Quick answer: Expect to pay $782–$7,246 for a move from Jackson to Des Moines, with most moves taking two to seven days. Your cost depends on load size, timing, and whether you move yourself or hire help for the 816 miles.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Des Moines to Jackson guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Jackson to Des Moines

Picking a long-distance moving company for your move from Jackson to Des Moines isn't easy — there are tons of options out there, and figuring out who's reliable (and who's not) can feel like a real challenge.

No need to stress about sifting through endless options — we've already done the homework for you. Our picks are based on real reviews, pricing, and the range of services offered.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your MS to IA movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 9 Mississippi movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

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.

Local moving companies in Jackson

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  3. The Armstrong Company: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  4. My Two Movers: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  5. McCorquodale Transfer: 3.72 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
58% of all reviews were positive
38% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving stands out for their friendly, highly professional staff and careful handling of belongings. Over half the feedback highlights efficient service, quick moves, and rates that beat many competitors. Many customers value the attentive care movers show toward property, and same-day bookings often work smoothly.
On the downside, nearly four out of ten customers report problems, with damage to items and insufficient compensation topping complaints. Delays and poor communication also cause significant stress for some, especially when schedules change or claims need resolution. Bellhop excels at affordability and speed but faces ongoing challenges matching the reliability and accountability of the best moving services. Fifty-five reviews reveal about 58% reported positive experiences.
Show more
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 2878240

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2878240


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/twomenandatruckjacksonms/, https://twitter.com/tmt_jacksonms?lang=en
89% of all reviews were positive
11% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Two Men and a Truck stands out with consistently strong feedback: 232 reviews analyzed show that nearly 89% praised their work, making for one of the highest satisfaction rates in the industry. Customers most often highlight efficient service, professional and polite teams, careful handling of items, a quick moving process, and clear communication. Many moved multiple times with them, noting that moves were fast, staff attentive, and pricing fair.
When problems came up, the leading criticisms were damage to items, slow or unsatisfactory complaint handling, and unexpected charges. Some clients described losses or breakage that claims processes didn’t resolve well. The company's high repeat rate, skilled teams, and genuine care set a higher bar than many competitors, but better follow-through on damage claims could improve trust further.
Show more
Get a Quote (601) 265-3648

Company Info

State license #: 913816

Years in Business: 25

DOT #: 2527384


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/GoArmstrongJackson/, https://twitter.com/Arm_Jackson
79% of all reviews were positive
19% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Armstrong Relocation receives high marks from most clients for professionalism, attentive care, and skilled, helpful movers. Out of 63 pieces of customer feedback, 79% were positive. Many highlighted efficient handling, strong communication, and careful treatment of belongings.
Several families noted booking was simple and coordination smooth, setting Armstrong ahead of typical moving services. Negative input, making up 19%, focused largely on instances of item damage, surprise charges, and some unfriendly crew experiences. Complaints of inconsistent packing quality and unexpected costs occur less often but represent the most significant drawbacks. Compared to industry standards, Armstrong stands out for its reliable, courteous staff but lags in guaranteeing flawless item safety and fully transparent billing.
Show more
Get a Quote (601) 856-8504

Company Info

State license #: 1925341

Years in Business: 38

DOT #: 1170867

Alternate Names: Armstrong Transfer & Storage Co., Inc., Armstrong Relocation & Commercial Services, The Armstrong Company


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/mytwomovers/,
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers consistently praise My Two Movers for their professionalism, efficiency, and affordable pricing. Staff treat belongings with great care, work quickly, and communicate clearly throughout each move. Positive input cites polite and helpful movers, careful packing, and competitive rates as strong advantages.
Multiple reviewers highlight repeated use of the company, noting consistent reliability and friendly attitudes compared to other moving services. A few negative experiences focus on unprofessional behavior, damaged items, and difficulty reaching the company by phone. Some feedback also mentions discomfort with movers' appearance or lack of insurance coverage for breakage. With 95 out of 100 reviews expressing satisfaction, My Two Movers outranks most competitors in reliability, care, and value, making it a popular pick for those seeking responsible and cost-effective moving help.
Show more
Get a Quote (601) 850-6454

Company Info

Years in Business: 18


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063763082456&ref=ts, https://twitter.com/mtmoves
38% of all reviews were positive
63% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback for McCorquodale Transfer focuses on two extremes. Out of 16 reviews, 37.5% praise the movers for their quick service, professionalism, careful handling, and recommending them highly. Customers often mention efficient, polite crews who move belongings rapidly and safely.
In contrast, 62.5% of input points to recurring complaints about property damage, lost items, and workers lacking experience. Multiple reports cite broken furniture, missing boxes, and unresponsive management. Compared to other moving companies, negative experiences here seem unusually common, particularly regarding reliability and damages, outweighing enthusiastic recommendations from happy clients.
Show more
Get a Quote (601) 906-1315

Company Info

State license #: 713589

DOT #: 713589


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card

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

Jackson movers charge $127 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,482 - $5,204 $963 - $2,382 $662 - $1,314
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,881 - $7,246 $1,629 - $3,309 $782 - $1,483
4+ bedrooms $5,211 - $10,590 $2,371 - $4,496 $933 - $1,893
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 816 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.

Cost to hire movers from Mississippi to Iowa

Planning a move from Mississippi to Iowa? For a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,482 and $5,204. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,881 and $7,246 for the same journey (MS to IA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $5,211 to $10,590.

Cost of moving containers from Mississippi to Iowa

If you’re relocating from Mississippi to Iowa, you’ll typically spend between $963 and $2,382 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,629 up to $3,309. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,371 and $4,496. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Mississippi.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Mississippi to Iowa

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $662 and $1,314. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $782 and $1,483. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $933 and $1,893.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Jackson to Des Moinestoggle

The cost of Jackson movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Jackson to Des Moines can be as low as $1,482 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $8,395.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Jackson so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $662 to $1,804. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Jackson to Des Moines

Moving from Jackson to Des Moines means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Jackson than in Des Moines, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Jackson compares to Des Moines so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Jackson Des Moines
Average rent cost $1,170 $1,150
Average home value $68,872 $192,347
Average income (per capita) $57,848 $58,492
Cost of living (single person) $1,969 $1,891
Cost of living (family of 4) $4,990 $4,380
Unemployment rate 7.7% 5.9%
Sales tax 8.0% 7.0%
State income tax 4.7% 4.4%
  • Rent prices in Des Moines are 2% lower than in Jackson, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • The home prices in Des Moines are 179.3% higher than in Jackson, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You’re likely to make a higher income living in Des Moines, where incomes are, on average, 1.1% higher than in Jackson. Major employers in Des Moines include MercyOne, Principal Financial Group, and Ppw Holdings.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Des Moines. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 4.0% lower than in Jackson.
  • A move to Des Moines can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 12.2% less than what it costs in Jackson.
  • The unemployment rate in Des Moines is 23.38% lower than in Jackson.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Des Moines, since the city's sales taxes in Des Moines are 12.50% lower than in Jackson.
  • One perk of moving to Des Moines is paying less in state income taxes, which are 6.38% lower than in Jackson.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,881.16 in Des Moines to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Jackson.

How life is different in Jackson vs. Des Moines

Des Moines Jackson
Population 699,292 153,701
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 2
Walkability score 45 26
Bike friendliness score 39 33
Crime Index 5.0 82.38
Safety Index 57.8 17.62
Air Quality Good Good
  • The population of Des Moines is about 355% greater than Jackson, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • Des Moines offers better access to buses and trains than Jackson, based on public transportation ratings. Des Moines has a transit score of 5 out of 10 compared to 2 in Jackson. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • Living in Des Moines means you'll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in Jackson. Des Moines is considered more walkable than Jackson, with a score of 45 out of 100 versus 26 out of 100 in Jackson. A city's walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
  • If cycling is your thing, Des Moines is considered more bike-friendly than Jackson in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. Des Moines has a bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, while Jackson is rated as 33 out of 100.
  • Des Moines has a lower crime rate than Jackson based on scores of 5.0 and Jackson's 82.38, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Des Moines than in Jackson, based on Des Moines's safety index of 57.8 versus 17.62 for Jackson. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
  • The air quality in Des Moines and Jackson is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your Jackson vs. Des Moines move

  • Weather: September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Des Moines, while January and December are the least comfortable months.
  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Iowa moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Iowa, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Des Moines

Now that you've decided to make the move to Hartford of the West, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Des Moines.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Sherman Hill
  • Downtown
  • North of Grand
  • Woodland Heights
  • Beaverdale

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Waterbury
  • Waveland Park
  • Westwood
  • Salisbury Oaks
  • Meredith

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: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Des Moines, such as the Des Moines Art Center, State Historical Museum, Science Center of Iowa, Salisbury House, and World Food Prize Hall of Laureates.
  • 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: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Drake Bulldogs game.

FAQ

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

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Jackson to Des Moines You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Jackson.

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

Because spring and fall moves from Jackson to Des Moines are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

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

The 816-mile journey from Jackson, MS to Des Moines, IA, typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Jackson 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.

Helpful moving resources