Local moving companies in Minnesota
When making the move from Minnesota to Des Moines, IA, you’ll want skilled movers who know how to make the process easier.
Out of 43 Minnesota movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Des Moines, IA.
- Matt’s Moving Company : 4.7 out of 5 stars
- AAA Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Piepho Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Ace Moving & Warehousing: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 374236
Years in Business: 15
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 36
DOT #: 1140502
Alternate Names: AAA Movers Inc of Minnesota
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 286311
Years in Business: 73
DOT #: 286311
Alternate Names: Rochester Transfer & Storage Company
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
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 125550
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
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 309905
Years in Business: 25
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Minnesota to Des Moines, IA
The following table outlines average cost ranges for moves from Minnesota to Des Moines, IA, by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,035 – $3,178 | $642 – $1,554 | $342 – $628 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,825 – $4,951 | $1,151 – $2,035 | $398 – $744 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,096 – $7,289 | $1,437 – $2,599 | $471 – $939 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 400-mile move from Minnesota to Des Moines, IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 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 Minnesota to Des Moines, IA
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Minnesota to Des Moines, IA, you can expect prices to land between $1,035 and $3,178. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,825 to $4,951. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,096 and $7,289.
Cost of moving containers from Minnesota to Des Moines, IA
Moving containers from Minnesota to Des Moines, IA, will cost you $642 to $1,554 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,151 to $2,035. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,437 to $2,599. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Minnesota.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Minnesota 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 $342 and $628 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Minnesota to Des Moines, IA with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $398 to $744. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $471 to $939.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Compare local moving companies from Minnesota 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matt’s Moving Company | ✓ | × | × | × |
| AAA Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Piepho Moving & Storage, Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Ace Moving & Warehousing | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
Considering the 3,180 movers we’ve assessed, take a look at how Minnesota movers compare against the national average for services and discounts provided:
| Minnesota | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 34% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 2% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 4% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Minnesota to Des Moines, IA
Before you grab the packing tape, let’s see how life in Des Moines, IA stacks up against Minnesota. 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: Minnesota vs. Des Moines, IA
| Minnesota | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,178 | $1,150 |
| Average home cost | $334,119 | $192,347 |
| Average income (per capita) | $84,313 | $58,492 |
| Cost of Living Index | 94 | 87 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.4% | 5.9% |
| State Income Tax | 9.85% | 4.4% |
Des Moines sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent prices in Des Moines and Minnesota are about the same, so your budget should still work.
- Moving to Des Moines means you’ll spend about 42% less on housing compared to Minnesota, so your budget will go further.
- Salaries in Des Moines are typically about 31% lower than in Minnesota. Be sure to reassess your finances and update your budget before making the move.
- Unemployment in Des Moines runs 74% above Minnesota, so be proactive with networking and applications.
- Income taxes are 55% lower in Iowa than in Minnesota, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.
How life is different in Des Moines from Minnesota
| Des Moines | Minnesota | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 5,737,915 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-41 | Democratic 51.1-46.9 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter low | 13ºF | 2ºF |
| Annual rain | 36″ | 29″ |
| Annual snow | 33″ | 47″ |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 22.47 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both Minnesota and Des Moines voted Democratic.
- Summers in Des Moines typically reach highs of 86ºF, which is comparable to the average 81ºF in Minnesota. 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, temperatures in Des Moines generally drop to around 13ºF, while Minnesota can get as cold as 2ºF. Moving to Des Moines means you’ll enjoy gentler winters, which makes daily life easier, more affordable, and more pleasant.
- 36 inches of rain each year in Des Moines, considerably more than the 29 inches you’re used to in Minnesota. With all that extra rainfall, you’ll notice greener scenery and more frequent rainy days. Drive carefully, invest in some reliable rain gear, and get ready to enjoy life in a much rainier climate.
- In Des Moines, you’ll see just 33 inches of snow each year, compared to Minnesota, which gets 47 inches annually. Moving to Des Moines means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
- Des Moines is safer than Minnesota, with a crime index of 5.0 compared to 22.47. 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 Minnesota to Des Moines take?
The time it takes to move from Minnesota 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 Minnesota, 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota to Des Moines?
Because of the 400-mile move, it’s best to book your move from Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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
Minnesota moving services
Popular Minnesota routes
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