of Iowa
- Salisbury House
- World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
- Wells Fargo Museum
- Fort Des Moines Museum & Education Center
- Polk County Heritage Gallery
Parks in Des Moines
- Gray's Lake Park
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
- Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens
- Clive Greenbelt Trail
- Des Moines River Trail
- Rotary Riverwalk Park
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
FAQs
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Michigan to Des Moines?
Because of the 598 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 2 to 3 months ahead of time.
What time of year is cheapest to move to Des Moines, IA?
With the summer highs of 86ºF and the winter lows of 13ºF, most people move to Des Moines from Michigan during the spring and fall months. To avoid competing during those busy seasons, you could save some money by booking your move to Des Moines during summer or winter.
Where can I find a list of long distance moving companies from Des Moines?
Check out our full breakdown of the best long distance movers in Des Moines.
